Is it true that Cats with FIV are at higher risk from surgery?

Question

I was told that because they have FIV they run a higher risk of dying from surgery because if they catch an infection during or after surgery their bodies cannot fight if off due to their compromised immune system and they could then die from this.

Please help me understand this.

Thank you

Answer 1

You've got it absolutely right. Are you talking about spay surgery? That would be more likely to have infection as a result that the neutering of a male.

Go to: http://www.bestfriendsanimal society.org and contact them by telephone. They have a whole roomful of FIV positive cats at the sanctuary and I am sure they are not "intact" felines. They will have the experience and knowledge to help you.

Answer 2

Cats that are symptomatic shouldn't have surgery performed on them unless absolutely necessary. Technically if the proper precautions are taken (antibiotics used, proper theatre and sterilisation procedures, correct post-op care) there shouldn't be a problem.

Cats that are known to be FIV positive but are not showing symptoms should not have a problem if the appropriate procedures are used because their immune system is still functioning.

Chalice

EDIT: *sigh* I've tried to explain to MrMike a number of times about FIV and cancers - a cat with FIV will still be able to heal a wound, because it is not their immune system that governs this.

Answer 3

Yes, cats with FIV run a higher risk of dying from infection. With FIV, their entire immune system becomes repressed (much like HIV in people) and whereas a healthy cat easily recovers from surgeries and illnesses, a cat with FIV just cannot recover as well.

Answer 4

this is true FIV is the same thing as aids and if other say no that's bull.it's the brake down of the immune system.that means they can't heal.and how does a cat get this they will never tell you the truth,is it air born or from a bug bits who knows whats safe any more.we live in a world of lyes.but the cat will never heal.I have lost many from this.and they will never find a cure for it in my life time why fix it when you will spend spend spend.