FIV and cortisone

[Jan Dodd]

Hello,

My cat (female, 10 years old) has recently been diagnosed with FIV. At the moment she is in good health. However, my vet has given her two cortisone injections (one at diagnosis and one 3 weeks later) and says she should have one each month from now on, perhaps less frequently as time goes on.

I am a bit surprised at this since I thought that cortisone suppresses the immune system. Is that correct?

Has anyone provide any insights, or advice, please.

With many thanks,

Jan

[Traci]

What was his reasoning for using steroid therapy? This generally should not be used for FIV+ cats unless there is evidence for the need (anemia, for example, or to help raise the packed cell volume, acute immune-mediated disease, etc).

I would strongly suggest a second opinion, preferrably from a certified feline-only vet.

I'm sure you're aware but in case you're not, please get your kitty evaluated at LEAST twice a year for regular exams and bloodwork, more often if there is even the slightest hint of illness, no matter how mild or slight. FIV and FELV cats are more susceptible to secondary infections, so keeping ahead of the potential helps keep them much healthier.

[Jan Dodd]

Many thanks, Traci, for confirming my doubts. I live in a very rural area in southern France, so we are a bit short of specialist vets (for cows, yes, but not cats), but I'll see if I can find anyone. At the very least, I'll get a second opinion.

Best wishes, Jan

[Traci]

Jan, is there any way you can get a phone consult with a specialist nearby? Check veterinary universities. Rather than actually having to take kitty for an exam/consult with a specialist, perhaps a simple phone consult would do, to at least answer your questions and doubt about that steroid administration your vet gave and continues to recommend. If for some reason, you can't find a specialist on your own, demand a referral to one, from your primary vet. He is rather obligated to refer you/direct you to a feline specialist if you request.

I'm assuming kitty is otherwise healthy, correct?