Prevalência da leucemia viral felina(FELV) e da imunodeficiência viral felina (FIV) em gatos domesticos atendidos no hospital veterinário da Universidade Federal da Paraiba no periodo de 2023 a 2025 - aspectos clinicos e epidemiológicos

Abstract

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) constitute the main retroviral infections in the medical practice of domestic cats, with great clinical and epidemiological relevance and a significant impact on their health and longevity. This study aimed to determine the prevalence in domestic cats treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Paraíba, between 2023 and 2025, and to describe the main associated clinical and epidemiological aspects. A total of 144 cats were evaluated, undergoing anamnesis, clinical examination, and diagnosis through a rapid immunochromatographic test that detects FeLV antigen and FIV antibody. Additional data regarding living conditions, reproductive history, presence of comorbidities, and results of complementary examinations were obtained through interviews with owners and analysis of clinical records. The observed prevalence was 45.0% for FeLV and 8.3% for FIV, in addition to cases of coinfection, configuring a concerning epidemiological scenario that surpasses rates described in other regions of Brazil. Infection affected animals of different ages, sexes, breeds, and lifestyles, evidencing broad population distribution. Among the clinical findings, progressive weight loss, lymphadenopathy, chronic stomatitis, anemia, and opportunistic infections were highlighted, confirming the immunosuppressive nature of retroviral infections. The low vaccination coverage identified against FeLV, associated with the high percentage of positive animals, demonstrates weaknesses in preventive strategies and the urgent need to intensify actions in veterinary public health. It is concluded that systematic screening, vaccination, and segregation of infected animals are indispensable tools to reduce viral spread, promote feline welfare, and support more effective clinical practices.