Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) are two common viral infections that affect cats. To diagnose these infections in cats, veterinarians often use a diagnostic tool called a “snap test.”
The snap test is designed to detect the presence of specific proteins associated with FIV and FeLV in a cat’s blood. These tests are crucial for identifying whether a cat is infected with either of these viruses, as they can have serious health implications.
A small amount of blood is required for the test. The veterinarian or technician will collect a blood sample from the cat, typically by drawing a small amount from a vein in the cat’s leg or neck. If the test shows positive results for FIV or FeLV, it means the cat is infected with the respective virus. Further confirmatory tests may be required to confirm the diagnosis. A negative result indicates that the cat is not currently infected with FIV or FeLV. However, it’s essential to remember that a cat may test negative in the early stages of infection, so retesting may be recommended if there is a high suspicion of exposure or symptoms develop later.