Fiv, Gingivitis, Steroids, Buprenex, Extraction

[jcat]

I can only answer question #2. We've had a few FIV+ cats at the shelter that needed full-mouth extractions due to stomatitis. The vet had them on painkillers for a week (usual also for FIV- cats), but the length of time they were on antibiotics differed depending on the healing process. Two were on antibiotics for a week (usual), one for 2 weeks, and a third, elderly cat for over 3 weeks, with the antibiotic being changed after week one because he was showing signs of infection and developed a URI, which was probably unrelated, because he was prone to them later, too.

Fortunately none of the four showed any more signs of stomatitis after the extractions, so it was worthwhile having it done.

I don't know if there are vets who specialize in FIV cats, but any who regularly deal with ferals/shelter cats are likely to have some experience, provided that those that test positive for FIV aren't immediately euthanized.

 

[Mamanyt1953]

I did find this, and hope that it helps:
FIV - The Facts not the Fiction about Feline Immunodeficiency Virus - Cat Chat

 

[crystalnicole]

My 3 year old Lulu tested positive for FIV last week. She was probably infected due to the fact that her mom had it, which is evidently extremely rare as this disease is usually spread by blood/bite wounds and not very often simply from birth. You can read my previous post for more context/background here.

We have been dealing with mouth problems (painful, red, inflamed gums) for about 3 weeks now. She got her teeth cleaned about two months ago, which is probably what "triggered" the gingivitis flare up due to her poor immune system. Anyway, When I first took her in about two weeks ago, the vet gave her an antibiotic injection and pain meds (Buprenex) to take home. I've been having to give her the Buprenex every day now because I can tell she's in pain.

I took her in for a follow up visit today andjust as we suspected, she's FIV positive. The vet said there's not much else we can do at this point, aside from a full dental extraction. He also sent me home with some steroid medication to see if it would help, but he said that there's a chance it could make her condition worse because apparently steroids work with the immune system. He also said that even with the extractions, she could have trouble healing...again, due to her immune system. I have several questions, so bare with me.

1) Does anyone have experience giving an FIV positive cat steroids? How did it turn out?

2) Does anyone have experience extracting teeth on an FIV positive cat with gingivitis? How was the healing process?

3) Would it be wise to get a second opinion/help from a vet who specializes in FIV positive cats? Does such a thing even exist??

4) I am worried about continuing to give Lulu Buprenex on a daily basis, due to the potential physical dependence issue. It is a controlled medication, and is an opiate, so I am very concerned about giving it to her long-term (it's been about 3 weeks now). I asked the vet about this during our visit a few days ago, and he kinda brushed off my question and told me there was no risk...which I find VERY hard to believe.

I am so upset, feel really lost, and am desperate for answers. If anyone has ANY experience with the above questions, I would be SO grateful for any guidance you can provide.

Xo,
Crystal

 

[Mamanyt1953]

Is there a university with a veterinary program near you? That would give you the most cutting-edge care out there, although it will NOT be cheaper, and may even be more expensive. Here's a thought, call your local Veterinary Medical Association and ask for FIV specialists in your area. They may be able to help. Also, check with local shelters. They see a LOT of FIV, and may have the name of a vet for you. I just wish I had more concrete answers for you!