Without lymphocytes, immunodeficiency results and the body is open to infection. Symptoms associated with FIV are generally due to secondary bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. 3 Stages of FIV Infection Early symptoms of FIV generally go unnoticed. Within 4-6 weeks after exposure, enlargement of lymph nodes occur. These lymph nodes may remain enlarged for 2-9 months.
Early symptoms disappear and the infected animal enters a long period of latency.
This is the quiet period and may last several years. This last stage is the chronic or terminal phase of the infection. Secondary infections are common and may last months or years. Skin, bladder, and respiratory infections are also very common. The diagnosis of FIV is made by a veterinarian.