From routine checkups to unexpected urgent needs, Summit Veterinary Care is here to support your pet’s health with empathy and expertise. Our Fear Free Certified team goes above and beyond to ensure a low-stress experience tailored to each patient.

Keeping cats healthy is one of our top priorities. Just like dogs, cats are at risk for serious infectious diseases — some of which can be deadly. That’s why we recommend the Feline Triple Test, a simple blood test that screens for heartworm, Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV).

What the Feline Triple Test Covers

1. Heartworm Disease
   • Caused by Dirofilaria immitis, transmitted through mosquito bites.
   • Cats can develop heart and lung damage, sometimes with subtle symptoms like coughing, vomiting, or lethargy.
   • Early detection through testing helps guide preventive care and ensures prompt treatment if necessary.
2. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
   • FIV weakens a cat’s immune system, making them more susceptible to infections and illness.
   • Spread primarily through bites from infected cats, often in outdoor cats or multi-cat households with conflict.
   • While there’s no cure, knowing a cat’s FIV status allows for better long-term care and infection control.
3. Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
   • FeLV is highly contagious and can cause cancer, immune suppression, and anemia.
   • Spread through close contact with infected cats, shared food/water bowls, or from mother to kitten.
   • Vaccination is available for at-risk cats, but testing first ensures an infected cat is properly managed.

Why Testing Matters

• Early detection saves lives: Many of these diseases show few symptoms initially. Catching them early can improve outcomes.
• Guides preventive care: Heartworm prevention, FeLV vaccination, and management of FIV-positive cats all depend on accurate testing.
• Protects other cats: Knowing your cat’s status helps prevent transmission to other cats in your household or community.
• Peace of mind: You’ll know your cat’s health status and can make informed decisions about care and lifestyle.

Who Should Get the Feline Triple Test?

• New cats: Always recommended when bringing a new cat into your home.
• Outdoor cats: Cats with access to the outdoors or potential contact with other cats should be tested annually.
• Multi-cat households: Helps protect all cats in the home from infectious diseases.
• Cats with unknown vaccination or health history: Especially if adopted from a shelter or rescue.

At Summit Veterinary Care

The Feline Triple Test is quick, safe, and minimally invasive — just a small blood sample taken during a wellness visit. Results are typically available the same day, allowing us to discuss next steps with you immediately.

At Summit Veterinary Care, our goal is to keep cats healthy, happy, and safe. The Feline Triple Test is a simple, proactive way to protect your cat from serious diseases and provide peace of mind for you as an owner.