FeLV and FIV

image of Online Vet Training instructor Geert Paes

Geert Paes, DVM, Dip ECVIM-ca

€90

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Course includes:

20 Lessons

Topics

Quiz

Certificate

Duration: 3 hours

€90

FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus) and FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus)—commonly known as feline leukemia and feline AIDS—are highly contagious infections frequently encountered in cats. When a cat tests positive for one of these infections, many questions arise—not only regarding prognosis and possible treatment for the affected individual, but also concerning diagnostics, treatment, and prevention for any in-contact cats.

In the past, a diagnosis of FeLV and/or FIV was often associated with a poor prognosis. But is that still justified in light of current knowledge?

In this 3-hour training, you’ll receive a comprehensive update and expert guidance on FeLV and FIV in cats.

We will address key questions such as:

How are FeLV and FIV transmitted, and which cats are at highest risk?
What is the course of a FeLV infection? Do all infected cats become ill, or can some overcome the infection
What is the expected prognosis for cats with an FeLV infection?
What is the course of a FIV infection?
Do all infected cats become ill, or can some overcome the infection? What is the expected prognosis?
How can we reliably diagnose FeLV and FIV infections?
Are there any treatment options available for FeLV- and/or FIV-positive cats?
What is the role of vaccination, and what other strategies exist for preventing infection?

The course is divided into multiple chapters. Each chapter features a short video of a pre-recorded lecture. You’ll also find practice questions, recommended reading materials, and downloadable handouts of the full presentation. Questions for the instructor can be submitted through the online forum.

Geert Paes, DVM, Dip ECVIM-ca

After graduating as a veterinarian in 2006 from the University of Ghent, Geert completed an internship and residency in small animal internal medicine. She remained at the university until 2012, after which she moved to Western Canada. There, she spent several years working in first-line practice, before transitioning back into emergency and referral medicine. This experience gave her a deep understanding of the realities of clinical practice and a strong appreciation for the challenges faced by general practitioners on a daily basis.

Geert has been a Diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ECVIM-CA) since 2017 and is (co-)author of several scientific publications. She currently works as a specialist at Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital in Surrey, Canada, and as a teleconsultant.

However, what truly sets Geert apart is her passion for teaching. She is known for her ability to explain complex topics in a clear, accessible, and practical way, making internal medicine understandable for every veterinarian—regardless of their level of experience. Her teaching style is characterized by clear explanations, additional context, and a strong focus on clinical reasoning.

Having worked in first-line practice herself, Geert strongly believes that the “ideal scenario” is not always achievable. Her goal is not only to teach what the gold standard (Plan A) looks like, but also to equip veterinarians with the tools and confidence to make well-reasoned decisions when they need to rely on Plan B or Plan C.

Her courses are highly valued for their practical approach and direct applicability in daily practice, and her enthusiasm for internal medicine is contagious—she consistently succeeds in inspiring others to develop the same passion.

Driven by this vision, Geert founded OnlineVetTraining (OVT) in 2019, with the aim of providing accessible, high-quality, and clinically relevant education for veterinarians and veterinary professionals worldwide.