Companion Animals

Companion Cat Feline Immunodeficiency Virus

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) causes chronic immune suppression in cats, requiring careful management.

Key Facts

FIV affects 1-3% of cats globally but rates are higher in feral populations
Transmission is primarily through deep bite wounds
FIV-positive cats can live normal lifespans with good management
Neutering reduces fighting and transmission significantly

Welfare Considerations

FIV-positive cats in late stages experience the welfare consequences of immune suppression — recurring infections, weight loss, and progressive deterioration. However, many FIV-positive cats live for years with minimal health impacts if well managed. The welfare imperative is early diagnosis, appropriate management, and prevention through neutering and keeping cats away from fighting situations.

What You Can Do

Test cats for FIV when adopting, especially those with bite wound history
Neuter cats to reduce territorial fighting and transmission risk
Consider keeping FIV-positive cats indoors to prevent transmission to other cats
Support FIV-positive cat adoption — they deserve loving homes