FIV in Cats: Living Well with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus

FIV-positive cats can live long, healthy lives with appropriate care, but face unnecessary euthanasia due to misconceptions about the disease.

Key Facts

Around 5-10% of domestic cats in the UK may be FIV positive
FIV is transmitted through deep bite wounds, primarily between intact roaming males
FIV-positive cats can live normal lifespans with indoor management
The virus is species-specific and cannot be transmitted to humans
Many rescue centres still euthanise FIV-positive cats unnecessarily

Welfare Considerations

FIV-positive cats euthanised on diagnosis without health problems experience unnecessary death. Cats with managed FIV infection may show no clinical signs for years before immune compromise. Unnecessary euthanasia based on diagnosis rather than clinical condition represents a significant welfare harm. Cats with FIV benefit from indoor housing to prevent transmission to other cats and reduce infection risk, but can live full, comfortable lives. The psychological impact of diagnosis often affects owner decisions more than the cat's actual welfare status.

What You Can Do

Adopt FIV-positive cats from rescues rather than requesting euthanasia
Advocate for updated protocols at rescue centres regarding FIV cat management
Neuter and microchip cats to reduce bite wound transmission between roaming males
Discuss FIV management with your vet before making decisions about infected cats
Raise awareness about the excellent prognosis for well-managed FIV-positive cats