Managing Feline Immunodeficiency Virus in Companion Cats

FIV-positive cats can live long, healthy lives with appropriate care, but misconceptions about the virus often lead to unnecessary euthanasia and adoption refusals.

Key Facts

FIV affects approximately 2.5 percent of healthy cats and up to 15 percent of sick cats worldwide
The virus is transmitted almost exclusively through deep bite wounds, not casual contact like shared food bowls
FIV-positive cats living indoors with non-aggressive companions pose minimal infection risk to other cats
Median survival after diagnosis exceeds 5 years with proper veterinary monitoring and care
FIV cats are disproportionately euthanised in shelters due to stigma rather than medical necessity

Welfare Considerations

FIV-positive cats suffer more from the welfare consequences of their diagnosis than from the virus itself. Healthy FIV-positive cats are routinely euthanised in shelters or kept in long-term isolation, both of which cause significant suffering. The primary welfare need of most FIV-positive cats is a stable indoor home with regular veterinary monitoring to catch secondary infections early. Educating shelter staff, veterinarians, and potential adopters about the actual low risk of transmission is the most impactful welfare intervention available.

What You Can Do

Consider adopting an FIV-positive cat — they make affectionate, loyal companions
Educate yourself about FIV to counter common myths before making adoption decisions
Support shelters that maintain FIV-positive cats in general adoption rather than isolation or euthanasia
Ask your vet about regular wellness monitoring if you have an FIV-positive cat
Advocate for evidence-based FIV policies at local shelters and rescue organisations