FIV is often misunderstood as a death sentence for cats. In reality, FIV-positive cats can live long, comfortable lives with appropriate management. Understanding the disease prevents unnecessary euthanasia and improves welfare for affected cats.
FIV diagnosis historically triggered euthanasia recommendations that are no longer supported by evidence. Modern veterinary consensus holds that FIV-positive cats with appropriate management can live long, comfortable, high-quality lives. The welfare harm from unnecessary euthanasia of FIV-positive cats is significant — an avoidable loss of life based on outdated clinical guidance. The welfare needs of FIV-positive cats include biannual veterinary monitoring, prompt treatment of secondary infections, neutering to reduce fighting risk, and ideally indoor or managed outdoor access to protect an immune-compromised individual from infectious challenges. Many FIV-positive cats in rescue are overlooked for adoption — sharing accurate information about FIV improves their welfare outcomes.