Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) affects an estimated 2-4% of cats globally. Understanding FIV helps owners provide appropriate care and dispels myths that lead to unnecessary euthanasia of FIV-positive cats.
FIV-positive cats are routinely euthanized in shelters due to the misconception that they are inevitably sick, contagious to all cats, and untreatable. This represents an enormous preventable welfare loss. FIV-positive cats can live for years in good health if given appropriate veterinary monitoring, prompt treatment of secondary infections, and indoor lifestyle to reduce exposure to infectious diseases. Housing with FIV-negative cats is possible when fighting is prevented (neutered males rarely bite) — many multi-cat households have FIV-positive and negative cats coexisting without transmission for years. Welfare monitoring focuses on immune markers, weight, and early detection of opportunistic infections. Regular deworming and vaccination (avoiding modified live vaccines) maintain immune capacity. Quality of life, not FIV status, should guide welfare decisions.