Feline Immunodeficiency Virus: Living Well with FIV

FIV-positive cats can live long, high-quality lives with appropriate management. Understanding the disease helps owners provide the best care and dispels misconceptions that lead to unnecessary euthanasia.

Key Facts

FIV affects approximately 2.5% of cats globally, with higher rates in free-roaming and unneutered males
FIV-positive cats that are otherwise healthy can live for many years with median survival similar to uninfected cats
The virus is primarily transmitted through deep bite wounds — neutering and indoor management dramatically reduce risk
FIV-positive cats should not be euthanised solely on the basis of their status if they are clinically well
Regular veterinary monitoring, prompt treatment of secondary infections, and dental care are the cornerstones of FIV management

Welfare Considerations

FIV-positive cats are frequently euthanised unnecessarily based on outdated understanding of their prognosis. Modern evidence shows that well-managed FIV-positive cats can enjoy years of good quality life. The welfare imperative is clear: cats should not suffer premature death because of a diagnosis that does not preclude comfortable, long-term survival. Key welfare measures include indoor housing to reduce infection risk and prevent transmission, prompt treatment of any secondary illness, regular dental care to manage the oral disease to which FIV cats are predisposed, and owner education about realistic expectations. Adoption of FIV-positive cats from shelters saves lives.

What You Can Do

Consider adopting an FIV-positive cat — they can live long, happy lives with appropriate care
If your cat is diagnosed with FIV, work with your vet to establish a monitoring and management plan
Keep FIV-positive cats indoors to protect them from secondary infections and prevent transmission
Advocate for shelter policies that do not automatically euthanise FIV-positive cats on intake