FIV-positive cats can live long, comfortable lives with appropriate care. Understanding the condition helps owners make informed decisions and reduces unnecessary euthanasia.
FIV-positive cats historically faced high rates of euthanasia on diagnosis, a practice that welfare evidence does not support for cats without advanced disease. With appropriate management — indoor housing, regular veterinary monitoring, prompt treatment of secondary infections, and good nutrition — FIV-positive cats can enjoy years of comfortable life. The welfare considerations are ongoing: the cat requires more frequent veterinary attention, and owners must be vigilant for early signs of secondary infections that a healthy immune system would resolve without treatment. The social isolation required for multi-cat households, where keeping an FIV-positive cat separate from FIV-negative cats may be necessary, is itself a welfare consideration requiring thoughtful management.