Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Management

FIV-positive cats can live long, healthy lives with appropriate management, and understanding the disease helps owners provide good welfare while preventing transmission.

Key Facts

Feline immunodeficiency virus is a lentivirus that progressively impairs immune function
Transmission occurs primarily through deep bite wounds, making outdoor intact males most at risk
Many FIV-positive cats remain asymptomatic for years before entering a symptomatic phase
The virus does not cause immediate AIDS-like disease; progression is slow in most cats
FIV-positive cats should ideally be kept indoors to prevent transmission to other cats
A commercial vaccine against FIV is available in some countries but has variable efficacy

Welfare Considerations

FIV-positive cats that receive appropriate veterinary care, nutrition, and reduced stress can enjoy a good quality of life for many years. The key welfare threats are secondary infections arising from immune compromise and the stress of illness during symptomatic phases. Keeping FIV-positive cats as indoor-only animals significantly reduces exposure to pathogens and injuries that could overwhelm their compromised immune systems. Regular veterinary check-ups to detect early secondary infections allow prompt treatment. Euthanasia should not be recommended solely on the basis of a positive FIV diagnosis.

What You Can Do

Consult your vet about management strategies specific to your FIV-positive cat's stage of disease
Keep FIV-positive cats indoors to reduce infection risk and prevent transmission
Maintain regular veterinary check-ups for FIV-positive cats including blood counts
Neuter all cats to reduce bite wound transmission risks in communities
Adopt rather than euthanise FIV-positive cats; with care they live full, happy lives