FIV is a lentivirus affecting cats' immune systems. With appropriate management, many FIV-positive cats live full, comfortable lives and the prognosis is often better than owners fear.
FIV diagnosis is often met with unwarranted pessimism as many owners and even some veterinarians assume it is a death sentence for affected cats. In reality, well-managed FIV-positive cats commonly live for many years in good health. The asymptomatic latent phase can last years to over a decade. When managed appropriately with indoor housing to reduce secondary infection exposure, excellent nutrition, stress reduction, and prompt treatment of any illness, FIV-positive cats often have excellent quality of life. The unnecessary euthanasia of FIV-positive cats at rescue organizations represents a significant avoidable welfare problem that can be addressed through better management and adoption policies.