Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) causes immune suppression in cats, but with modern care, FIV-positive cats can live long, comfortable lives. Outdated perceptions of FIV often lead to unnecessary euthanasia.
FIV-positive cats have historically been euthanized in shelters at dramatically higher rates than FIV-negative cats, despite evidence that many can live normal lifespans. The welfare cost of this overreaction is enormous. FIV cats managed with regular veterinary monitoring, indoor living, good nutrition, and prompt treatment of secondary infections can enjoy excellent quality of life for many years. Shelters that implement 'FIV is not a death sentence' policies save lives and reflect current veterinary consensus on prognosis.