Feline immunodeficiency virus requires thoughtful management to maintain quality of life for infected cats while preventing transmission to uninfected individuals.
FIV-positive cats in the asymptomatic phase have welfare essentially indistinguishable from uninfected cats, and appropriate management can maintain this quality of life for many years. The welfare risk of FIV lies in the progressive immune compromise that eventually allows opportunistic infections to cause significant illness. Regular veterinary monitoring - twice-yearly rather than annual check-ups - enables early detection and treatment of secondary infections before they cause severe welfare compromise. Indoor lifestyle protects FIV-positive cats from additional infectious exposures while preventing transmission to other cats. The prognosis for FIV-positive cats has improved dramatically as veterinary understanding has advanced - these animals can live comfortable, full lives with appropriate care.