FIV-positive cats can live long, good-quality lives with appropriate management. Understanding this condition helps owners provide excellent welfare care for affected cats.
FIV-positive cats are among the most unjustly euthanized companion animals due to misunderstanding of their prognosis. Many are surrendered to shelters and euthanized despite the potential for a normal quality life with appropriate care. The welfare concern is bidirectional - preventing unnecessary euthanasia of cats who could live well, and ensuring those with FIV receive appropriate preventive care to delay immune compromise. FIV-positive cats that are maintained as indoor cats with appropriate veterinary monitoring can genuinely thrive, and their welfare is best protected by informed owners and veterinarians who understand the condition.