FIV, often called feline AIDS, is a manageable condition for many cats, but misconceptions lead to unnecessary euthanasia and welfare concerns.
FIV-positive cats face a significant welfare challenge not from the virus itself, but from human responses to their diagnosis. Unnecessary euthanasia of FIV-positive cats in shelters represents a major welfare problem - many of these cats could live long, comfortable lives with appropriate management. For cats who do progress to advanced FIV disease, the immune compromise can lead to severe secondary infections causing significant suffering. Keeping FIV-positive cats indoors prevents transmission to other cats and reduces exposure to pathogens that could cause opportunistic infections. Regular veterinary monitoring allows early detection and treatment of secondary conditions.