Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is a common chronic infection in cats that, with appropriate management, need not preclude a good quality of life.
FIV management welfare requires balancing the cat's quality of life needs - including appropriate environmental stimulation, social interaction, and veterinary care - with management changes that reduce immunodeficiency progression risk. Keeping FIV-positive cats indoors or in controlled outdoor environments reduces secondary infection exposure, which is the primary cause of welfare deterioration in affected cats. Indoor enrichment becomes particularly important for cats whose outdoor access is restricted. Regular veterinary monitoring enables early detection and treatment of secondary conditions before they cause significant welfare harm. FIV-positive cats in rescue centers are often overlooked for adoption despite being able to live long, good quality lives with appropriate care.