FIV-positive cats can live long, comfortable lives with appropriate management. Understanding the condition prevents unnecessary euthanasia and enables informed care.
FIV-positive cats are sometimes euthanized at diagnosis despite the likelihood of years of comfortable, quality life. The progressive immunodeficiency that leads to AIDS-like illness often does not manifest until very late in life or not at all. Informed management that provides indoor lifestyle, regular monitoring, and prompt treatment of intercurrent infections enables most FIV-positive cats to live well.