Companion Animals

Cat FIV Management: Positive Welfare and Long-Term Care

Feline immunodeficiency virus positive cats can live good quality lives with appropriate management and health monitoring.

Key Facts

FIV is transmitted primarily through bite wounds between cats
FIV-positive cats can live normal lifespans when kept indoors and monitored
Annual blood testing enables early detection of secondary infections and lymphoma
Stress reduction and excellent nutrition support immune function in FIV-positive cats

Welfare Considerations

FIV-positive cats maintained indoors in low-stress environments with regular health monitoring maintain good welfare for many years. The historical recommendation for immediate euthanasia of FIV-positive cats is not supported by welfare evidence. Individual welfare assessment and evidence-based management enables positive outcomes.

What You Can Do

Keep FIV-positive cats exclusively indoors to prevent transmission and protect their immunity
Schedule bi-annual health checks including blood work for FIV-positive cats
Provide excellent nutrition and minimise stress to support immune function