Companion Animals

Cat Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Management

FIV-positive cats can live long, good-quality lives with appropriate management, dispelling myths that drive unnecessary euthanasia.

Key Facts

FIV is transmitted primarily through bite wounds, most commonly in unneutered male cats
FIV-positive cats are not inevitably unwell; many live years with normal quality of life
Secondary infections are the primary welfare concern in FIV-positive cats
Keeping FIV-positive cats indoors prevents transmission to other cats
FIV-positive cats should not be automatically euthanised on diagnosis

Welfare Considerations

FIV diagnosis often leads to unnecessary euthanasia based on outdated information. Many FIV-positive cats live for many years with minimal health impacts. The welfare case for euthanasia is based on current quality of life, not diagnosis alone. Informed, evidence-based management allows FIV-positive cats to have good welfare.

What You Can Do

Seek specialist advice before making euthanasia decisions for FIV-positive cats
Keep FIV-positive cats indoors to prevent transmission and secondary infection
Neutering male cats dramatically reduces FIV transmission through bite wounds