Companion Animals

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus: Welfare and Long-term Management

Supporting FIV-positive cats through evidence-based management to maintain quality of life.

Key Facts

FIV is a lentivirus spread primarily through bite wounds — outdoor unneutered males are highest risk
FIV-positive cats can live normal lifespans with good management — FIV is not a death sentence
Secondary infections are the main welfare threat — not the virus itself
Vaccination is available but not routinely used in UK due to interference with testing

Welfare Considerations

FIV-positive cats experience welfare compromise primarily through secondary infections due to immune suppression. Welfare-focused management keeps FIV-positive cats indoors or in secure environments, monitors for signs of infection promptly, provides annual health checks including dental examination, and treats secondary infections aggressively. A stable home environment supports immune function.

What You Can Do

Do not euthanise FIV-positive cats at diagnosis — many live normal quality lives for years
Keep FIV-positive cats indoors or in secure environments to reduce infection exposure
Monitor FIV-positive cats every 6 months — early detection of secondary illness improves outcomes