What is FIV?

 

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a virus that affects cats and weakens their immune system over time. A cat who tests positive for the virus is referred to as FIV-positive.

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What FIV is not

 

FIV is not the same as HIV/AIDS in humans. People cannot catch FIV from cats, and an FIV-positive cat poses no health risk to you or your family.

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FIV also cannot be passed to dogs or other non-feline pets.

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Is it safe for my other cats?

 

FIV is mainly spread through deep bite wounds, most commonly between unneutered cats that fight. In rare cases, an infected mother cat may pass the virus to her kittens during birth.

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This means the greatest risk is for:​

• Unspayed or unneutered outdoor cats

• Cats that fight with other cats outdoors
   

In peaceful homes with desexed cats, the risk of transmission is extremely low. FIV-positive and FIV-negative cats can often live happily together for years without spreading the virus.

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They can safely:​

• Sleep together

• Groom each other

• Share food and water bowls

• Share litter trays and toys
   

What are the effects of FIV?

 

Many FIV-positive cats appear completely healthy for years. Over time, the virus may weaken the immune system, making the cat more vulnerable to infections and illness.

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With good care, regular vet check-ups, and an indoor lifestyle, many FIV-positive cats live long, happy lives.

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How is FIV detected?

 

A simple blood test can detect antibodies to the virus.

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Kittens born to an FIV-positive mother may temporarily test positive because they carry their mother’s antibodies. For this reason, kittens should be retested after six months of age to confirm whether they are truly infected.

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Is there a vaccine?

 

There is an FIV vaccine available in some countries, but it is not completely reliable. Vaccinated cats may also test positive on future FIV tests, making it difficult to tell whether the cat is vaccinated or infected.

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Is treatment expensive?

 

There is no cure for FIV itself, but many FIV-positive cats require very little extra care beyond normal veterinary attention.

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Because their immune systems can be weaker, it’s important to:

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• Keep them indoors or in safe enclosed areas

• Avoid exposure to sick cats

• Maintain regular vaccinations and vet visits

• Treat illnesses promptly
   

Like any pet, unexpected health issues can happen, and some FIV-positive cats may require additional veterinary care over their lifetime.

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How long will an FIV-positive cat live?

 

Every cat is different. Some FIV-positive cats live well into their teens, while others may develop health complications earlier in life.

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The biggest factors are:

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• Quality of care

• Stress levels

• Exposure to illness

• Overall health and genetics
   

Many FIV-positive cats enjoy years of love, comfort, and companionship.

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Should I adopt an FIV-positive cat?

 

Only you can decide if it’s right for your family, but FIV-positive cats are often overlooked simply because people misunderstand the condition.

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These cats can be affectionate, healthy companions who deserve the same chance at a loving home as any other cat.

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It’s also important to remember that even cats without FIV can develop unexpected illnesses or require expensive vet care during their lives. No cat comes with a guarantee of perfect health.

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A final note

 

Sadly, outdated information about FIV is still common. Some people — including some vets — may recommend euthanasia or insist FIV-positive cats can never live with FIV-negative cats. Current research and real-world experience show this is often unnecessary.

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With responsible care and a stable home, many FIV-positive cats live safely alongside non-infected cats and enjoy full, happy lives.