Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)

What is FIV? 

FIV stands for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus. It is similar to HIV in people but is NOT contagious to humans. It is a virus that attacks the immune system of cats. Many cats live with the virus for years with no symptoms, but in some cats over time, the virus will eventually suppress the immune system, allowing pathogens (bacteria, viruses, parasites) or cancers to cause serious disease. Once infected, a cat is infected for life. There is no cure or treatment for FIV. FIV is a cat-only disease and cannot be transmitted to people or dogs. 

How is FIV spread? 

FIV is most often spread by an infected cat biting another cat. On rare occasions infection is transmitted from an infected mother cat to her kittens, during birth or through infected milk. Sexual contact is another way that FIV can be spread but is not common. It is not spread through casual contact. 

How long can I expect my FIV-positive cat to live? 

It is impossible to predict the life span of any cat, regardless of their current health status. With proper care, most FIV positive cats have normal life expectancies. 

Can an FIV infected cat live with other cats? 

Yes. Casual contact between an FIV positive cat and a non-infected cat does not spread FIV. Therefore, cats in households with stable social structures, where housemates do not fight, can be housed together. If cats living together fight, there is a chance that FIV could be transmitted between them. Cats with FIV can also live with other cats with FIV. It is the sole responsibility of the adopter/guardian to make the decision to house an FIV positive cat with a non-infected cat. If done properly, they can lead happy lives together, but there is always a chance that if they fight the virus could be transmitted. 

How is FIV diagnosed? 

FIV is detected by a simple and reliable blood test that can be done at your local veterinarian’s office. Your veterinarian may recommend additional testing after adoption to further confirm the diagnosis and rule out false-positive results. Further testing, if pursued, will be the financial responsibility of the adopter.

How should FIV positive cats be managed? 

Cats with FIV should be kept indoors at all times to prevent catching an illness and also to prevent transmitting FIV to other cats through fighting. They should be fed a balanced diet, like all cats should, and raw diets should be avoided (due to increased risk of food borne disease being transmitted from such diets in case of immune suppression). A wellness veterinary exam and laboratory work should be done annually to ensure your cat’s ultimate health. 

Why should I adopt an FIV positive cat? 

Cats with FIV are just like other cats. They all have unique personalities and traits and will provide you with years of love, companionship and laughter.