FIV+ CATS

FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) is a viral infection that affects cats only and causes affected cats to have a weaker immune system in comparison to non-FIV positive cats. Since FIV takes time to impact a cat's health, most FIV+ cats lead long, healthy lives with few or no symptoms.

FIV cannot be transmitted to humans or other animals. FIV is not easily transmitted between cats and does not spread through litter boxes, water and food bowls, or casual contact like snuggling and playing. FIV is primarily transmitted through deep bite wounds during severe fights where blood is exchanged, such as during intense battles between unneutered males over females. In unspayed/unneutered cats, FIV can be transmitted through mating or giving birth.

FIV+ cats can also coexist with non-FIV cats as long as all cats are spayed/neutered. Normal behaviors like grooming each other or sharing food/water bowls do not transmit FIV— even playful wrestling or light biting (without deep wounds) will not spread FIV. Therefore, most FIV+ cats can lead normal, comfortable lives alongside non-FIV cats.

If a cat has tested positive for FIV, it is not the fatal diagnosis that veterinarians once believed it to be.

FAQs

While FIV is related to HIV in humans, there's no way that the cat virus can cross between species and infect people. FIV only affects cats, cannot be transmitted to non-felines.
Although there's no cure for FIV, most infected cats are able to live long and happy lives and can make wonderful pets.
You should feed your FIV+ cat a premium wet food diet with L-lysine powder mixed or sprinkled on their food. They also shouldn't be given any raw food or dairy products.
Bi-annual vet visits, keeping them indoors only and feeding them a high-quality wet food diet is the best way to keep your FIV+ cat’s health in good shape.
You should also watch for FIV-cat symptoms such as sneezing, unusual urination, poor coat condition, lack of appetite, inflammation of the gums and mouth, and diarrhea, and promptly visit the vet if these issues arise.