FIV or feline immunodeficiency virus typically causes a weakening of the cat’s immune system. It is a lentivirus, the same class of virus as HIV in humans, but it not as serious for cats as it may be for humans.

So, how do cats get FIV?

The most common route of infection is a deep bite wound from a FIV-positive cat to another cat. It can also be transmitted via blood, in utero, and possibly from milk from an infected mother cat. It is extremely unlikely, if not impossible, for cats to get FIV from just being around infected cats, from sharing food bowls, or from a person touching a FIV-positive cat and then touching a FIV-negative cat.

What are the signs of FIV infection?

There are no specific signs of FIV infection. FIV-positive cats have a weaker immune system so they are more prone to getting infections such as upper respiratory infections, ringworm and dental disease. Other than that, FIV-positive cats tend to live normal lives and have a normal length of life.

How do I know if my cat has FIV?

There are no obvious signs of FIV so the only way to know is to do a blood test. The most common screening test is an ELISA test (often called a SNAP test) done by your veterinarian. All CRU cats are tested and you will be notified of a cat’s test results before adoption. 

Can FIV be treated?

There are no proven treatments to rid a cat of FIV. Most FIV-positive cats handle the disease well, but it is important to concentrate on treating the secondary illnesses.

What can be done to prevent the spread of FIV?

Cats should be kept indoors so they do not fight with a FIV-positive cat. CRU requires that adopted cats be kept indoors for their safety and health.

Can FIV-negative and FIV-positive cats live together?

YES! As long as the cats get along and there’s no serious fighting. Play fighting is perfectly okay. The risk that a FIV-positive cat could spread the virus to a FIV-negative cat can be minimized by having them live in separate rooms until you are confident that they will not fight with each other. We always recommend introducing new cats slowly regardless of FIV status.

Can FIV-positive cats have a good and long life?

YES! FIV-positive cats can live normal lives both in quality and duration. With all pets, CRU recommends regular health check-ups! Since FIV-positive cats tend to have poor dental health, it is a good idea to have regular cleanings as well. It is not uncommon for cats in their upper teens to need to have many of their teeth removed.