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What is Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)?
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a cat-specific virus similar to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in that it weakens the immune system and can be transmitted sexually. However, FIV is mainly spread through saliva when an infected cat bites another deeply during a fight. The virus will enter the bloodstream through the wound, making outdoor, unneutered male cats more at risk because of territorially aggressive behavior.
Can FIV be transmitted to humans?
Absolutely not! Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a species-specific virus that only affects cats. This means that both you and your other pets (unless they’re cats) don’t have to worry: FIV can’t spread to humans or non-feline animals.
Should you keep FIV-positive cats as an only cat?
While FIV isn’t easily spread through everyday contact like grooming, it’s generally safest to keep FIV-positive cats in a home without FIV-negative cats to prevent any risk of transmission. If one of your cats is diagnosed with FIV, it can be heartbreaking to rehome them. If you decide not to do so, be sure to use separate food and water bowls so your feline friends are less likely to come into contact with each other’s saliva.
That said, FIV-positive cats don’t necessarily have to be kept as only cats as they can thrive in a home with other FIV-positive felines. It is however important to keep FIV-positive cats indoors as they more easily get ill due to their weakened immune system, and could infect other cats.
Why you should consider giving an FIV-positive cat a chance
FIV-positive cats often live long and happy lives
With the right care, FIV-positive cats often live long, happy, and healthy lives. Many never show serious symptoms and enjoy just as much love, play, and comfort as any other cat. Keeping them indoors, providing good nutrition, and scheduling regular vet checkups can help them thrive for many years.
FIV-positive cats are often overlooked
Unfortunately, cats with FIV are often overlooked when people go to adopt a new feline friend. Common misconceptions include FIV cats being constantly ill, living short lives, and them infecting humans. By adopting an FIV-positive cat, you can break the stigma and potentially educate other people on how FIV-positive cats are just as wonderful as any other feline.
Save a life
In high-kill shelters, cats with medical conditions are often among the first to be euthanized. By adopting an FIV-positive cat, you’re giving a second chance to a wonderful feline who might not have gotten one otherwise. And, since FIV-positive cats can live long, healthy lives, you’ll gain a loyal and loving companion for many years to come.
