What is Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)?

FIV is a virus that weakens a cat's immune system, making it more difficult for them to fight infections and recover from illness.

Unlike many viruses, FIV usually progresses slowly. An infected cat may appear perfectly healthy for years before showing any signs of illness.

Because their immune system is significantly compromised, FIV-positive cats are more susceptible to secondary infections, dental disease and other health problems.

FIV is most commonly spread through deep bite wounds from an infected cat.

This is why cats most at risk are those that:

• Roam outdoors
• Get into fights with other cats
• Are entire (undesexed) males
• Live in areas with a large stray or feral cat population

The virus is not easily spread through normal social contact such as sharing food bowls, grooming each other or sleeping together.

Kittens can occasionally become infected from their mother, although this is much less common than transmission through bite wounds, and may not be lifelong.

Keeping your cat indoors or in a secure outdoor enclosure, ensuring FIV vaccines are up to date, and having them desexed early, can significantly reduce the risk of infection.

Many infected cats show no signs of illness for several years.

As the immune system becomes weaker, signs may include:

• Recurring infections - skin, respiratory, bladder, and eye infections can be common
• Poor wound healing
• Gingivitis or dental disease
• Weight loss
• Fever
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Poor coat condition
• Reduced appetite
• Lethargy

Because these signs can occur with many different illnesses, testing is required to diagnose FIV.

FIV is diagnosed using a simple blood test.

If the initial test is positive, your veterinarian may recommend additional testing depending on your cat's age, vaccination history and individual circumstances.

Your veterinarian will explain what the results mean and discuss the best management plan for your cat.

Yes.

Many cats with FIV enjoy a good quality of life for many years.

The key is maintaining their overall health by:

• Scheduling regular veterinary health checks
• Feeding a balanced, high-quality diet
• Treating illnesses promptly
• Keeping vaccinations and parasite prevention up to date
• Reducing exposure to infectious diseases
• Keeping FIV-positive cats indoors to protect both them and other cats

Early treatment of infections is especially important because an FIV-positive cat's immune system may not respond as effectively.

The best ways to reduce your cat's risk include:

• Keeping cats indoors or in secure outdoor enclosures
• Desexing to reduce fighting and roaming
• Avoiding contact with unknown cats
• Prompt treatment of bite wounds
• Discussing FIV vaccinations with your veterinarian

Vaccination may be recommended for cats whose lifestyle places them at increased risk of exposure.

This may include cats that:

• Spend time outdoors
• Have contact with unfamiliar cats
• Are known to roam
• Are more likely to become involved in fights

Not every cat requires FIV vaccination. Indoor-only cats generally have a much lower risk of exposure.

Your veterinarian can help determine whether the FIV vaccine is appropriate based on your cat's lifestyle and risk factors.

No. FIV only affects cats and cannot be transmitted to people, dogs or other household pets. 

Although it is sometimes called "Feline AIDS", it is a completely different virus from FIV in humans.

There is no cure for FIV.

However, many cats live long, healthy lives with appropriate veterinary care and prompt treatment of infections.

Arrange a veterinary appointment if your cat:

• Has been involved in a cat fight
• Has a bite wound or abscess
• Develops recurring infections
• Shows unexplained weight loss
• Has persistent mouth inflammation or dental disease
• Seems lethargic or unwell

If you're unsure whether your cat is protected against FIV or whether vaccination is recommended, we can help you determine the best prevention plan.

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus is a serious disease, but it is also one that can often be reduced through good preventative care.

Keeping your cat desexed, reducing opportunities for fighting, providing regular veterinary care and discussing whether FIV vaccination is suitable can all help protect your cat's long-term health.

If you have questions about FIV, would like your cat tested, or want to discuss whether vaccination is right for your pet, the team at Vet Cross is here to help.