FIV is an acronym that stands for feline immunodeficiency virus. It is a virus that affects cats and weakens their immune system. Thus, FIV-positive cats are more vulnerable to infections because their immune defences are reduced.

Though it may sound similar, it's important to note that FIV is not the same as HIV. Humans cannot catch FIV from cats, and many FIV-positive cats live long, happy lives with the right care.

In this guide, we look at symptoms, transmission, diagnosis, treatment and everyday care.

What Does FIV Mean?

As mentioned, FIV stands for feline immunodeficiency virus. The word "feline" means it only affects cats, while "immunodeficiency" means that the immune system doesn't work as strongly as it should.

The FIV virus can remain in the body for life — currently, there is no cure for FIV. It is a slow-developing condition, so a cat can test positive for it but still appear completely healthy for months or even years.

An FIV diagnosis doesn't mean a cat can't enjoy a full and happy life. Though there is no cure, recent studies suggest cats with FIV commonly live average lifespans if they are not also infected with feline leukaemia virus.

How Do Cats Get FIV?

FIV is mainly spread through saliva, most commonly through deep bite wounds. The cats that are most at risk include unneutered male cats, cats that roam outdoors, stray or feral cats, and cats that fight over territory.

Ordinary social contact with other cats is very low-risk. FIV doesn't survive long outside the body, so it is unlikely to spread through contact with external things. It is very rare for it to spread through:

• Food and water bowls
• Bedding
• Human hands
• Clothing
• Casual grooming

Mother-to-kitten transmission is possible, but this is considered rare.

Can Indoor Cats Get FIV?

Indoor-only cats are at a much lower risk of contracting FIV, since it is most commonly spread through bites from other cats. If you keep your cat indoors at all times, the only real risk is if your cat escapes and gets into a fight.

The other risk factors are if your cat:

• Has an unknown history before adoption
• Lives with an FIV-positive cat that bites

Secure gardens, catios and supervised outdoor access help keep risk to a minimum if you like to give your cat outdoor time.

Can Humans or Other Pets Catch FIV?

Humans cannot catch FIV. It is a virus that is species-specific to cats. This means that dogs, rabbits and other non-cat pets cannot catch FIV either. The main concern is transmission from one cat to another.

FIV-positive cats often live safely with non-feline pets — the only question over this relates to the animals' temperament and your household management. If your cat lives with other cats, however, you need to be more careful:

• The risk is highest if your cats fight or bite
• Many experts recommend that FIV-positive cats only live with other FIV-positive cats, or alone

If you have a peaceful, stable indoor multi-cat home, the risk may be lower. It is still wise to speak to a vet, however.

If you are an owner of an FIV-positive cat, it is your responsibility to prevent it from spreading to other cats.

What Are the Symptoms of FIV in Cats?

When cats first contract the virus, there are often no obvious symptoms. The symptom-free stage can last for a long time once the virus gets in — you often won't notice anything until the immune system has already weakened.

Here are the signs that could indicate a cat has FIV:

• Weight loss
• Reduced appetite
• Lethargy or low energy
• Ongoing diarrhoea
• Swollen lymph nodes/glands
• Sore, red or inflamed gums
• Mouth pain
• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Weepy eyes
• Skin infections
• Recurring infections
• Slow recovery from illness

There are many things that could cause these symptoms, so it isn't necessarily FIV. If you notice any of these symptoms, we urge you to call your vet and get them checked out.

How Is FIV Diagnosed?

The presence of FIV is usually established with a blood test carried out by a vet. Generally speaking, the virus needs to be suspected, as the blood test needs to be checking for specific antibodies to the virus.

In some cases, a cat may need repeat testing. This is usually down to:

• Recent exposure
• An unclear result
• A young kitten with antibodies from its mother
• Symptoms that don't match the first result

It is never a good idea to try to diagnose FIV from symptoms alone, as those symptoms could indicate a number of things. A vet may recommend testing for other infections like feline leukaemia virus depending on the cat's health and history.

Is There a Cure for FIV?

At the time of writing, there is no cure for FIV. Instead, vets focus on treatments of specific symptoms. This usually means:

• Managing symptoms as they come
• Treating secondary infections swiftly
• Supporting the immune system
• Preventing avoidable illness
• Maintaining quality of life

Antibiotics, dental treatment, parasite control or other medications may be needed, depending on symptoms. There are no specific diets or supplements that can cure FIV. The only viable course of action is regular vet care and following their advice and guidance.

How Long Can a Cat Live With FIV?

The prognosis varies from one cat to the next, so it is difficult to give a life expectancy for an FIV-positive cat. The good news is that many FIV-positive cats can live for years. Some may live a normal or near-normal lifespan with good care.

The prognosis depends on:

• Age at diagnosis
• General health
• Whether the cat has feline leukaemia virus as well
• Dental health
• Exposure to other infections
• Indoor vs outdoor lifestyle
• Speed of treatment when illness appears

If a cat develops repeated or severe secondary infections, FIV can become a very serious concern. It is important to monitor quality of life with a vet.

How to Care for an FIV-Positive Cat

If your cat is diagnosed with FIV, the way you care for it will make a huge difference to health and life expectancy. Your role will be to try to prevent illness and treat it when it arrives.

Here are the recommended care points from UK vets:

• Keep them indoors or give access only to a secure garden/catio
• Book regular vet check-ups
• Contact the vet promptly if the cat seems unwell
• Keep vaccinations and boosters up to date in line with vet advice
• Maintain flea and worming treatment
• Feed a complete, balanced cat food
• Avoid raw meat, raw eggs or unpasteurised foods because of infection risk
• Keep their teeth and gums monitored
• Reduce stress at home where possible
• Provide enrichment toys, scratching posts, climbing spaces and puzzle feeders to play
• Neuter cats to reduce roaming and fighting

Because FIV-positive cats are more vulnerable to secondary infections, spotting problems early is essential. Litter Sense cat litter changes colour when the chemical composition of your cat's urine is abnormal, giving you an early warning sign that something isn't right — which can be especially valuable when caring for a cat with a weakened immune system.

Keeping your FIV-positive cat indoors is best, but that indoor life must be stimulating. Ultimately, care is manageable with the right guidance — it isn't something you need to be frightened of.

Should an FIV-Positive Cat Go Outside?

Most UK welfare organisations recommend keeping FIV-positive cats indoors or only allowing access to a safe, secure outdoor space. Good ideas for this include a catio, enclosed garden or time outside on a harness (this will take gradual training).

The reasons for this are to:

• Reduce exposure to infections
• Prevent fighting injuries
• Prevent the spread of FIV to other cats through bites

As mentioned, it is generally advised to keep an FIV-positive cat indoors. This means there should be plenty of indoor enrichment to keep the cat happy and stress-free.

Can You Adopt a Cat With FIV?

Many FIV cats can make wonderful pets. They tend to get overlooked in rescue centres because people misunderstand the condition. If you are considering adopting a cat with FIV, here are some features of a home that might make a good fit:

• Indoor-only households
• Homes with no other cats
• Homes with other FIV-positive cats
• Calm homes where stress can be minimised

If you are a prospective adopter, understand that it is important to discuss the cat's unique needs with the rescue centre and their vet. There may be insurance implications — FIV is likely to be classed as a pre-existing condition, so check policy wording carefully if you want to insure your cat.

FIV in Cats: Key Takeaways

Here is a quick wrap-up of everything in this guide to ensure you understand all you need to know:

• FIV stands for feline immunodeficiency virus
• It weakens a cat's immune system
• It is mainly spread through deep bite wounds
• Humans, dogs and other animals cannot catch it
• There is no cure, but many infected cats live long, happy lives
• FIV-positive cats usually need indoor or secure outdoor living
• Regular vet care, quick treatment and a low-stress lifestyle are central to good management

Frequently Asked Questions About FIV in Cats

Is FIV the same as feline AIDS?

FIV is sometimes referred to as feline AIDS because of the similarity in how the viruses affect the immune system. However, FIV cannot be passed to humans and is a separate, species-specific virus.

Can an FIV-positive cat live with a non-FIV cat?

It is possible in a calm, stable household where cats don't fight or bite. However, many vets and welfare organisations recommend keeping FIV-positive cats with other FIV-positive cats or alone to eliminate any risk of transmission.

Is there a vaccine for FIV?

A vaccine for FIV has existed in some countries, but availability and use vary. Speak to your vet about what is currently available in the UK and whether it is appropriate for your cat.

How much does an FIV test cost in the UK?

Costs vary between veterinary practices. Contact your vet directly for an up-to-date price, as this can change and may depend on whether the test is combined with other blood work.