My 11 years old indoor-only cat just diagnosed with FIV. How?

I'm sorry to hear about your cat's diagnosis. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is similar to human HIV; it affects the immune system, making cats more susceptible to infections. It can be quite surprising to hear your indoor-only cat has FIV, but there are a few ways this might have occurred. FIV is typically transmitted through bite wounds, often from fights with other cats, which means your cat could have had an encounter with an infected cat before becoming strictly indoor.



Other possibilities include transmission at birth from an infected mother or very rarely through shared food bowls or litter, though direct transmission through casual contact is much less common.



At home, focus on keeping your cat healthy with a well-balanced diet and comfortable environment. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor her health. Watch for signs of illness such as fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and any changes in behavior or appearance. These could suggest an infection or other health issues that need prompt attention.



It's important to reach out to a vet for further guidance on managing FIV and to ensure your cat's long-term health. If you have more questions or need personalized advice, consider scheduling a video consult with us at Dial A Vet. We're here to help!