By Dial A Vet Veterinary Team
Hearing that your cat has tested positive for feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) can be frightening, especially because it is often compared with HIV in people. The reality for many cats is more reassuring. FIV is a lifelong infection that slowly affects the immune system, but the Cornell Feline Health Center notes that cats with FIV commonly live average life spans as long as they are not also infected with feline leukaemia virus (FeLV). Good care, regular check-ups and prompt treatment of other illnesses make a real difference.
Key takeaways
- FIV is spread mainly through deep bite wounds from an infected cat.
- Once infected, a cat stays infected for life. There is no cure.
- Many cats stay well for years, and some never become ill from the virus.
- Most illness comes from secondary infections, so prompt vet care matters.
- Unneutered male cats that roam and fight are at greatest risk.
- FIV only affects cats. It cannot be passed to people, dogs or other animals.
How FIV spreads
The virus is present in the saliva of infected cats, and Cornell describes bite wounds as the primary mode of transmission. Casual contact, such as sharing water bowls or mutual grooming, does not appear to be an efficient route of spread. Cats living together in stable households where they do not fight are at little risk.
International Cat Care adds that, on rare occasions, the virus may pass from a pregnant queen to her kittens or through blood transfusions. The virus does not live long in the environment and is easily killed by common disinfectants.
Infection is much more common in outdoor cats and about twice as common in males as in females. Middle-aged cats (5 to 10 years) are more commonly diagnosed.
The three stages of FIV
Acute phase. This usually occurs 1 to 3 months after infection. Some cats have a fever, enlarged lymph nodes, low mood and a poor appetite, but these signs are often so mild that owners do not notice.
Asymptomatic phase. This can last from months to many years. Cats look healthy, though blood tests may show changes such as low white blood cell counts. Some cats stay in this stage and never progress.
Progressive phase. As the immune system weakens, secondary infections and other problems develop. International Cat Care notes this often happens around 2 to 5 years after infection in cats that do progress.
Signs to watch for
There are no signs specific to FIV. Infected cats often have repeated infections that gradually get worse or respond poorly to treatment. Common signs include:
- Weight loss
- Recurrent fever
- Lethargy
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Inflamed gums and mouth (gingivostomatitis)
- Ongoing or recurrent infections of the skin, eyes, urinary tract, airways or gut
- Behaviour changes, seizures or other neurological signs
Cornell notes FIV-positive cats are significantly more likely to develop cancers, such as lymphoma, and immune-mediated blood disorders.
When to see a vet
Book a vet visit if your cat shows any of the signs above, has been in a fight with an unknown cat, or has had contact with an FIV-positive cat. See a vet urgently if your cat stops eating, has trouble breathing, has a seizure or seems very unwell.
How FIV is diagnosed
FIV is usually diagnosed with a simple in-clinic blood test that detects antibodies. Your vet may confirm a positive result in a healthy cat with a second test at a laboratory, because false positives are possible.
A few situations need extra care:
- Recent exposure. It takes 2 to 6 months for antibodies to reach detectable levels, so Cornell recommends retesting after at least 60 days if exposure was possible.
- Kittens. Kittens can carry antibodies from their mother without being infected. Cornell advises retesting kittens under six months that test positive every 60 days until they are at least six months old.
- Vaccinated cats. Where an FIV vaccine has been used, vaccinated cats test positive on standard antibody tests, so other tests are needed.
Caring for an FIV-positive cat
There is no cure, so care focuses on keeping your cat well and protecting other cats. International Cat Care recommends:
- Desexing to reduce fighting and spread
- Keeping FIV-positive cats indoors, or in a secure cat enclosure, away from uninfected cats
- Feeding a good quality commercial diet and avoiding raw meat, raw eggs and unpasteurised dairy
- Keeping up with flea and worm control and routine vaccinations
- Vet health checks twice a year, with periodic blood tests
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment of any new illness
In stable homes where cats do not fight, the risk to other cats is low. Talk with your vet about whether separate bowls or other precautions are worthwhile in your household.
Prevention
Desexing, keeping cats indoors or in an enclosure, and testing new cats before introducing them all lower the risk. International Cat Care notes that an FIV vaccine has been licensed in some countries but is not expected to give complete protection, because there are several strains. Ask your vet what is available and suitable for your cat.
FAQ
Can I catch FIV from my cat?
No. FIV only infects cats.
How long do cats with FIV live?
Many live normal life spans. Once a cat becomes ill with multiple serious infections or cancer, survival is usually much shorter.
Can an FIV-positive cat live with my other cats?
Often, yes, if the cats get along and do not fight. Your vet can help you weigh the risk.
Talk with a vet
If your cat has just tested positive, or you are unsure whether testing is needed after a fight, a Dial A Vet veterinarian can talk you through the results and next steps for your cat. Book a Dial A Vet consult.
References
- Cornell Feline Health Center. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).
- International Cat Care. Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV).
Disclaimer: Educational only. This page does not replace an examination or advice from your own veterinarian. If you are worried about your pet right now, contact your local vet or nearest emergency animal hospital.