Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) in Cats: Complete Guide

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a retrovirus that affects a cat's immune system, often compared to HIV in humans due to its progressive impact. However, many infected cats live full, healthy lives while requiring careful management to stay well.

Understanding FIV: What It Is and How It Works

FIV belongs to the lentivirus family, a subgroup of retroviruses. It infects white blood cells, inserting its genetic material into the cat's DNA and gradually weakening immune defences. This process can remain silent for years, leading to a prolonged asymptomatic phase.

Transmission mainly occurs through bite wounds, as the virus is present in the saliva. Male cats are more frequently infected due to outdoor fighting. Though rare, infection can occasionally occur via mating or from mother to kitten.

It’s important to note that FIV is specific to cats and not transmissible to humans or other species. It differs from the Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), another retrovirus with similar symptoms but different effects and management.

Identifying Symptoms of FIV in Cats

Symptoms often develop slowly and may be subtle, making early detection challenging. Cats with FIV may show recurrent illnesses or secondary infections due to immune suppression. Common symptoms include:

• Poor coat condition and weight loss
• Recurring fever and lethargy
• Inflammation of gums and mouth (gingivitis and stomatitis)
• Upper respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders
• Enlarged lymph nodes and chronic infections (skin, eyes, ears)
• Neurological issues, such as seizures or behavioural changes, including aggression
• Persistent diarrhoea and chronic kidney issues
• Muscle wasting and increased risk of certain cancers

Given symptom overlap with other diseases like FeLV, veterinary testing is essential to confirm FIV.

Diagnosing FIV: Tests and Veterinary Examination

If FIV infection is suspected, a vet will collect a comprehensive medical history and conduct a physical examination. Diagnostic tests generally include:

• Blood tests to detect FIV antibodies (Elisa or Western blot tests)
• Complete blood count and chemical blood profile
• Urinalysis

Vets will also rule out other causes such as fungal, bacterial, or viral infections and assess for cancerous growths. Because vaccinated cats may test positive, vets consider vaccination history carefully.

Managing and Treating Cats with FIV

There is currently no cure for FIV but with proper care, infected cats can live many years. Key treatment strategies include:

• Managing secondary infections aggressively with antibiotics or antifungals
• Dental care, including extraction of infected teeth if necessary
• Possible surgical removal of tumours
• Providing a balanced, nutritious diet to support immune health
• Regular veterinary check-ups and monitoring

Outpatient treatment is usually sufficient if the cat is stable and not dehydrated. Early intervention helps maintain quality of life and delays disease progression.

Living with an FIV-Positive Cat: Tips for Responsible Ownership

Cats with FIV need close health monitoring as lifelong companions. Preventative care to avoid infections is crucial because their immune systems cannot protect them fully. Key points for owners include:

• Keeping cats indoors or limiting outdoor exposure to reduce risk of fights and infections
• Providing stress-free, clean environments
• Maintaining vaccination and parasite control (worms, fleas) under veterinary guidance
• Regularly monitoring weight and behaviour for signs of illness
• Understanding the emotional impact and giving lots of love and attention

Despite challenges, many FIV-positive cats lead happy, fulfilling lives when supported with responsible care.

Prevention: Protecting Your Cat from FIV

Preventing FIV involves reducing exposure to infected cats, especially aggressive interactions. Vaccination for FIV is available but remains controversial in the UK due to concerns about efficacy and interference with diagnostic tests.

Responsible pet ownership means neutering cats to reduce fighting and roaming, supervising outdoor access, and testing new cats before introducing them into multi-cat homes.

Early testing helps identify carriers—cats that test positive but never show symptoms—and allows for informed lifestyle decisions to protect other pets.

What Is the Difference Between FIV and FeLV?

Quick Answer: Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) are both serious retroviruses affecting cats but differ in transmission, disease progression, and management.

FIV primarily spreads through bite wounds, has a long asymptomatic stage, and causes immune suppression leading to susceptibility to secondary infections. FeLV spreads more easily via saliva and close contact and often leads to cancers and blood disorders earlier.
FeLV-infected cats generally have a shorter life expectancy. Both conditions require veterinary diagnosis and care but have distinct impacts on cats' health.

How Long Can Cats Live with FIV?

Quick Answer: Cats infected with FIV can live for many years, often five or more, especially with early diagnosis, good health care, and a protected environment.

FIV does weaken the immune system over time, increasing vulnerability to infections and some cancers. However, advances in veterinary care allow many FIV-positive cats to enjoy long, comfortable lives if their owners provide consistent monitoring, prompt treatment of infections, and a safe, low-stress living environment.

Can FIV Affect Kittens?

Quick Answer: Though rare, kittens can be born with FIV, usually if their mother is infected, but most FIV transmission occurs later through bite wounds during fights.

Infected queens rarely pass FIV to their kittens, but when they do, early testing is advised. Protecting kittens from exposure to aggressive adult cats reduces infection risk as they grow. Neutering and not allowing outdoor roaming also minimise spread in multi-cat households.

Where to Find a Cat or Kitten in the UK

If you are considering adopting a cat, it’s important to find one through responsible avenues. The Pets4Homes mixed breed kittens listings can be a good place to start your search for a loving companion.

Always ensure any new cat or kitten comes from a reputable source prioritising health, vaccination, and screening to reduce risks of diseases including FIV and FeLV.

Conclusion

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus is a lifelong condition compromising a cat’s immune system slowly but not inevitably shortening quality of life. Responsible pet ownership, early detection, appropriate veterinary care, and a safe environment can help infected cats live happy and fulfilling lives. Understanding the nature of FIV empowers cat owners to provide the best support for their feline friends.