Adopting a FIV-positive cat

Many shelters and rescues have cats that test positive for feline immunodeficiency virus, or FIV, and some groups place them in homes. FIV is a virus that affects a cat's immune system. A positive result means the cat has been exposed to the virus, and kittens under about six months old can test positive because of antibodies from their mother, so they are retested later. Ask which test was used.

FIV is mainly spread through deep bite wounds, usually when cats fight, so casual contact such as sharing bowls or grooming is considered low risk. Many FIV-positive cats stay healthy for years, and many live as long as other cats, though the virus can weaken the immune system, so infections can be harder to clear.

Vets generally advise keeping an FIV-positive cat indoors, neutered, on a good diet, and with checkups at least once or twice a year. Whether it can live with FIV-negative cats depends on how they get on, so ask your vet and the rescue about introductions, and read the group's advice. Be ready to see a vet quickly if the cat becomes unwell. FIV does not infect people or dogs. Some rescues only place FIV cats in homes with a stable household. This is general information, not medical advice.