Feline AIDS (FIV) Is Not Scary! Follow These Care Tips to Keep Your Cat Healthy and Happy for Life!

This article was written by Dr. Shang-Hsiu Chung, a veterinarian at Always Care Veterinary Hospital

Kidney disease, feline stomatitis, diabetes... You’ve probably heard of these diseases and may even worry about them. However, there’s one condition that many cat owners overlook until symptoms appear—FIV cat, also known as Feline AIDS! Most cat owners don’t proactively test for FIV. It’s usually only when their cat experiences a weakened cat immune system and frequent illnesses that they visit the vet, only to find out that their cat has already been infected. So, how is FIV transmitted? Can it affect humans? What should you do if your cat is diagnosed? Don't worry—this article will provide all the answers and teach you how pet supplements can help boost an FIV-positive cat’s immune system and maintain its health!

What Is Feline AIDS (FIV)?
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a virus that affects a cat’s immune system and belongs to the lentivirus family. Similar to the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), FIV weakens the immune system, but it only infects cats. It primarily affects lymphocytes, making cats more vulnerable to infections. However, FIV cannot be transmitted to humans or other animals. Once a cat is infected, it will carry the virus for life, and the virus remains present in the cat’s saliva.

How Is FIV Transmitted? Can Humans Get It?
FIV cannot be transmitted to humans or other animals! The virus is primarily spread through deep bite wounds during fights since it is present in saliva. Stray and outdoor cats are particularly susceptible, and in some cases, an infected mother cat may pass it to her kittens.
However, sharing food bowls, litter boxes, or sleeping together generally does not spread the virus. If you have multiple cats at home, as long as they get along peacefully, isolation is not always necessary. The most important step is to have your cat tested to determine its FIV status early and ensure proper health management.

What Happens to an FIV-Positive Cat?
Cats infected with FIV may show no symptoms initially, making it difficult to detect. However, over time, as the immune system weakens, they may become more susceptible to illnesses, such as:

Recurring colds: Persistent runny nose and sneezing, with symptoms returning even after medication.
Gingivitis: Excessive drooling, bad breath, and reluctance to eat due to pain.
Skin issues: Small wounds that don’t heal or even develop into ulcers.
Weight loss: A noticeable drop in weight despite no major lifestyle changes.

But don’t worry—a positive FIV diagnosis does not mean a shortened lifespan. With proper care, FIV-positive cats can live long, healthy, and happy lives!

How Is FIV Diagnosed?
FIV is typically diagnosed through blood tests, with common methods including antibody rapid screening tests and PCR antigen tests. Rapid tests detect the presence of FIV antibodies but may show false positives in kittens or vaccinated cats. If a test result is positive, veterinarians often recommend further confirmatory testing. Once diagnosed, regular immune system monitoring is advised to ensure the cat’s long-term health.

How Can You Help an FIV-Positive Cat?
Boosting immunity is key! Preventing infections and reducing the risk of recurring illnesses is crucial for FIV-positive cats. The virus itself is not the biggest threat—the weakened immune system makes even minor infections a serious issue. You can strengthen your cat’s immune system through proper nutrition and supplements:

High-quality probiotics: Support gut health, which is the first line of immune defense.
Omega-3 fish oil: Reduces inflammation, protects skin and cardiovascular health, and minimizes inflammatory responses.
Colostrum / Beta-glucans: Regulate immune cell activity and help mitigate the virus’s impact.
Lysine: Supports respiratory health, reducing sneezing and nasal discharge while maintaining immunity.

These supplements are not only beneficial for FIV-positive cats but also help healthy cats strengthen their immune systems and lower their risk of illness!
Prevention Is Better Than Treatment!

The best way to protect your cat from FIV is reducing the risk of exposure—avoid interactions with unfamiliar cats, conduct health screenings for new cats, and consider vaccinations. Even if a cat is diagnosed with FIV, it can still enjoy a high-quality life! Many FIV-positive cats live happily for over 10 years with a stable environment, proper nutrition, and regular veterinary checkups.

Here’s how you can care for an FIV-positive cat and keep it in optimal health:

Minimize outdoor exposure: Keep your cat indoors to prevent encounters with infected cats.
Provide a nutritious diet: Offer high-quality food along with appropriate supplements to support immunity.
Schedule regular checkups: Take your cat for a veterinary examination every 6–12 months to detect and manage potential health issues early.
Reduce stress: A stress-free environment helps maintain a strong immune system and keeps your cat at ease.

By understanding FIV and providing proper care, your cat can still lead a happy and healthy life! If you have any concerns about FIV or your cat’s health, consult a veterinarian for professional guidance and testing.