- FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) is a slow virus that affects a cat’s
immune system over a period of years.
- FIV is a cat-only illness and cannot be spread to
humans or other non-felines (like dogs).
- FIV cats most often live long, healthy, and relatively
normal lives with no symptoms at all.
- FIV is not easily passed between cats. It cannot be
spread casually – like in litter boxes, water and food
bowls, or when snuggling and playing. It is rarely
spread from a mother to her kittens.
- A neutered cat, in a home, is extremely unlikely to
infect other cats, if properly introduced.
- Many vets are not educated about FIV since the virus
was only discovered 15 years ago.
