FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) — how it differs from FeLV

What is FIV?

FIV is the feline equivalent of HIV: a retrovirus that gradually weakens immunity. Unlike FeLV, it is mainly spread through deep bite wounds, not daily contact — cats that never fight can safely share a home.

Symptoms

Often none for years. Later: recurring infections (gums, skin, ears, eyes), weight loss, dental disease, fever.

Testing and care

• One blood test; kittens younger than 6 months should be retested later because maternal antibodies can give a false positive
• There is no cure, but FIV cats can live a normal-length life with regular vet checks, good hygiene of the mouth and on-time vaccines
• Strictly indoor is recommended

Mixing cats

An FIV-positive cat can live with FIV-positive or FeLV-negative cats; a single-cat home is the safest choice. Always test before introducing a new cat to an existing group.

Adoption note: FIV-positive cats are often exactly the cats that need a permanent, calm home — and they are usually wonderful companions.