The Truth About FIV: What You Need to Know to Care for Your Cat

Imagine being a stray cat, fighting for your life every day. You’re constantly looking for a place to stay warm, or to hide from predators and humans who might harm you.

As the days go by, you start to feel weaker and weaker. You don’t know what’s happening to your body, but you’re scared.

If you’re a pet parent, this scenario might break your heart. Even worse, it could be your own beloved cat who is suffering from FIV, or Feline Immunodeficiency Virus.

What is FIV?

FIV is a viral infection that affects cats, causing them to have a weakened immune system. It is spread through deep bite wounds between cats, or from mother cats to kittens through their milk. Humans cannot get FIV.

Symptoms of FIV

Not all cats with FIV will show symptoms. However, some common symptoms include:

On-and-off fever
Diarrhea
Weight loss
Poor coat condition
Loss of appetite
Gum inflammation
Eye infections
Seizures
Behavior changes
Treatment for FIV

There is no cure for FIV, but there are treatments that can help to manage the infection. These treatments are aimed at preventing and treating secondary infections.

How to care for an FIV-positive cat

FIV, or Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, is a serious viral infection that can affect cats. However, with proper care, FIV-positive cats can live long and happy lives.

Here are some tips on how to nurture an FIV-positive cat:

Provide regular veterinary care. This includes routine checkups, bloodwork, and vaccinations.
Feed a balanced diet. A healthy diet will help to keep your cat’s immune system strong.
Take steps to prevent secondary infections. This includes keeping your cat indoors and avoiding contact with other cats who may be infected.
Monitor your cat’s health closely. Be aware of any changes in your cat’s behavior or appearance, and contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

In addition to these general tips, there are a few specific things you can do to help your FIV-positive cat thrive:

Neuter or spay your cat. This will help to reduce the risk of your cat spreading the virus to other cats.
Eliminate raw foods and eggs from your cat’s diet. These foods can increase the risk of secondary infections.
Keep your cat’s environment clean and free of stress. This will help to keep your cat’s immune system strong.

With proper care, FIV-positive cats can live long and happy lives. By following these tips, you can help your cat live a full and healthy life.

Adopting/Living with an FIV-positive cat

FIV-positive cats can live long and happy lives with proper care. Here are some tips for caring for an FIV-positive cat:

Keep your cat indoors to prevent the spread of the virus.
Feed your cat a healthy diet.
Take your cat to the vet for regular checkups.
Be aware of the symptoms of FIV and seek treatment if your cat shows any signs of illness.

Myths about FIV

There are many myths about FIV, such as:

FIV cats can’t live long.
FIV is highly contagious.
FIV cats should not be around other cats.

These myths are not true. FIV-positive cats can live just as long as FIV-negative cats, and they can live with other cats as long as they are introduced in a calm and appropriate manner.

Conclusion

FIV is a serious virus, but it is not a death sentence for cats. With proper care, FIV-positive cats can live long and happy lives. If you are considering adopting a cat, don’t rule out an FIV-positive cat. They deserve a loving home just like any other cat.

And if you found this blog post educational and eye-opening, and it has inspired you to welcome an FIV-positive cat into your life, we would love to hear from you.
FIV-positive cats are just as loving and deserving of a home as any other cat. With proper care, they can live long and happy lives. We can help you find an FIV-positive cat who is a perfect fit for your family. Visit our website at https://www.caraphil.org/contact-us / to learn more.

Story by Mary Pearl Polias.