FIV Facts
FIV stands for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus. It’s a lentivirus, meaning that it progresses very slowly, gradually affecting a cat’s immune system.
FIV
OSC
6/14/20251 min read
The Feline Immunodeficiency Virus is a slow virus that affects a cat’s immune system over a period of years.
FIV is a cat-only disease and cannot be spread to humans or other non-felines.
FIV cats most often live long, healthy, and relatively normal lives with no symptoms.
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.
The virus can be spread by blood transfusions or serious, penetrating bite wounds.
A neutered cat, in a home, is extremely unlikely to infect other cats, if properly introduced.