Many people will have heard of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and been alarmed by the association with HIV. It is even mistakenly referred to as 'feline Aids'. It makes FIV positive cats so much harder to find homes for, yet many of these cats can enjoy a normal lifespan with very good health.
Understanding FIV
Firstly, FIV is species specific, so can only be transmitted from cat to cat, and not to humans or other animals. It cannot be transmitted indirectly, such as on food, feeding equipment, clothes, hands etc.
How does a cat catch the virus?
The virus is present in the blood and saliva of infected cats - the main route of infection is through biting, so cats that fight regularly are more likely to be infected. Many of the street cats here are un-neutered males, fighting over food, females and territory - it's easier for them to pick up and spread the virus. Added to this, a stray cat has no-one to look after them, and their lifestyle means they are more likely to pick up other infections, which without treatment can escalate and challenge their weaker immune system. Neutering is key to reducing the chance of infection as the cat will be less likely to want to fight, so the TNR (Trap-Neuter-Release) programme is particularly important where there is a large street cat population.
Adopting a cat with FIV
A healthy FIV+ cat can live for many years in excellent health. It is advisable to keep a cat with FIV indoors or in an enclosed garden to avoid the risk of them passing on the virus through contact with other cats, especially as cats are territorial - they are much more likely to fight with a feral cat that is a stranger to them than with a cat they share a home with. Depending on the temperament of the cats involved, and veterinary advice, FIV+ cats can even be homed with non FIV cats.
Whilst FIV cats do need prompt veterinary assistance for minor symptoms (their impaired immune system can mean that issues may escalate) with a loving family to provide a safe home and regular health checks at the vet, FIV+ cats can live normal lifespans. It is not unusual to find FIV+ cats reaching 15 years or more.
Sandy Paws encourages the adoption of healthy FIV+ cats especially as they find it harder than most to find homes. Some of our volunteers have adopted cats with FIV - they are just as playful, inquisitive, loving and healthy as the other cats. They can even be exported when it's time for the family to move on as long as all of the regular required vaccinations are up to date.
Shangeet is one such cat – he is very affectionate and friendly. He took up residence at a hotel – the guests loved him but the management not so much. They removed him but he made his way back! He really needs a lap to call his own with cuddles on demand. He is one year old and has been neutered and vaccinated.
If you think you might be able to give a home to an FIV cat please contact Sandy Paws. We have some beautiful FIV+ cats just waiting to be loved.
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