FIV-Positive Felines: ABSOLUTELY adoptable

On the usual shelter rounds one morning, a particularly stunning-looking newcomer caught my attention. This kitty's arresting green eyes, gorgeous jet-black fur and panther face immediately made me think "Bagheera!" The gorgeous, affectionate, mellow beauty caught many other potential adopter's attention, but in the end, nobody was comfortable with the FIV+ (feline immunodeficiency virus) status on his kennel card. Understandable, but the truth is cats and kittens who are  FIV+ can live long and healthy lives. 
FIV+ - A Stigma
     F-I-V. Those three letters strike fear into the hearts of cat enthusiasts, causing many to dismiss the possibility of adopting an FIV+ cat. But just like people with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), felines with FIV can live full and long lives - with proper medical and daily care.
     The many myths about FIV+ cats make people afraid to adopt one.  But think again! Felines with FIV do require extra monitoring and are more prone to infections (due to the effect of the virus on their immune systems), many lead long and healthy lives. You can find out more from shelter staff or a veterinarian, but keep in mind that felines with FIV are completely adoptable.
Is FIV Like HIV? In some ways, yes. Like people with HIV, cats with FIV can have compromised immune systems, meaning they may be more prone to developing illnesses. That said, cats who are FIV+ can live for years without showing any symptoms at all (just like people with HIV). According to the Manhattan Cat Clinic, "With proper care, FIV-infected cats can live many years, and in fact, many die from disorders common to elderly cats and not from illnesses related to FIV." 
Is FIV Easily Transmitted? According to Cornell University's Feline Health Center, "FIV is quite limited in the ways it can be transmitted to cats, the only animals the virus is known to infect. With few exceptions, the bite of an infected cat is required; that is, virus present in the saliva of an infected cat must be violently passed through the skin of another cat." 
    Because wounds are a prime way of transmitting the virus, feral/stray free-roaming outdoor cats - who often fight over territory and food - are the most prone to getting FIV. (The virus is also - rarely - transmitted from mother to kitten or through sexual contact.) 
Regarding transmission, the Manhattan Cat Clinic tells us, "Casual, non-aggressive contact does not transmit the virus. Neither does sharing food and water bowls, or litter boxes."  An FIV+ cat can be adopted into a household with another cat (be sure both are spayed/neutered) and other pets; consult with your local shelter and vet for specifics.
It is important that FIV+ cats NEVER go outside; otherwise, he might infect other outdoor cats. Being and indoor-only cat will also protect him from being exposed to other diseases or wounds that challenge his immune system
Can FIV Be Cured? 
FIV -  like HIV is diagnosed by a blood test and unfortunately, cannot be cured. There is no vaccine to prevent it. (A vaccine was recently pulled off the market - ; read more here.) But although there is no cure, there's a lot guardians to can do to keep their FIV+ companions healthy.  
How Do I Care for My FIV+ Cat?
First and foremost: If your cat has not already been 'fixed', take your cat to be spayed or neutered. And follow these guidelines from the Virginia Beach SPCA : 

• FIV+ cats should be taken to the vet 2 times a year, and monitored closely for any signs of illness. Cats are masters of disguising their symptoms, so if anything seems "off," be sure to consult with the vet right away. It's super-important that any health issues are caught early and are treated promptly by veterinary staff.
• Without fail, as is true for any house cat, keep your cat indoors to prevent her spreading the disease to other cats, and to keep her from being exposed to injury and diseases. Remember, preventing injuries and illnesses is especially important for FIV+ cats.
• Feed your cat an age-appropriate, well-balanced diet. Raw diets are not recommended for FIV+ cats as they have the potential to contain bacteria, parasites and other disease-causing pathogens. Talk to you vet about the best diet for your friend, and follow it!
• If you adopt from a shelter, follow all advice from the staff there, and have a vet lined up within a day or two of bringing your new pal home.
• ​Create a low-stress environment for your FIV+ kitty. That means lots of toys, cat trees, clean litter boxes, and a minimal amount of loud noise. 

SHARE your FIV+ adopter story (300 words or less; a picture please!) by emailing [email protected]. I'll share it on this and other Happy Together social media sites.

*The contents of this blog are no substitute for the advice of a licensed veterinarian. Be sure to ALWAYS consult with a cat medical professional when addressing your feline's health concerns. 

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