Can FIV be transmitted to humans or dogs?

FIV is a cat-specific virus. There is currently no evidence that it can be transmitted to humans or dogs. If you have concerns, please consult your vet.

How is FIV diagnosed in cats?

Common methods include blood antibody tests or PCR testing to confirm infection. Your vet will recommend the most appropriate test based on your cat's situation.

How long can a cat with FIV live?

The prognosis varies greatly depending on the individual cat and any complications. Some cats can live stable lives for many years. Discuss your cat's individual outlook with your vet.

Does a cat with FIV need to be kept away from other cats?

If there is a risk of fighting or bite wounds, your cat is not desexed, or you have multiple cats living together, discuss isolation or management strategies with your vet.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) in Cats: Symptoms, PCR Testing & Home Care [2025]

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is an infectious condition in cats spread through bite wounds. Infected cats may show no symptoms for years, but immune function gradually declines. Keep affected cats indoors and schedule regular health check-ups.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ISFM, AVMA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Experiencing continuous seizures or brief loss of consciousness
•Persistent high fever with extremely poor responsiveness or unresponsiveness
•Severe dehydration with inability to drink or eat, accompanied by lethargy

Schedule a Clinic Visit Soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Persistent loss of appetite for more than two days with weight loss
•Recurring diarrhea or bloody stools lasting more than one day without improvement
•Persistent eye redness, swelling, or heavy discharge

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

Cats with FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus) may show non-specific or cyclical signs, including changes in energy and appetite, along with recurrent infection symptoms caused by declining immune function.

Noticeably reduced energy or activity — appearing lethargic or uninterested in play
Decreased appetite or gradual weight loss, with a clear change in food intake
Recurring diarrhoea or digestive discomfort, with changes in frequency or stool consistency
Persistent or intermittent fever, with fluctuating body temperature
Red or swollen eyes with increased discharge, possibly accompanied by conjunctivitis
If severe or suddenly worsening symptoms appear, seek veterinary assessment immediately

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Collapse, loss of consciousness, or extreme difficulty waking
⚠️ Persistent high fever or seizures
⚠️ Severe dehydration with inability to eat or drink — requires emergency care

02How can you assess the situation at home? Key observations and when to go to emergency

Observing and recording key changes at home helps the vet assess the condition and prioritise treatment.

Log the frequency and consistency of stools, noting any blood or mucus, with timestamps
Take your cat's temperature daily and record the time — watch for any fever pattern
Monitor appetite, water intake, and body weight — weigh regularly
Observe changes in alertness and activity level, such as lethargy or reluctance to move
Record symptom videos or photos on your phone (coughing, vomiting, eye or nose discharge)
If you notice anything unusual, save your records to share with the vet at your appointment

03How will the vet diagnose the condition? Common tests and examinations

At the clinic, the vet will perform a thorough physical assessment combined with laboratory tests to confirm infection and evaluate for complications.

Physical examination

full-body palpation, lymph node assessment, and oral examination

Complete blood count (CBC)

assess for infection or anaemia

Biochemistry panel

evaluate liver, kidney, and other organ function, plus electrolyte status

PCR or antibody testing

confirm viral infection or rule out false positives

Urinalysis

assess kidney function and check for concurrent urinary tract infection

A clinic with advanced testing capability is recommended for PCR and other confirmatory tests

04What treatment and aftercare are needed? Medications, diet adjustments, and home care

FIV currently has no cure. Treatment focuses on supportive care and managing concurrent infections, with regular monitoring to track how the disease progresses.

Supportive treatment based on the vet's assessment, addressing co-infections and managing symptoms
Dietary adjustments to maintain nutrition and reduce gastrointestinal stress
Home care priorities include maintaining hydration and providing a quiet, comfortable environment
Regular follow-up visits for blood work and any necessary PCR or biochemistry checks
If the condition fluctuates significantly, arrange a specialist referral or further follow-up appointments

05What should you prepare before the vet visit? Key information to help the vet diagnose faster

Record the onset time, sequence of symptoms, and how they have changed over time

Prepare a recent log of bowel movements, food intake, and body weight

List all current medications, supplements, and any known allergies or sensitivities

Bring your phone with any relevant videos or photos of symptoms

Bring previous test results, vaccination records, or medical history for reference

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.