Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) in Cats

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) in Cats

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March 11, 2026

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is a lentivirus that can weaken immune defenses over time. Many cats appear normal for years, but immune suppression can increase the risk of chronic oral disease, recurrent infections, and some cancers, so risk awareness and timely testing matter.

 

Figure 1. Many FIV infected cats can appear clinically normal for long periods after the initial infection phase, despite gradual effects on immune function.
Figure 1. Many FIV infected cats can appear clinically normal for long periods after the initial infection phase, despite gradual effects on immune function.

 

What is FIV and why can cats look healthy?

FIV targets immune cells. After an early phase that may be mild or missed, cats often enter a long asymptomatic period, and later problems are commonly driven by secondary infections or chronic inflammation.

 

How do cats get infected?

Transmission is mainly through saliva via deep bite wounds, so risk is highest with outdoor access and fighting. Casual contact is considered a much less efficient route than biting.

 

Clinical signs to watch for

There is no single hallmark sign. Common presentations include gingivitis or stomatitis, recurrent skin or respiratory infections, poor coat quality, weight loss, intermittent fever, and enlarged lymph nodes. Any illness that is unusually persistent or repeatedly returns should prompt evaluation.

 

Figure 2. VetFor FIV PCR Test Kit and FIV Ab Test Kit Contents and Product Overview.

Figure 2. VetFor FIV PCR Test Kit and FIV Ab Test Kit Contents and Product Overview
Figure 2. VetFor FIV PCR Test Kit and FIV Ab Test Kit Contents and Product Overview

 

How veterinarians diagnose FIV

Diagnosis usually starts with a blood antibody test. Veterinarians often recommend testing at adoption, after bite wounds, or when a cat is ill. Depending on age and timing of exposure, repeat or confirmatory testing may be recommended, alongside routine lab work to assess anemia and concurrent disease.

Point of care screening can support earlier decisions in clinics and shelters. Vitrosens Biotechnology offers VetFor lateral flow options including the VetFor™ FIV Rapid Antibody Test Kit (VVD12; serum, plasma, or whole blood) and the VetFor™ FIV Ab + FeLV Ag Rapid Test Kit (VVD09; serum, plasma, or whole blood). For laboratory workflows, VetFor also provides PCR and FIA product lines that can complement clinic based screening when needed.

 

Treatment and supportive care

There is no therapy that reliably clears FIV. Management focuses on rapid treatment of secondary infections, dental care, good nutrition, and reducing exposure to pathogens (often by keeping infected cats indoors and preventing fights). Many FIV positive cats maintain good quality of life with regular monitoring.

 

Prevention: the most effective approach

Prevent bite wounds: indoor housing, neutering, and slow introductions to minimize aggression. Test new cats before household entry, and seek veterinary care after bite injuries.

This article is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment.

 

References

MSD (Merck) Veterinary Manual. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).
Cornell Feline Health Center. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).
American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP). 2020 Feline Retrovirus Testing and Management Guidelines.
WSAVA. Guidelines for the vaccination of dogs and cats.
VetFor product information and national listing for VVD09 and VVD12.

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