At HSFC, we believe every cat deserves love, care, and a chance—regardless of medical status. Cats diagnosed with FIV or FeLV can live full, happy lives, and we’re here to help you understand how to care for and support them.

FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus)

A diagnosis is not a death sentence.
FIV affects a cat’s immune system over time, but many FIV+ cats live long, healthy lives with little to no symptoms. Common issues like gum disease, respiratory infections, and wounds may take longer to heal—so early treatment is important.
FIV is not contagious to humans or other animals.
It also doesn’t spread through casual contact between cats. Sharing food or water bowls, litter boxes, or grooming one another does not spread FIV. It’s mainly transmitted through deep bite wounds during serious fights—often among unneutered male cats.
FIV+ cats can live with non-FIV cats.
As long as the cats are spayed/neutered and introduced slowly, they can coexist peacefully. Even playful biting or grooming is not a concern. Learn more at Fundamentally Feline about introducing cats safely.
FIV+ cats can remain in outdoor colonies.
Fixed, FIV+ cats pose little risk to others in stable colonies. There’s no need to remove them—they can live safely among their peers.
Note: Some vets are not familiar with current best practices. If euthanasia is suggested based solely on an FIV diagnosis, reach out to HSFC for support and advice.
Click here to learn more about FIV.

FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus)

Understanding FeLV
FeLV is a virus that can weaken a cat’s immune system, but around 70% of exposed cats successfully fight it off. The virus only survives a few hours outside the body.
Initial test results can be inaccurate.
FeLV tests often produce false positives. Every cat should be tested twice, at least 60 days apart, before confirming a diagnosis. Sadly, many cats have been euthanized based on a single test result or outdated information.
FeLV is not contagious to humans or other animals.
It only spreads from cat to cat.
FeLV+ cats should not live indoors with FeLV-negative cats.
FeLV can spread through saliva, urine, feces, and shared food or litter. In homes, FeLV+ cats should be kept separate from non-FeLV cats.
FeLV+ cats can remain in outdoor colonies.
Research by Dr. Julie Levy shows that removing FeLV+ cats from feral colonies doesn’t reduce the virus’s presence. Most outdoor cats have already been exposed or are resistant. For this reason, testing healthy community cats is not recommended.
FeLV testing should only be done with a plan to help the cat—not to end their life.
Click here to learn more about FeLV.