FIV:
FIV (Feline immunodeficiency virus) is a viral
infection that affects cats. It causes affected animals to have a weaker immune system in comparison to non-FIV positive cats. FIV initially results in a short- lived illness. Cats then enter a stage of progressive immune system decline but many remain without symptoms of the disease for many years. However if they do get sick they are less likely to fight off any infection.
Although FIV isn’t easily transmitted between cats
(only through deep bites) and is not spread by
sharing food and other normal interaction, the risk
means that a FIV positive cat should be adopted into a single cat household only.
It is very important that FIV cats are always kept indoors.As FIV can’t be transmitted to humans or other non
feline animals, an FIV positive cat is able to share his or her environment with a dog or other pet.
FIV is most commonly seen in unneutered male cats who have been involved in fighting for territory. It is spread by biting and body fluids and does not spread in the environment. This disease is one of the main reasons why we strongly recommend all cats are neutered at four months of age, as neutering can reduce a male cats urge to mate, roam and fight.
Many cats with FIV are able to live long and happy lives and can make wonderful pets.
Some cats who have spent time in the sanctuary include:
Gracie who was in the shelter in 2022
Bagpuss who is in the shelter currently in 2026
A mother cat who was in the shelter in 2026
Chief who was in the shelter in 2025
Raven who was in the shelter in 2025
Tigger & Tom who were in the shelter in 2022
