THE CATS WITH STIGMA THAT CAN MAKE ‘WONDERFUL’ PETS

Kittens, exotic breeds, and large ginger toms are popular choices for cat lovers, but would you consider adopting a pet with a stigma attached?

Even the most dedicated cat enthusiasts might not be familiar with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). According to Alice Potter, the RSPCA’s cat welfare expert, FIV is often described as “like HIV in cats, but it cannot be transferred to humans.”

Similar to its human counterpart, FIV carries a stigma, but experts say many cats with the virus can live as long and healthy lives as those without it.

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is most commonly observed in unneutered male cats that have been involved in territorial fights. The virus is transmitted through deep bite wounds, which is why stray cats often test positive.

Cats with FIV should remain indoors because they have weakened immune systems. Many shelters care for cats with FIV as well.

There are no specific symptoms for FIV, but affected cats may be more prone to chronic respiratory infections, skin issues, mouth inflammation, and certain types of tumors.

Marney Thompson, a foster parent for New Start Cat Rescue in Gloucestershire, has been dedicated to fostering FIV-positive cats since the loss of her beloved Charlie two years ago. At the center, she is affectionately known as “the FIV lady.”

Ms. Thompson overcame her initial reservations when she brought Charlie home six years ago. The ginger cat quickly became an integral part of her family.

Charlie had his quirks—he only drank from the tap and was always there to support Ms. Thompson, especially when she became a single mother.

“I used to call him ‘The Cat Daddy’ because if my daughter ever raised her voice, he would swat her on the back of the legs, as if to say, ‘don’t talk to your mother like that.’ He was truly the most wonderful cat,” she recalled.

‘Stigma’

Ms. Thompson lost Charlie to renal failure in 2022 and has been working to find homes for FIV-positive cats as a tribute to him.

“Charlie didn’t die from FIV; he had frequent vet visits for his ears and teeth, but never for his FIV,” Ms. Thompson explained.

“People often see an FIV-positive cat and think there’s something wrong with it, but that’s not the case. It’s just an autoimmune disease. If they are fully vaccinated, they are generally fine, though they might have a slightly shorter lifespan by one or two years. The stigma attached to them is really what’s unfair.”

Ms. Potter emphasized that the RSPCA advises FIV cat owners to closely monitor their pets’ health.

“Our recommendation is always to seek veterinary help if there are any changes in your cat’s behavior or health,” Ms. Potter said. “For FIV-positive cats, it’s particularly important to address any issues promptly to provide them with extra protection for their immune system.”

She added, “If someone is considering adopting an FIV cat, they should ensure they have the time to commit to daily play, creating hiding spots, and other necessary care.”

‘Potential risk’

Ms. Potter noted a growing trend of people purchasing purebred cats rather than adopting.

“It’s a market that’s become quite saturated,” Ms. Potter said. “Many people prefer not to take on a cat with an existing medical condition, such as FIV.”

She also mentioned that the RSPCA recommends keeping FIV-positive cats indoors or allowing them access only to a “catio”—an enclosed patio designed for them—due to the potential risk of spreading the virus to other cats.