Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) are two serious viral infections that affect cats across the UK. Both can compromise the immune system and overall health — but with early detection, appropriate management, and in the case of FeLV, vaccination, many affected cats go on to live comfortable lives.
At Paws & Co Veterinary Centre, we test for both conditions routinely and help cat owners understand what a diagnosis means in practice — and what it doesn’t.
FeLV and FIV: What’s the Difference?
🦀 FeLV
Spread through saliva, shared food bowls, grooming, and bite wounds. More easily transmitted than FIV. Outdoor cats and those living with infected cats are at highest risk. A vaccine is available.
🦀 FIV
Similar to HIV in humans — targets the immune system. Primarily spread through deep bite wounds, so unneutered male cats who fight are most at risk. Not easily spread through casual contact.
👦 Human Risk?
None. Both viruses are entirely cat-specific and cannot infect humans or other species. There is no public health risk from living with an FeLV or FIV-positive cat.
Who Is at Risk?
- Outdoor cats or cats with unsupervised access to other cats
- Unneutered male cats, especially those that fight
- Cats with unknown vaccination or health history, such as rescues
- Cats living in multi-cat households where one cat is positive
Signs to Watch For
Both FeLV and FIV can be silent for months or years, but common signs include:
- Unexplained weight loss despite normal or increased appetite
- Persistent infections — skin, gums, urinary tract, or respiratory
- Poor coat condition or failure to groom
- Lethargy and reduced activity levels
- Recurring fevers or general malaise
We can test for both FeLV and FIV using a simple in-house blood test during a consultation. We recommend testing any new cat before introducing them to a household, and for any cat showing repeated or unexplained health problems. Early diagnosis allows us to manage the condition proactively and protect other cats in the household.
Living with FeLV or FIV
There is currently no cure for either condition — but that doesn’t mean a diagnosis is a death sentence. Many FeLV and FIV-positive cats live comfortably for several years with good supportive care. This includes regular veterinary monitoring, prompt treatment of any secondary infections, a stress-reduced indoor lifestyle, good nutrition, and dental care.
FIV-positive cats can often live safely with FIV-negative cats as long as they are not aggressive biters — the risk of transmission through casual contact is low. FeLV-positive cats should ideally be kept separate from FeLV-negative cats, as transmission is easier.
Book an FeLV/FIV Test at Paws & Co
Testing is quick, straightforward, and can be done during a routine consultation. We recommend it for any new cat before introducing them to your household, and for any cat with recurring health problems.