2 of my 4 cats were diagnosed with FIV, but we have 2 other young cats who have not been tested yet. If they are negative the vet recommend separating/ re-homing the cats because he thinks the virus can be spread via sharing food or water. I'm doing some research and finding that recent studies showed it be almost impossible to spread the virus via food and water. Can you offer insight into this? How can we handle a FIV with non-FIV household?

Updated On December 13th, 2019

Pet's info:

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

No, I wouldn't necessarily rehome them. There are many households where FIV positive and FIV negative cats live together without issue. Cat bites are the major means by which infection is transmitted, and the virus does not survive long in the environment. Check out this article below for more information: https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/feline-immunodeficiency-virus

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

See More Answers
image

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored