The average life expectancy of cats with FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus FIV+) is likely to be less on average than for non-FIV cats (FIV- cats). There is no stated, statistical figure that I can rely on. But FIV+ cats can suffer from related infections which leads to the conclusion that some FIV cats may die sooner than if they did not have FIV. However, many of these cats will achieve a normal life expectancy of around 15-18 years.
So, what percentage of a normal cat life expectancy can a FIV cat achieve? I’ll have to guess. If there were statistics on the average lifespan of FIV cats compared to non-FIV cats, I’d expect the FIV cats to have a lifespan of around 80% of non-FIV cats. But this assessment might be controversial because:
Many studies indicate that FIV+ cats live as long as FIV- cats. And…FIV itself does not cause severe clinical signs and FIV infected cats live many years without health problems. (Hartman, Veterinary Immunology and Immunopathology 2011)
If we agree the average lifespan of the domestic cat is 18 years, I estimate the average life expectancy of FIV cats to be 14 years. The word ‘average’ is important. As mentioned, this statement may be controversial. The point is that FIV cats are just as good as any other cat as a companion. People should not shun the idea of adopting a FIV+ cat because of their incurable condition.
Since writing this article, I have noticed that the Animal Hospital of Pensacola, have written an article on this topic and they apparently confidently state that “cats infected with FIV may live for months or years. On average, life expectancy is five years from the time of diagnosis depending on how active the infection is”. That’s helpful but it depends upon when a cat contracts FIV. You can see how tricky it is working out a life expectancy.
As there are so many variables that it is probably foolhardy to try and answer the question in the title.
For example, if the FIV cat’s caretaker is excellent and provides care of the highest quality in terms of food, parasite control, minimising stress and keeping him indoors, he may well live a happy and contented life which is as long as any other cat.
Alternatively, a poorly cared for cat with FIV may suffer associated infections which are ignored, and he may die as a consequence at a relatively young age.
You can’t really or realistically answer the question in a straightforward, simplistic way with a single average figure. This is why you won’t find statistics on the internet.
P.S. Humans with AIDS (the human equivalent to FIV) can expect to life as long as people without AIDS. This is because of modern treatments. However, in my view, treating cats with FIV is less well developed than for humans and therefore there is likely to be an impact on cat lifespan.
P.P.S. To those who might vehemently disagree with me: I am simply expressing my views on my website. I am entitled to do that. I’d welcome the views of others in comments.
Hello Michael!
You’re article put my mind at ease. I adopted a female Tortie from my local Humane Society on 2/5/20. She had the usual shot, flea treatment, etc that shelters provide. They thought that she was about 4 years old. She and another cat had been abandoned in a vacant apartment and the landlord found them. She was a little reserved and shy when I brought her home. I think she’s feeling more comfortable and safe this past week. I did take her in for her first vet visit today. I was a little taken back that she is FIV+. I felt so bad for her. She had her shots today and will have the second round in 3 weeks. I am going to provide her with the best life that I possibly can. She’s an indoor cat, I don’t know if that’s what she was prior to me adopting her and she’s an only cat. She is so sweet, but still a little shy. I don’t know if it’s the newness (we are in a 475 sq ft apartment, so it’s not like there’s
a lot to explore) or if that’s her personality. At any rate, she’s well loved. My last cat passed a little over 2 years ago and I was really missing having a fur companion. It comes down to that bumper sticker that I’ve seen, “who rescued who”. So, your article helped because it’s nice to know that Lily can have a long, happy and healthy life, despite her condition.
Thanks!
Dallas L
Kovu was FIV+. He was 18 when he passed.