Should I vaccinate my cat against FIV?
The value of the FIV vaccine is in doubt, therefore it should not be given (as at 2011). In answering the question “Should I vaccinate my cat against FIV?” I have shamelessly referred to one source: Dr Fogle in his book Complete Cat Care. Of course you should do your own research and ask questions of your veterinarian. Personally, I vaccinate my cat the minimum consistent with protecting his health.

Cat Vaccination. Photo: The Answer Vet
FIV is quite common amongst free-ranging cats and many are healthy but they transmit the virus to other cats where it may cause serious ill-health.
Studies of cats at veterinary clinics indicate that “10-20 percent of sick cats have been exposed to FIV, usually through bites or repeated social licking”.
First symptoms of an infection are:
- fever
- lethargy
- possible lymph node enlargement
Later good heath returns but then other signs might develop such as:
- weight loss
- gum disease
- loss of appetite
- intermittent fever
- conjunctivitis
- tumours
- fever
There is a vaccine for FIV which is licensed in the USA.
However, academic researchers “question its value”.
Therefore Dr Fogle who is a high profile and well regarded vet/author does not give this vaccination.
P.S. – The minimal quotes, which I hope are acceptable are from Dr Fogle’s book Complete Cat Care. This is an excellent book. Note: I have dated the advice as 2011. Science advances and therefore you may have more up to date information in which case please leave a comment which I may incorporate into this post.