Here is some information on Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).

Jake’s ideal home would be where he would be the only cat because Jake has Feline Immunodeficiency Virus. He doesn’t need any special care unless he picks up an infection – just like any other cat. FIV cats can be more susceptible to infections because of their suppressed immune system.

The primary mode of transmission of FIV is through bite wounds. Casual, non-aggressive contact does not appear to be an efficient route of spreading FIV; therefore cats in households with stable social structures where housemates do not fight are at little risk for acquiring FIV infections. On rare occasions infection is transmitted from an infected mother cat to her kittens, which appears to be Jake’s case, usually during passage through the birth canal or when the newborn kittens ingest infected milk.

Infected cats can live a long life.