Understanding Wasting: FIV Cat Begins to Decline

 

 

A compassionate, in‑depth look at the progression of FIV in senior cats, with a focus on early wasting, supportive care, nutrition, and end‑of‑life planning. Written through the lived experience of rescuing and caring for FIV‑positive cats for nearly two decades.

 

Buddy's life was well lived, happy in a secure outdoor space 

A Life Rescued and a Life Well Lived

For ten years, Buddy lived the kind of life every rescued cat deserves  safe, warm, and deeply loved. When he first arrived, he had been abandoned by his previous owners, left outdoors unneutered, and injured from fighting for survival. Once treated and brought inside, he settled into a peaceful life where his FIV status never once interfered with his health or happiness. Many FIV‑positive cats follow this same pattern: long stretches of normalcy, often lasting a decade or more, before any signs of decline appear. Now, as Buddy begins to lose weight despite eating well and staying active, he is showing one of the earliest and most important indicators of progression — wasting.

How FIV Progresses Over Time

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus progresses slowly, moving through three broad stages. The first is the acute phase, which occurs shortly after infection and often goes unnoticed because symptoms are mild or fleeting. The second is the asymptomatic phase, which can last for years and is the stage where most FIV cats spend the majority of their lives. Buddy lived in this phase for a decade, showing no outward signs of illness. The final stage, the progressive or clinical phase, is when the immune system becomes compromised and the cat becomes vulnerable to secondary infections, chronic inflammation, and cancers. It is during this stage that wasting often appears.

What Wasting Really Means in an FIV Cat

Still active, still playing and eating but declining

Wasting, or feline cachexia, is more complex than simple weight loss. It occurs when the body begins breaking down muscle even though the cat continues to eat normally. Chronic immune activation plays a major role; the body remains in a constant state of inflammation, which alters metabolism and causes muscle to be burned for energy. At the same time, subtle changes in the intestinal lining can reduce nutrient absorption, meaning the cat may not be able to fully use the calories it consumes. This combination creates a situation where a cat can appear hungry, active, and engaged, yet still lose weight and muscle mass. Coat changes often accompany this shift, as the body diverts protein away from skin and fur maintenance to support vital organs.

Secondary Infections and Complications to Expect

As the immune system weakens, FIV‑positive cats become more susceptible to infections that healthy cats easily resist. Oral disease is especially common, with gingivitis and stomatitis causing chronic inflammation and discomfort. Respiratory infections may appear more frequently or linger longer than expected. Skin infections, eye inflammation, gastrointestinal issues, and urinary tract infections can also emerge as the immune system struggles to keep everyday pathogens in check. Some cats develop anemia or low white blood cell counts, and in advanced cases, cancers such as lymphoma may occur. These secondary conditions, rather than the virus itself, are often what signal that the disease has entered a more serious stage.

Caregiving During the Decline Phase

Caregiving during this period becomes both practical and deeply emotional. Regular veterinary monitoring helps identify treatable conditions that may be contributing to weight loss, such as hyperthyroidism, early kidney disease, parasites, or chronic infections. At home, comfort becomes a central focus. Many declining cats appreciate warm, soft bedding, predictable routines, and a calm environment. Gentle grooming can help maintain coat health, though some cats may prefer less handling as they become more sensitive. Observing subtle signs of discomfort such as withdrawing, hunching, or reduced grooming  can help caregivers recognize when a cat may need additional support.

Nutritional Support for a Cat in Decline

This is what we feed our FIV cats. dry kibble and wet food

Nutrition plays a crucial role in supporting an FIV cat experiencing wasting. Cats in this stage often benefit from calorie‑dense, high‑protein foods that are easier for the body to use. Many caregivers find that kitten formulas or recovery diets help maintain weight more effectively. Warming food can enhance aroma and encourage eating, while offering small, frequent meals may help cats who tire easily or have mild nausea. Hydration also becomes increasingly important, and some cats benefit from added moisture in their meals. Many veterinarians recommend B12 supplementation to support gut health and nutrient absorption, especially in older or chronically ill cats.

Planning for Comfort and Dignity at the End of Life

As the disease progresses, end‑of‑life planning becomes an act of love rather than loss. Thinking ahead allows caregivers to focus on comfort rather than crisis. Quality‑of‑life scales can help track changes in mobility, appetite, engagement, and overall comfort. Pain management, palliative care, and environmental adjustments can make a profound difference in a cat’s final months. Creating a peaceful, familiar space and honoring the routines your cat loves can help maintain a sense of security. For caregivers, this stage often brings a mix of grief, gratitude, and uncertainty. It is important to remember that decline is part of the disease’s natural course, not a reflection of inadequate care. The love, safety, and gentleness you provide are the most meaningful gifts you can offer.

Buddy’s Legacy and the Heart of Rescue

Buddy’s story reflects the resilience of FIV‑positive cats and the profound impact of compassionate caregiving. His long, joyful life is a testament to what rescue, stability, and devotion can do. As he enters this new stage, the most important thing he has is exactly what he has always had with you  a home where he is seen, cherished, and protected. That is the heart of rescue, and it is the legacy he carries with him. 

Disclaimer

I have been rescuing and caring for FIV‑positive cats for nearly two decades. This post is intended for education and general information only. I always recommend contacting your veterinarian for any medical questions or concerns regarding your FIV‑positive cat.

Our FIV Cat Buddy Is Trying to Heal My Husband

 

In our home, healing is a shared effort and that includes our FIV-positive cat, Buddy. As my husband rests in his recliner, recovering from being ill. Buddy has become one of his most devoted companions. Curled up on his lap, purring softly, Buddy joins our other cats in a quiet vigil of comfort and care.

What makes this moment especially powerful is knowing Buddy’s story. He lives with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), a condition that often leads to misunderstanding and fear. But here’s the truth: Buddy is just like any other cat. He’s affectionate, playful, emotionally attuned and clearly capable of deep empathy.

Many FIV-positive cats live long, healthy lives without symptoms. They can safely share homes with other cats, and they deserve love, security, and a chance to thrive. Buddy is living proof. (share a home with other cats that do not fight as a deep bite wound with blood is how the virus is passed)

When people ask if FIV cats are “worth it,” I think of Buddy—curled up beside my husband, offering warmth and healing in the quietest way. Buddy is not just worth it. He’s irreplaceable.

Sam’s Story: Why I Said No to Euthanasia After a FeLV Diagnosis

 

When Sam was first diagnosed with both FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus) and FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus), the veterinarian recommended euthanasia. I said no.

Instead of accepting a single test result, I did what every caregiver should be empowered to do: I researched. I learned that FeLV tests especially the initial ELISA screening can produce false positives. I also discovered that some cats can fight off FeLV entirely, depending on their immune response.

photo of Sam waiting for his 2nd test. Read that post here 

So, I waited. I gave Sam time. Six months later, we retested.

 The results?
No FeLV. Sam had cleared the virus. He did test positive for FIV, but that’s a manageable condition with proper care and a safe environment.

What I Learned and What You Should Know

• FeLV isn’t always a death sentence. Cats exposed to FeLV can respond in three ways:
• Abortive infection: The immune system eliminates the virus completely. These cats test negative and are considered immune.
• Regressive infection: The virus is suppressed but not eliminated. Cats may test positive initially, then negative later.
• Progressive infection: The virus takes hold and remains active, often leading to illness.
• False positives happen. ELISA tests detect FeLV proteins in the blood, but transient infections or testing errors can lead to inaccurate results. Confirmatory tests like PCR or IFA are essential before making irreversible decisions.
• Retesting saves lives. Sam is living proof. A second test gave him a second chance.

Verified Resources

• Cornell Feline Health Center on FeLV outcomes and immune response
• AVMA study on suspected false positives in FeLV testing
• IDEXX guide to FeLV diagnosis and management
• ASPCApro’s FeLV Testing and Management overview

Responsible Pet Ownership: What Buddy’s Story Teaches Us

 

 

Buddy’s journey from abandonment to emergency rescue, from FIV diagnosis to end-of-life care reveals the brutal consequences of neglect. His story isn’t rare. It’s a mirror held up to a larger problem: the casual disregard some people show toward the animals they once called family.

Responsible pet ownership isn’t complicated. But it is non-negotiable.

Here’s what it means:

Sterilize and Vaccinate

Unaltered cats like Buddy are more likely to roam, fight, and contract diseases like FIV. Neutering isn’t just population control it’s protection. Vaccination is basic care. Without it, cats are left vulnerable to preventable suffering.

Never Abandon

Moving is not an excuse. A housecat cannot “figure it out.” They don’t know where to find food, shelter, or safety. Abandonment is a death sentence disguised as indifference. If you can’t take your pet, rehome responsibly. Don’t leave them behind.

 Understand Their Needs

Cats aren’t low-maintenance accessories. They’re sentient beings with emotional and physical needs. Responsible ownership means learning about their health, behavior, and environment—and adapting to meet those needs, even when it’s inconvenient.

Commit for Life

Pets age. They get sick. They change. Responsible ownership means staying through the vet visits, the dietary changes, the mobility issues. It means loving them when they’re no longer “easy.”

Advocate and Educate

If you know better, speak up. Share stories like Buddy’s. Help others understand that ethical pet ownership isn’t optional it’s a moral responsibility. Every abandoned animal is a reflection of human failure. Every rescued one is a chance to do better.

Buddy didn’t choose his suffering. But he chose to survive. And we chose to love him through it.

If you’re reading this and you’ve ever wondered what responsible pet ownership looks like it looks like Buddy. It looks like showing up, even when it’s hard. It looks like love with no expiration date. Learn more about Buddy here 

This article published by Susan Golis, Freelance Writer, blogger, and Content Creator.  AI images created by Susan Golis 

Buddy’s Story: From Abandonment to End-of-Life Care

 

In 2018, my husband and I rescued a cat who had been left behind when his owners moved away. They didn’t neuter him, didn’t vaccinate him and simply abandoned him to fend for himself. He was a young, unaltered male, pacing the porch of the empty house, meowing for the family that had vanished. 

We tried everything food, treats, gentle coaxing but he wouldn’t come near us. We set humane traps and caught a raccoon, a possum, even a fox. But not the cat. It wasn’t until after a brutal street fight that we found him, bloodied and dazed, at the side of the road. We rushed him to the emergency vet.

He had bite wounds across his body, deep facial scratches, blood in his eyes, and a ruptured eardrum. The vet suspected a head injury. We treated him with antibiotics and stitches, and while his external wounds healed, the internal ones never did. He was diagnosed with FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus), and his vision and hearing were permanently compromised.

We named him Buddy.

Buddy sways when he walks. His depth perception is off. He struggles to get down from the sofa or his scratching post. Because of his disabilities, we knew he couldn’t be adopted out. He needed vigilant, lifelong care and we committed to giving it.

We eventually socialize him with Sam, our other FIV cat. Now both cats are part of our family.

Now, at age 9, Buddy has entered end-of-life care. He’s developed kidney disease, and we’re doing everything we can to support him. For an FIV-positive cat, this feels like a short life especially when our Siamese lived to 18. I believe Buddy’s decline stems from the neglect he endured in his early years: no sterilization, no vaccines, no protection.

He fought to survive. And in that fight, he contracted FIV.

Buddy’s Nutrition: Supporting a Fragile Body with Holistic Care

As Buddy’s health declined, we knew his nutrition had to do more than just sustain him it had to support his immune system, gut health, and overall vitality. Prescription kidney diets didn’t feel right for him. Instead, we chose a holistic approach that honors his individuality and needs.

We feed Buddy Solid Gold Indigo Moon, a gluten- and grain-free dry kibble crafted for kittens and adult cats alike. It’s ideal for active or immunocompromised cats thanks to its:

• 42% crude protein from cage-free chicken and whole eggs, supporting muscle tone and metabolism
• Low carbohydrate and high fiber content to ease digestion
• Prebiotics and live probiotics that nurture gut flora and bolster immune function
• Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, antioxidants, and superfoods that promote coat health and cellular resilience

This food has made a visible difference. Buddy’s coat is no longer dull. He’s gained weight. He’s more alert and engaged. For a cat with FIV and kidney disease, that’s a small miracle.

We also supplement his diet with Wellness canned food, which includes prebiotics and probiotics to further support his digestion and immunity. Together, these choices reflect our belief that nutrition is not just about survival it’s about dignity, comfort, and love.

Buddy may sway when he walks. His depth perception may be off. But he’s still here. Still loved. And still fighting.

Why We Tell Buddy’s Story

I will never understand why people abandon their cats when they move. Why they think a housecat will know where to go for food, shelter, or how to protect themselves from predators. Buddy’s story is a reminder: abandonment is not just cruel it’s catastrophic.

Housecats don’t know how to survive on the streets. They don’t know how to fight off predators or disease. And they shouldn’t have to.

Buddy deserved better. Now, he has it.

In Loving Memory of Sam A Siamese Soul Who Defied the Odds

 

Some stories begin with heartbreak and end with grace. Sam’s story is one of those.

When Sam first came into my life, he was a young Siamese cat with quiet eyes and a gentle spirit. A routine vet visit turned into a devastating diagnosis: FeLV. The veterinarian told me he was dying that the kindest thing would be to let him go.

But I saw something else. I saw life. I saw possibility. I said no.

I brought Sam home, had him neutered, gave him his shots, and surrounded him with love. Six weeks later, I had him retested. The results changed everything: Sam didn’t have FeLV. He had FIV a condition far more manageable with care and compassion.

From that moment on, Sam lived exclusively indoors with my three other cats. They adored each other, and because their bond was peaceful and affectionate, there was no risk of transmission. Sam thrived in their company, curled up in sunbeams, and quietly became the heart of our home.

He lived for nineteen beautiful years.

In his final weekend, Sam suffered a stroke. No veterinarian was available, so we did what love demands we made space for peace. We placed him gently on his bed, and one by one, his companions came to say goodbye. My dog lay beside him. Then the three cats joined, forming a circle of warmth and silent devotion.

Sam passed away surrounded by love.

He was cherished. He is missed. And he will always be remembered not for his diagnosis, but for his resilience, and the quiet way he taught us that love is the most powerful medicine of all.

Footnote:
Too often, FIV-positive cats are overlooked in shelters and rescues, dismissed as “sickly” or “short-lived.” Sam’s life is proof that this simply isn’t true. With proper care, a loving home, and a peaceful environment, FIV cats can live long, joyful lives just like Sam did. He shared nineteen beautiful years with me and his animal family, never once defined by his diagnosis. If you’re considering adoption, don’t pass up an FIV cat. You might just find your soulmate.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy in Cats

My Siamese Cat named Sam has Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) which is a common disease in Siamese cats.  PRA means that the cats will go blind over time. 

 

At first, we noticed that Sam seemed to not function well at night so we would turn on night lights in every room just so he could see where he was going.   We learned early on that if Sam had this disease that he would go blind and that there was no cure. 

We were told that blind cats can adapt well to the disease and as long as we did not move furniture, food bowls, water bowls or litter boxes.  To not make major changed to our home.

 

We were assured that our 18-year-old FIV cat named Sam would adapt and could life a full life and be a great kitty.  Sam would use scent to mark his way through the house and we always call him by name before we approach him as not to startle him. 

We have other cats and in our observation of them we can see that even our alpha cat Hairy a large Ragdoll seems to be caring when it comes to Sam.  We have seen Hairy grooming Sam and also backing away from the food bowl to allow Sam to eat. 

Sam has lived a very long life and we know that he is at the end of his life.  He is still eating, drinking and using his litter box.  He still sleeps at the foot of our bed and he still loves his catnip toy.  When it is Sam's time, he will let us know and we will take him to the veterinarian to be euthanized. But for now, he still has more kitty lives to live. 

Sam was rescued in 2008 when he was abandoned by his people who moved away.  He was skin and bones and was infected with FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus)

Long Life for 18 Year Old FIV Cat

 My rescued cat Sam was diagnosed with FIV in 2008. At the time he was approximately two years old which means he has lived a long life considering FIV negative cats life expectancy is 15 years. Know that we did not realize he was as old as he is, but found his medical records that noted he was older than we thought.

Sam photo age 16

Studies have shown that cats with FIV do have similar life spans to cats that do not have FIV.  My cat Sam showed no signs of FIV throughout his life.  He did develop normal old age symptoms like arthritis and now at age 18, he has some cognitive issues.

I would say that Sam is a lucky cat because many FIV-positive cats develop secondary infections including cancer and immune disorders.  My friend has an FIV can that is sick all the time.  Not Sam he has a stress-free life, and we have always provided him with high protein quality cat food. Fish oil supplements and probiotics to help boost his immune. Along with nutritious food, I think the fact that he is a happy cat with no stress has prevented him from getting seriously ill.

 

Sam having fun at age 15

When we rescued Sam we were told that FIV was highly contagious and that it could be easily spread to our other cats by sharing food, water, and litter box.  So we did take steps to keep Sam away from our other three cats.  Sam lived at my office for the first five years.  It was not until there were air-conditioning problems that I brought him to the house. There he resided in a cat room where I had my home office.

One day when we were not home, Sam got out of that room and became friends with my other cats.  When we arrived home we found him lying on our sofa with our other cats.  We freaked out. Took all of the cats in for an FIV test and all of the cats were negative.

From that day forward Sam lived in the main house with our other cats. FIV is not passed by sharing food or water dishes, nor is it passed from grooming, play fights, or scratches.  Not even sneezes will infect my cats with FIV.  The only thing that will cause my cats to get  FIV is a deep bloody bite wound.

 

Sam has developed cataracts  and has arthritis he is age 17 in this photo 

Many FIV cats never leave the shelters because which is sad because FIV is not a fatality. Many FIV cats can live a long life just like my cat Sam

Adult Cat Diagnosed with Kidney Disease

My tabby cat is five years old and he was diagnosed with kidney disease.  The veterinarian said that he would need to eat a prescription diet food for the rest of his life.  

The Hills Urinary Care prescription diet would not cure him but I was assured that he would not get sicker.

 

The diagnosis was due to my cat's elevated blood phosphorus reading.  It was over the normal 6 mg/dl (USA) and indicated kidney disease.  There were no crystals in his urine or any other indicator.

 

There are many reasons why a cat would develop kidney disease.  Many older cats develop this condition due to kidney changes as they age, they drink less water or their diet is primarily dry kibble.

 

Another reason would be due to an infection, or a cat ate something toxic (lily flowers or antifreeze) and it damaged their kidneys. Also, cats with FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus) may develop kidney disease.  My FIV cat named Sam has chronic kidney disease.  Read the article here. 

 

For my tabby cat, the reason was clear, he was not a big water drinker, and he preferred dry kibble over wet canned food.  When cats eat only dry food  which is half the moisture of canned food, and not being a water drinker, those two factors will cause kidney/bladder disease.  I was told that dry cat kibble was the leading cause of urinary and bladder infections in cats.

 

Know that we always topped our cats Purina ONE True Instinct Natural Real Chicken Plus Vitamins & Minerals High Protein Grain-Free Dry Cat Food with wet canned food but this cat would only eat a little canned food, as he preferred dry.  This food has a 12 percent moisture, it's higher than many kibbles on the market, and many have less.

 

Due to his kidney disease diagnosis, we must feed him the prescription canned food.  I mix a little water in the food for extra fluid which is good for his kidneys. He is not a fan of the canned food so I will ask the veterinarian if there is a prescription kibble that he can eat that I could mix with the canned food.

 

Learn more about cat kidney disease by reading this article 

About Sam my 15-Year Old FIV Cat

  

It's hard to believe that my FIV cat is now a senior considering when I adopted him in 2008 every veterinarian told me he would not live a long life.  It's safe to say that the health concerns regarding FIV have changed and that people have learned a lot about FIV.

When I adopted Sam my veterinarian told me that Sam had to be kept in a temperature-controlled room and that he could not have any contact with other cats because he was highly contagious, that even if Sam ate out of the same bowl he could pass the FIV disease to another cat.  I was also told that I could make him sick by bringing germs from the outdoors into his space.  So I would come home from work, shower before putting on new clothing and slippers, and go into my office to see Sam.

Clearly, many veterinarians’ and caregivers got FIV mixed up with FeLV.  Because FIV is only spread through a deep puncture wound that would break another cat's skin. 

I adhered to all of the veterinarians’ instructions then 10 years ago, Sam had gotten out of the office and we found him playing with my other cats.   We took all of the cats in for FIV testing and none of them were infected so the veterinarian at that time said if they get along then they can live together.

Presently Sam lives with my other cats who are not infected with cat disease.  He sleeps with them, plays with them and yes eats out of the same bowl.

Sam is relatively healthy for his age but does suffer from typical senior cat conditions.  He has arthritis in his legs but that does not stop him from running, jumping, and playing with the dog.

Other than his arthritis I have noticed that Sam is grumpy if he doesn’t get canned food when he wants it.  He loves to eat a couple times a day and has slept in bed with us for the last decade.

**The photos in this article are my original photographs of Sam my 15-year-old FIV cat.

Here is the article I published on the day we adopted Sam