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.

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.

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

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 

Long Life for FIV Cat

 My FIV cat was rescued in 2008 at the age of three.  When we took him to the veterinarian for a wellness checkup the veterinarian informed us that  Sam had FIV and FeLV. At the time he was very thin and the veterinarian had recommended euthanasia because he thought this cat was dying.  I remember him telling me that the cat would pass within a month and that it would be a painful death.

I declined the veterinarian's diagnosis and told him to vaccinate and neuter him.  When I took  Sam back home I did separate him from my other cats because at the time the veterinarians all thought FIV and FeLV was contagious if a cat came in contact, grooming, or eating from the same bowl.

Within a few weeks, Sam showed signs of being a beautiful and playful Siamese cat.  He put on weight, was social, talkative, and played with his toys and our dog.  Sam lived in my home office which was away from my other cats.  My husband installed a window seat for him so that he could watch the birds and sun himself. 

We had Sam retested and the test showed that Sam eliminated the FeLV but was positive for FIV.

Sam loved to root through my trashcan and play with paper and playing in a cardboard box was one of his favorite activities.  For all counts, Sam appeared to be a normal and healthy cat.

Here are some photos of Sam it shows how well he recovered.

Know that Sam is living a long life as he is now age 17.  He has normal old-age health conditions such as arthritis in his hind legs and is impatient when it comes to eating his food and demands that we turn on the water in the sink, but other than that he uses the litter box, grooms himself, watches the birds from his window seat, plays with the dog and our other cats.  

Yes, we released Sam from our office a decade ago so he could have the company of cats and all get along. There has never been a cat fight or deep wound bite with blood as this is the only way FIV is transformed from cat to cat.

Our FIV cat has lived a long and happy cat life and we suspect that he will live well into his 20s. 

Here are some current photos of Sam 

***Note the age difference is updated in this article as we received an update on his previous owner and learned that Sam was older than we had thought.  His owner had moved and I was told that he could not find the cats so moved and never came back to look for them. Sam was age three in 2008.

Wellness Check for 13 Year Old FIV Cat

 

Recently we took Sam to see the veterinarian for his wellness check and they said he looks good considering his arthritis, FIV, and old age. Sam is 13 years old and has had FIV since 2008. At the rate, he’s going I am certain he will pass away from an old-cat-related health condition rather than Feline Immunodeficiency Virus.

Sam is almost asleep...trying so hard to keep his eyes open (cute)

The thing about FIV cats is that yes they have a suppressed immune system but if you keep the cat indoors, feed them high-quality food, respect their “downtime” and have a stress-free house then chances are your FIV cat will live a long life without being “sickly”.

Sam took the dogs ball and is daring the dog to get it (lol)

There is really no reason to pass up an FIV cat at the shelter. They are just like other cats, the only difference is as stated, they cannot go outdoors and are better suited in a low-stress home.

I think Sam is doing very well because he has cat friends. At first, the Veterinarian put the fear of FIV in me and made me think if my house wasn’t sterile, with no dust, no dirt with perfect temp and if Sam had any contact with other cats that he would become stressed, get sick, and die. I listened to that for the first 10 years.  

Then Sam got out of the office one day and I found him being groomed by one of my female cats and that was the end of his isolation. To this day Lucy doesn’t have FIV, and Sam has cat friends. He is a happy cat and I think that is why he is living a long life.

Sam and Lucy playing on the bed

Long Lived 13 Year Old FIV Cat

 

My FIV cat named Sam has been with us a long time even though when we first rescued him his veterinarian did not think he would survive the month. Back in 2008 Sam was a skin and bones abandoned Siamese cat that had tested positive for Feline AIDS ad Leukemia.

Honestly I knew nothing of these cat diseases but knew in my heart that I needed to give Sam a chance and that I also needed a second opinion. The attending veterinarian was adamant about Sam's dire health conditions and strongly suggested euthanasia as it would be more humane than the painful death my cat would endure.

It is safe to say that in 2008 when Sam was approximately 2 years old, that this time period for knowing and understanding FIV was the “dark ages” as many cats with this condition were euthanized because veterinarians did not fully understand the feline disease.  

Know that Sam has come a long way in the past 13 years. Here are photographs of Sam throughout the years.

Sam was retested 60 days after his first test and he did not have Feline Leukemia he did have FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus). We accepted this condition and were determined to provide Sam with a happy and long life.

If I did not tell you that Sam had FIV you would not know it from looking at him. He put on weight and at one point I thought he had a food addiction. He had gotten fat and we needed to reduce the carbohydrates by cutting out the kitty snacks and feeding him pate canned food. Sam loved all Science Diet canned foods that came with gravy. The gravy was greatly missed but Sam learned to like Pate.

For the first six years Sam lived in my office far far away from my other cats. The attending veterinarian put the fear into us by saying that if Sam groomed one of our cats or ate out of the same bowl that our normal cats would be infected with the incurable FIV disease.

We were very careful with Sam but one day he got out and he charged to the other side of the house. There he befriended our other cats and at the end of the day, they were all best friends. Of course, we were certain that they all had FIV but after having them all tested, none of the cats were sick.

Yes in the past 13 years, we were told many things, that made us think that a slight change in the household temperature, germs, stress, or household anxiety such as moving a chair was enough to make Sam deathly ill. Sam survived a tornado, household chairs moving, the vacuum, germs in the house, and stressful situations and he was a trooper, he never got deathly ill.

At one point I thought Sam may have been vaccinated for Feline immunodeficiency and that the test was a false negative. So we had a blood test done and it confirmed that Sam did have FIV.

Sam is now age 15 and he is still a happy cat with old cat symptoms such as arthritis in his hind legs. He sleeps more than he used to, but he also plays with his toys and the other cats and he loves to sleep on my husband's head.

To look at Sam you would think he was just a senior cat, you would never know that he has lived a long life with FIV an immunodeficiency cat disease.

The above photos were taken in the last 13 years and the below is Sam now.  He is thinner, Sam is older (age 15)  but he is still our happy and fun-loving fur-kid.