Plain-language guides to cat health
Clear, sourced information on feline infectious diseases, vaccination and everyday care, with a particular focus on living well with FIV.
A diagnosis such as FIV or FeLV is frightening, but it is often far less final than owners fear. Many cats with FIV live for years with a good quality of life, and several of the diseases covered here can be prevented with vaccination and sensible management. These pages try to explain what is known, say clearly where experts disagree, and point to the original veterinary sources so you can read further and take informed questions to your vet.
Start here
- FIVFeline immunodeficiency virus: how it spreads, testing, prognosis and living with a positive cat.
- FeLVFeline leukaemia virus: infection outcomes, tests that matter and day-to-day management.
- FIPFeline infectious peritonitis: what it is, why it is not usually "catching" and modern antiviral treatment.
- Cat flu and panleukopeniaHerpesvirus, calicivirus and feline parvovirus: the common core diseases.
- VaccinationCore and non-core vaccines, kitten and adult schedules, and vaccines for FIV/FeLV-positive cats.
- Everyday careFood, indoor and outdoor life, parasites, check-ups, stress and warning signs.
At a glance
| Infection | Main route of spread | Vaccine available? | Infects people? |
|---|---|---|---|
| FIV | Bite wounds, mainly from fighting | Not in North America or Europe (limited availability elsewhere) | No |
| FeLV | Saliva through close contact; bites; mother to kittens | Yes | Not known to |
| FIP | Arises from a mutation of the common, gut-dwelling feline coronavirus | One licensed product, not routinely recommended | No (cat coronavirus does not infect people) |
| Herpesvirus | Eye, nose and mouth secretions; lifelong carriers | Yes (core) | Not known to |
| Calicivirus | Secretions, shared items, carriers | Yes (core) | No |
| Panleukopenia | Faeces and contaminated environment; very hardy virus | Yes (core) | No |
When to call a vet urgently: breathing difficulty, collapse, a cat that is straining to pass urine or producing none, repeated vomiting, not eating for 24 hours or more, or sudden weakness in the back legs. See signs that need a vet urgently.
How to use this site
- Every page ends with a list of sources. Where authorities such as the AAHA/AAFP, WSAVA and ABCD differ, we say so rather than choosing one.
- Veterinary guidance differs between countries because disease prevalence and licensed products differ. Your own vet knows what applies where you live.
- Use these pages to prepare questions for your vet, not to replace a consultation.