Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) Testing: Complete Guide¶
Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is a lentivirus causing progressive immunosuppression. Unlike FeLV (antigen), FIV is detected via antibody — with important caveats about maternal immunity.
Why Antibody (Not Antigen)¶
FIV persists at low viral loads, making antigen detection unreliable. Antibody detection is the established screening method — it reflects exposure and, in an adult cat, typically indicates persistent infection.
When to Test¶
| Signal | Action |
|---|---|
| New cat intake (especially outdoor/entire males) | Screen |
| Sick cat with stomatitis, weight loss, recurrent infection | Test |
| Pre-vaccination | Establish status |
| Multi-cat household with a positive cat | Test all |
Result Interpretation¶
| Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Antibody positive (adult) | Consistent with FIV infection |
| Antibody positive (kitten < 6 mo) | May reflect maternal antibody — retest after 6 months |
| Antibody negative | No infection detected |
Maternal Antibody Interference¶
Kittens born to an FIV-positive queen can carry maternal antibodies for up to 6 months without being infected. A positive kitten should be retested after 6 months of age before a diagnosis is made.
Clinical Management¶
- FIV-positive cats can live for years with good supportive care.
- Separate from FIV-negative cats to prevent transmission (bites).
- Regular monitoring for secondary infections.
FAQ¶
How fast is the result? ~15 minutes on the Migibio platform.
Can FIV be transmitted casually? No — FIV is transmitted primarily through deep bite wounds, not casual contact.
Case Study: The Outdoor Tom¶
A 5-year-old entire male cat with outdoor access presents with chronic gingivostomatitis and weight loss.
- FIV antibody: positive.
- The cat has a history of fighting (deep bite wounds).
Management: The antibody result, in an adult cat with compatible signs, is consistent with FIV infection. Supportive care (dental management, nutrition) was initiated, and the cat was kept indoors to prevent transmission.
Lesson: In an adult with compatible signs, a positive antibody is diagnostic. In a kitten under 6 months, the same result could reflect maternal antibody — age changes interpretation.
References¶
- Laska-Modzelewska A, Pawelczak P, et al. Comparative evaluation of nine lateral flow assays for FIV antibody detection using an in-house ELISA as a reference method. BMC Vet Res. 2026. PMID: 41572271
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Authored by: Migibio Clinical & Scientific Affairs, Guangzhou Magic Biotech Co., Ltd.
Reviewed by: Migibio R&D Quality Committee
Last updated: 2026-08-13
Disclosure: Migibio (Guangzhou Magic Biotech Co., Ltd.) is the manufacturer of the FIA680/FIA880 analyzers and FICT reagents referenced in this content. See our Editorial & Review Policy.