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Can my clothes spread FIV or FeLV from a rescue cat to my pets?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

I have a fiv+,fevl+leukemia cat in my basement in a playpen(i rescued).My unvaccinated cats live upstairs.Can my clothes transfer deseases or viruses?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 7th, 2016

FIV is primarily spread through cat bites, so that will not be passed to your cats via your clothes. Feline leukemia (FELV) is passed though cats grooming each other, sharing food and water bowls, and sharing litter boxes. FELV is a fragile virus, surviving only a few hours in a dry environment, but because of the potential that it could be on your clothes, I would wear something protective over your clothes when you are with the cat in your basement, and removing it before you come upstairs. To be absolutely safe, if you are going to continue to rescue cats, you should vaccinate your cats upstairs.

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    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    There would be a very small possibility that it could be transferred by droplets on your clothing or person. Washing hands and changing any contaminated clothing would be important. Separate food and litter trays are also important

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