Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Is my FIV+ cat at risk of respiratory illness from a sick person?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 14 lbs

I have an FIV+ cat, and a member of the Household has chronic bronchitis, and maybe presenting with cold symptoms. Do I have to worry about my cat getting a respiratory illnness with his comprimised immune system?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 4th, 2017

I'm assuming you're talking about a human member of the household, in which case Thumbs should not be at risk for developing a respiratory illness. Typical human cold viruses like rhinovirus and adenoviruses cannot be transmitted to cats and most of the bacteria that cause bronchitis are not contagious.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Emily, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I would recommend keeping your FIV positive cat isolated from your cat with the infection. The FIV status does make that cat more prone to infections and it is better to be safe and keep them separated then try to treat infection in an already immunocompromised pet.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What to do if my cat has a small hole with pus coming from its ear?
Is your cat's ear hole oozing pus? A Petco vet explains potential infections like abscesses from bites, advising immediate vet care, antibiotics, and recovery.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has trouble breathing, coughing, and nose discharge. Help?
Is your degu struggling to breathe, coughing, or have nasal discharge? A trusted vet offers vital guidance on respiratory issues like pneumonia and how to help.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My ferret has bloody urine and bladder stones. Is it an emergency?
Ferret has bloody urine, possibly bladder stones? A certified vet advises if waiting until tomorrow for an appointment is safe, especially if he's still urinating.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My senior dog has recurring pancreatitis. How can I manage his diet?
Is your 13-year-old dog facing recurring pancreatitis? Get expert vet guidance on managing chronic inflammation, diet, and lifestyle tips for their well-being.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My cat is chunky. What food and steps can I take to help him lose weight?
Is your cat overweight? A certified vet offers guidance to help your tubby tabby lose weight. Get essential diet and food recommendations to slim down your cat!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored