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My FIV+ cat needs teeth pulled. Is anesthesia safe for him with FIV?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Persian | Male | unneutered | 6 years and 1 month old | 5.5 lbs

My cat has Fiv+, due to that he has issues with his teeth. Our vet recommended some extractions. I'm not sure about this, mainly in regards to how anesthesia and the extraction itself can affect a FIv cat. What should I do? He's still eating fine at this point.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on February 8th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Cats with FIV can live a very long and healthy life! If he has dental disease and needs teeth removed I recommend doing it. The dental shouldn't cause progression of his FIV and will likely improve his quality of life. Leaving diseased teeth in the mouth of an immunocompromised animal isn't good either! i hope this helps!

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