Should a cat with feline aids be allowed outside.

by patrick
(magee, ms. usa)

About one year ago, an emaciated cat showed up in our yard. My wife took it to the vet, had it castrated and vaccinated. A week later, the vet informed us he had feline aids. The cat has gained a lot of weight and now appears perfectly healthy. The problem is that he is very territorial and can be vicious to our other 3 "outside" cats and "runs them off" We have one "indoor" cat, also.

My question is this: Is it ethical to let this cat roam outside as he poses a danger of infecting our other cats as well as neighborhood cats. Especially given his disposition.
I cannot find anyone who will take him as an inside cat. I feel like he should be euthanized but my wife will not agree.
Can you help us make a decision?
Thanks,
PJ in Mississippi

Reply
Hi
I have always been told by the animal rescue centers that cats with HIV need to be kept as inside cats only and be the only pets. So in your situation letting outside is not a good option.

The trouble is you also have an indoor cat so your options are limited.

Here in the UK all our animal shelters are no kill and even cats with HIv are found homes. I don't know if the situation is the same where you are. It may be worth asking around at some of the shelters near you to see if there are cat foster homes for cats with Hiv etc.

Kate

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