Yoshi’s Legacy // Breaking Stigmas

Inspired by a Streetborn team member’s FIV+ cat, Yoshi, we are passionate about FIV+ cats and their worthiness of love and care. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is one of the most heavily misunderstood diagnoses in animal welfare. For decades, FIV+ cats were treated as ticking time bombs that needed to be permanently isolated or euthanized. Backed by modern veterinary science, we know that FIV+ cats live long, happy, normal lives. And it could be personal bias, but every FIV+ cat we’ve met is *extra* adorable.

What is FIV?

FIV is a slow-acting virus that can compromise a cat’s immune system over many years. It is not a form of feline cancer, and it is not a death sentence. It simply means that if an FIV+ cat catches a cold or a minor skin infection, their body takes a little longer to fight it off. With basic veterinary care, high-quality nutrition, and a stress-free indoor life, most FIV+ cats have the exact same life expectancy as any other feline.

Stay tuned for more information and tips regarding FIV+ cats, and any current Streetborn FIV+ kitties will be featured here as well!