Starfish, a fluffy white cat, was close to being adopted by a family until they discovered she is FIV positive, leading to a change of heart. According to a TikTok post from @franflight, the family indicated they were not comfortable bringing home a cat with a health condition. The text in the video stated, "She’s pretty, but I don’t want a sick cat," highlighting the stigma that often surrounds FIV positive cats.

Read More

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a viral infection that can weaken a cat's immune system, but with proper care, affected cats can lead normal lives. The TikTok post emphasized that FIV should not be a reason for Starfish to be overlooked, pointing out that many FIV positive cats are healthy and not "sick."

FIV typically spreads through deep puncture wounds during aggressive encounters among cats and cannot be transmitted through casual contact, such as grooming or sharing food bowls. Additionally, it does not pose a threat to humans.

Starfish is now seeking a new adopter willing to provide a home for an FIV positive cat. At six years old, she is described as playful, sociable with other cats, and in need of a loving forever home. For more details, interested individuals can visit the NAWS Humane Society website.