Is it safe to adopt an FIV cat if I have a suppressed immune system?

It would be safe to adopt another FIV+ cat. The risk of transmission of FIV is relatively low between cats that are friendly but the safest route would be to find another positive cat. If you decide to adopt another cat make sure to introduce the cats slowly and ensure you have adequate resources for both cats. This is a great source for introducing a new cat into your household: https://icatcare.org/advice/how-introduce-kitten-cat

FIV is transmitted by bite wounds, so there is little risk to your adopted cat. If you want to be sure you can always have her tested when she arrives. FIV is only a cat disease as well, so there is no risk to your dogs.

Cats shouldn't catch any human viruses, it's probably just coincidence that everybody starting getting ill at the same time - or it could be related to allergens in the air. Cats with FIV have a harder time in general with any infection - if your positive cat is having a rough time, he may need to be hospitalized for oxygen, fluids, medications, or antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections.

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Gimli. He is so handsome! I love that you have adopted an FIV+ cat, many people will not do that. It shows the kind of person you are, very caring. Cats who are FIV- can live with cats who are FIV+ without issue. The method of transmission is through a bite, so if your two cats live peacefully with each other, it cannot be transmitted. The most important thing to do is get your FIV- cat vaccinated again FIV. That will protect the cat from getting it. I have personally heard of a number of mixed households where they lived peacefully with each other. Get your cat fully vaccinated against FIV before integrating them. I hope this helps!

According to a study done in 2015: "The prevalence of antibodies to feline coronavirus in single-cat households is approximately 25%, whereas in some multicat households, all cats may have positive titers." If they are all positive for antibodies, then it may be safe to have them all together at home. Check with your vet.

FIV is primarily spread through cat bites, so that will not be passed to your cats via your clothes. Feline leukemia (FELV) is passed though cats grooming each other, sharing food and water bowls, and sharing litter boxes. FELV is a fragile virus, surviving only a few hours in a dry environment, but because of the potential that it could be on your clothes, I would wear something protective over your clothes when you are with the cat in your basement, and removing it before you come upstairs. To be absolutely safe, if you are going to continue to rescue cats, you should vaccinate your cats upstairs.

It really depends. Stress and underlying illness (in both cats) can cause a weakening of the immune system which may lead to secondary illnesses taking hold. That said, it would be a good idea to make sure the new cat's health issues are managed and not currently flaring to decrease the chances of spread. Taking a slow approach to introductions (giving each cat their own space, using pheromone diffusers, separate litter and food access) can also help to reduce stress and reduce the chances of spreading illness. I would make sure both cats are healthy enough for the potential stressor by talking to the vet that is treating them. From there, formulating a slow introduction plan, sanitizing any shared spaces, and monitoring for any signs of illness (sneezing, fever, loss of appetite, etc) can help catch early illness and reduce the potential of any problems.