Cazzer, have a look at Catwork site. These guys know everything there is to know about FIV and FeLV.
I have one FIV+ve, he has no symptoms but came in from being a stray, so he would have picked it up from fighting (deep bite wound). He is docile now and neutered so my -ve residents are not at risk from him, as FIV does not shed into the environment is not therefore contagious in the home. Safe to share food and water bowls and litter trays. Most FIV+ve cats live as long as -ve cats and most are never diagnosed until they contract a disease (like 'flu) which their diminished immunity cannot cope with, only then are bloods tested and the FIV identified.
Some cats are born FIV+ve, but you would never know if they stay well, as most do. It is estimated that of the population of pet cats in the UK, up to 40% may actually be FIV+ve, so it really isn't something, in itself, to be afraid of.
FeLV is highly contagious, however, and FeLV cats must be separated from -ve cats. Cross-infection is almost impossible to prevent in shared households as the virus does shed into the environment so can be transferred by shared food bowls, litter trays, water bowls etc. However the virus has a short airbourn lifespan. It is known that cats can "shake off" an FeLV infection, if it is healthy and wins the battle - however it is important to understand that the cat will test positive during this period. Should the cat recover, a second (lab) test after 12 weeks will tell if the cat continues to carry the virus, in which case it will be persistently affected, or if it has successfully shaken it off.
Vets tend not to recommend vaccinations for FeLV/FIV carriers as the vaccinations themselves can trigger illness that the diminished immunity cannot cope with.
Have a read, you'll probabaly be better educated that your vet when you have finished this, it certainly opened my eyes.
http://www.catwork.co.uk/Huge vibes for you and Sassie
