Can You Board a Cat With FIV?
For many Melbourne cat owners, planning a holiday or short trip can feel stressful—especially when your feline companion has special health needs. One of the most common questions we hear is: “Can you board a cat with FIV?” The concern is understandable. When your cat lives with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), you want to ensure their environment is calm, hygienic, and monitored by people who understand their condition.
The encouraging news is yes, you can board a cat with FIV, as long as the boarding facility provides the right level of care, separation, and expertise. At Paws Hotel Altona and Paws Hotel Springvale, we proudly welcome FIV-positive cats and offer a safe, stress-free, cat-only environment designed for their wellbeing.
This guide explains everything you need to know before boarding your FIV-positive cat—from safety considerations to what makes a boarding hotel suitable for their needs.
Understanding FIV and Its Impact on Boarding
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) affects a cat’s immune system, making them more susceptible to infections and stress. However, many cats with FIV live long, healthy, and happy lives with proper care. When it comes to boarding, the key considerations are:
Reducing exposure to illness
Minimising stress
Preventing physical contact with unfamiliar cats
Maintaining excellent hygiene
Providing attentive monitoring
Contrary to common belief, FIV is not spread through casual contact such as grooming, sharing bowls, or being in the same room. It is typically transmitted through deep bite wounds. Because of this, FIV-positive cats can safely board in facilities that provide individual housing and understand their needs.
Yes—It Is Safe to Board a Cat With FIV
With the right protocols, boarding an FIV-positive cat is not only safe but often beneficial. A well-run cat boarding hotel in Melbourne provides routine, comfort, and professional care—key elements that help FIV cats manage stress and remain healthy while you're away.
A safe boarding environment for FIV cats includes:
Private suites with no shared contact
Separate ventilation, where possible
Hygienic cleaning procedures between guests
Calm, low-stress atmosphere
Staff trained in feline health and behaviour
At Paws Hotel, these practices are standard. Our environment is specifically tailored to support the wellbeing of cats with weakened immune systems.
Why Choosing a Cat-Only Facility Matters?
For cats with FIV, a peaceful environment isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. General pet boarding facilities that house both dogs and cats can be noisy and overwhelming. The stress from loud noises or unfamiliar animals can weaken an FIV-positive cat’s immune system further.
At Paws Hotel Altona and Paws Hotel Springvale, your cat benefits from:
A completely cat-exclusive environment
Suites designed for privacy and comfort
Temperature-controlled rooms
A consistent, quiet routine
Experienced carers who understand feline behaviour and health
This specialised environment helps FIV-positive cats settle quickly and feel safe throughout their stay.
How Paws Hotel Cares for Cats With FIV
Our team is committed to offering inclusive, compassionate care for every cat, including those with FIV. When your cat stays with us, they enjoy:
1. Private Luxury Suites
Each cat stays in a separate room with no direct contact with other guests. Suites are kept spotlessly clean using pet-safe disinfectants.
2. Low-Stress, Comfortable Atmosphere
Our hotels in Altona and Springvale are quiet, soothing spaces where cats can relax, explore, and settle into a gentle routine.
3. Specialised Care and Monitoring
We observe your cat daily, noting any changes in eating, drinking, behaviour, or litter habits. Our carers are trained to recognise early signs of stress or illness.
4. Medication and Dietary Management
If your cat requires medication or has specific nutritional needs, our team follows your instructions precisely.
5. Dedicated Hygiene Protocols
While FIV is not easily spread, we maintain high hygiene standards to protect every feline guest.
This personalised approach ensures that cats with FIV receive the same love, care, and comfort as any other guest—just with a little extra attention.
Preparing Your FIV-Positive Cat for Boarding
To make the experience as smooth as possible, we recommend:
Providing recent vet records
Listing any medication schedules clearly
Notifying staff of behavioural quirks or stress triggers
Bringing comfort items like blankets or toys from home
These familiar touches help your cat settle in and minimise any anxiety during their stay.
Why Melbourne Cat Owners Trust Paws Hotel?
Whether you're in Melbourne’s west near Altona or in the southeast near Springvale, Paws Hotel offers dedicated feline accommodation designed for comfort, safety, and emotional wellbeing.
Pet owners choose us because we provide:
A cat-only environment with no dogs
Individual luxury suites
Gentle, experienced carers
Special-care support for senior, anxious, or FIV-positive cats
Convenient Melbourne locations
Peace of mind while you’re away
Our mission is simple: to give your cat a warm, loving, and stress-free stay—no matter their health status.
So, Can You Board a Cat With FIV? Yes—When You Choose the Right Place.
FIV does not prevent your cat from enjoying a comfortable, safe boarding experience. What matters most is choosing an experienced, cat-only facility that prioritises hygiene, privacy, and emotional wellness.
At Paws Hotel Altona and Paws Hotel Springvale, we welcome FIV-positive cats with open arms and provide the compassionate care they deserve.
Give Your FIV-Positive Cat a Safe, Loving Stay
Whether you're planning a weekend away or a longer holiday, Paws Hotel is here to provide a secure, nurturing home for your cat.
Book your stay at:
https://www.pawshotel.com.au/
