If you’re a cat parent, chances are you’ve heard of feline immunodeficiency virus, or FIV — an infection that’s in the same class of viruses as HIV. But do you know how it can affect your cat?

FIV does not affect people, but it’s very contagious among cats. So make sure to get your cat tested. Testing a new cat is especially important before introducing him to your feline family. Cats should also be tested if they get sick or are exposed to an FIV-positive cat. And if you want your cat vaccinated against FIV, get him tested first, since vaccination can skew test results.

A cat that tests positive for FIV might be asymptomatic and should therefore not be given a death sentence. It just means he has been exposed to the virus and needs protection against other diseases. Twice-yearly veterinary exams, parasite prevention and routine vaccinations are in order. Keep your cat indoors, and have him checked promptly if he falls ill.