First of all Rufus doesn't need to be put to sleep just because he is FIV+. As long as he can get along with other cats without fighting he should be fine living with other cats. He would be find living with other cats in a two bedroom. I currently have three FIV+ cats, two live with my boyfriend, and one is a recently rescue, because he was in a high kill shelter and was going to be put down so I took him. Owen currently lives with me in a separate room because he was very sick when I pulled him from the shelter. He just got neutered and might be going to join my other two FIV+ cats and might stay with me. If he stays with me, he will be let out of the bathroom to be with the others. My vet says as long as the cats don't fight and I mean really fight then it is fine to be together.
The reason the other two live with my boyfriend is because when I rescued my very first FIV+ cat, Ivy, I had another vet and she told me they couldn't be around other cats etc. Acted as though if they did get around each other at all then it would be a death sentence for my negative cats. At the time I didn't know any different, now I have a more informed vet and i know different. Colby and Scooter live with Tom, Scooter was Ivy's best buddy. Ivy passed away at 13 yrs old. Scooter has had major health issues lately and I am not sure letting Owen over there right now would be the best thing for Scooter so that is why he might stay at my house. Colby although would love to have a buddy to play with since scooter doesn't feel much like playing.
I realize people are scared when they find out a cat is FIV+ , if so they can always separate them in the same apt or house and everything should be fine. I really can't take another cat right now but don't want Rufus to be put down either. Please keep me updated and if it comes down to him being put down or not I will take him to foster him while you find a place for him. He will have to be neutered and utd on shots etc. I can't afford and of that right now.
Melissa