Cat Leukemia -
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)

Cat leukemia, or feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a viral infection that can't be cured. It's not the same virus as feline immunodeficiency virus, although some of the signs are similar. It damages the cat's white blood cells, reducing his ability to fight infections. Kittens under 6 months old are the most susceptible. Humans can't catch this virus from kittens or cats.

Cat Leukemia - Common Questions And Answers

1) How do cats get feline leukemia virus?

The virus is found in saliva, urine and other secretions produced by cats. It's spread by licking and biting, and via shared food bowls and litter boxes. The virus doesn't survive long outside the cat's body, so close contact is needed for infection to occur.

Kittens born to an infected mother will usually all be infected.

2) How do I reduce the risk of my cat getting FeLV?

The disease is often spread during a male cat fight. Neutering your cat will greatly reduce his urge to fight, and will therefore reduce the risk. Also, spaying your female cat will help to reduce the risk of her getting the disease through sex with an infected male.

There is a vaccine, but it's not 100 percent effective. However, your vet will probably recommend getting your cat vaccinated if he / she goes outside.



3) What are the signs of the infection?

At the time of infection, symptoms are mild - often just a slight fever and lethargy.

Months, or even years after infection, the cat may start to get frequent, recurring infections. Other common signs at this point may include:

• Weight loss
• Persistent cat diarrhea
• Fever
• Lethargy
• Cat dehydration
• Nervous system problems - e.g. difficulty walking
• Anemia

The virus can also cause cancer of the white blood cells; about 20 percent of cats with FeLV die from cancer.

Cat leukemia is diagnosed by a blood test. The vet will normally carry this out in-house first and then get it confirmed by a commercial lab. A lot of healthy cats will successfully get rid of the infection. For this reason, if a cat tests positive, the test is usually repeated 12 weeks later. Click here for advice on health insurance for your cat.

4) My cat is infected. What do I do now?

Your vet will have a detailed discussion with you when the diagnosis is confirmed. Things covered will include:

• Keeping your cat indoors. This is recommended to prevent him from spreading the disease to other cats, and to help reduce the risk of him catching other infections.
  
• What to do if you have a multi-cat household. Your vet will recommend getting the other cats tested too. You'll need to decide whether you keep the infected and non-infected cats apart. This is a difficult decision, and will take into account many different factors that are specific to your situation. Your vet will talk you through the options.

Cats with cat leukemia can live happily and healthily for a number of years. A good relationship with your vet, regular check-ups and prompt treatment of any infections will help to prolong your cat's life and improve its quality.

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