FELINE LEUKEMIA VIRUS - IS YOUR CAT AT RISK?

What is it?

      Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is a contagious disease of cats that severely compromises their immune system. This may leave them susceptible to other infections. Much like the human AIDS virus, cats may not show any clinical signs. Then they may suddenly get very sick and possible die. FeLV is spread by direct contact with an infected cat (mutual licking/grooming, shared food and water), or contact with an infected cat's urine or feces (sharing a litter box).            

which cats are at risk?

                Any cat can contract the disease, but some cats are at greater risk than others. Cats that go outside are more likely to be in contact with other cats, and therefore are more likely to be in contact with the disease. Studies in the United States have shown that approximately 25% of cats carry the disease.  Cats that live in multi-cat households may be more susceptible, especially if the cats are taken in as strays.

• Fever 

• poor coat condition

• loss of appetite

• swollen lymph nodes

• weight loss                    

• diarrhea

• sores on/in mouth 

• dehydration

• pale gums

How can you know for sure that your cat has this disease?

                A simple blood test, that can be performed in clinic, can tell us within 10 minutes if your cat is positive for FelV and/or Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). This test requires we take a small amount of blood from your cat.

Prevention of  FeLV:

                 The best way to prevent this disease is reduce exposure to infected cats. This is one of the many reasons that your veterinarian may suggest your cat remain indoors. Spay/neuter your cat, not only for the many health benefits and over population problems, but to reduce the desire for your cat to roam. The more your cat roams, the more cats he/she will come into contact with, and therefore the greater the chance of infection.

                If your cat goes outside, vaccination against FelV may be recommended. Vaccination is best started as a kitten prior to exposure. Prior to vaccinating, the veterinarian may suggest that a blood test, to check for previous exposure, be performed. There is no benefit to vaccinating a cat already infected with the disease.

                Vaccination can be started as early as 8 weeks old, and should be boostered 3 to 4 weeks after the initial vaccine. Thereafter, the vaccine should be given annually to ensure complete protection.

Treatment of FelV.

                If your cat tests positive for FelV and is already showing signs of illness, Treatment options are aimed at controlling clinical signs. Antibiotics and medications to boost the immune system may be used fro this purpose.  Like the human AIDS virus, there is no cure for this disease, and sometimes it can be  fatal.  

                If your cat tests positive for  FelV, but still appears healthy, several options are available. There is a  possibility that your cat will be able to fight off the virus, and if he/she remains healthy, he/she may be retested in 3 months.  

                Cats that remain persistently positive should be monitored closely for the development of clinical signs. You may choose to  monitor your cat until he/she shows signs of sickness. Ensure that your cat does not come into contact with other cats as it may pass the disease on to others. Also keep your cat away from sick cats as your cat is more likely to get bacterial diseases. If you have other cats in your household, you should have them tested also. If they are negative, ensure they do not come into contact with the cat that is positive.