When we think about keeping our cats healthy, vaccines, good nutrition, and playtime often come to mind. Yet, there is a silent threat that many cat owners may not even be aware of: Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV). Fox Veterinary Hospital is shining a light on this serious, contagious virus and how you can protect your feline pet from becoming infected.
How FeLV Spreads in Cat Populations
FeLV is a retrovirus that can cause many effects, including compromising a cat’s immune system, which makes it hard for them to fight off infections. Feline Leukemia can also cause various blood conditions and is the leading cause of cancer in pet cats. Unlike many other illnesses, FeLV can take hold quietly and progress over time, causing harm before symptoms even show.
The Feline Leukemia virus is most commonly transmitted through close social contact between cats, including:
- Mutual grooming
- Sharing food and water dishes
- Bite wounds during fights
- From mother to kitten during nursing
Cats that live outdoors, in shelters, or in multi-cat households are at greater risk, especially if they interact with untested or stray cats. This disease can only spread amongst felines; it is not transmissible to humans or other pets like dogs.
Identifying Early Symptoms of Feline Leukemia
FeLV symptoms are often vague and develop gradually, which makes regular vet care with testing the best way to identify this disease. Signs of Feline Leukemia may include:
- Recurrent respiratory or urinary infections
- Loss of appetite and weight
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Pale gums
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Behavioral changes
If your cat seems off or has been exposed to other cats, an FeLV test is strongly recommended.
FeLV and Your Cat
Veterinarians use a simple test to screen for FeLV and may follow up with additional testing to confirm a positive result. Having an FeLV test performed annually for your cat allows for more effective care and prevention strategies. While there’s no cure, a FeLV-positive diagnosis isn’t the end. With attentive veterinary support, cats can live for years. Management strategies include:
- Keeping them indoors to limit stress and exposure
- Nutritional support and regular health monitoring
- Prompt attention to secondary illnesses
Prevention is where you, as a pet owner, have real power. The FeLV vaccine is a defense against the virus, especially for:
- Kittens starting their vaccine schedule
- Cats that go outdoors
- Cats living with other felines
Discuss vaccination with your veterinarian to determine your cat’s risk level and make sure timely FeLV vaccine boosters are given. You can protect your cat from getting Feline Leukemia.
Have Your Cat Vaccinated Against Feline Leukemia in Elyria, OH
Feline Leukemia is a serious but preventable disease. Understanding how it spreads and taking preventive steps like vaccination can dramatically reduce the risk to your cat. Fox Veterinary Hospital vaccinates and tests cats for FeLV in Elyria and for cats from areas like North Ridgeville, Grafton, and Oberlin. Is your cat vaccinated against Feline Leukemia? Make an appointment for FeLV testing or get up-to-date on their vaccines.
