What is FeLV in cats? Feline Leukemia virus (FeLV) is a retrovirus group that also contains Feline immune deficiency virus (FIV). Both viruses occur globally. While the virus is not transmittable to any other species, Feline Leukemia virus creates a multitude of health issues for the cat. FeLV in cats accounts for more disease-related deaths and clinical issues than any other infectious agent. The virus is associated with cancerous leukemia and immune suppression, making sick cats susceptible to diseases they encounter. The prognosis is generally grave in the long-term, death often results from a combination of issues brought on by immune suppression and anemia.

What are the First Signs of Feline Leukemia?

Symptoms of Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) in cats may include fever, lethargy, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. As the disease progresses, it can weaken the immune system and eventually lead to death.

FeLV Positive Cats and How to Test for Feline Leukemia

An in-office blood test can be done with blood from a kitten or adopted adult cat can detect FeLV within minutes. Friendly cat interactions such as shared food and water bowls or mutual grooming or a bite from an infected animal usually spreads the virus, which otherwise survives mere minutes outside its host. This disease is not transmittable to humans, dogs, or other animals.

In multiple cat household, once feline FeLV is diagnosed, all cats should be tested to check their immune status and then vaccinated to avoid infection. If possible, house positive cats away from negative cats. Members of an established cat colony usually fight little, so a stable home life should minimize the spread of FeLV through bites. Do not introduce new cats to the household while housing a FeLV positive cat, as cats who feel threatened are more prone to bite and therefore transmit the disease. Though FeLV positive cats may have a decreased response to vaccines, they will respond and should be vaccinated. Preventing common feline respiratory problems helps keep them healthy.

How to Treat Feline Leukemia

There is no cure for FeLV; however, understanding these cats’ vulnerability to infection and the importance of early treatment helps extend their lives. FeLV positive cats respond almost as well as leukemia negative cats to appropriate antibiotic therapy.

If positive cats undergo surgery or dental cleaning, they should be on an antibiotic before and after the procedure. With proper antibiotic support, routine surgery or dental cleaning can be done without issue. If a cat shows signs of FeLV disease or neurologic disease, therapy includes antiviral drugs. Your veterinarian will select medications to control the specific clinical issues your cat faces.

Feline Leukemia Prevention

Indoor/outdoor cats should be tested and vaccinated to prevent respiratory viruses and FeLV. Kittens are usually given two injections at eight and 12 weeks and boosted yearly (or, after the one year booster, every two years) with the Nobivac FeLV vaccine. The vaccine should prevent infection, but keeping your cat indoors provides extra insurance against cat bites, interactions and FeLV.

Caring for FeLV Positive Cat

With proper antibiotic and cautionary support, the Feline Leukemia Virus is not necessarily a death sentence. When it comes to how to care for a cat with feline leukemia, positive cats should be kept inside to prevent virus spread to other cats. Inside cats are stable, and their quality of life remains high.

Despite the likelihood of a positive outcome, vaccinating your kittens and cats against FeLV reduces the risk of FeLV infection. Make sure your animals are up-to-date on all their vaccinations, including Feline Leukemia Virus, especially if they are indoor and outdoor pets! Insurance against disease with vaccine protection will save you the emotional stress of a FeLV-positive cat.

If you need help with cat leukemia, call us at 800.786.4751.