Leukemia Virus

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a common viral disease in cats. It is the most common cause of cancer in cats and is usually fatal.

FeLV causes many diseases by invading and replicating inside the cells. This kills the cell or causes it to become cancerous. Some results from FeLV include:

Cancer
Suppression of the immune system: the infected cat can’t defend itself against many simple infections that would not be a problem in healthy cats
Anemia
Abortion
Intestinal disease
Neurological disease
Eye disease
Liver disease

CAUSES:

FeLV is more common when there are multiple cats in close contact, and in stray or outdoor cats.

An infected cat can transmit the FeLV virus through prolonged moist contact. For example:

Saliva: mutual grooming, licking, biting, sharing dishes
Nasal discharges
Nursing

SIGNS:

Lack of appetite and weight loss
Vomiting and diarrhea
Poor coat condition
Swollen lymph nodes
Fever
Pale tongue and gums

DIAGNOSIS:

Your veterinarian will probably perform at least one of these tests:

ELISA test: checks if your pet has the antibodies for FeLV
Immunofluorescence: uses a fluorescent dye to illuminate viruses or their antibodies in body tissue (this test is usually performed to confirm the diagnosis if your cat tested positive with the ELISA test)

TREATMENT:

There is no cure to eradicate FeLV from the body, but your veterinarian will treat the signs to relieve some discomfort:

Medications: to stimulate your cat’s immune system
Medications: to treat secondary infections
Chemotherapy for cancer: extends survival to 6 months
Blood transfusions

To prevent other secondary diseases:

Feed your cat a healthy diet
Give all recommended vaccinations and medications
Keep a stress-free environment
Keep your home sanitary
Watch your cat’s signs closely, and regularly follow-up with your veterinarian

PREVENTION:

You can manage the spread of the disease in an infected cat:

Keep your infected cat indoors and away from other cats – this also protects your cat from other diseases they are susceptible to catching
Spay or neuter your cats

To keep your cat from contracting the disease:

Vaccination: not 100% effective
Keep cats indoors and away from infected cats
Do not allow your cat to roam

PROGNOSIS:

Typically, FeLV is fatal. However, cats that test positive for FeLV may live for months to years with good quality of life, depending on any secondary diseases.