Although a diagnosis of Feline Leukemia Virus can be emotionally devastating, it is important to realize that cats with FeLV can live normal lives for prolonged periods. Our vets in Egg Harbor Township share some important information about Feline Leukemia Virus as well as the symptoms and prognosis for cats living with this infectious disease.
What is Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)?
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a common condition that affects cats of all ages across the United States.
FeLV is easily spread from one cat to another through the saliva, nasal secretions, urine, feces, and milk of infected cats. It is also possible for cats to spread this disease to one another during fights or mutual grooming, and occasionally through shared litter boxes and feeding dishes.
FeLV can also be passed between the mother and the kitten. However, feline leukemia virus does not live long outside of a cat's body and so direct contact is the typical form of transmission.
Feline Leukemia Virus - What are the symptoms?
When a cat first becomes infected with FeLV they may not exhibit any symptoms. The longer that they have been infected, the more that a pet parent may see a decline in the health of their beloved feline. Signs of FeLV can include:
- Loss of appetite
- Progressive weight loss
- Poor coat condition
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Persistent fever
- Pale gums and other mucus membranes
- Inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and mouth (stomatitis)
- Infections of the skin, urinary bladder, and upper respiratory tract
- Persistent diarrhea
- Seizures, behavior changes, and other neurological disorders
- A variety of eye conditions
- Reproductive failures including the abortion of kittens
How is FeLV diagnosed in cats?
When it comes to diagnosing feline leukemia virus there are two types of blood tests that your vet may most likely use, both of which detect a protein in the virus called FeLV P27.
The first test that your vet may utilize is called an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and may be used during the initial screening for feline leukemia virus. ELISA-type tests detect free FeLV particles commonly found in the bloodstream during all stages of infection.
What is the Treatment for Feline Leukemia?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for cats with FeLV. The goal of treatment will be to manage and lower the amount of feline leukemia virus in the bloodstream to help ease symptoms and reduce transmission although this may not be effective in all cats.
It is common for veterinarians treating and managing FeLV-positive cats to treat specific symptoms and conditions that the cat is experiencing due to FeLV, such as infections or anemia.
Preventing Feline Leukemia in Cats
The only way that a pet parent can ensure their cat does not contract feline leukemia virus is by keeping them away from cats that are FeLV-infected. Ensuring that your cat stays inside is one of the best ways to ensure this. If you still choose to allow your cat to play outdoors, provide supervision or keep your cat in an area that will keep them secure and away from other outdoor cats. All cats should be tested for FeLV prior to introducing them into a home, and infection-free cats should not be allowed contact with infected cats.
If you have a cat that is FeLV-positive, then you should ensure that they have their own litter boxes and food dishes that any other cats won't have access to.
A relatively effective vaccine against FeLV is available, although like most vaccinations it is not 100% effective and is an elective vaccine, but it is recommended as an easy way to lower the risk of your cat contracting FeLV. Owners contemplating vaccination for their cat or cats against feline leukemia virus should consider the cats' risk of exposure to FeLV-infected cats and discuss the pros and cons with your Egg Harbor Township vets.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.