Feline leukemia virus, also known as FeLV, is one of the more common infectious diseases affecting cats. Based on the name, you might think that FeLV is a blood cancer like leukemia in humans. But it is actually a contagious retrovirus that suppresses a cats immune system.
Learn important information about cat leukemia, including how it spreads, common symptoms, testing & diagnosis info, treatments and prevention options.
PetMD Client Resource Library. Chewy Health Resource Center.Feline leukemia virus is a common disease that affects about 2% of cats in the United States. It is spread cat-to-cat and leads to the destruction of the cats white blood cells and immune system.
Although it is contagious among cats, the virus is exclusive to the species. No other animal or human can contract it. Usually, cats that contract feline leukemia get it from fighting or grooming with another cat. The virus is most commonly transmitted through a cat bite.
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is one of the most common and important infectious diseases in cats, affecting between 2-3% of all cats in the United States and Canada. Infection rates are significantly higher (up to 30%) in cats that are ill or otherwise at high risk (see below).
Such details provide a deeper understanding and appreciation for Caring For A Cat With Leukemia And Senior Resources.
Diagnosing Feline Leukemia Virus. Your veterinarian can diagnose the disease by conducting a simple blood test called an ELISA, which identifies FeLV proteins in the blood. This test is highly sensitive and can identify cats with very early infections.
Cat with Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) laying on the floor surrounded by toys at the Hermitage No-Kill Cat Shelter and Sanctuary, located in Tucson Ariz. on .
Cats with leukemia may exhibit symptoms such as loss of appetite, weight loss, lethargy, swollen lymph nodes, anemia, infections, easy bruising, or bleeding. These symptoms can vary greatly in severity and may not all be present in every cat with leukemia.
