Definition
Feline
leukemia (FeLV), a widespread, incurable virus that typically suppresses a
cat’s immune system, is the most common cause of cancer in cats. FeLV is
species-specific, so humans and dogs are not at risk.
Causes
Research
indicates that feline leukemia virus is highly contagious among cats of all
ages. Among cats, it is spread by saliva, urine, and blood. The
disease is spread from cat to cat through bites, mutual grooming, and sharing
food or water dishes and litter boxes. A cat can also pass the virus along
to its kittens in a number of ways before they are born. Current research
indicates that it does not affect humans or other species.
Symptoms
·
Anemia, lack of pink
or red color in the gums
·
Weight loss
·
Recurring or chronic
illness
·
A progressive weakness
·
Lethargy, fever,
diarrhea
·
Breathing difficulty
·
Yellow color in the
mouth and/or the white of the eyes
Diagnosis and treatment
Avoiding
exposure with infected cats and updating vaccinations are the best tools of preventive
medicine. FeLV is highly contagious, so it is important to have your cat
vaccinated if it could be exposed to other cats. The American Association
of Feline Practitioners recommends all kittens receive the vaccine.
Infected
cats may harbor the illness for several years with no signs of illness. Over
time, they may lose weight, become depressed, or develop a fever. Their coats
often deteriorate, and they may develop skin, bladder, or upper respiratory
infections.
An
accredited veterinarian can diagnose the disease by conducting a simple blood
test called an ELISA.
Your
veterinarian will talk to you about the importance of maintaining a balanced
diet. Also, he or she will ask you about your cat’s lifestyle and look for ways
to reduce stress, both of which are key to managing your cat's disease.
Infected
cats should be kept indoors so they won’t spread the virus. If you have
multiple cats, have all of them tested, vaccinate any that are not infected,
and consider housing infected cats separately.
Your veterinarian
can determine the best program for your cat. Although some cats are able
to eliminate the virus on their own and develop immunity, many others die as a
result of cancer or opportunistic infections. Cats infected with the virus
live an average of three years.
