Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is a viral disease that affects cats worldwide. It’s a retrovirus that can integrate into a cat’s DNA, making it difficult to eliminate. The virus is shed through saliva, feces, urine, and milk, and can be transmitted through:
- Close contact
- Bite wounds
- Mutual grooming
- Sharing food and water bowls
- Mother-to-kitten transmission
FeLV Risk Factors
Cats at high risk of infection include:
- Those living with infected cats
- Outdoor cats that may encounter infected cats
- Kittens born to infected mothers
Kittens are more susceptible to infection due to their immature immune system.
Outcomes of Exposure to FeLV
After exposure, a cat’s body can react in different ways:
- Abortive infection: The cat’s immune system eliminates the virus, and they become immune (20-30% of cases).
- Regressive infection: The virus is incorporated into the cat’s DNA, but the immune system controls it, and the cat is unlikely to show symptoms (30-40% of cases). However, the virus can reactivate if the cat becomes immunosuppressed.
- Progressive infection: The virus replicates, and the cat becomes sick and can infect others (30-40% of cases).
FeLV Diagnosis
Diagnosing FeLV requires multiple tests, including:
- ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay)
- IFA (indirect immunofluorescent antibody assay)
- PCR (polymerase chain reaction)
A single test is not enough to determine the outcome of the infection.
FeLV Symptoms
FeLV can cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Weight loss
- Poor coat condition
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Persistent fever
- Infections
- Neurological disorders
FeLV-infected cats are prone to developing secondary infections and diseases, such as cancer, blood disorders, and immune deficiency. These secondary infections can be severe and life-threatening.
FeLV Treatment & Prevention
There is no cure for FeLV, but veterinarians can manage symptoms and prevent secondary infections. Prevention is key:
- Keep cats indoors
- Test new cats for FeLV
- Separate infected cats from non-infected ones
- Don’t share food and water bowls or litter boxes
FeLV Prognosis
While a diagnosis of FeLV can be devastating, many cats can live normal lives for years. The median survival time is 2.5 years, but cats with regressive infections can live longer. However, FeLV-infected cats are at risk of developing life-threatening diseases, and ultimately, they may die from one of these secondary infections, such as cancer or a severe bacterial infection. Careful monitoring and prompt veterinary care are essential for managing the disease and improving the cat’s quality of life.
By understanding FeLV and taking preventative measures, cat owners can help protect their feline friends from this viral disease. If you suspect your cat may have been exposed to FeLV, consult with your veterinarian about testing and management options.
