What is Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)?

Feline Leukemia Virus is one of the most deadly viruses infecting cats. FeLV tends to become a persistent infection and depresses the immune system for cats. FeLV is an important cause of anemia in cats and can cause cancers of several types.

There is currently no specific treatment for FeLV infected cats. Treatment is usually aimed at easing the symptoms and treating secondary infections. Most FeLV infected cats will eventually die of diseases related to their infection or require euthanasia.

Special blood tests have been developed to detect the FeLV infection. Most tests are designed to detect the presence of viral antigen in the cat's blood. In general, these tests are very reliable although rarely a false positive result occurs. In some situations, it may be necessary to confirm infection with the virus through repeated blood testing.

FeLV vaccines have now been available for many years and they have been continuously improved. They are helpful in preventing infection with FeLV and thus controlling FeLV related disease. Unfortunately, no vaccine is 100% protective. Where possible do not allow your cat, particularly a kitten, to come into close contact with known FeLV infected cats or cats of unknown vaccination status.