Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a life-threatening disease that can affect any cat. It's something every pet owner should be concerned about, also because it's a leading cause of infectious death in cats.
In this blog, we'll discover everything there is to know about this virus and why we should vaccinate our cats from it.
What Is FeLV?
Feline leukemia is caused by a retrovirus that attacks the immune system, suppressing it and weakening the cat's defenses. Once weakened, the cat becomes vulnerable to other types of infections and diseases. In other words, more problems.
It starts with transmission. Once a cat has it, the virus disrupts normal cell function by inserting its own genetic material into the cat’s DNA. When this happens, immunosuppression, anemia, and even certain types of cancer come into play.
How Is FeLV Transmitted?
What makes FeLV particularly concerning is how easily it can infect cats. Here’s how the virus spreads:
Saliva and Nasal Secretions
The primary mode of transmission is saliva and nasal secretions. This means that close interactions such as fighting, mating, and grooming can spread the virus from cat to cat. This also applies to objects shared by cats, such as food and water bowls.
Blood, Urine, and Feces
Though less common, FeLV can be transmitted through blood. Cats that engage in fights, particularly outdoor or feral cats, can transfer the virus when infected blood gets into wounds.
Shared litter boxes can pose a risk if cats come into contact with the urine or feces of an infected cat. While this mode of transmission is rarer, it is still possible, especially in unclean or overcrowded environments.
Birth and Nursing
Pregnant cats with FeLV can also pass the virus to their kittens, a method of transmission called vertical transmission. After birth, kittens can also get infected through nursing if the virus is present in an infected mother’s milk.
Plus, kittens have underdeveloped immune systems. As a result, they are more susceptible to the virus and the disease it causes. This often progresses to active infection more quickly than in adult cats.
What Are the Symptoms of Feline Leukemia?
The suppression of the immune system means that the infected cats can experience a wide range of symptoms. This includes:
General Signs. Many FeLV-positive cats initially show non-specific signs of illness. These include lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, and weight loss.
Anemia. Anemia is one of the most common and serious effects of FeLV. Signs include pale gums and tongue, chronic fatigue, and labored breathing.
Secondary Infections. Secondary and recurrent infections are also signs of a suppressed immune system. This can appear on the skin, respiratory system, or urinary tract.
Cancer and Tumors. FeLV is closely associated with the development of certain cancers, such as lymphomas.
Digestive Issues. A FeLV infection can also cause gastrointestinal distress, leading to chronic vomiting and diarrhea.
Behavioral Changes. Behavioral changes and shifts can be clear in affected cats because of the constant pain and discomfort they feel. Some will be irritable, while others will rather hide and rest.
Neurological Symptoms. FeLV can affect the nervous system, leading to seizures, ataxia, and behavioral changes.
How Is Feline Leukemia Virus Diagnosed?
Like with any disease, our vets will start by assessing your cat's health and symptoms. From here, we can decide on the laboratory tests we'll need to do.
ELISA Test
This is a common test to screen for the virus and look for feline leukemia virus antigens in the blood. Specifically, the ELISA test looks for the FeLV p27 antigen, which binds to the test kit when present. Results are ready in just a few minutes, and even before the cat has any symptoms.
Immunofluorescent Antibody Testing
To confirm the infection, the IFA test detects the FeLV p27 antigens in white blood cells and platelets. This test is also used to check if the virus has reached the bone marrow, which indicates the progressive stage of feline leukemia.
This works by collecting a blood sample that's examined under a microscpe and fluorescent markers. IFA is also specific, meaning it's a reliable way to confirm the feline leukemia virus infection. However, it does take a long time.
Polymerase Chain Reaction
PCR testing is another way to confirm the infection. The test amplifies the virus's genetic material and essentially confirms its presence. Even blood samples with small amounts of the virus can be used.
Additionally, PCR testing can determine the stage of infection by assessing the amount of proviral DNA. Through this, we can check if the FeLV infection is active or latent.
However, even if a PCR test is highly accurate, it’s also very expensive and takes a considerable amount of time for the results.
Feline Leukemia Treatment Process
Because there's no definite cure for feline leukemia, we'll focus on managing the symptoms and improving your cat's condition. Here’s how our vets help:
Medication and Management
We may use antivirals to improve your cat’s condition and quality of life. However, this doesn’t cure the infection. Our team may also provide immune system boosters, antibiotics for secondary infections, and corticosteroids for specific situations.
Other supportive medications for anemia, symptoms, and supportive care will be provided as needed. In cases of severe anemia, blood transfusions may be required.
Lifestyle and Environmental Management
Keep Your Cat Inside. It’s important to minimize exposure to avoid worsening your cat’s condition. Keep them safe indoors and away from outdoor dangers.
Provide Comfort. Reduce your cat’s stress and anxiety by offering a quiet space for them filled with their toys and bed.
Encourage Nutrition. Make sure what your cat eats is balanced and nutritious. Focus on lean protein sources and high-quality cat food.
Schedule Checkups. Wellness exams help us monitor your cat’s condition over time. If there are any complications, we’ll be able to get to it as soon as possible.
Can a Cat Recover From FeLV?
Because there is no known cure for feline leukemia, cats cannot fully recover from the disease. Some cats with strong immune systems may fight off the initial infection, while others may live for many years with proper supportive care and management.
Why Vaccinate Your Cat Against Feline Leukemia Virus?
The best way to protect your cat from feline leukemia is through regular vaccinations.
Vaccinating against FeLV drastically improves your cat’s protection against the virus. The vaccines work by introducing deactivated feline leukemia virus antigens to the immune system. By doing so, the immune system can develop antibodies for when the real threat arrives.
Essentially, vaccines train your cat to fight off the virus. Even indoor cats can benefit from vaccinations.
“The way we can show our cats our love is by giving them protection for what’s to come.”
- Dr. Lidija Krvavac
Final Thoughts
Feline leukemia virus is a disease that can get out of hand, easily becoming a highly devastating disease. But this doesn’t have to be the case. Through preventive measures and regular vaccination, you can keep your cat safe from this dangerous disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Share
