Feline leukemia virus (FeLV)

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is a retrovirus that infects cats, leading to a variety of health issues, including immunosuppression, anemia, and cancer. It is one of the most common infectious diseases in cats and can be fatal, but with proper preventive measures, early diagnosis, and supportive care, the impact of the virus can be managed. Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and maintaining a safe environment for cats are essential steps in protecting them from FeLV.

FeLV is primarily transmitted through close contact between cats, such as mutual grooming, bite wounds, sharing food and water bowls, and mother-to-kitten transmission during birth or through nursing. The virus is shed in saliva, nasal secretions, urine, feces, and milk of infected cats. The symptoms of FeLV can vary widely and may take weeks, months, or even years to manifest. Common symptoms include: loss of appetite, weight loss, persistent fever, lethargy, pale gums and other mucous membranes, enlarged lymph nodes, persistent diarrhea, respiratory distress, recurrent infections, neurological disorders, and jaundice. There is no cure for FeLV, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms and secondary infections. Preventing FeLV infection is crucial, especially in multi-cat households and shelters. Key preventive measures include: vaccination for at-risk cats, regular FeLV testing for new cats entering a household or shelter, keeping infected cats separate from uninfected cats and avoiding contact with unknown or stray cats. Its diagnosis is through blood tests that detect the presence of the virus or viral antigens. Common diagnostic tests include: enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunofluorescence assay (IFA), and polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

The prevalence of FeLV varies by region and population. In general, FeLV is more common in outdoor cats, multi-cat households, and shelters. Estimates suggest that approximately 2-3% of healthy cats are FeLV-positive. The prevalence can be higher (up to 30%) in high-risk populations, such as cats with clinical signs of illness or those living in shelters.