FeLV( Feline Leukemia Virus In Cats) is a common disease that attacks the feline’s immune system. This virus is known to cause cancer in cats. FeLV is a preventable disease but cats that are diagnosed with FeLV normally survive only for a few years.
Symptoms of FeLV
Cats affected by FeLV normally do not exhibit any signs in the initial stages. The common signs of FeLV include
- Fibrosarcoma
- Lymphoma
- Gingivitis
- Inflammation of the cornea, nose, and eye tissues
- Common weakness
- Drunken appearing gait
- Fever
- External ear infections, poor skin and coat condition
- Persistent diarrhoea
- Prone to infection
- Progressive weight loss
- Lethargy
- Anaemia
Main Causes of FeLV in Felines
FeLV is mainly transmitted via cat-to-cat close interaction, and it could be due to litter pans, sharing dishes, grooming, or bites. It is also passed via mother’s milk or genetically at birth. The main victims are the kittens and the male cats.
How to diagnose FeLV in cats?
If you cat appears sick, your vet will check for fungal, viral, parasitic, or bacterial. In addition, other cancers require to be eliminated. FeLV can be easily checked through a blood test.
How to Treat FeLV in Cats?
Sadly, 80% of cats diagnosed with FeLV do not last more than three years. At present, there are no complete cures for FeLV in cats. The treatment consists of supportive care, blood transfusion, and steroids.
According to experts, feline leukaemia can be brought under control with antivirals used in AIDS medication. Suppose, if your cat becomes sick, FeLV makes it even more difficult for the feline’s body to react to medicines. In certain cases, blood transfusion is the last resort.
Managing FeLV Cats
Cats with FeLV can lead a normal lifespan if certain other illnesses are kept under wraps. Keep these cats separately from other healthy cats to stop FeLV transmission and virus exposure.
A balanced diet is vital in controlling parasitic, viral, or secondary bacterial infections.
Steps to prevent FeLV
Isolating infected cats is the most simple and effective ways to stop FeLV transmission in cats. Most vets will prescribe FeLV vaccine along with other kitten boosters. Keeping the cat indoors and locked away from other uninfected cats is the best way to prevent them from spreading.
