The prevetion, cause, diagnosis, and treatment of feline leukemia. Also the cats who are at the highest risk level for infection
Feline leukemia is a viral infection that attacks the immune system, gradually wearing it down until your cat can no longer fend off minor infections.
It is spread by a cat coming into contact with the saliva of another cat that has been infected by the virus. This can happen when one cat grooms another or when there are shared litter boxes, water and food bowls.
The cats most at risk for infection are those that:
Live with one or more other cats
Has not been vaccinated for feline leukemia
Cats that have not been neutered or spayed
Cats that are allowed to roam outside and come into contact with other cats
Cats which have an unknown history, were strays or acquired from animal shelters
Some of the early symptoms of feline leukemia are a loss of appetite, sudden weight loss, and diarrhea from unknown causes, oral sores and abscesses. Cats can also have a general weakness, enlarged lymph nodes and transient fevers.
By a simple blood test, a veterinarian can find out within minutes if your cat has been infected by feline leukemia. If the results are negative, he or she can give a vaccination that day. There is no cure for feline leukemia so immunity by prevention is the key.
Immunity is built up against feline leukemia by giving a series of three injections and yearly boosters there after. For those cats, which have been infected by feline leukemia, early detection and treatment give the best chances of a long and happy life.
Have your cat tested on his or her next medical visit because infected cats can look normal but still spread the virus. Your personal veterinarian is the best source of information for the prevention, diagnosis and management of feline leukemia.
