Leukemia in Cats: Understanding the Risks and Symptoms

What is Feline Leukemia?

Feline Leukemia, often abbreviated as FeLV, is a highly contagious disease among cats that, unfortunately, is often fatal. Once the virus infects normal cells, it replicates along with them, making it incredibly difficult to cure. The time from infection to onset of symptoms can range from several months to even years. Without treatment, it can lead to a variety of serious health issues in cats, including anemia, fever, difficulty breathing, weight and appetite loss, gingivitis, stomatitis, lethargy, swollen lymph nodes, and weakened immunity, which can lead to multiple diseases and, ultimately, death. In some cases, tumors may also form.

But how do cats become infected with this virus?

Feline Leukemia is essentially a viral infection that is primarily transmitted through blood and saliva. The saliva and nasal secretions of infected cats contain high concentrations of the virus, and it is also present in their milk and feces. The virus can be transmitted through bites, mutual grooming, sharing food bowls, and contact with the secretions and excreta of infected cats. Kittens can also be infected through the placenta or milk of a viruspositive mother cat.

Which cats are more susceptible to infection?

1. Cats that come into contact with other cats carrying the virus;

2. Outdoor cats, who may be bitten by infected cats while out;

3. Kittens born to infected mothers;

4. Young kittens under one year of age are particularly vulnerable to the virus. Studies show that in the same environment, adult cats have a 30% lower chance of contracting the disease compared to kittens.

Remember: FeLV cannot be transmitted to dogs or humans!

Now, how can we prevent cats from getting leukemia?

While there is no cure, feline leukemia can still be prevented through proper measures. The virus is much more fragile than the feline distemper virus; it can only survive for about three days in a moist environment, and most common household disinfectants can inactivate it. Therefore, the habit of washing hands after coming and going can also help prevent infection.

To reduce the risk of infection, it is crucial to conduct regular FeLV screenings and isolation for cats.

Tip: For more information on the symptoms of feline leukemia, you can read "What Symptoms Does Feline Leukemia Present?"