What is Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)?
FeLV is a contagious disease that was unknown prior to 1973. It is considered one of the major causes of deaths in cats. It is a viral disease that suppresses the immune system. It causes anemia, leukemia and tumors. Cats infected with FeLV are more susceptible to many other infections.

A blood test can be performed to determine whether your cat has been infected with the virus. Even though your cat may test positive, it does not necessarily mean your cat has the disease. Your veterinarian can discuss with you the variables involved with the testing.

How are cats infected?
The FeLV virus exists in saliva, urine and feces; therefore it is easily transmitted from cat to cat by casual contact. Casual contact includes the sharing of food and water bowls, grooming practices and litter boxes. It can be passed to unborn kittens during pregnancy or through a nursing mother's milk.

The virus is short-lived outside the body. It can only exist in the environment for a few hours. Cleaning with ordinary household disinfectants can eliminate it.

Not all cats exposed to the virus will develop the disease. Cats most at risk are young kittens whose immune systems have not matured. Geriatric, sick or cats under stress are more at risk because their immune systems are depressed. Of cats that contract the disease, one third of will die of the disease within the first year. If your cat is healthy but tests positive for the disease, it is possible your cat could live a nearly normal life if confined to the indoors.

What Can You Do to Protect Your Cat from FeLV?
Once your cat has tested negative for FeLV, the best prevention is to keep your cat inside at all times. Before bringing a new cat into your home, make sure it has tested negative for FeLV and has not been at risk for exposure since the test was completed. If your cat has indoor/outdoor privileges, make sure it is vaccinated for FeLV. Be aware that the vaccine for FeLV is not 100% effective in preventing the infection of the virus so your outdoor cat could still be at risk. Your veterinarian may recommend a yearly testing for the virus for indoor/outdoor cats.