Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
Overview
FeLV is a retrovirus that suppresses the immune system and causes cancer and chronic illness in cats. It is one of the most important infectious diseases in feline medicine.
Symptoms
- Weight loss
- Chronic infections
- Anemia
- Lethargy
- Fever
- Lymph node enlargement
Causes & Transmission
- Saliva, nasal secretions
- Bite wounds
- Shared grooming
- Mother-to-kitten transmission
Treatment
- No cure
- Supportive care
- Treatment of secondary infections
- Regular monitoring
- Isolation from other cats
Prognosis
Variable — some cats live years, others decline rapidly.
References
- Cornell Feline Health Center
- AVMA FeLV Guidelines