The Colony Animal Clinic cares about pets in our community, so we want cat owners to understand the risks that can affect their felines’ long-term health. One serious threat is the Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), a contagious disease that can have devastating effects on a cat's immune system, blood health, and overall wellness. With awareness, testing, and vaccination, you can make proactive decisions to protect your cat against Feline Leukemia.
What is FeLV?
FeLV, or Feline Leukemia, is a virus that is dangerous because of the breadth of health complications it can cause, including:
- Severe immunosuppression, making it harder for cats to fight infections
- Anemia and other blood disorders
- Cancer, such as lymphoma
- Chronic respiratory, urinary, or skin infections
- Poor wound healing and general decline in vitality
Many cats may appear healthy during the early stages of Feline Leukemia but deteriorate as the virus progresses, especially once secondary conditions arise. FeLV progresses in two distinct phases.
Primary Phase
During this stage, the virus enters the bloodstream from contact with an infected cat. In some cases, a healthy cat's immune system may successfully fight off the virus. If the immune system clears it during this stage, the cat remains FeLV-negative.
Secondary Phase
If the Feline Leukemia Virus progresses past the initial phase, it invades the bone marrow and other tissues. At this point, the infection is typically lifelong. Once it reaches this phase, the virus is nearly impossible to eliminate, and the cat becomes a chronic carrier.
Which Cats Should Be Vaccinated for Feline Leukemia?
The FeLV vaccine is not part of the core set for every cat, but is strongly recommended for:
- Kittens, who are more susceptible
- Cats that spend time outdoors
- Cats in multi-cat households, particularly if any of the cats go outside or have unknown medical histories
- Rescue cats or those with uncertain exposure risks
The FeLV vaccine significantly reduces the likelihood of infection and can limit the spread of the virus in the feline community. Most at-risk cats will also have an FeLV test recommended, in addition to the vaccine, as part of their annual wellness check with a veterinarian.
Symptoms to Watch for in FeLV-Positive Cats
Cats who have Feline Leukemia may exhibit a range of symptoms depending on how far the disease has progressed. These can include:
- Persistent fever and/or lethargy
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Eye issues
- Frequent infections
- Diarrhea or vomiting
- Swollen lymph nodes
Because these symptoms can also point to other conditions, Feline Leukemia testing is needed to confirm a diagnosis.
Have Your Cat Get the FeLV Vaccine in The Colony, TX
Feline Leukemia Virus is a serious disease, but with knowledge and preventive care, you can take steps to protect your cat. The Colony Animal Clinic has the FeLV vaccine and testing for cats in The Colony and from neighboring areas like Castle Hills and Frisco. Contact us to schedule your cat's Feline Leukemia test or vaccination at our veterinary clinic.