Feline leukemia virus is a retrovirus that infects cats. FeLV can be transmitted from infected cats when the transfer of saliva or nasal secretions is involved.
Learn important information about cat leukemia, including how it spreads, common symptoms, testing & diagnosis info, treatments and prevention options.
Such details provide a deeper understanding and appreciation for Cat Leukemia Symptoms In Cats With Immune System Dysfunction.
Symptoms and Behaviors of Cats With Feline Leukemia. Feline leukemia symptoms stem from the weakening of the immune system as the virus attacks the blood cells, and cats may take time to become symptomatic. In early infections, most cats are asymptomatic, Rutherford says.
Feline leukemia virus, also known as FeLV, is one of the more common infectious diseases affecting cats. Based on the name, you might think that FeLV is a blood cancer like leukemia in humans. But it is actually a contagious retrovirus that suppresses a cats immune system.
Cats living with sick cats or cats with uncertain infection status, cats left outside unattended where they might be bitten by an infected cat, and kittens delivered to infected moms are examples of cats at a higher risk of infection1. How Common Is Feline Leukemia?
Cats infected with feline leukemia virus often develop secondary skin, upper respiratory tract, eye, or urinary tract infections due to their immune system being compromised. Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat any secondary bacterial infections that may be present.
