FeLV infection is one of the principal causes of death in cats under the age of three. The virus principally affects the immune system, making it harder for your cat to fight off other infections and diseases.
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a serious viral infection that attacks the immune system of cats. FeLV can cause cancer in cats and other feline diseases, so it's important to make sure your cat doesn't have this virus. Read on for more information about how you can prevent feline leukemia from infecting your furry friend!
Most Common Modes Of Transmission
Blood transfusions: Before testing for FeLV was available, healthy kittens were sometimes given blood transfusions from donors who were ultimately found to have FeLV. These unfortunate kittens would then develop the disease as a result of receiving an infected donor's blood.
Sharing food bowls: Infected cats shed large amounts of the virus in their saliva while they groom themselves. If you let your cats eat out of the same bowl or share pet supplies, they may pass the virus back and forth through those shared objects.
Grooming: Cats that are infected with FeLV are more likely to lick other cats' fur during grooming sessions, which can lead to cross-contamination if one cat has been exposed to this viral form but has not yet developed symptoms or become completely immune against it (as most do).
FeLV Infection Causes Death In Young Cats
Early diagnosis is key because treatment and pet meds can be started while there are still options available. Your veterinarian will usually recommend a blood test to determine whether or not your cat has FeLV. This can be done at any time during your pet's life, but ideally should be performed prior to sexual maturity (around six months old).
If you notice that your cat seems ill, it's important to contact your vet immediately! Cats with weak immune systems are more susceptible to many different types of illnesses, so it's important that they receive routine checkups and vaccinations every year or so--and definitely before going outdoors if possible. With the right diet, like Hills prescription diet or Purina Professionals, you can help strengthen your cat's immune system.
Causes Of Feline Leukemia Virus
The feline leukemia virus in cats with weak immunity is caused by chronic stress, the presence of other diseases, or malnutrition.
The feline leukemia virus can weaken your kitty's immune system, making him more susceptible to other infections and illnesses. In addition to making it easier for your cat to get sick, a weakened immune system also makes it more difficult for you to cure his condition after he becomes ill. If you suspect that your cat has Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), take him to the vet immediately so that he can be checked out and treated as soon as possible and get the right supplements and pet medication.
FeLV Testing Is part of Routine Veterinary Care
It's important for you to know that FeLV testing is an essential part of your cat's routine veterinary care, regardless of age. Since the test can be performed on any patient, there's no need for an extended period of quarantine or special preparations before testing—a simple blood draw is all it takes. Testing also provides an opportunity for us to check on a number of other conditions, including anemia and overall organ health.
In addition to using blood samples, veterinarians sometimes take swab samples from cats' mouths during routine examinations. This allows us to see what bacteria are present in their mouths (and therefore their intestinal tracts), as well as identify any potentially infectious diseases that may be present in their bodies at that time and give them the right pet medicines.
Conclusion
Feline leukemia virus is a serious and common disease in cats. If your cat has feline leukemia, it’s important to keep up with their regular veterinary care so that you can spot any signs of infection early on and treat them quickly. It’s also important for owners of uninfected cats to make sure they have been vaccinated against FeLV and prevent exposure by keeping their pets indoors or away from other animals at all times.