Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is a significant cause of disease and death in domestic cats worldwide. It is a retrovirus that can severely weaken a cat's immune system, making them vulnerable to a wide range of secondary infections, blood disorders like anemia, and various cancers, most notably lymphoma. The virus is primarily spread through saliva, nasal secretions, urine, and feces, often through mutual grooming, sharing food/water bowls, or bite wounds. Infected mother cats can also pass the virus to their kittens. While there is no cure, some FeLV-positive cats can live for months or years with supportive care. Vaccination is available and recommended for cats at risk of exposure.