Feline leukemia - symptoms, course and treatment support
What is feline leukemia?
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a virus that attacks a cat's immune system, weakening it and making the animal more susceptible to various diseases. The virus is transmitted mainly through saliva, blood, urine, feces or breast milk. In practice - the biggest risk is fighting with other cats, sharing bowls and litter boxes or close contact with an infected animal.
Rest assured, humans and other species (e.g., dogs) cannot get infected with FeLV, so you don't have to worry about your health.
The most vulnerable to feline leukemia infection are:
- Outdoor cats that come into contact with other cats, especially stray or feral cats.
- Cats that fight other cats - the virus is transmitted through saliva, blood or wounds.
- Cats that live in large groups, where it is easier to come into contact with infected animals.
- Unvaccinated cats that do not protect themselves against the virus.
Symptoms of feline leukemia - what to look out for?
Feline leukemia may not give any symptoms at first. But after a while you may notice that your cat:
- he loses his appetite and loses weight,
- is apathetic, has no energy,
- it catches infections more often, which are difficult to cure,
- has gum problems, ulcers in the muzzle or coughs and breathes hard.
In later stages, anemia can occur (pale mucous membranes are the first sign), and in more serious cases, cancer or organ damage can occur. That is why regular blood tests are so important to detect the problem early.
How feline leukemia progresses?
At first, the virus may be in the cat's body without any visible symptoms. However, over time, the immune system begins to fail and the cat becomes more susceptible to various diseases. At an advanced stage, serious complications such as organ damage or cancer occur.
The lifespan of a cat with leukemia depends on many factors: its immunity, care, diet and whether it has regular veterinary care. Some cats can live many years in good shape, others suffer the effects of disease more quickly.
How to observe your cat to identify an exacerbation of the disease early?
Watch for changes in appetite and weight, increased apathy, breathing problems, frequent infections, and changes in the muzzle (ulcers, gingivitis). Noticing these symptoms early allows for faster response and better veterinary care.
Diagnosis of feline leukemia - how to confirm infection?
The simplest - blood tests. Your vet may suggest an ELISA or PCR test that detects the virus. In addition, it is worth doing a blood count and biochemical tests to check the overall health of the cat. If your furry has been in contact with other cats, especially of unknown health status, such tests are a must.
Treatment of feline leukemia - what can be done?
FeLV unfortunately can't be cured, but that doesn't mean all is lost. Treatment focuses on supporting immunity and treating symptoms. The vet may prescribe antiviral drugs, antibiotics for secondary infections, or supplements to strengthen the body.
If the disease is advanced, the most important thing is to make the cat comfortable. It can be little things - a quiet place to rest, tasty food, a little tenderness. Daily care, medication and comfort are key to a cat's well-being.
Is vaccination against FeLV effective?
Yes, vaccination effectively protects cats from infection, especially those that are outdoors.
The role of diet in treating and supporting a cat with leukemia
A good diet is essential. A cat with leukemia needs high quality protein, vitamins (especially A, E, C) and Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. You can also introduce supplements, such as probiotics or immune boosters. There are many immune-compromised cat foods on the market - it's worth consulting your vet to choose the best option. When making dietary changes, remember to do it slowly, cats are delicate creatures when it comes to digestion.
How to prevent feline leukemia?
If your cat goes outdoors or has contact with other cats, to prevent feline leukemia it is especially important to get regular vaccinations. It is also important to examine new cats before they go into a home where there are already other animals.
In homes with many cats, it is worthwhile to take care of hygiene - regular washing of bowls and litter boxes is a really big help in preventing the spread of the virus.
Facts and Myths
"Every cat with FeLV gets sick." - Not true. Some cats remain only carriers and can live many years without symptoms.
"It can be cured with home remedies." - It is impossible to. Treatment must be administered by a veterinarian.
"Cats with FeLV cannot live with other animals." - They can, but only with those that are insensitive to the virus, such as dogs.
Frequently asked questions about feline leukemia
1. Is feline leukemia curable?
Unfortunately, there is no drug that will completely cure a cat from feline leukemia. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and promoting immunity.
2. How long can a cat with leukemia live?
The lifespan of a cat with FeLV depends on many factors, such as health, immunity, diet and veterinary care. Some cats can live for years in good condition.
3. Can infection be prevented?
Yes, vaccination is the most effective way to prevent FeLV infection. It is also important to avoid contact between healthy cats and infected ones.
4. Is leukemia virus dangerous to humans?
No, feline leukemia virus does not threaten humans or other animals (e.g., dogs).
5. How to take care of the diet of a cat suffering from leukemia?
The diet should be rich in protein and immune-supporting ingredients such as vitamins A, E, C, and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Good quality food and supplements are important.
