One of the most dangerous infectious diseases in cats today is caused by feline leukemia virus (FeLV). Feline leukemia is a retrovirus that causes suppression of the immune system, impairing a cat's ability to fight infections. It may also cause anemia, leukemia and some forms of cancer. It is a contagious disease spread from cat to cat by blood and saliva. The most common method of spread is by bite wounds. Cats at risk for developing feline leukemia include outdoor cats, cats living in multiple cat households and cats that interact frequently with other cats. For these high risk cats, vaccinating for feline leukemia may be beneficial.Prior to vaccinating for feline leukemia, cats should be tested for the virus. FeLV is easily diagnosed by a simple blood test. Once a cat tests negative, the vaccine can be administered. The purpose of the vaccine is to create immunity in the attempt to prevent infection with the virus.
The dangers that a cat faces when allowed outside unsupervised depend a great deal on where the cat is. The more rural the area, the more the danger from larger predators. In urban areas the primary threat...
You've just adopted a cat who will be your companion for many years. One of the big decisions you must make about your cat's care is whether to allow him access to the outside. You'll find cat lovers on...
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a viral disease of domestic cats that impairs immune system function and causes some types of cancer.
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) testing should be run on all cats with any concurrent illness or if a recent status has not been established. These tests are most commonly...
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