FeLV and Cats
It sounds daunting and scary. FeLV or Feline Leukemia Virus is a disease that can affect cat through nasal discharge and saliva exchange. It needs not scare you if you become informed about the reality of the disease and not the gossip. Most cat's have a strong immune system that will fight the infection off. FeLV is a blood cancer.
There are two tests for FeLV. Shelters typically perform an ELISA or "snap test" that takes 10 minutes and is the industry standard for determining if a cat is positive or negative. If the test is unclear an IFA blood test may be sent into a lab and results will be back in 2-3 days. The biggest concern is that both of these tests tell us the status of the cat now. This does not mean that it will not change in 6 month or 1 year. In reality, it is a challenge to be 100% sure a cat is not infected throughout it's life.
Any cat can be a carrier of FeLV and never even show symptoms. A positive cat can live a long and healthy life without ever exhibiting signs of a disease. Cats that are infected can show symptoms that may be confused with other illnesses. Look for some of the following symptoms that tell you to seek a vet's attention: * A coat that is in poor condition or a cat that does not groom * A cat that has lost it's appetite * Upper respiratory infection * Urinary tract infection * Quick weight loss * Stomatitis ( effecting the mouth this causes the body to become allergic to the build up on teeth) * Infection of the skin * Loose stool or blood in stool
Of course, this list could be greatly extended but the idea is that FeLV needs an expert's skills and knowledge as the disease can look like so many others. Your vet will probably want to retest your cat as a precaution if the cat has chronic issues.
You need to do your best to keep your cat from becoming infected. Obviously cats should be kept indoors. If you are adding a new cat to the family being sure to take all precautions that will keep both kitties safe is important. Talking to your vet about this process will start you on a path that will be positive.
And remember that FeLV is a feline disease only and cannot be transmitted to other species.
Cat condos are amazing exercise for your cat. A cat towers is also amazing for the cat to rest on. Your cat deserves one right now.
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