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Infecciosas

Feline leukaemia (FeLV)

A viral infection that weakens the cat's immune system and predisposes it to tumours, anaemia and infections. It is one of the leading causes of death from infectious disease in cats.

Severe🐈 Cats Contagious

This may be a veterinary emergency

See your vet for a FeLV test with any new cat, or if there is lethargy, weight loss or infections that do not heal.

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Lethargy and progressive weight loss
  • • Pale gums (anaemia)
  • • Recurrent infections that do not heal
  • • Fever
  • • Swollen lymph nodes
  • • Many cats are carriers for years without symptoms

Causes

The FeLV virus, transmitted through saliva (mutual grooming, shared food bowls, fights) and from the mother to her kittens. Cats with outdoor access are at greater risk.

Diagnosis

A quick blood test at the clinic. It is advisable for every new cat, especially rescues.

Treatment

There is no cure. Supportive treatment and management of complications (infections, anaemia, tumours). A FeLV+ cat can live for years with good care and frequent check-ups.

Prevention

Vaccination (recommended for cats with outdoor access or living with positive cats). Testing before introducing new cats. Keeping the cat indoors greatly reduces the risk.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet for a FeLV test with any new cat, or if there is lethargy, weight loss or infections that do not heal.

Consult a vet24 h emergency vets nearby

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

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