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Your cat has been acting and looking unusual lately. You've already given him medication for worms when you notice that he's not eating, and for fleas when you notice his baring coat. But none of it is working. Your cat may have Feline Leukemia, a form of disease that is similar to the human AIDS.
Feline Leukemia Virus (or FeLV) can be passed down through birth, or from another infected cat via saliva. If your cat is under 6 months old, then the disease was probably passed down from one of her or his parents. If your cat is over 8 months old, then another infected cat has passed the infection down to your cat.
Edit Steps
Confirming FeLV1Make sure that your cat has FeLV. Take your cat to a veterinarian clinic so that your cat's blood can be drawn and tested. The test for FeLV is very sensitive and accurate. The symptoms of FeLV are varied, and your cat may not have all of them:Excessive urinationExcessive thirstLoss of appetitePoor fur condition (bald patches, etc.)Weight lossFeverFatigueSkin lesions (and wounds fail to heal)Pale gumsEnlarged lymph nodesFluid accumulationDifficulty breathingTumors (by palpation or X-ray)Progressive weakness; and/orDiarrhea.2Understand the complications that can arise should your cat be confirmed as having FeLV. While the disease can be managed, and may even go into remission, flare-ups are always possible. FeLV can lead to cancers, ongoing susceptibility to infection, immune system suppression and severe anemia.[1] It can also contribute to breeding abnormalities, arthritis abnormalities with red blood cells.[2]3Be ready to take extra precautions and care measures if your cat has FeLV. He or she can live for several years without the disease causing major problems if given appropriate care.[1] In some cases, the cat may even become leukemia-negative, meaning that he/she will live a long and happy life.[3]
Initial Care1Keep your cat indoors to avoid spreading the disease or worsening his/her condition. FeLV is spread through blood, saliva, and excrement. Outdoor cats are at higher risk of contracting this disease, due to the increased likelihood of coming into contact with infected cats.[1]Cats pass the virus on to one another through mutual grooming, nose-to-nose contact and bites.[1] Sharing the same food and water bowls can also pass on the infection.[1]2Give your cat medication for worms, ear mites, fleas, ticks, and anything else that may cause him/her discomfort. Do not treat him/her for all these things at once, or else the cat will just feel even worse. Wait a week or two before treating him/her for a second condition.
Your vet will not give the FeLV vaccination to a cat diagnosed with FeLV, as there is no proof that this will help.[1] However, ask your vet as such things can change over time, thanks to continued scientific research.3If you haven't already done so, get your cat neutered or spayed. This will help to prevent passing on the infection to any newborn cats or cats sought through mating. Make sure that the clinic you take your cat to for this operation knows that she/he has FeLV. They'll take extra care of your cat and provide the appropriate sterilization of the operating room and instruments.4Keep your house stress-free. If your cat is frightened or agitated by anything in your house, get rid of the cause. Ask your family and friends to be quiet and to avoid being loud when inside the house.Keep your cat's environment warm enough. He/she may need more warmth than a non-infected cat. Snug blankets and sleeping areas are essential.5Ensure that the cat's gear is hygienic. Keep all of your cat's litter boxes, food bowls, water bowls, etc. very clean. This means daily cleaning, without fail. If you're not around to do it, someone else must be tasked with this chore.
Coping with Other Household Cats1Get your other cats tested for FeLV. If they're free of the infection, have them vaccinated. Be aware that vaccination doesn't necessarily mean that they can be with your sick cat just yet; wait a while before doing that so the vaccine takes effect; ask your vet for exact details.The vaccine is effective if given prior to the cat getting the disease.[2]All household cats should get a booster every three years.2If you have a kitten in the same house as your sick kitty, then give her/him the first vaccine when she/he is 12-14 weeks old. Give the second one 3-4 weeks later. As your kitten ages, she/he will build up a natural resistance to FeLV.3Do your very best to keep your non-infected cats away from your sick cat. They might not like being separated from their friends, but it's best for all of them until your cat is feeling better. And unfortunately, even with vaccination (it's not 100 percent effective), persistent contact with the infected cat may well lead to another uninfected cat getting the disease;[1] it is better to avoid this possibility.Avoid getting another cat. The less cats you have, the less chances the infection has to spread.
Nutrition1Feed your cat high-quality food. Lower-quality, and often less expensive food contains more fillers and by-products in place of real meat, and therefore they aren't as healthy. High-quality food is also more expensive but it is worth the money paid for it; higher-quality food will improve your cat's condition and is an assurance that your cat is getting the required nutrients that cheaper food lacks. You can find a list of good cat food brands on the Internet.
Remove uneaten wet food within a half hour. Meat should not be allowed to sit about growing bacteria and other germs that can harm your cat.Clean food dishes every single day. This will help to minimize any infectious agents.2Make sure that your cat's water bowl is always filled. Excessive thirst is a common symptom of FeLV, as well as other possible problems. Cats must always have access to adequate water supplies.Change water daily.[1] This will help reduce the possibility for bacterial and other germ build-up that can harm your cat.If you cat doesn't like drinking water near food, place it somewhere else in the house, like your bathroom. Some cats simply prefer this.The drinking container can make all the difference––many cats don't like drinking from metallic containers and prefer ceramic, glass or quality hard plastic containers. Experiment and see what works best for your cat.3Give your cat a vitamin supplement if they have a poor appetite or are losing weight.
Grooming1Trim your cat's toenails. This may sound ridiculous, but scratch wounds on cats with FeLV can become infected. Do this to your other cats as well.Mark trimming dates in your calendar so that this is done regularly.
Ongoing Care1Bring your cat in for a checkup every 6 months.[1] This will include blood tests. There always is the possibility that she/he has improved over the course of the months. Also have your vet do a check up on your cat, since FeLV positive cats tend to be more prone to ear, gum, and eye infections.Your vet will ensure that the cat receives the required regular vaccinations, including rabies if that is relevant to your location.The 6-monthly checkups are vital, even if you see no signs of sickness in your cat.[1]Keep vet visits calm and stress-free. If you're worried and upset, your cat will pick up on this.[3] Keep calm, provide a comfortable and darkened carrier for your cat and travel during light traffic periods so that you're not stuck inside the car for longer than is required to get there and back. Reassure your cat while at the vet's and be in his/her sight at all times the vet allows. Set aside fears––the vet is on your side and will do the best by your cat.2Be alert to changes in your cat's well-being. Ask your vet for an up-to-date list of things to watch for in terms of disease progression. When you notice anything that might be on this list, contact your vet to discuss any needed changes in care arrangements for your cat.Be aware that you need to spot secondary infections quickly, as your cat's immuno-compromised system will mean he/she will likely be more affected than a non-FeLV infected cat and the earlier treatment is given, the greater the chance your cat has of getting over it sooner.[1]3See to your cat's ultimate comfort. Play with your cat, give him/her attention (when he/she wants it), make sure that your cat is always comfortable and happy.
Edit TipsIf your cat refuses to eat, then try making a game out of eating food. Throw bits of cat food across the floor. Your cat will run after it and might even eat it.You may wish to explore further a holistic and organic, raw food diet for your infected cat. A good place to start is Anitra Frazier's book The Natural Cat, but always talk to your vet before changing any diet that your cat already enjoys.FeLV spreads more typically in situations where there are many cats, such as catteries, cat shows and in breeding colonies.[2][1] Reputable catteries will ask for proof of vaccinations from all clients, while breeding colonies are often handled by animal welfare groups who will sometimes adopt out some of the cats. If you adopt a kitten or cat from such organizations, ask them about the kitten's or cat's health background; they will explain the vaccination history, etc.
Edit WarningsWhile the virus that causes Feline Leukemia Virus cannot live long outside the cat's body, practice proper hygiene after touching or handling your cat so that you don't transmit it unwittingly to other cats. Always wash your hands with soap after contact with pets.Do not feed your cat raw meat, eggs, unpasteurized products, or chocolate.Do not feed your cat a diet based wholly on fish.Don't be afraid to keep handling your cat. There is no evidence that this virus can be transmitted to humans.[1]
Edit Related wikiHowsHow to Protect Your Cat from Feline LeukemiaHow to Take Care of a CatHow to Care for a Cat's Paws
Edit Sources and Citations↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 The Merck Manual for Pet Health, Home Edition, pp. 533-536, (2007), ISBN 978-0-911910-99-5↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Angela Sayer and Howard Loxton, Encyclopedia of the Cat, pp. 146-147, (1999), ISBN 0-600-59909-4↑ 3.0 3.1 Anitra Frazier, The Natural Cat, pp. 382-384 (2008), ISBN 978-0-452-28975-8http://voices.yahoo.com/advice-caring-feline-leukemia-cat-6877092.html – research sourcehttp://www.2ndchance.info/flv.htm – research sourceArticle Info Featured Article
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Your cat has been acting and looking unusual lately. You've already given him medication for worms when you notice that he's not eating, and for fleas when you notice his baring coat. But none of it is working. Your cat may have Feline Leukemia, a form of disease that is similar to the human AIDS.Feline Leukemia Virus (or FeLV) can be passed down through birth, or from another infected cat via saliva. If your cat is under 6 months old, then the disease was probably passed down from one of her or his parents. If your cat is over 8 months old, then another infected cat has passed the infection down to your cat.
Edit Steps
Confirming FeLV1Make sure that your cat has FeLV. Take your cat to a veterinarian clinic so that your cat's blood can be drawn and tested. The test for FeLV is very sensitive and accurate. The symptoms of FeLV are varied, and your cat may not have all of them:Excessive urinationExcessive thirstLoss of appetitePoor fur condition (bald patches, etc.)Weight lossFeverFatigueSkin lesions (and wounds fail to heal)Pale gumsEnlarged lymph nodesFluid accumulationDifficulty breathingTumors (by palpation or X-ray)Progressive weakness; and/orDiarrhea.2Understand the complications that can arise should your cat be confirmed as having FeLV. While the disease can be managed, and may even go into remission, flare-ups are always possible. FeLV can lead to cancers, ongoing susceptibility to infection, immune system suppression and severe anemia.[1] It can also contribute to breeding abnormalities, arthritis abnormalities with red blood cells.[2]3Be ready to take extra precautions and care measures if your cat has FeLV. He or she can live for several years without the disease causing major problems if given appropriate care.[1] In some cases, the cat may even become leukemia-negative, meaning that he/she will live a long and happy life.[3]
Initial Care1Keep your cat indoors to avoid spreading the disease or worsening his/her condition. FeLV is spread through blood, saliva, and excrement. Outdoor cats are at higher risk of contracting this disease, due to the increased likelihood of coming into contact with infected cats.[1]Cats pass the virus on to one another through mutual grooming, nose-to-nose contact and bites.[1] Sharing the same food and water bowls can also pass on the infection.[1]2Give your cat medication for worms, ear mites, fleas, ticks, and anything else that may cause him/her discomfort. Do not treat him/her for all these things at once, or else the cat will just feel even worse. Wait a week or two before treating him/her for a second condition.
Your vet will not give the FeLV vaccination to a cat diagnosed with FeLV, as there is no proof that this will help.[1] However, ask your vet as such things can change over time, thanks to continued scientific research.3If you haven't already done so, get your cat neutered or spayed. This will help to prevent passing on the infection to any newborn cats or cats sought through mating. Make sure that the clinic you take your cat to for this operation knows that she/he has FeLV. They'll take extra care of your cat and provide the appropriate sterilization of the operating room and instruments.4Keep your house stress-free. If your cat is frightened or agitated by anything in your house, get rid of the cause. Ask your family and friends to be quiet and to avoid being loud when inside the house.Keep your cat's environment warm enough. He/she may need more warmth than a non-infected cat. Snug blankets and sleeping areas are essential.5Ensure that the cat's gear is hygienic. Keep all of your cat's litter boxes, food bowls, water bowls, etc. very clean. This means daily cleaning, without fail. If you're not around to do it, someone else must be tasked with this chore.Coping with Other Household Cats1Get your other cats tested for FeLV. If they're free of the infection, have them vaccinated. Be aware that vaccination doesn't necessarily mean that they can be with your sick cat just yet; wait a while before doing that so the vaccine takes effect; ask your vet for exact details.The vaccine is effective if given prior to the cat getting the disease.[2]All household cats should get a booster every three years.2If you have a kitten in the same house as your sick kitty, then give her/him the first vaccine when she/he is 12-14 weeks old. Give the second one 3-4 weeks later. As your kitten ages, she/he will build up a natural resistance to FeLV.3Do your very best to keep your non-infected cats away from your sick cat. They might not like being separated from their friends, but it's best for all of them until your cat is feeling better. And unfortunately, even with vaccination (it's not 100 percent effective), persistent contact with the infected cat may well lead to another uninfected cat getting the disease;[1] it is better to avoid this possibility.Avoid getting another cat. The less cats you have, the less chances the infection has to spread.
Nutrition1Feed your cat high-quality food. Lower-quality, and often less expensive food contains more fillers and by-products in place of real meat, and therefore they aren't as healthy. High-quality food is also more expensive but it is worth the money paid for it; higher-quality food will improve your cat's condition and is an assurance that your cat is getting the required nutrients that cheaper food lacks. You can find a list of good cat food brands on the Internet.
Remove uneaten wet food within a half hour. Meat should not be allowed to sit about growing bacteria and other germs that can harm your cat.Clean food dishes every single day. This will help to minimize any infectious agents.2Make sure that your cat's water bowl is always filled. Excessive thirst is a common symptom of FeLV, as well as other possible problems. Cats must always have access to adequate water supplies.Change water daily.[1] This will help reduce the possibility for bacterial and other germ build-up that can harm your cat.If you cat doesn't like drinking water near food, place it somewhere else in the house, like your bathroom. Some cats simply prefer this.The drinking container can make all the difference––many cats don't like drinking from metallic containers and prefer ceramic, glass or quality hard plastic containers. Experiment and see what works best for your cat.3Give your cat a vitamin supplement if they have a poor appetite or are losing weight.Grooming1Trim your cat's toenails. This may sound ridiculous, but scratch wounds on cats with FeLV can become infected. Do this to your other cats as well.Mark trimming dates in your calendar so that this is done regularly.
Ongoing Care1Bring your cat in for a checkup every 6 months.[1] This will include blood tests. There always is the possibility that she/he has improved over the course of the months. Also have your vet do a check up on your cat, since FeLV positive cats tend to be more prone to ear, gum, and eye infections.Your vet will ensure that the cat receives the required regular vaccinations, including rabies if that is relevant to your location.The 6-monthly checkups are vital, even if you see no signs of sickness in your cat.[1]Keep vet visits calm and stress-free. If you're worried and upset, your cat will pick up on this.[3] Keep calm, provide a comfortable and darkened carrier for your cat and travel during light traffic periods so that you're not stuck inside the car for longer than is required to get there and back. Reassure your cat while at the vet's and be in his/her sight at all times the vet allows. Set aside fears––the vet is on your side and will do the best by your cat.2Be alert to changes in your cat's well-being. Ask your vet for an up-to-date list of things to watch for in terms of disease progression. When you notice anything that might be on this list, contact your vet to discuss any needed changes in care arrangements for your cat.Be aware that you need to spot secondary infections quickly, as your cat's immuno-compromised system will mean he/she will likely be more affected than a non-FeLV infected cat and the earlier treatment is given, the greater the chance your cat has of getting over it sooner.[1]3See to your cat's ultimate comfort. Play with your cat, give him/her attention (when he/she wants it), make sure that your cat is always comfortable and happy.
Edit TipsIf your cat refuses to eat, then try making a game out of eating food. Throw bits of cat food across the floor. Your cat will run after it and might even eat it.You may wish to explore further a holistic and organic, raw food diet for your infected cat. A good place to start is Anitra Frazier's book The Natural Cat, but always talk to your vet before changing any diet that your cat already enjoys.FeLV spreads more typically in situations where there are many cats, such as catteries, cat shows and in breeding colonies.[2][1] Reputable catteries will ask for proof of vaccinations from all clients, while breeding colonies are often handled by animal welfare groups who will sometimes adopt out some of the cats. If you adopt a kitten or cat from such organizations, ask them about the kitten's or cat's health background; they will explain the vaccination history, etc.
Edit WarningsWhile the virus that causes Feline Leukemia Virus cannot live long outside the cat's body, practice proper hygiene after touching or handling your cat so that you don't transmit it unwittingly to other cats. Always wash your hands with soap after contact with pets.Do not feed your cat raw meat, eggs, unpasteurized products, or chocolate.Do not feed your cat a diet based wholly on fish.Don't be afraid to keep handling your cat. There is no evidence that this virus can be transmitted to humans.[1]
Edit Related wikiHowsHow to Protect Your Cat from Feline LeukemiaHow to Take Care of a CatHow to Care for a Cat's Paws
Edit Sources and Citations↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 The Merck Manual for Pet Health, Home Edition, pp. 533-536, (2007), ISBN 978-0-911910-99-5↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Angela Sayer and Howard Loxton, Encyclopedia of the Cat, pp. 146-147, (1999), ISBN 0-600-59909-4↑ 3.0 3.1 Anitra Frazier, The Natural Cat, pp. 382-384 (2008), ISBN 978-0-452-28975-8http://voices.yahoo.com/advice-caring-feline-leukemia-cat-6877092.html – research sourcehttp://www.2ndchance.info/flv.htm – research sourceArticle Info Featured Article
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