Feline Leukemia Virus Alert: Symptoms and Signs

The feline leukemia virus (FeLV) has no known cure, and it has not been clinically proven that any antiviral or other agent will extend the life of an infected cat. This disease affects the immune system of cats, and is often fatal.

This disease comes with a diverse symptom list. FeLV is a retrovirus, which means that it is able to insert copies of its own genetic material into the cells it has infected. This illness shares many symptoms in common with other diseases and conditions.

Healthy felines are attacked by harmful organisms all the time. Most of the time, your cat can fight them off. When your cat’s immune system is compromised, however, diseases that would not normally cause a problem can become more severe. In some cases, they can become life threatening.

FeLV infected cats have a difficult time fighting off infections and parasites. With a weakened immune system, your cat is more susceptible to secondary infections and diseases. The symptoms an infected cat experiences, to a large degree, are caused by these other diseases and conditions.

Initially, symptoms of FeLV may include blood disorders, fever, enlarged lymph nodes, and general malaise. It’s possible for some cats, however, to experience no symptoms at the early stage.

FeLV infected cats are susceptible to developing leukemia as well as other forms of cancer. They often will develop anemia as well, and about 30 percent of infected cats will develop tumors. Some cats may exhibit excessive thirst and urination, which is also common to feline diabetes and other conditions.

Additional feline leukemia virus symptoms may also include depression, diarrhea, and weight loss to the point of emaciation. Some cats may maintain a persistent low grade fever. Other symptoms include chronic recurring infections, jaundice, blood in the stool, and constipation.

There are two stages of feline leukemia virus. Some cats will mount an immune response upon initial infection, and the disease will not progress to the second stage. Other cats will eventually enter the second stage.

Ultimately, for cats who reach the second stage of this disease, it is usually fatal. If your cat has FeLV, the only thing you can do is to treat the secondary diseases and infections, and attempt to strengthen the immune system of your cat.

According to professional sources, FeLV infections exist in about 2 to 3 percent of all cats. Infection rates are higher in high risk groups. If your cat is not in a high risk group, chances are limited that she will contract the disease. Since the disease is transmitted through contact with infected cats, keeping your cat indoors and away from infected cats is a good preventive measure.