What is Feline Leukaemia?
Feline Leukaemia is a disease produced by Feline Leukaemia Virus. The virus attacks the immune system making cats more susceptible to other infections and to developing cancer. The disease has close to 100% fatality rate.
How can my cat catch the virus?
The virus is relatively fragile in the external environment, which means it can only be transmitted by direct contact between cats. In close contact it is a highly contagious disease, being passed through saliva, urine and faeces. An infected queen always infects her litter of kittens.
Is my cat at risk from the virus?
Yes, all cats are at risk if they come into contact with other cats. A recent study at Murdoch University indicated that 7-8% of healthy Perth cats and 11% of sick Perth cats were positive to the virus.
What signs should I look for?
The clinical signs often include weight loss, lethargy and general poor health. These signs can be extremely varied as the virus makes the body susceptible to a whole range of diseases.
What treatments are available for the disease?
Unfortunately there is no treatment for the virus. As a consequence the emphasis is on prevention of the disease and limiting its spread, rather than treatment.
Is there a vaccine available?
YES. A vaccine is available and we recommend all cats be vaccinated against this fatal disease.
Kittens need two injections that can be given at the same time as normal vaccination. Adult cats also need two injections but usually require blood testing first to make sure they haven’t already got the disease.
Please don’t hesitate to call the clinic for more advice if you have any further queries or talk to your vet at your next vaccination about adding on Leukaemia to your cat’s yearly vaccination.
