FeLV stands for feline leukemia virus. This vaccine is recommended for cats that go outside. Indoor only cats are not at risk of infection with this virus unless they live with a FeLV positive cat. The virus itself is a retrovirus that causes immune deficiency and blood disorders. Infected cats are prone to infections and certain types of cancer (namely lymphoma and leukemia).
Some cats can be asymptomatic carriers of this virus (FeLV). Others can live with the virus for quite some time before becoming sick. However, once they do become sick it is difficult to treat them due to their already weakened immune systems. Common symptoms include fever, decreased appetite, lethargy, enlarged lymph nodes and weight loss. Treatment depends on the type and severity of illness. Cats become infected with FeLV through prolonged close contact with an infected cat or through a bite wound. Therefore outdoor cats or those that live with a FeLV positive cat are at greatest risk. The virus is not transmissible to humans or dogs. The veterinarians at The Vet Set can help you decide the right treatment for your cat.