Overview of Feline Leukemia


A lot of people love cats. Dogs may be man’s best friend, but cats also have their own reign and kingdom in our world. As a pet owner, you would want to take good care of your cat so she will live a longer, fuller life. Oh how you love the purring and the content sigh he makes as she finds his seat on your lap or on your warm sofa or bed. However, like all other animals, cats are also exposed to certain diseases.

One of the most common diseases among cats is called feline leukemia. A rather deadly and incurable disease, feline leukemia is the cause of many deaths in cats.

What is feline leukemia?

It is brought about by the feline leukemia virus or FeLV, a retrovirus that transforms into c-DNA and blends in with the rest of the cells of the infected cat, which further leads to a faster spread of the virus inside its body. There are 3 types of viruses for this disease which are: FeLV-A, FeLV-B, and FeLV-C.

  • FeLV-A: Every cat infected with the FeLV automatically gets FeLV-A which causes the weakening of the immune system.
  • FeLV-B: Studies show that half the number of FeLV-infected felines will also have FeLV-B, which brings about tumors and tissue growths.
  • FeLV-C: A small percentage (1%) of FeLV-infected cats become afflicted with FeLV-C which brings about severe anemia.

Take note that your cat could be afflicted with one, two, or all 3 types.

Feline Leukemia cannot be cured but it can nonetheless, be managed, and this is probably the most important aspect of taking care of your sick cat. You see, if your cat’s immune system becomes weak, it will strengthen the FeLV and this could be fatal for your pet. Although there is no known cure, you need to see to it that your cat remains healthy and strong despite the presence of the disease.

Additionally, gaining sufficient knowledge on the disease, its causes, prevention, and medication is essential to her health. It would also help to know how to care for your cat, what food to feed her, and what needs to be avoided so that you can save your pet from developing other deadly diseases brought about by the occurrence of feline leukemia.

While the disease may eventually catch up on her, doing your best to help her as he goes through delicate times is your responsibility, and is something that should never be neglected.