One important health risk for cats that owners should be aware of is the Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV). Fortunately, FeLV is both detectable and largely preventable. With the right steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of your cat becoming FeLV-positive and give them the best chance at a long, healthy life. Just 4 Pets Wellness Center has these Feline Leukemia prevention tips for cat owners in the Fort Myers area.
What Is FeLV?
FeLV, or Feline Leukemia, is a contagious virus that can cause many detrimental health symptoms. Cats with FeLV may develop blood disorders. Feline Leukemia can also weaken a cat’s immune system, leaving them more vulnerable to infections and secondary diseases. Currently, FeLV is the number one reason that cats develop cancer. Because FeLV can remain hidden in the early stages, many infected cats show no signs until the disease has advanced.
The Feline Leukemia Virus is spread primarily through:
- Mutual grooming
- Bite wounds from infected cats
- Shared food, water bowls, and litter boxes
- Nursing/pregnancy (mother cat to her kittens)
Why Feline Leukemia Prevention Is Better Than Treatment
There is no cure for FeLV, and management focuses on keeping affected cats comfortable and treating secondary illnesses. FeLV-positive cats often face shortened life expectancies and more frequent veterinary needs. Preventing the virus in the first place is far more effective and less emotionally and financially taxing. Simple preventative measures could make all the difference in your cat’s long-term health.
Tips for Preventing FeLV
Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect cats from FeLV. Most veterinarians recommend the Feline Leukemia vaccine for kittens in their first year, cats who spend any time outdoors, and cats in homes with others who go outside or have uncertain exposure histories. The FeLV vaccine series starts with two doses and continues with annual boosters. Vaccinating your cat not only protects them but also reduces the potential spread of the virus to others.
Other Feline Leukemia prevention methods include:
- Testing cats before introducing them to other feline pets
- Keeping cats indoors or supervising outdoor time to prevent exposure
- Avoid contact with stray or untested cats
- Scheduling regular wellness exams and screenings
Feline Leukemia Testing
FeLV tests can identify the presence of the virus even when symptoms aren’t visible. Testing should be performed for all new cats entering your household and cats who have been exposed to other felines with unknown FeLV status. Outdoor felines and other high-risk cats should have testing done annually. Testing helps prevent the introduction and spread of the Feline Leukemia Virus in multi-cat homes and gives you peace of mind.
Vaccination and Testing for Feline Leukemia in Fort Myers, FL
FeLV is serious, but with routine testing and preventive care, you can shield your cat from one of the most dangerous feline viruses. Just 4 Pets Wellness Center has FeLV vaccinations and testing for cats in Fort Myers and from neighboring areas like Plantation Preserve and Lehigh Acres. Schedule an appointment with us to protect your cat before there’s a problem.