What is Feline Leukemia?
This virus is spread by any nose to nose contact with an infected cat. Cats that go outdoors are the most commonly affected portion of the cat population. The virus causes cancer (leukemia, tumors etc) , bone marrow supression, immune system supression, and reproductive disorders. Clincical symptoms include, but are not limited to, fever, lethargy, inapptence, vomiting, diarrhea, stomatitis (inflammation of the oral mucosa or gums), anemia, jaundice and weight loss. Because of the severity of the disease, it is strongly reccommended that cats that have access to other cats of unknown feline leukemia status be vaccinated against feline leukemia. It is also recommended to test each new cat for feline leukemia before it enters the household. A simple blood or saliva test can be done to test for this virus.
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