Feline Leukemia Virus

Despite available testing and vaccination, feline leukemia continues to be a significant problem in this area. One might believe that the problem is due to this virus being harbored and transmitted in feral cat colonies; however, the incidence in many cats recently tested from feral sources appears lower than that of owned felines allowed outdoors.

Feline leukemia infected cats are prone to developing a host of maladies including anemia and certain cancers. They are also more prone to upper respiratory viruses, although most cats with upper respiratory disease do not harbor feline leukemia. Virus is shed in the saliva and urine of two to three percent of apparently healthy cats, as well as those which are ill. Kittens born to a mother cat who is carrying the disease are prone to die in utero or be stillborn and those which do survive may be infected by contact with the mother or her milk.

All of the major local humane organizations in this area test for feline leukemia prior to the adoption of a cat or kitten. However, cats adopted from other sources are often not tested before they are adopted and many owners refuse testing because they do not want to know or because they do not believe their apparently healthy, happy pet may be harboring a disease which may result in later death. Thus, in multiple cat households or where cats are allowed outdoors the disease may be easily spread. Further complicating this is that cats which are not born with the virus may take up to twelve weeks after exposure to become positive. Vaccination of negative felines reportedly produces up to 98% immunity to future infection.

If your pet has never been tested for this disease, by all means have him or her tested. Screening tests may have some incidence of false positives and are best confirmed by repeat testing in 12 weeks or by fluorescent antibody testing. Confirmatory tests may not be used in pets that are gravely ill, but are certainly warranted in those who show no sign of illness. "Saving" money by not having a new pet tested may result in the infection of other cats. This lack of testing at the time of bringing a new kitty home may also cause much heartache. It is better to make an informed decision before keeping a new pet which may become ill later, after a deep human-animal bond has already been formed!

Presented by Dr. Nancy M. Gerhardt at Kindness Animal Clinic in Bradenton, 753-8948.