Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a very common health issue in cats. In fact, it is the second top cause of death in cat populations, next to trauma. About 85% of infected cats die within 3 years of diagnosis. Leukemia can also increase a cat’s risk to developing severe anemia, lymphoma, or other life-threatening infections. The virus is species-specific, meaning it can only affects cats; it cannot be transmitted to dogs or other animals or people.
The infection is contagious and infected cats can infect other cats by direct contact. The virus is shed in the cat’s urine, feces, saliva, milk, and nasal secretions of infected cats. Other potential routes of virus transmission include bite wounds, mutual grooming, and through shared feeding and water bowls, as well as litter boxes. An infected mother cat can also transfer the virus to her kittens while they are still in the womb, or during nursing.
Talk to your veterinarian Mt. Airy, MD about the best way to protect your pet against feline leukemia virus. Click on this link to learn more: https://mtairyvets.com/
