Feline leukemia virus, or FeLV, is a virus that affects only cats, and the effects can be devastating. While humans, dogs, and other animals don't have to worry about the virus, it is highly transmissible between cats. The virus acts as an immune system suppressor and can eventually lead to the cat developing a number of diseases, including different types of cancer. It is vital to vaccinate your cat against this virus. At South Granville Animal Hospital in Creedmoor, NC, our veterinarian provides this vaccine for cats.
When to Vaccinate Your Cat
The vaccine does not help cats that are already infected, so you must start the series when the cat is still healthy. Kittens are typically vaccinated for FeLV at a young age, but speak with our veterinarian to determine when your pet should be vaccinated. If your cat is an indoor cat and is not likely to be exposed, it may not need the vaccine.
Feline Leukemia Virus Prevention
If you come across a cat that is FeLV+, isolate that cat from other cats and be sure you take precautions to avoid spreading the virus through hand contact. The virus doesn't live for very long and needs a moist environment to survive.
Simple cleaning, such as with a commercial household disinfectant, can deactivate the virus on surfaces.
It is possible for a cat to catch the virus and mount enough of an immune response that the cat beats the virus. It will eventually test negative and will be at low-risk for transmitting it to other cats. However, it is not really possible to determine which cats will be able to reach this stage, and many cats will go on to develop diseases as a result. The virus has a 50 percent death rate within two and a half years of catching the virus.
Visit Our Veterinarian in Creedmoor, NC for the Feline Leukemia Vaccine
When you have a new cat or kitten, it is vital to get it vaccinated. At South Granville Animal Hospital in Creedmoor, NC, our veterinarian offers the FeLV vaccine and others. We will guide you on what vaccines your cat needs. Call us today to schedule an appointment.