Feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) is a retrovirus causing immunosuppression and cancer in cats, requiring compassionate long-term management and careful decisions about housing and quality of life.
FeLV-positive cats face a difficult welfare trajectory — immunosuppression leaves them vulnerable to recurrent infections, and the elevated cancer risk means owners must balance quality of life with watchful monitoring. Progressive FeLV infection causes a slow decline punctuated by acute illness episodes. Welfare management focuses on preventing opportunistic infections through indoor-only housing, prompt treatment of secondary conditions, and regular health monitoring. The decision about when to treat versus when to prioritise comfort care requires honest assessment of the individual cat's trajectory. FeLV-positive cats can have good quality of life for years with appropriate care — the diagnosis should not prompt immediate euthanasia consideration.