Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) causes immunosuppression and cancer in infected cats, with welfare management now emphasizing quality-of-life extension through prevention of opportunistic infections rather than treating the primary infection.
FeLV welfare management has shifted from futile curative attempts to quality-of-life optimization within the expected disease trajectory. FeLV-positive cats with appropriate supportive care often maintain good quality of life for months to years before disease progression. Welfare-centered management focuses on preventing opportunistic infections through housing in clean, low-stress environments, monitoring for early signs of lymphoma or anemia, treating concurrent conditions promptly, and providing excellent nutrition. The decision to keep FeLV-positive cats separate from negative cats protects uninfected animals while allowing FeLV-positive cats to have comfortable, enriched lives. Honest quality-of-life assessment guides timing of palliative focus and eventual euthanasia decisions.