Companion Cat: FeLV Management and Prevention

Feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) is a devastating retroviral infection that suppresses immunity and causes cancer, with prevention through vaccination and testing being critical.

Key Facts

FeLV is transmitted primarily through prolonged close contact including mutual grooming and shared bowls
Kittens are most susceptible, with older cats developing increasing resistance
Progressive infection leads to immunosuppression and malignant disease within 3 years in most cases
Vaccination provides good protection and is recommended for all cats with outdoor access or multi-cat households
Testing before vaccination identifies infected cats that should not be vaccinated and must be isolated

Welfare Considerations

FeLV causes progressive immune deterioration leading to repeated opportunistic infections, anaemia, and malignant disease. Welfare decline is insidious and cumulative, with affected cats experiencing chronic illness over months to years. The most welfare-positive interventions are prevention through vaccination and testing, and humane euthanasia when quality of life is significantly impaired.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate all outdoor cats and cats with potential exposure against FeLV
Test cats for FeLV before introduction to multi-cat households
Keep FeLV-positive cats isolated from uninfected cats
Discuss quality of life monitoring and end-of-life planning with your vet
Support trap-neuter-return programmes that include FeLV testing for feral cat colonies