Companion Animals

Cat FeLV Management in Multi-Cat Prevention

Feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) causes fatal disease in infected cats and spreads in multi-cat environments. Prevention through vaccination and testing is highly effective.

Key Facts

FeLV is transmitted through saliva from cat-to-cat contact including grooming
Infection causes immunosuppression, anaemia, and increased cancer risk
Progressive infection is always fatal, typically within 3 years
Vaccination is highly effective but not 100% protective
Testing all new cats before introducing to established households is essential

Welfare Considerations

FeLV infection causes progressive immunosuppression leading to repeated infections, anaemia, and cancer. Affected cats experience prolonged illness before death. Prevention through vaccination and testing before introduction to multi-cat environments prevents this suffering. Positive cats can live comfortable lives with appropriate management and veterinary care.

What You Can Do

Test all new cats for FeLV before introducing to multi-cat households
Vaccinate cats at risk of FeLV exposure
Provide appropriate supportive care and pain management for FeLV-positive cats