Companion Animals

Cat Feline Leukemia Virus Management

FeLV is a serious retroviral infection in cats with significant welfare implications, managed through vaccination, testing and responsible breeding.

Key Facts

FeLV causes immunosuppression, anaemia and lymphoma in infected cats
Outdoor cats and multi-cat households are at highest risk
Vaccination provides effective protection for at-risk cats
Testing before introducing new cats prevents household transmission
FeLV-positive cats can live good-quality lives for years with appropriate management

Welfare Considerations

FeLV infection causes progressive decline that significantly affects quality of life. Prevention through vaccination and responsible testing before cat introductions is highly effective. FeLV-positive cats should not be abandoned - managed indoor life with appropriate monitoring provides welfare-positive outcomes for many cats.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate at-risk cats against FeLV according to vet recommendations
Test new cats before introducing them to an FeLV-negative household
Provide positive welfare management for FeLV-positive cats including enrichment and regular monitoring