Companion Animal Welfare

Cat Welfare and FeLV Prevention

Feline leukaemia virus is a serious infectious disease with significant welfare implications. Prevention through vaccination and risk management protects cat populations.

Key Facts

FeLV suppresses the immune system and causes cancer in affected cats
Outdoor cats and cats in multi-cat households face highest exposure risk
Vaccination provides effective protection for at-risk cats
Testing before introducing new cats prevents spread in households
Infected cats require careful management and supportive care

Welfare Considerations

FeLV causes chronic suffering and premature death. Vaccination of at-risk cats and testing of new household additions are highly effective, welfare-positive interventions.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate outdoor cats against FeLV
Test new cats before introducing them to existing household cats
Keep FeLV-positive cats indoors to prevent spread
Support TNR programmes that include FeLV testing