Companion Animal Welfare

Cat FeLV Prevention and Management

Protecting cats from feline leukaemia virus through vaccination and management strategies.

Key Facts

FeLV is a major cause of immune suppression, anaemia, and cancer in cats, particularly in multi-cat environments
Vaccination is highly effective and should be considered for all at-risk cats with outdoor access
FeLV-positive cats can live comfortably for years with appropriate supportive care
Segregation of FeLV-positive cats in multi-cat households prevents transmission to negative cats

Welfare Considerations

FeLV causes significant suffering through immune compromise and associated secondary infections and cancers. Vaccination and appropriate management can prevent disease in susceptible cats, while compassionate management of positive cats can maximise their quality and length of life.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate outdoor cats against FeLV as part of their core preventive health programme
Test all new cats before introducing to a multi-cat household
Support FeLV research into improved treatments and management protocols