Companion Animal Welfare

Cat Welfare and Feline Leukaemia Virus Prevention

Feline leukaemia virus causes immunosuppression, anaemia and lymphoma in cats. Prevention through vaccination and testing of new cats before introduction to multi-cat households protects cat welfare.

Key Facts

FeLV is transmitted through close social contact including grooming and shared food bowls
Vaccination is effective and recommended for all cats with outdoor access or multi-cat household exposure
Testing new cats before introduction to existing households prevents FeLV introduction
FeLV positive cats require indoor-only management and are susceptible to opportunistic infections
Survival after FeLV diagnosis is variable, with progressive immunosuppression in many affected cats

Welfare Considerations

FeLV prevention through vaccination and testing is far preferable to management of established infection. Protecting cats from FeLV through these simple measures prevents significant chronic suffering.

What You Can Do

Ensure all outdoor cats are vaccinated against FeLV and kept up to date
Test all new cats before introducing them to multi-cat households
Consult your vet about FeLV management if your cat tests positive