A concerning virus that veterinarians routinely address with cat owners is the Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), a condition that can severely compromise your cat’s health. At Pioneer Veterinary Hospital, we want to help people like you protect their pets from preventable diseases. With proper education, vaccination, and veterinary support, you can help your cat avoid the dangers of Feline Leukemia.

Why Feline Leukemia Is So Concerning

FeLV is a contagious virus that can affect a cat’s immune system and blood health. Once infected through an FeLV-positive cat, felines become more susceptible to chronic illnesses, infections, and serious complications such as anemia and cancer (Feline Leukemia is the leading cause of feline cancer in the US!). What makes FeLV especially troubling is that many cats appear healthy in the early stages, while the virus quietly weakens their defenses.

There is no known cure for FeLV. Management of Feline Leukemia focuses on supportive care and treating secondary conditions as they arise. For this reason, preventing infection is critical to a cat’s long-term wellness.

Which Cats Are Most At Risk?

Some cats face a greater risk of FeLV exposure than others. The following felines are at the greatest risk of contracting Feline Leukemia:

• Kittens, whose immune systems are still developing
• Elderly cats, whose immune systems may not be as strong
• Outdoor or indoor/outdoor cats, especially those interacting with strays
• Indoor cats in multi-cat households with outdoor cats
• Rescue cats or newly adopted cats, where medical history may be incomplete

While these are the felines at the greatest risk, any cat can contract the virus if they are exposed. This means contact with the bodily fluids of an infected cat through grooming, biting, sharing bowls or little boxes, or nursing kittens.

The FeLV Vaccine

Vaccination remains the most effective treatment for preventing Feline Leukemia. The FeLV vaccine is highly recommended for the majority of at-risk cats. That being said, many low-risk cats can also be vaccinated against FeLV if you so choose. This vaccine provides a layer of protection just in case exposure happens, like your indoor-only cat slipping outside. Having your cat vaccinated significantly lowers the risk of contracting FeLV and helps prevent the spread within the community.

As a note, even cats that have the vaccine can benefit from FeLV testing as part of their annual wellness visit with a veterinarian. Feline Leukemia is usually easier to manage in early stages, so FeLV testing may prolong the life of your feline companion. Talk to your vet to see if testing is recommended for your cat. The initial screening is usually quick, taking only about 15-20 minutes.

Feline Leukemia Vaccination in Tillamook County, OR

Feline Leukemia is a serious threat to cats across Tillamook County and Oregon. Pioneer Veterinary Hospital administers FeLV vaccines for cats in Tillamook and surrounding communities like Astoria and Lincoln City. Schedule an appointment for your cat’s vaccines with our animal hospital.