The Feline Leukemia Virus
Anyone who has a passing knowledge of cats has probably heard about the Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), but they may not know exactly what it is. Contrary to the name, it is not actually a form of leukemia, but is rather a dangerous retrovirus that affects the cat's blood. Most dangerous of all, the virus is easily spread through saliva and mucus. If your cat is suffering from an illness, you should immediately contact your Houston Vet Clinic.
Understanding the Feline Leukemia Virus
FeLV is a type of retrovirus, meaning it affects the cat's RNA. Although it initially affects the blood (and got its name because early research led vets to believe it was a cancer), it will spread throughout the cat's body if the disease is unchecked by the animal's immune system.
The disease itself goes through several phases. It begins by entering the cat and infecting the animal's white blood cells. The disease then spreads throughout the body, attacking the lymphoid system and other parts of the immune system. If the cat's antibodies are unable to stop the disease, the virus will enter the bloodstream, and will then spread into the bone marrow. Even if the disease is defeated, once it enters the bone marrow, the cat will be infected for the rest of its life. If the virus continues unchecked past this point, death will occur.
Recognizing FeLV
The disease's symptoms include:
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Diarrhea
- Fever
Contact Us
If you suspect that your cat is suffering from Feline Leukemia Virus, it is important that you act as soon as possible, as the disease can spread quickly. Its symptoms are vague, so you may not realize something is wrong until it is too late. You should immediately contact your Houston Vet Clinic.