Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): Understanding the Silent Killer of Cats
Introduction Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is an extremely prevalent disease and cause of mortality in cats around the world. Unlike many other conditions that affect cats, FeLV is a retrovirus, which makes it very difficult for the body to get rid of the virus once infected. Many cases remain undetected in Pakistan , as symptoms are easily confused with those of ordinary seasonal ailments. Feline Leukemia virus|vetinsight Pakistan How is FeLV Spread? FeLV has been termed the " friendly cat disease ," as the virus spreads through friendly contact with other cats. Saliva and Grooming: The virus is shed in large amounts in cat saliva. Mutual grooming is considered the major route of transmission of the virus. Shared Food/Water Bowls: Transmission through sharing food bowls with infected cats. Biting: Biting and deep wounds inflicted during fight with an infected cat will infect the other. Mother to Kitten: An infected cat may pass the virus on to her offsprin...