Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) affects a cat's immune system and can lead to anemia, infections and certain cancers over time. It's contagious between cats, but it is not a risk to people or dogs.
How it spreads
FeLV passes between cats through close, prolonged contact - shared food and water bowls, mutual grooming, bite wounds, and from a mother cat to her kittens. Outdoor cats, cats in multi-cat homes, and any cat that mingles with unknown cats are at higher risk.
Testing and prevention
A simple in-house blood test tells us a cat's FeLV status, and we recommend testing new cats and kittens before introducing them to other cats. For cats with any exposure risk, the FeLV vaccine offers strong protection.
Cats who test positive can still live good lives with attentive care - regular check-ups, keeping them indoors, and prompt attention to any illness all help. We'll build a plan that fits your cat's situation.