Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)

This virus, for which there is a very effective vaccine, is transmitted by cat-to-cat contact. It severely limits the cat’s immune systems ability to ward off all sorts of infections. Cats affected with FeLV may be carriers of the virus for long periods without displaying any ill effects. Occasionally, if stressed by surgery or being lost outside or injury, a cat that is harboring the virus… and seemed to be healthy… will develop clinical signs. Sick cats may have periods of time when they will seem healthy only to have relapses of illness. It is commonly fatal over a period of time.