Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) is a highly contagious virus, which can be transmitted from infected cats when the transfer of saliva or nasal secretions is involved. It can be transmitted by sharing bowls and fights.
The signs and symptoms of infection with feline leukaemia virus are quite varied and include loss of appetite; poor coat condition; uneven pupils; infections of the skin, bladder, and respiratory tract; oral disease; seizures; swollen lymph nodes; fatigue; fever; weight loss; stomatitis; gingivitis; litter box avoidance; low white cell counts; recurring bacterial and viral illnesses; anaemia; diarrhoea; and jaundice.
The test for FeLV is very quick. We take a drop of blood and run it in what is called a snap test.
Vaccinations are done from nine weeks of age and need to be boosted in 3–4 weeks for cats receiving only one previous vaccination. Thereafter it is boosted yearly.