We have a few cats that have tested positive for Feline Leukemia. While this is contagious to other cats, it is not transmitted to other cats or humans. If given good care, FeLV positive cats can live a good and happy life! Their lifespan will likely be cut shorter than a cat that does not have FeLV. We are offering free adoptions for our beautiful and sweet positive cats! They should not go to a home with other cats that are not positive, but our positive cats can be adopted together and be very happy and loved in your home!
We are offering free adoptions for our FeLV positive cats OR looking for long-term fosters for them so they can leave their cages here and live a wonderful life! If you're interested, please email us and we will set up a time for you to meet our FeLv or FIV positive cats. Here is more information on FeLV:
What is FeLV? FeLV stands for “Feline Leukemia Virus”. It is a contagious viral disease that weakens and suppresses a cat’s immune system, making FeLV positive cats more susceptible to common health issues, such as upper respiratory infections, dental disease, etc. In the United States, approximately 2-3% of the cat population will test positive for Feline Leukemia. How is FeLV spread? FeLV is spread from a positive cat to other cats through body secretions, including saliva, nasal secretions, urine, feces and milk from mother cats. This means that that FeLV can be spread through mutual grooming, bites, shared food/water bowls and litter boxes, and nursing. The virus does not survive outside of a cat’s body for more than a few hours and can be easily killed with regular washing/ sanitizing.
here are no specific signs of FeLV, but positive cats can become sick easier because of their weakened immune system. Most FeLV positive cats will live normal lives, however, their lifespan will likely be significantly shortened. Cats infected as adults are more likely to live healthier lives than cats who were infected as kittens. Sadly, cats infected as kittens have an average lifespan of just two years.
A FeLV positive cat will be more susceptible to illnesses, so any signs of illness should be examined by a veterinarian. A high quality diet, low-stress environment and regular veterinary care are beneficial to a FeLV positive cat.
Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment or cure for FeLV. When illnesses arise, they are treated symptomatically. It’s important to be aware that FeLV positive cats will likely live shorter lifespans and your veterinarian will be able to provide you guidance through illnesses that may shorten the lifespan of a FeLV positive cat.
One thing to keep in mind is that we cannot guarantee the lifespan of a FeLV positive cat. Some may only live a few months and others may live several years. Depending upon how quickly the infection spreads and how weakened the cat’s immune system becomes, FeLV positive cats may require more regular veterinary care. FeLV positive cats are special felines who deserve to live out their lives in a special home like yours!
September 15, 2024, 8:29 pm
