Cats - FELV (Feline Leukemia)

Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine article

Feeding tips:

Good quality wet food is important.  Probiotics and lysine supplements are recommended and if possible feed high iron items. I puree liver and add egg, then freeze in ice cube trays so I can thaw one or two out several times a week for them.  Feeding ground turkey and a little ground beef helps too.  If you can, give a vitamin B-12 shot once a week.

Watch for stomatitis, it is a dental issue that FELV cats can be prone to. It can be very serious.

 More info can be found at:  https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/mouth/c_ct_stomatitis

Herpesvirus is common in FELV positive cats. it will cause watery, goopy, sore eyes and respiratory infections. Vets offer drops, creams, and antibiotics;  but for some the only answer is an anti-viral like famciclovir. 

More info can be found at: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/feline-herpesvirus-infection-or-feline-viral-rhinotracheitis

Good food, a stress free environment and getting lab work (blood tests) done at least once a year to monitor the cats health are best practices for FELV positive cats.

FELV Vaccine:

For cats that are NOT FELV positive it is recommended that they be vaccinated against the Feline Leukemia virus especially if they will potentially be exposed to other cats. If your cat is an inside cat that does not go outdoors vaccination against FELV is not imperative. However before adopting another cat be sure to have it tested for FELV prior to exposing it to your existing cat family.

More info can be found at: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/feline-leukemia-virus-vaccination