Feline Leukemia: What You Need to Know!

Feline leukemia is a contagious viral disease of cats. It is transmitted through the saliva and nasal secretions of an infected cat and infects only other cats. Feline leukemia can cause tumor formation, bone marrow disorders, immunosuppression and many secondary diseases. Most cats who develop a persistent infection die from the disease within two years. Feline leukemia is a disease found in Wisconsin as well as other states, so your cat is at risk.

Luckily, feline leukemia can be prevented! It is important that you talk to your veterinarian about an appropriate vaccination program. Another preventative measure you should take is to not allow your cat to roam outdoors, which could result in contact with a feline leukemia positive cat.

The Ozaukee Humane Society performs a feline leukemia screening on all cats and kittens prior to adoption to ensure that they don't currently have feline leukemia. However, you should have your veterinarian retest your cat in case of a recent infection.