Five Things You May Not Know About Feline Leukemia

Feline Leukemia can be scary. it is the second highest cause of death in cats, and kills about 85% of persistently infected cats within three years of their diagnosis. HOWEVER, having or adopting a cat with feline leukemia doesn't necessarily mean you have to say goodbye to your furry friend. Here are five facts to help you better understand feline leukemia.


1.) It Isn't a Death Sentence
About 70% of cats who are exposed to the virus can resist infection or eliminate the virus all on their own. Cat's can be exposed to the virus multiple times, but they are often resilient and manage to fight off the infection.

2.) It is Transmitted Through Fluids
Like many viruses in animals and humans, Feline Leukemia is passed around through bodily fluids. This happens most often when two cats groom one another or get into a fight. Kittens can also become infected through their mother's milk. Since many cat's do well to fight off the infection it is possible that a cat can spread the virus around without showing any symptoms of their own.

3.) It Can't Survive Alone
Feline Leukemia is actually a very fragile illness. It doesn't survive more than a few hours outside of a cat's body. This means it is still ok to try walking your cat on a leash; it probably won't come in contact with the virus just around the sidewalk.

4.)Indoor Cat's Are Safer
This may be self explanatory, but a cat who lives indoors is much less likely to come across the virus than a cat who is constantly around other stray, outside cats.

5.) They Are Adoptable!
Cat's with Feline Leukemia require a little more medical supervision than other cats, but they can be just as personable as any other cat. They may even love the opportunity to build a forever home with a new person.

Spotlight: Harold and Sally

These two loving siblings have been residents at the Free to Live shelter for many years.

Harold

Harold is blind, but this doesn't stop him from being lovable and cuddly to new friends. Sally is just as friendly, and she just LOVES attention. She never fails to show off or snuggle up to someone new; she may even get a little jealous if her brother, Harold, is getting more attention than here.

Sally

Harold and Sally are Free to Live's only Rhino + cats. They are permanent residents at the shelter, and they have become very attached to Stacey, the resident cat-caregiver at the shelter.