Mary Allen
Feline leukemia poses particular challenges for animal shelters, but also for private individuals. For every cat that tests positive or is already ill, a life and death decision must be made.
Feline leukemia virus infection (FeLV) is one of the most feared cat diseases – because it usually ends fatally and there is no therapy that leads to a cure. The leukemia virus is transmitted by direct contact from cat to cat via saliva, for example by licking or biting one another. The feces can also contain virus material. Once the disease has broken out, treatment can only be symptomatic and try to alleviate the suffering of the animal. The illness is not dangerous for humans.
In cats, the virus primarily causes tumors in various organs and, in another form, changes in the blood count (leukemia). The incubation period varies greatly and symptoms often only appear months to years after infection. Sometimes they only manifest themselves as weakness, slight flare-ups of fever, inflammation of the gums, chronic diarrhea, swollen lymph nodes, increased thirst, and anemia (low blood count). Infection is also possible from the mother cat to the unborn or newborn kitten.
Volunteers are Particularly at Risk
Precisely because a cure is not possible, it is advisable to vaccinate cats. “Especially free-roaming cats are exposed to an increased risk,” says Esther Geisser, Managing Director of Network for Animal Protection (NetAP). One should not forget that Switzerland was made rabies-free thanks to a comprehensive vaccination campaign. “It would be nice if we could also eliminate diseases such as panleucopy (cat disease) and feline leukosis through consistent vaccination.” She also knows of various cat owners who would keep their FeLV-positive cats as outdoor cats: “I really recommend people to vaccinate their cats.”
Vaccination leads to the formation of an endogenous defense against the virus. However, it only makes sense and can be carried out if the cats are not already ill. Two vaccinations are required for the basic immunization. Thereafter, the vaccination is repeated annually. Protection can be waived for indoor cats – provided they do not live with FeLV-positive animals. FeLV-positive means that the cat carries the virus without showing any signs of the illness itself. In fact, FeLV-positive cats can still have many good years to come – although sooner or later the disease leads to death.
Euthanasia is Only Necessary When an Outbreak Occurs
Important measures in the fight against FeLV are – in addition to vaccination – castration campaigns, which animal protection organizations regularly carry out. According to Geisser, the sexual activity of cats is the greatest source of risk for leukosis: “The greatest risk of infection could be eliminated with the obligation to castrate cats outside.” During the act, the cat bites itself firmly on the cat’s neck. In addition, there would be hissing and biting during rival fights, in which spit would also be transmitted.
NetApp regularly carries out neutering operations. All cats that showed symptoms or had to be relocated would be tested for FeLV, says Geisser. If the result is positive, it doesn’t have to be a death sentence. “If the disease has broken out and the cat is doing badly, it must be euthanized. However, if she can still lead a life worth living despite the illness, we work together with rescue centers, animal shelters, or private individuals who would like to give such a cat a chance.» Putting cats to sleep because of a positive leukosis test is nonsensical, Geisser states: “You can always find a life-affirming solution if you want to.” Unfortunately, many cats that test positive are still being euthanized.
Mina Schreyer is someone who creates opportunities. The founder and managing director of the “Stiftung Tierheim Gals” in the canton of Bern has been taking care of sick animals – including FeLV-positive cats – for 35 years. In order not to infect their fellow cats, the cats that carry the virus live separately from the others in a spacious room with access to a large escape-proof enclosure. Schreyer emphasizes that this is natural, with bushes, little houses, and hiding places to retreat to. There are far too few such species-appropriate housing options with large exercise areas for FeLV-positive cats. But these are urgently needed. Because cats that were allowed to roam before the diagnosis could be difficult to get used to living in an apartment.
Mina Schreyer knows and loves her cats and is convinced that they are happy despite the virus. “Only when the disease breaks out and there is no longer any quality of life are the cats put to sleep by our pet vet, who accompanies us.”