How is Feline Leukemia Prevented and Controlled

Vaccination: There are a number of FeLV vaccines on the market. None of them produce 100% protection. Almost all of them are derived from inactivated (killed) virus or portions of the virus.

Most of these vaccines have one or two additives called adjuvants that enhance the antigenicity (ability of the virus to cause an immune response) of the killed virus. There is also a recombinant vaccine.

This means a gene from the virus is placed in bacteria in the laboratory. The bacteria multiply and in doing so produce a large amount of the protein the FeLV gene coded for. This protein is collected and used in the vaccine.

In general, it is recommended that cats who go outdoors, to shows, are boarded, or otherwise have contact with cats other than those in their household should be vaccinated against FeLV.

In addition, it is recommended that kittens be vaccinated against FeLV. Remember, all cats should be FeLV-tested before they are vaccinated. Adult cats who are entirely indoors may not need to be vaccinated against FeLV. This is something you should discuss with your veterinarian.

Limiting Exposure: As mentioned above, FeLV vaccines do not produce 100% protection. It is essential that the risk of exposure of a FeLV-negative cat to a potentially FeLV-positive cat be minimized. In single cat households this is best accomplished by keeping the cat indoors.

In catteries and multi-cat households:
•Test all cats for FeLV.
•Remove all FeLV-positive cats or totally separate them from the other cats.
•Disinfect all dishes, litter boxes, and bedding. Remember, FeLV can be transmitted through saliva, urine, and feces.

•Prevent or minimize the movement of cats in and out of the household or cattery.
•Test and quarantine all cats before introducing them into the household or cattery.
•Only FeLV-negative cats should be used for breeding.