How is the FeLV transmitted

Large amounts of FeLV are excreted in the saliva. Therefore, the most common mode of transmission is through mutual grooming.

Nose-to-nose contact, and shared food and water bowls can also be sources of infection. Bites are a very efficient way to transmit FeLV.

FeLV can also be found in lesser amounts in tears, urine, and feces. Thus litter boxes could be a source of infection in multi-cat households or catteries.

FeLV can also be transmitted across the placenta (in utero) and through the milk. It takes large amounts of virus to infect an adult cat, so usually prolonged contact or a bite is necessary for transmission.