DNA Test for Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)

FeLV is the number-one deadly disease among cats. FeLV suppresses the immune system and results in various types of cancer and other chronic and debilitating diseases in cats. FeLV is transmitted through direct contact with an infected cat, such as by mutual grooming, fighting or playing, or by sharing a food or water dish or litter box with an infected cat. The virus can spread from an infected mother cat to her kittens through the placenta or during nursing. Bite wounds are an especially effective method of transmission. Signs of infection include gum disease, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, decreased appetite, lethargy, anemia, fetal resorption, abortion, infertility, birth of "fading" kittens and infections that are resistant to standard treatments. Although cats can remain apparently healthy for months or even years following infection, once signs begin, they are often difficult to treat. A significant percentage of adult cats that are exposed to the virus develop immunity and do not become persistently viremic (i.e., will not carry the virus indefinitely in the blood and bone marrow). Usually those cats live out a normal life span. In other felines, the virus may remain sequestered for a variable period of time somewhere in the body. It is thus conceivable that FeLV might break out and cause disease at a later date, after the cats have been stressed, or perhaps medicated with drugs that suppress the immune system. Affected cats not yet showing signs of illness may shed the virus and be infective to other cats, making it vital never to bring a new cat into your household without DNA testing for FeLV. Many cats appear to be perfectly healthy at the time of diagnosis - another reason every cat should be tested for FeLV. DNA test detects viral DNA that has been integrated into the host’s genome. Positive DNA test result confirms FeLV infection.

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