Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV)

What is FeLV?

Feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) is a virus that infects only cats. It can weaken the immune system, so other infections take hold more easily. It can also cause anaemia (too few red blood cells) and some cancers, such as lymphoma, a cancer of white blood cells.

FeLV spreads mainly through saliva and close contact, such as grooming each other, sharing food bowls or fighting. A mother cat can also pass it to her kittens. Kittens are at higher risk than adult cats.

Not every infected cat stays infected. Some cats fight the virus off. Some keep it hidden in their body, where it may become active later. Others stay infected, can pass the virus on and are more likely to become ill. Many infected cats look healthy for a long time.

Signs to watch for

Common signs include:

• Weight loss and poor appetite
• Pale gums
• Fever that keeps coming back
• Repeated infections of the skin, eyes, nose or bladder
• Red, sore gums or mouth
• Swollen glands (lymph nodes)

These signs have many possible causes, so a test is the only way to know.

Which lab tests help

The FeLV Antigen (Rapid Test) looks for a part of the virus, called an antigen, in the blood. The FIV / FeLV (Combo Kit) checks for FeLV and FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus) together, which is useful because both viruses cause similar problems.

No FeLV test is perfect. A cat infected only recently can test negative, so your vet may test again a few weeks later. In a healthy cat at low risk, a positive result is usually confirmed with a second test. The FeLV RT-PCR (Proviral DNA / RNA) looks for the virus's genetic material and helps when antigen results are unclear or the virus may be hidden.

A Complete Blood Count (CBC) can show anaemia or low white cell counts. If your vet finds a lump or a swollen gland, a needle sample can be checked for cancer cells with FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology). For cats living with FeLV, your vet may suggest regular checks such as the Basic Health Panel.

A registered veterinarian interprets every result together with your cat's signs and history.

When to see your vet

See your vet promptly if your cat is losing weight, has pale gums, keeps getting infections or seems unwell. Testing is also commonly done before a new cat joins a home with other cats. Ask your vet about vaccination and prevention.

Testing in Bhopal

Pashupatinath Vet Lab in Shahpura, Bhopal provides free sample collection anywhere in Bhopal. The lab is open every day from 8 am to 10 pm. From other districts, blood samples can be sent through your local vet, by courier or by bus parcel; the lab coordinates by phone or WhatsApp on +91 88175 01118. The lab confirms the method, sample needs and reporting time when you book. Reports come on WhatsApp, by email and in My Reports.