FeLV Vaccine

What Is FeLV?

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a retrovirus that affects cats worldwide. It attacks the immune system, leaving cats vulnerable to infections they would normally fight off. FeLV also causes anemia and is a leading cause of cancer in cats. There is no cure for FeLV infection.

FeLV spreads through close contact between cats, primarily through saliva. Mutual grooming, sharing food and water bowls, and bite wounds are common routes of transmission. Infected mother cats can also pass the virus to their kittens during pregnancy, birth, or nursing.

Which Cats Are at Risk?

Cats with the highest risk include those who go outdoors, even occasionally. Cats living with FeLV-positive cats or cats of unknown status are also at elevated risk. Cats in multi-cat households where new cats are introduced, and kittens born to infected mothers, face significant exposure potential.

Strictly indoor cats with no contact with other cats have a very low risk. However, cats can escape, circumstances change, and new cats may join the household. All kittens are typically vaccinated since we can't predict their future lifestyle. For adult cats, we assess risk factors and make personalized recommendations.

Does my cat need the FeLV vaccine? 

It depends on lifestyle and exposure risk. The vaccine is recommended for all kittens, outdoor cats, and cats in multi-cat households where new cats may be introduced. Indoor-only cats in stable, closed households may not need ongoing vaccination after their kitten series.

Should my cat be tested for FeLV before vaccination? 

Yes. Testing is recommended before the first FeLV vaccine. Vaccinating a cat that's already infected won't provide benefit, and knowing your cat's status is important for their care and for protecting any other cats in the household.

What is the FeLV vaccination schedule? 

Kittens receive their first dose around 8 to 9 weeks of age, followed by a second dose 3 to 4 weeks later. Adult cats receiving their first vaccination follow the same two-dose schedule. At-risk cats then receive annual boosters.

My cat is strictly indoors. Do they still need the FeLV vaccine? 

Indoor-only cats in stable households carry a very low risk. That said, if there's any chance your cat could escape, if you plan to add cats, or if your household situation could change, continued vaccination is a reasonable precaution. The right approach depends on your specific circumstances.

Is the FeLV vaccine safe? 

Yes. The FeLV vaccine has a strong safety record. Mild soreness at the injection site or brief tiredness for a day or two is occasionally reported. Serious reactions are rare. Non-adjuvanted vaccines are used, which carry a lower risk of injection site reactions.

Can the FeLV vaccine give my cat feline leukemia? 

No. The vaccine stimulates the immune system to recognize and fight the virus, but does not contain live virus. It cannot cause FeLV infection.

My cat is FeLV positive. Should they still be vaccinated? 

Not for FeLV, as vaccination won't help a cat that's already infected. However, FeLV-positive cats should stay current on other vaccines, particularly rabies and FVRCP, since their compromised immune system makes them more vulnerable to other diseases.

How effective is the FeLV vaccine? 

Highly effective, though not 100%. Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of infection upon exposure. Combining it with lifestyle measures, such as keeping your cat indoors and testing new cats before introduction, offers the strongest protection.

Can FeLV spread to dogs or humans? 

No. FeLV only infects cats. It cannot be transmitted to dogs, humans, or other animals. However, infected cats can spread it to other cats, which is why knowing your cat's status matters in multi-cat households.

How long do FeLV-positive cats live? 

Many FeLV-positive cats live for years with proper care, though their lifespan is often shorter than that of uninfected cats. Regular veterinary monitoring and prompt attention to any health changes are important. Keeping them indoors protects both their health and the health of other cats.

How much does FeLV vaccination cost? 

Pricing is always communicated upfront. Testing and vaccination are a modest investment relative to the serious, irreversible health consequences of FeLV infection.