Cat health

Sunday, May 28, 2006

Cat leukemia

The third major disease that can be prevented by vaccination is feline leukemia. This is not related to the type of leukemia that normally occurs in humans. It is transmitted from cat to cat via bodily fluids such as blood or saliva. Some authorities say that it cannot be transmitted to humans. However, sadly I knew someone who contracted feline leukemia from her cats and died from it.
Some cats who become exposed to cat leukemia show no symptoms. Where symptoms do develop, they may include: fever; lethargy, weakness, depression; swollen glands; reduced number of red and white blood cells. Some cats can die at this stage while others can make a complete recovery.
If the disease proceeds to a second stage, it is likely to show itself through a malignant disease, either of the white blood cells, or of the lymph nodes. It can also show itself in other conditions such as severe infections, as the cat's immune system is damaged. Any of these conditions usually results in death.
No treatment is available so DO get your cat vaccinated! It is usually possible to get an all-in-one vaccine for all three of these diseases.