How is feline leukemia and other viruss transmitted?
a. Feline leukemia (FELV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) are two diseases that can be passed from cat to cat. FELV can be transmitted through cat to cat grooming, food and water bowls and from mom to kittens. FIV requires more contact and is usually transmitted during fights. Both viruses are easily detected with a simple blood test. Vaccines are also available for both diseases. We recommend FELV vaccine for cats that go outdoors. We do not currently recommend the FIV vaccine due to problems testing for the disease once the vaccine is given and the poor efficacy of the vaccine.
