Feline leukemia is a viral infection that attacks the immune system, gradually wearing it down until your cat can no longer fend off minor infections. It is spread by a cat coming into contact with the saliva of another cat that has been infected by the virus. This can happen when one cat grooms another or when there are shared litter boxes, water and food bowls. Some of the early symptoms of feline leukemia are a loss of appetite, sudden weight loss, and diarrhea from unknown causes, oral sores and abscesses.
Cats can also have a general weakness, enlarged lymph nodes and transient fevers.
By a simple blood test, a veterinarian can find out within minutes if your cat has been infected by feline leukemia. If the results are negative, he or she can give a vaccination that day. There is no cure for feline leukemia so immunity by prevention is the key. Immunity is built up against feline leukemia by giving a series of three injections and yearly boosters there after. For those cats, which have been infected by feline leukemia, early detection and treatment give the best chances of a long and happy life.