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Cat leukemia

Feline Leukemia Treatments:

Cat leukemia is specific only to cats.



In fact, till recent times, leukemia was known to be the single greatest disease threatening cats. Feline leukemia causes the immune system of the affected cat to break down. As the cat’s immune system is rendered ineffective, the cat becomes extremely susceptible to various illnesses and diseases. The cancer affects the white blood cells.



It is caused by a virus. Since cat leukemia causes are primarily viral, keeping the cat away from viruses can prevent the cat from contracting this disease.

The virus that causes this cancer can be transferred between cats and therefore, can spread from one infected cat in your household to another. The infected cat’s saliva, feces, or urine can transfer the virus from one cat to another.



If the infected cat shares water, food, or even dishes with other cats, the other cats may also get infected. Mutual cat grooming should also be avoided. On suspecting leukemia, the veterinarian usually performs a leukemia test in the hospital or clinic. This test is primarily done in order to find out if the cat is indeed infected with the leukemia virus. The cat’s blood, tears, and saliva are tested in a lab to check for the presence of the virus. If the virus is identified early and treatment is started on time, there is a good chance that your pet will survive.

There are some cats that are completely immune to the virus; therefore, it is not correct to assume that your cat may be infected if the cat has been exposed to the virus. Age is often a crucial factor in acquiring the illness. Cat leukemia symptoms may also be more severe when the cat is older. Very young or very old cats are more likely to experience the symptoms of leukemia.
The immune system of the cat may fight off the leukemia. However, cats that are already infected or have a weakened immune system may get infected more easily. Some cats that get infected by the virus may fight and kill the virus, experiencing the symptoms for only a short period of time. Cat leukemia treatments are dependent on how far the infection has spread and the age of the cat. Some of the symptoms of leukemia are lethargy, poor appetite, frequent vomiting, and swelling of the glands in the neck region. Some forms of cancer may respond well to traditional cancer treatments. Chemotherapy and medication may be able to treat the cat.

 
  Submitted on May 7, 2010  
 
 
 

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