How long do cats live with viral leukemia? - briefly
The lifespan of a cat diagnosed with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) can vary greatly depending on individual factors such as age and overall health. On average, cats with FeLV may live for 2-3 years after diagnosis, but some can survive longer with proper care and management of secondary infections.
How long do cats live with viral leukemia? - in detail
The lifespan of a cat diagnosed with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the cat's age, overall health, and the specific strain of the virus. FeLV is a retrovirus that affects the cat's immune system, making it more susceptible to various infections and diseases.
Cats infected with FeLV typically fall into three categories based on their response to the infection: regressive, progressive, or latent. Regressive cats are able to clear the virus from their systems within a few months of infection, while progressive cats show persistent viremia and usually have a shorter lifespan. Latent cats carry the virus but do not show clinical signs or transmit it to other cats.
On average, cats with progressive FeLV infection may live for 2 to 3 years after diagnosis. However, this can range from several months to several years depending on individual factors. Cats that develop lymphoma, a common complication of FeLV, have a shorter lifespan, often living less than a year after the cancer is diagnosed.
Early detection and proper management are crucial for extending the lifespan of cats with FeLV. Regular veterinary check-ups, balanced nutrition, and minimizing stress can help maintain the cat's overall health and quality of life. It is also essential to keep infected cats indoors to prevent the spread of the virus to other cats.
In summary, while FeLV infection significantly impacts a cat's lifespan, the exact duration varies based on individual factors. Proper care and management can help improve the cat's quality of life and extend its lifespan.