How to Care for a Cat with Feline Leukemia - Ongoing Care

1. Bring your cat in for a checkup every 6 months. The longer a cat lives and is infected with FELV, the more likely they are to develop certain types of ocular problems, oral infections, blood diseases, and cancer.[11] Infected cats should have a physical examination and blood counts twice yearly. A more comprehensive blood, urine, and fecal examination should be performed once yearly.[12]
- Your vet will ensure that the cat receives the required regular vaccinations, including rabies if that is relevant to your location.
- The 6-monthly checkups are vital, even if you see no signs of sickness in your cat.[3]

2. Keep vet visits calm and stress-free. If you're worried and upset, your cat will pick up on this.[5] Keep calm, provide a comfortable and darkened carrier for your cat and travel during light traffic periods so that you're not stuck inside the car for longer than is required to get there and back. Reassure your cat while at the vet's and be in his/her sight at all times the vet allows. Set aside fears––the vet is on your side and will do the best by your cat.

3. Be alert to changes in your cat's well-being. Any sign of illness should garner prompt attention as the outcome is likely to be better the earlier problems are detected and addressed.
- Ask your vet for an up-to-date list of things to watch for in terms of disease progression. When you notice anything that might be on this list, contact your vet to discuss any needed changes in care arrangements for your cat.
- Be aware that you need to spot secondary infections quickly, as your cat's immunocompromised system will mean he/she will likely be more affected than a non-FeLV infected cat and the earlier treatment is given, the greater the chance your cat has of getting over it sooner.[3]

4. See to your cat's ultimate comfort. Play with your cat, give him/her attention (when he/she wants it), and make sure that your cat is always comfortable and happy.

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