Q: My cat tested positive for feline leukaemia (FeLV). How can I boost her immune system so that she doesn’t get ill too often?
A: No treatment exists to eliminate FeLV, but supportive care and treatment of the secondary bacterial infections with antibiotics are possible. The effectiveness of antiviral drugs is limited, and they may have severe side effects in cats, so are rarely recommended.
You should have your cat examined by your vet regularly (at least every three to six months), so that infections or other problems can be detected and treated early.
Feed a good-quality diet and never feed raw meat to your cat, as this increases the risk of getting bacterial and parasitic infections.
Keep your cat indoors and away from other animals – not only to prevent her getting an infectious disease from other cats, but also to prevent your cat from giving the disease to other cats. If your cat is not sterilised, it is important to do so as soon as possible.
Dr Vanessa McClure, veterinarian
