Cat Leukemia Symptoms

Feline leukemia is a highly contagious disease which, according to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, affects approximately 2 to 3 percent of cats per year in the United States. Feline leukemia is a cancer which affects the white blood cells of cats, and can spread to major organs such as the intestines and kidneys. Feline leukemia symptoms often do not appear until months or years after a cat has been infected with the disease.

  1. Fever

    • The feline leukemia disease acts to suppress the immune system in cats, which can cause fever. Fever is the body's natural defense mechanism against illnesses which threaten the immune system. Fever may not be easily detected in cats, as their body temperatures naturally fluctuate as the day passes. If you suspect your cat has a fever and it is showing any other leukemia symptoms, take it to the vet to be safe.

    Lethargy

    • Lethargy can be a sign of many diseases in cats, especially if your cat is usually very active. If your cat is suddenly acting lethargic, it is a good idea to take it to the vet for a check up, regardless of whether or not you believe it is feline leukemia.

    Vomiting

    • Vomiting can be a symptom of feline leukemia. However, like many other feline leukemia symptoms, vomiting can also be related to other issues, such as hairballs, change in diet, or even other diseases such as the feline version of HIV, Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). Take the cat to the vet if it vomits often.

    Swollen Lymph Nodes

    • Lymph nodes swell when the cat has a virus or disease that the immune system is trying to fight off. Since feline leukemia attacks the immune system, swollen lymph nodes can be a symptom of the illness.

    Diarrhea

    • Diarrhea is another possible symptom of feline leukemia. If you have recently moved, got a new pet, changed your cat's food, or the cat has been under stress of any kind, the diarrhea can be attributed to these factors. If your cat has diarrhea and is showing other signs of illness, take it to the vet to be tested for leukemia.

    Anemia

    • Anemia can often be present when a cat is infected with feline leukemia. Anemic cats will be paler than usual, especially around the gums. If you notice that your cat's gums are white or pale pink rather than bright pink like normal, take it to the vet for a checkup.

    Breathing Problems

    • Breathing problems can suggest the development of feline leukemia in the chest. Along with breathing problems comes coughing, gagging and loud breathing. Take your cat to the vet if it has any of these symptoms.

    Weight Loss

    • Feline leukemia can cause loss of appetite, which can lead to weight loss. Cats who have a sudden lack of interest in food, or who have lost a great deal of weight in a short amount of time could be diagnosed with leukemia. Take your cat to the vet for a checkup if it stops eating or loses a drastic amount of weight.