When Sam was first diagnosed with both FeLV (Feline
Leukemia Virus) and FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus), the veterinarian
recommended euthanasia. I said no.
Instead of accepting a single test result, I did what every caregiver should be empowered to do: I researched. I learned that FeLV tests especially the initial ELISA screening can produce false positives. I also discovered that some cats can fight off FeLV entirely, depending on their immune response.
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| photo of Sam waiting for his 2nd test. Read that post here |
So, I waited. I gave Sam time. Six months later, we
retested.
The results?
No FeLV. Sam had cleared the virus. He did test positive for FIV, but that’s a
manageable condition with proper care and a safe environment.
What I Learned and
What You Should Know
- FeLV isn’t always a death sentence. Cats exposed to FeLV can respond in three ways:
- Abortive infection: The immune
system eliminates the virus completely. These cats test negative and are
considered immune.
- Regressive infection: The virus is suppressed but not eliminated. Cats
may test positive initially, then negative later.
- Progressive infection: The virus takes hold and remains active, often leading to illness.
- False positives happen. ELISA tests
detect FeLV proteins in the blood, but transient infections or testing
errors can lead to inaccurate results. Confirmatory tests like PCR or IFA
are essential before making irreversible decisions.
- Retesting saves lives. Sam is living
proof. A second test gave him a second chance.
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