At Summit Veterinary Care, we believe that veterinary care should feel personal, supportive, and comforting. That’s why our practice is centered on fear-free principles, modern amenities, and a genuine passion for serving the Bristow community.

Keeping cats healthy and safe from serious diseases is a top priority. One of the most important non-core vaccines we recommend for at-risk cats is Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV).

What is Feline Leukemia Virus?

FeLV is a contagious virus that can cause cancer, immune system suppression, anemia, and other serious health issues in cats. It is one of the leading infectious causes of death in cats.

How FeLV spreads:

• Through close contact with infected cats (grooming, bites, sharing food or water bowls)
• From mother cats to kittens (before or shortly after birth)
• Rarely, through contaminated objects like litter boxes

Cats that test positive for FeLV may develop severe disease over time, and the virus can shorten their lifespan significantly.

Why Vaccination is Important

• Protects at-risk cats: Especially outdoor cats, cats living with other cats, or cats in multicat households.
• Reduces transmission: Vaccinated cats are much less likely to become infected and spread the virus to others.
• Supports overall health: By preventing FeLV, vaccination helps maintain a cat’s immune system and long-term quality of life.

Vaccination Schedule

• Kittens: Begin FeLV vaccination at 8–12 weeks, with a booster 3–4 weeks later.
• Adult cats: Two doses, 3–4 weeks apart, if previously unvaccinated.
• Booster doses: Annual boosters are recommended for cats at ongoing risk of exposure.

Before vaccination, we recommend testing cats for FeLV, as cats that are already infected will not benefit from the vaccine.

At Summit Veterinary Care

FeLV vaccination is tailored to your cat’s lifestyle and risk factors. Outdoor cats, cats living with other cats, or cats with unknown exposure history are prime candidates for protection.

Preventing FeLV is an essential part of comprehensive feline preventive care. Protecting your cat with vaccination not only helps them live a longer, healthier life but also reduces the spread of this serious disease in the community.