Identification of FeLV infected cats is made by detection of the virus in a blood sample. Veterinarians will recommend retesting 12 weeks after the original blood test to determine whether the infection is in a primary or secondary stage.
Cats found to be positive should be isolated from the negative cats (if any) and the household premises should be cleaned with a commercial detergent or disinfectant. Litter boxes and food bowls should be thoroughly cleaned or replaced.
Cats initially testing negative should be retested twice over the next eight to 12 months and during this period a quarantine should be established. No new cats should be introduced to the household. In order for the household to be considered free of FeLV, all resident cats should text negative for FeLV on two tests performed at least three months apart. Oral medications and routine monitoring of blood counts and FeLV status is important in the treatment.
As a preventive measure, kittens are given two vaccinations three to four weeks apart and they are vaccinated annually. These vaccines have been shown to be effective in laboratory and clinical studies.