FeLV and FIV are responsible for non specific and highly variable symptoms. Moreover, the clinical phase is preceded by an aymptomatic phase of varying duration. This means that biological tests are essential for differential diagnosis. (3) Regular screening of cats to assess their status with regard to retroviruses (FeLV or FIV) is considered the best way of combating these viruses (2).  Depending on the region concerned, studies show prevalences of between 1% and 20%.

Testing for soluble FeLV viral antigens enables us to determine the animal's status, even in the event of a low blood viral load (early infection, transient viremia, sequestered infection).

Regular screening of FeLV and FIV should be conducted in various situations :

• Possible retroviral exposition in any cats (contact with infected animals, multi-cats housing, transfusion...)
• Cats before the first FeLV vaccination (and FIV vaccination in countries where anti-FIV vaccination is available) or neutering
• Cats with unknown retroviral testing history
• Sick cats with compatible symptoms
• Breeding purpose or prior to introducing a new cat into an environment

1. Add 1 drop of sample into each sample well.

2. Add slowly 5 drops of reagent into each sample well. 

3. Read the result at 15 minutes. 

The Advisory Board on Cat Diseases website :

ABCDcats