Animal care volunteers should be extra vigilant with feral cat-colonies
The deadly feline virus is on the rise in Portugal. Government statistics show that the deadly feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is at a staggering 8.8% ahead of Italy and other European countries where the cat population is being devastated.
“Having barely recovered from parvovirus, which had a firm stronghold within the feline population,” says Jenny Clarke, president of Association for Protection of Animals Algarve (APAA), “we now face the highly infectious, incurable FeLV. It is worrying.”
She adds: “The virus hits the blood stream and forms leukemia within the cats. Their immune systems are delicate as it is. So early prevention is the only cure.”
Any feline illness is a problem within the cat-world. “We are extra vigilant with the feral cat-colonies. This virus spreads like wildfire. Through cats, males, spraying their territory. They adore amorous tactile contact. Licking, picking up faeces on paws. The list is endless.”
The problem with cats is that they hide when things are not going well. Their illness may not manifest itself until too late. “It is not transmittable to humans or canines.” A smile of relief and fingers crossed.
“Discussing the pros and cons with the vet is the best possible solution. If, for any reason, you suspect there is a problem, isolate kitty from any other felines. Immediately.”
Symptoms are easily spotted once the incubation stage is over. Vomiting, diarrhoea, lack of appetite, instability in movements. Eyes are always a give-away with animals. Lack-lustre coat, some show signs of losing clumps. Drastic loss of weight.
The main problem and the deadliest is that the cat may not show signs in a blood-test having FeLV, in fact it may lay hidden in the system before it manifests itself. And in cycles. “It’s best to get the small cats vaccinated as soon as possible.”
Jenny’s advice is not to panic. Make sure full and proper professional advice is obtained before making any hasty decisions. Finally, make sure that the domestic cats’ area where they gather is kept as clean as possible. Especially inside where litter trays are used. Importantly, do not allow mixing your cats with feral outsiders.
Support APAA – where and how
- Fabulous jewellery and scarves at Mini-Pop-Up with Paul and Pasi’s Special Wellbeing Charity Day, on Saturday, March 22, 11am-4pm, in Portimão. Selection of treatments €5 each. Booking essential – 910 665 601.
- Ferragudo Car-boot Sale, every 2nd Sunday of the month, 8am-12 noon. Weather permitting!
- Support Emporium Charities Group Auctions on Facebook until March 29.
- Coming up: Convento’bio, Lagoa, May 16. A goody stall with lots to see.
- Charity shops bursting with wonderful household goods at Alvor and Silves. Pop-In and buy. Take your unwanted gifts, clothing, bedding, books… Don’t forget Jenny’s jams, chutneys, pickles and marmalades, and Jackie’s cookies.
info.apaaportugal@gmail.com | pt.apaaportugal.com
By APAA
