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Ocular disease in FeLV-positive cats: 11 cases (1981-1986)
A H Brightman1, G K Ogilvie, M Tompkins
1Department of Surgery and Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|March 15, 1991
Summary
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is rarely linked to primary feline ocular disease. This study found FeLV-associated ocular issues in less than 2% of clinical cases, with most abnormalities secondary to anemia.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a significant pathogen in cats.
- Ocular manifestations can occur in various feline diseases.
- The direct role of FeLV in primary ocular disease requires further clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of ocular disease in cats infected with FeLV.
- To identify specific ocular findings associated with FeLV infection.
- To assess the significance of FeLV as a cause of ocular disease in felines.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 147 FeLV-positive cats.
- Analysis of clinical cases (n=97) and artificially infected cats (n=50).
- Evaluation of ocular findings, including pupillary abnormalities, motility disorders, retinal hemorrhage, and uveal disease.
Main Results:
- Ocular disease incidence was less than 2% in FeLV-positive cats with clinical signs.
- Pupillary and motility abnormalities were the only findings directly associated with FeLV.
- Retinal hemorrhage and degeneration were secondary to FeLV-induced anemia.
- Anterior uveal disease (iris bombé) occurred in one cat; no secondary infectious diseases were observed.
Conclusions:
- FeLV is not a major cause of primary or secondary ocular disease in cats.
- Ocular abnormalities in FeLV-positive cats are often secondary to other complications like anemia.
- The direct pathogenic role of FeLV in feline eye disease appears limited.