Anemia associated with feline leukemia virus infection

One hundred feline leukemia virus-positive cats with evidence of anemia were examined to determine characteristics of the anemia. The anemia was usually normochromic and normocytic, with low reticulocyte counts but with normal white blood cell and platelet counts. About one third of the cats had splenomegaly. The bone marrow was usually hypocellular or normally cellular, with an increased myeloid to erythroid ratio. A history of recent stress or infection in many cases indicated that the immunosuppressive effect of feline leukemia virus may have been involved. Supportive treatment with periodic blood transfusions was successful in prolonging survival. Corticosteroids and androgens may have been beneficial in some cases.