Kitty Cancer

Question
QUESTION: I know you said you are good with small and exotic animals but I was just wondering if you can tell me when my cat can get "Kitty Cancer" can she get it being she was a stray and she is about 1 to 2 years of age. Should I be worried?

ANSWER: Small animals includes cats and dog so yes I am very familiar with feline medicine. Are you saying your cat has cancer or are you worried she will get it? Are you referring to a specific type of cancer? Perhaps you are referring to Feline Leukemia virus. You will need to clarify your question before I can answer it.
Thanks.
Dr. G.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I'm worried she may get it. I was wondering if there is any age that a cat can get the Feline Leukemia virus or any virus that could kill them. I'm worried because she was a stray.

Answer
Has she been tested yet? If she has not been tested then that is the most important thing you can do. If she is negative and you are planning on allowing her to go outside then she should receive vaccinations to prevent her from contracting the virus. The vaccine is not 100% effective but certainly provides excellent protection. If she is negative and you plan on keeping her indoors only then you do not have to worry about her getting FeLV. If you bring another cat in the house that has the disease then it could potentially infect her. Always test new cats before introducing them into a multi-cat household.
Adult cats are less likely to be susceptible to FeLV virus than kittens and senior cats but I always advise my cat owners to protect outdoor cats with vaccines.
Hope that relieves your concerns.
Dr. G.