A cross-sectional study was conducted to detect the feline leukaemia virus (
FeLV) p27 antigen and to determine risk factors and the haematological changes associated with
infection in domestic cats in Zimbabwe. Sera were collected for detection of the
p27 antigen,
urea,
creatinine,
alanine aminotransferase and gamma-glutamyl
transferase levels, whilst whole blood was collected for haematology.
FeLV p27 antigen was detected using a rapid
enzyme-linked
immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test kit. Data on risk factors were analysed using a logistic regression model. Of the 100 cats tested, 41% (95% CI: 31.19% - 50.81%) (41/100) were positive for the
FeLV p27 antigen. Sex and health status of cats were not significantly (p > 0.05) associated with
infection. Intact cats (OR = 9.73), those living in multicat housing (OR = 5.23) and cats that had access to outdoor life (OR = 35.5) were found to have higher odds of
infection compared with neutered cats, those living in single-cat housing, and without access to outdoor life, respectively. Biochemistry and haematology revealed no specific changes. The results showed that FeLV
infection was high in sampled cats, providing evidence of active
infection. Thus, it would be prudent to introduce specific control measures for FeLV
infection in Zimbabwe.