Re: [Felvtalk] introduction for Spicey
Hello Joyce, You have a kind heart. It's hard to take in a felv cat and sounds like everyone in your world is going through alot. With respect to felv, it's true, stress is tough on these guys. There's alot of variables, opinions and conflicting ideas about the disease. Some cats do fine, some become carriers but do fine, and some die fast and young. Since yours is two years old already, that's a start since many of the young ones (usually less than a year) die from the disease early on. The older they are the better their chances of survival. General recommendations I think almost universally accepted are - feed high quality diets i.e. those high in protein, some good ones are evo and nature's variety instinct (be careful when initially switching to these foods mix with the old). Some people suggest using raw diets (these are excellent for healthy cats as it mimics their normal diet - good ones are nature's variety and stella and chewy's) - other people advice against it as there is the possibility of introducing bacteria into their gut and they fear infection. Personally from what I have read and seen I think raw diet is better. Next, try to reduce stress as much as possible - rescue remedy, a flower essence extract has been used in both humans and animals to reduce anxiety - it's easy to use and can be found in most herbal type stores. As far as him not leaving the crate, that's okay, small enclosed areas are often comforting to a scared cat, I wouldn't force him out, let him take his time. Routines are very welcome by most animals so try to maintain a routine if possible - this is less important for cats than dogs but still helpful. Medical treatment - this is a huge source of debate for most. Some say there is no treatment, give them as happy a life as possible until they pass on. Others say treat. The big treatments include interferon, imulan and acemannan. None are 100% effective from what I can tell. There are stories to support and refute each. I am currently looking to find a combination of things that might be effective. Other less talked about treatments include high dose vitamin c, NAC and vitamin E. Some other natural remedies and immune boosters (Wei Qui Booster) are out there. I have never heard of a cure, but I continue to search. With respect to the clavamox, I would be very suspicious. Prophylactic treatment with an antibiotic is risky. It can lead to GI problems (diarrhea and vomiting as you kill off the healthy normal bacterial flora of the gut and leave it wide open for bad bacteria), kidney and liver failure, and development of bacteria resistant to the antibiotic. If there are no symptoms of infection and have not been for some time I would seriously be cautious about this. If there are upper respiratory type symptoms; sneezing, clear runny nose and eyes, lysine can be very effective at treating this - this can be ordered online in a cat formula or purchased over the counter at walgreens or similar store. Lots of info, sorry. You will certainly get lots more advice. The individuals in this group are intelligent, well read, and caring cat lovers. May God bless you and good luck. Jenny On 11/10/09, stargazer 12 stargaze...@q.com wrote: A very good friend passed away her family didn't want the cat. Spicey has feline leukemia going on 2 years. I took the cat in have him in a spare room away from my cats. He has been on clavamox for about 1 yr per my friend. I am waiting on the vet to call to find out all the specifics. Is there any special food/vitamins/drugs to help? I know nothing of this disease. I have been during research says the cat should not be stressed. Unfortunately, Spicey has been stressed as his owner was in the hospital since last Tuesday. A neighbor was feeding him but he was hiding under the couch as he is very timid. And now he is in a strange place, so he has to be very stressed. It has been 3 hours he has not come out of his carrier, I do not know if he will be friendly with me but he has not hissed at all. I think I maybe taking on too much but in a small way I feel like I am keeping my friend alive too. Any ideas/suggestions/advice will be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Joyce Spicey EMAILING FOR THE GREATER GOOD Join me ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] introduction for Spicey
Jenny, thanks for providing this great information! Laurie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of jbero tds.net Sent: Saturday, November 14, 2009 12:30 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] introduction for Spicey Hello Joyce, You have a kind heart. It's hard to take in a felv cat and sounds like everyone in your world is going through alot. With respect to felv, it's true, stress is tough on these guys. There's alot of variables, opinions and conflicting ideas about the disease. Some cats do fine, some become carriers but do fine, and some die fast and young. Since yours is two years old already, that's a start since many of the young ones (usually less than a year) die from the disease early on. The older they are the better their chances of survival. General recommendations I think almost universally accepted are - feed high quality diets i.e. those high in protein, some good ones are evo and nature's variety instinct (be careful when initially switching to these foods mix with the old). Some people suggest using raw diets (these are excellent for healthy cats as it mimics their normal diet - good ones are nature's variety and stella and chewy's) - other people advice against it as there is the possibility of introducing bacteria into their gut and they fear infection. Personally from what I have read and seen I think raw diet is better. Next, try to reduce stress as much as possible - rescue remedy, a flower essence extract has been used in both humans and animals to reduce anxiety - it's easy to use and can be found in most herbal type stores. As far as him not leaving the crate, that's okay, small enclosed areas are often comforting to a scared cat, I wouldn't force him out, let him take his time. Routines are very welcome by most animals so try to maintain a routine if possible - this is less important for cats than dogs but still helpful. Medical treatment - this is a huge source of debate for most. Some say there is no treatment, give them as happy a life as possible until they pass on. Others say treat. The big treatments include interferon, imulan and acemannan. None are 100% effective from what I can tell. There are stories to support and refute each. I am currently looking to find a combination of things that might be effective. Other less talked about treatments include high dose vitamin c, NAC and vitamin E. Some other natural remedies and immune boosters (Wei Qui Booster) are out there. I have never heard of a cure, but I continue to search. With respect to the clavamox, I would be very suspicious. Prophylactic treatment with an antibiotic is risky. It can lead to GI problems (diarrhea and vomiting as you kill off the healthy normal bacterial flora of the gut and leave it wide open for bad bacteria), kidney and liver failure, and development of bacteria resistant to the antibiotic. If there are no symptoms of infection and have not been for some time I would seriously be cautious about this. If there are upper respiratory type symptoms; sneezing, clear runny nose and eyes, lysine can be very effective at treating this - this can be ordered online in a cat formula or purchased over the counter at walgreens or similar store. Lots of info, sorry. You will certainly get lots more advice. The individuals in this group are intelligent, well read, and caring cat lovers. May God bless you and good luck. Jenny On 11/10/09, stargazer 12 stargaze...@q.com wrote: A very good friend passed away her family didn't want the cat. Spicey has feline leukemia going on 2 years. I took the cat in have him in a spare room away from my cats. He has been on clavamox for about 1 yr per my friend. I am waiting on the vet to call to find out all the specifics. Is there any special food/vitamins/drugs to help? I know nothing of this disease. I have been during research says the cat should not be stressed. Unfortunately, Spicey has been stressed as his owner was in the hospital since last Tuesday. A neighbor was feeding him but he was hiding under the couch as he is very timid. And now he is in a strange place, so he has to be very stressed. It has been 3 hours he has not come out of his carrier, I do not know if he will be friendly with me but he has not hissed at all. I think I maybe taking on too much but in a small way I feel like I am keeping my friend alive too. Any ideas/suggestions/advice will be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Joyce Spicey EMAILING FOR THE GREATER GOOD Join me ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo
Re: [Felvtalk] introduction for Spicey
Joyce, yes, you have taken on a bit of a job, but i think you will find it is worthwhile. i took in Annie 3 weeks after her owner went into hospice. she was locked up in her trailer all that time with the owner's sister coming once a day to put out food and change her litter box. she had no understanding of what happened, why her person left her alone and then the sister stuffed her into a box and brought her to our vet. then i put her in my carrier and brought her home and suddenly instead of being an only cat, she was one of 2. i tried keeping her in one room, but no one got any sleep. so i let her out. we had some hissing, screaming fits, and she spent many dys and night in the basement, but she eventually came around and now is a very sweet, healthy felv positive cat. i have since brought in more cats (6 now) and each time we have to restablish who is top cat, but everyone has survived and now we are fairly comfortable with our roommates. It just takes time for her to learn tht she can trust you and to work out her place in the family. be patient, love on her every time you get a chance. dorlis stargazer 12 stargaze...@q.com wrote: A very good friend passed away her family didn't want the cat. Spicey has feline leukemia going on 2 years. I took the cat in have him in a spare room away from my cats. He has been on clavamox for about 1 yr per my friend. I am waiting on the vet to call to find out all the specifics. Is there any special food/vitamins/drugs to help? I know nothing of this disease. I have been during research says the cat should not be stressed. Unfortunately, Spicey has been stressed as his owner was in the hospital since last Tuesday. A neighbor was feeding him but he was hiding under the couch as he is very timid. And now he is in a strange place, so he has to be very stressed. It has been 3 hours he has not come out of his carrier, I do not know if he will be friendly with me but he has not hissed at all. I think I maybe taking on too much but in a small way I feel like I am keeping my friend alive too. Any ideas/suggestions/advice will be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Joyce Spicey EMAILING FOR THE GREATER GOOD Join me ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] introduction for Spicey
The wonderful people here will give you great information...all I can tell you is to have patienceit must be extremely stressful for poor Spicey. Give him time and a safe place to hide until he is ready to deal with the world on his own terms. My heart breakes for him losing his mom...and I bless you for taking this baby into your home (and hopefully your heart)this disease is cruel and unforgiving. I wish you all luck possible. Debbie (COL) Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle Philo From: stargaze...@q.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Date: Tue, 10 Nov 2009 21:38:17 + Subject: [Felvtalk] introduction for Spicey A very good friend passed away her family didn't want the cat. Spicey has feline leukemia going on 2 years. I took the cat in have him in a spare room away from my cats. He has been on clavamox for about 1 yr per my friend. I am waiting on the vet to call to find out all the specifics. Is there any special food/vitamins/drugs to help? I know nothing of this disease. I have been during research says the cat should not be stressed. Unfortunately, Spicey has been stressed as his owner was in the hospital since last Tuesday. A neighbor was feeding him but he was hiding under the couch as he is very timid. And now he is in a strange place, so he has to be very stressed. It has been 3 hours he has not come out of his carrier, I do not know if he will be friendly with me but he has not hissed at all. I think I maybe taking on too much but in a small way I feel like I am keeping my friend alive too. Any ideas/suggestions/advice will be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Joyce Spicey EMAILING FOR THE GREATER GOOD Join me ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org _ Keep your friends updated—even when you’re not signed in. http://www.microsoft.com/middleeast/windows/windowslive/see-it-in-action/social-network-basics.aspx?ocid=PID23461::T:WLMTAGL:ON:WL:en-xm:SI_SB_5:092010 ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] introduction for Spicey
I would be a bit concerned about why he has been on clavamox for a year. That is a LONG time to be on any antibiotic. A decent quality food, as little stress as possible -not much you can do about the situation - and lots of love and careful attention to his health. Many of us give various supplements in hopes it will help keep the immune system strong. I don't think there is any hard data that most of what we give is not more for us than it is for the cat. I'm sure you will hear about a lot of different supplements, personally, I use Moducare. You are a good person for taking in this kitty. Gary -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of stargazer 12 Sent: Tuesday, November 10, 2009 3:38 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: [Felvtalk] introduction for Spicey A very good friend passed away her family didn't want the cat. Spicey has feline leukemia going on 2 years. I took the cat in have him in a spare room away from my cats. He has been on clavamox for about 1 yr per my friend. I am waiting on the vet to call to find out all the specifics. Is there any special food/vitamins/drugs to help? I know nothing of this disease. I have been during research says the cat should not be stressed. Unfortunately, Spicey has been stressed as his owner was in the hospital since last Tuesday. A neighbor was feeding him but he was hiding under the couch as he is very timid. And now he is in a strange place, so he has to be very stressed. It has been 3 hours he has not come out of his carrier, I do not know if he will be friendly with me but he has not hissed at all. I think I maybe taking on too much but in a small way I feel like I am keeping my friend alive too. Any ideas/suggestions/advice will be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Joyce Spicey ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] introduction for Spicey
Try Rescue Remedy in Spicey's water and the water of your other cats. Also add Willow (another Bach Remedy) and Feliway spray. I've tried the room atomizer but don't care for it. I have had wonderful luck with the Feliway spray and so have my vets. Don't press Spicey. The Royal Princess Kitty Katt (FeLV-) took about three months to come out from under the couch and be comfortable. I slept on the floor most of that time to reduce my threat to her (size, ability to move etc). Do the best you can to relax yourself. Your stress, which is very understandable, transfers to all the cats. Give them all the best food you can and follow your heart on supplements. The first stop I made after determining that Dixie Louise Doodle Katt, JP was going to stay in this world was to a wonderful holistic vet named Betty Boswell. She worked with my regular vets, Middletown Animal Clinic, and Dixie lived three wonderful, healthy years. She had everything possible during her life.a big bed, doll, travel, love.but there was stress too. Dixie was a throw-away that showed up in the pine thicket behind my Mom's. She was several years old then and, from the looks of her, I suspect she was not planning on staying in this world. Love, which was mutual, seems to have turned things around. Most of all, don't count the days. Throw the calender away. No one knows how long they will live so just live in the moment. Honest. It is difficult but you have taken the first step. Listen to the people on this list and follow your heart. Not everyone agrees and not everything works for everyone. The knowledge and comfort here is great. Blessings to you for caring for this little one. On Nov 10, 2009, at 3:38 PM, stargazer 12 wrote: A very good friend passed away her family didn't want the cat. Spicey has feline leukemia going on 2 years. I took the cat in have him in a spare room away from my cats. He has been on clavamox for about 1 yr per my friend. I am waiting on the vet to call to find out all the specifics. Is there any special food/vitamins/drugs to help? I know nothing of this disease. I have been during research says the cat should not be stressed. Unfortunately, Spicey has been stressed as his owner was in the hospital since last Tuesday. A neighbor was feeding him but he was hiding under the couch as he is very timid. And now he is in a strange place, so he has to be very stressed. It has been 3 hours he has not come out of his carrier, I do not know if he will be friendly with me but he has not hissed at all. I think I maybe taking on too much but in a small way I feel like I am keeping my friend alive too. Any ideas/suggestions/advice will be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Joyce Spicey EMAILING FOR THE GREATER GOOD Join me ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] introduction for Spicey
Joyce, you are an angel for giving Spicey a home - doing this for both Spicey and your friend. Do you have something of your friends that you can put in the room with him so something smells familiar? That might comfort him if you can do that. Does he have a good hiding place available in the room where you have him? Access to a window to look out? He will explore...he may wait until no one is around. He is getting accustomed to the smells and sounds of your house. Clavamox for a year is a long time. Wonder if you might be able to find another vet who knows about FeLV. I had two FeLV+ cats who lived to ages 16 and 22 years of age. Does he have symptoms - sneezing, runny eyes, snotty nose, diarrhea? I believe you will be blessed by this kitty in the same way that he has been blessed by you. Feed him the best food you can afford. Preferably a good canned food. My FeLV kitties weren't on any treatments or supplements. We did use interferon with another FeLV+ cat my niece rescued. She is the picture of health. She was quite sick when rescued (as an adult) but is maintaining well on interferon. We did have her on antibiotics for a brief time and pain killers and prednisone for about 1 1/2 years before transitioning to just interferon. Laurie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of stargazer 12 Sent: Tuesday, November 10, 2009 3:38 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: [Felvtalk] introduction for Spicey A very good friend passed away her family didn't want the cat. Spicey has feline leukemia going on 2 years. I took the cat in have him in a spare room away from my cats. He has been on clavamox for about 1 yr per my friend. I am waiting on the vet to call to find out all the specifics. Is there any special food/vitamins/drugs to help? I know nothing of this disease. I have been during research says the cat should not be stressed. Unfortunately, Spicey has been stressed as his owner was in the hospital since last Tuesday. A neighbor was feeding him but he was hiding under the couch as he is very timid. And now he is in a strange place, so he has to be very stressed. It has been 3 hours he has not come out of his carrier, I do not know if he will be friendly with me but he has not hissed at all. I think I maybe taking on too much but in a small way I feel like I am keeping my friend alive too. Any ideas/suggestions/advice will be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Joyce Spicey EMAILING FOR THE GREATER GOOD Join me ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] introduction for Spicey
Another thought: Watch Spicey's teeth and gums. Not right now obviously but when things settle down. Yes, you can get a cat used to having its mouth opened. Good dental practices are important. Dixie had stomatitis and we treated it with Petzlife Brush Away (put a little in the cat's mouth and he will spread it around). Regular gum/ teeth checks will help you catch any anemia problems. They hit Dixie suddenly. On Nov 10, 2009, at 4:41 PM, Laurieskatz wrote: Joyce, you are an angel for giving Spicey a home - doing this for both Spicey and your friend. Do you have something of your friends that you can put in the room with him so something smells familiar? That might comfort him if you can do that. Does he have a good hiding place available in the room where you have him? Access to a window to look out? He will explore...he may wait until no one is around. He is getting accustomed to the smells and sounds of your house. Clavamox for a year is a long time. Wonder if you might be able to find another vet who knows about FeLV. I had two FeLV+ cats who lived to ages 16 and 22 years of age. Does he have symptoms - sneezing, runny eyes, snotty nose, diarrhea? I believe you will be blessed by this kitty in the same way that he has been blessed by you. Feed him the best food you can afford. Preferably a good canned food. My FeLV kitties weren't on any treatments or supplements. We did use interferon with another FeLV+ cat my niece rescued. She is the picture of health. She was quite sick when rescued (as an adult) but is maintaining well on interferon. We did have her on antibiotics for a brief time and pain killers and prednisone for about 1 1/2 years before transitioning to just interferon. Laurie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of stargazer 12 Sent: Tuesday, November 10, 2009 3:38 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: [Felvtalk] introduction for Spicey A very good friend passed away her family didn't want the cat. Spicey has feline leukemia going on 2 years. I took the cat in have him in a spare room away from my cats. He has been on clavamox for about 1 yr per my friend. I am waiting on the vet to call to find out all the specifics. Is there any special food/vitamins/drugs to help? I know nothing of this disease. I have been during research says the cat should not be stressed. Unfortunately, Spicey has been stressed as his owner was in the hospital since last Tuesday. A neighbor was feeding him but he was hiding under the couch as he is very timid. And now he is in a strange place, so he has to be very stressed. It has been 3 hours he has not come out of his carrier, I do not know if he will be friendly with me but he has not hissed at all. I think I maybe taking on too much but in a small way I feel like I am keeping my friend alive too. Any ideas/suggestions/advice will be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Joyce Spicey EMAILING FOR THE GREATER GOOD Join me ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
