Hi Dianne, Welcome to the FeLV group, and although I'm sorry Asia has tested positive for FeLV, you have found the best place to be while dealing with this unpredictable disease.
I was surprised to read that Asia tested negative for FeLV last December. It's possible it was a false negative; they do happen. Has Asia been exposed to other cats since this test? As others have said, FeLV is not a death sentence. I like the way Phaewryn explained that FeLV isn't what's actually making kitty sick; it's what's stemming from her weakened immune system that needs to be addressed. It could be something simple like a cold; it could be anemia, which sometimes is treatable, but other times not; it could be lymphoma. No matter what it is, it's a VERY good sign that Asia is responding to the treatment she's been given so far and eating a little, drinking, and eliminating. Make sure Asia gets bloodwork done tomorrow, especially the red blood cell count, before you make any decisions. It might be Monday before you can get a full panel back, but they can do the RBC count on the spot, so get that done asap. If Asia is found to be anemic, which causes lethargy, make sure the vet gives her a (3 week I think) course of doxycycline, which is used to treat hemobartanella, a blood parasite. Hemobartanella is extremely hard to see on a test, so often times is missed and not treated, and left untreated, kitty is terminal. A course of the doxy will not hurt your baby but might save her as it has countless others from anemia. A great diet, supplements like Vitamin C and L-lysine (without additives, one of which causes blood issues in cats), and a stress-free environment are key to keeping the FeLV from affecting Asia's immune system. I have my kitties on Innova Evo food, dry and wet. It's a great food in my opinion. A lot of people here use it. No matter what, make sure you are getting food into Asia. Cats are not like other animals or people, who can go without food for two weeks or longer and still be alive. Cats, if they don't eat, get what is called Feline Lipidosis (fatty liver disease) and it is terminal if not treated. The fatter the cat, the quicker it can set in. Make sure you are getting food into her, even if you have to fight her. The A/D is GREAT stuff. I water it down some and make it creamy before syringe feeding. It has lots of calories. Keep fighting the good fight with the A/D. I hope the rest of your week gets better Dianne. I know it can be hard, the not knowing, but Asia will pick up on your panic and/or fear, so try to stay calm until you know what you're dealing with. Please keep us posted as to what happens tomorrow with the vet you choose for the second opinion. I would not waste any more money with the one who wanted to pts. Find one who is more up to date on FeLV. I called around and spoke with different vets to figure out who would work with me before I spent money on an office visit. Michelle's suggestion of an internist is a great idea. :) Wendy Dallas, TX P.S. I saw from your email addy that you're in Florida. My dad went to Fort Myers H.S. and they currently live in Naples. ____________________________________________________________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Everyone is raving about the all-new Yahoo! Mail beta. http://new.mail.yahoo.com
