My Ethan was diagnosed (SNAP) + when he was rescued as a baby..... Needless to say, he would have been PTS immediately by rescuing. shelter, so I took him. My original intention was to place him in shelter I was involved with, since we are No-Kill, and house both Felv & FIV babies....However, I fell in love w/ him (it was mutual) & I gave him a home..... Also had him tested Elisa & IFA. Both positive.... Vet said he was most likely born w/ it... He was NEVER symptomatic, but at around 18 mos. he developed lymphoma & it was crushing his heart, (Mine too..) And sadly, since he was having so much trouble just to breathe, I did have him PTS. One of the saddest days of my life...... Now, at the shelter, we have MANY Felv+'s. All ages too. Most come to us because of their diagnosis, and at all diff. ages. And we do everything possible to help them. We have had many successes, like George, who is now approx. 15 & still going strong. And Snappy lived to about 10. However, we have lost (too) many at a young age........ At least they knew they were loved.... But dear , sweet Snappy was both Felv+ & FIV+, so he did have a good life..... (In fact, I believe ALL our Felv's & FIV's, and all other residents have a good life....) The shelter does everything for these babies....... That's why I became so involved w/ Felv... They are the sweetest creatures... Well, we do have some"nasty" ferals...(Like our Mr.Big- a Maine Coon who is approx. 12) But I think even they appreciate the care they are given.... I don't know if this information addressed your question, but I just had to share... One thing I learned is "Feline Leukemia is NOT a death sentence". Just wish everyone would agree to that.... Including vets & shelters.... Hugs, Patti & her gang
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