Re: [Felvtalk] needing support
Hi Julie.I hope you're feeling a little more upbeat this morning after the good advice from the list yesterday. We can certainly relate to your anxiety. We adopted a brother and sister at 12 weeks, and after overcoming some socialization issues, we took them to be spayed/neutered at 6 months. In the pre-op bloodwork, it was discovered they were both FeLV positive. We were heartbroken, but came to this list for the advice you have received on good food, as little stress as possible,and to be on guard for the first signs of infection or abnormal health. The only time we have kept them apart has been immediately after their spay/neuter procedures for about 8 hours. They groom each other, tussle, and are together generally 24-7...of course, they are both positive, so this has colored our choice in that regard. However, you'll find plenty of others on the list who firmly believe they can be together with negative cats with no bad result. We have been giving each of our cats periodic injections of LTCI. Some on the list have used this with good results, others not so much. In consultation with our vet, and since our cats are asymptomatic, we feel it is having some positive effect on boosting their immune systems to keep them healthy. Perhaps they would be this healthy without it...we just don't know. They are now 15 months old and are both doing fine. We feed them a combination of Wellness dry, wet, and Radcat raw. Despite all the bad press out there, people here will reassure you that this diagnosis is not necessarily a death sentence. Check back with the list often. Many people have used various methods to keep their little ones healthy, and they are happy to share without thinking their method is the one and only. We're all looking for the same answers. Enjoy them, give them lots of love and attention and try to relax. If you have not established a good relationship with a vet who can support you, it's a good time to seek out that relationship. Very best wishes to you, Sara --Original Mail-- From: Julie Dalesio Gladnick juliegladn...@gmail.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Mon, 31 May 2010 19:26:55 -0700 Subject: [Felvtalk] needing support Hi there- I don't know if this is the right place, but I am hoping for some feedback. I recently adopted two kittens, a brother and sister. At 7 weeks, I had them tested for FeLV. The boy kitty is positive but the girl kitty is negative. Is that even possible? They have been living together for 7 weeks; wouldn't she be positive if he was at this point? I am taking them both in tomorrow so he can be re-tested with the IFA and she can be vaccinated. I am absolutely devastated. I am in love with both of these kitties and am looking for some hope. My boy kitty is active and playful, though he has had a little diarrhea today and is eating a little less. I'm totally freaked out. I am keeping the two apart, which is also killing me, because they are such a comfort for each other. Does anyone know what my odds are for his second test being negative? Is is weird that she's negative? If he is positive, do I have to keep them apart forever? If we have a baby and he is positive, do we have to get rid of him? I can't even bare thinking of all of this, as he snuggles on my tummy purring while I type. Any advice, support, guidance is sincerely appreciated. -- -Julie ___ 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] needing support
Hi, I think you are referring to Toxoplasmosis, I too wondered if perhaps Julie was misinformed and that was what she was referring to as I know of no reasons that any human being around an FELV+ cat is a problem. For anecdoctal value, I am somewhat immune compromised and have cared for a Toxo+ cat with no problems. I mentioned to my vet how sad it is, the # of people misinformed by their vets who think that pregnant women must get rid of their cats and she agreed--she is a very cautious person and has had 2 babies of her own in the last 3 years, she said she even scooped her own litterboxes (not to mention all she does at their cat only vet practice). She indicated that it takes something like 48 hrs. for toxo to even begin to develop after a cat has defecated (something like this) so it's mostly a risk for people who don't keep their boxes clean. Anyway, I would never want to steer anyone wrong so hopefully someone else will pipe in, but to my knowledge there is no reason for anyone, pregnant, baby or otherwise, to worry about being around an FELV+ kitty. Julie, you obviously care about these kitties very much and it is to be commended! I do resecue and all we seem to hear day in and day out is people who are NOT willing to even do the smallest thing to help a cat in need, let alone all you are doing. Wishing you the best with these special babies! Please do post the test results. Heather On Tue, Jun 1, 2010 at 12:24 AM, Tad Burnett tadburn...@vermontel.netwrote: There is a disease that pregnant women can get from the litter box cleaning... It is very rare and I think you have to stick your fingers in your mouth after handling litter in order to get it... I don't think it has anything to do with FeLV It can cause brain damage to the fetus if you should get it and that is why some doctors make such a big deal about it But if you wash your hands after cleaning litter box or wear gloves or even better get daddy to do litter duty than it is almost impossible that you will get it Tad Julie Dalesio Gladnick wrote: Hi Tad- Thank you so much for your supportive words. I am so sorry to hear about your girl kitty, but it certainly does bring some perspective and reality. I think I will take your advice and let them be together at least until the second test; they are so much happier. I guess my hesitancy is that I don't think I could deal if they both were positive. Then again, I never imagined dealing with either of them facing this. Do anyone have any info on pregnant woman or babies and FeLV cats? I've obviously read that they should not be together, but does anyone have actual experience? I've been finding that a lot of info online tends to be pretty negative. Thanks again, I feel truly grateful. On Mon, May 31, 2010 at 8:40 PM, Tad Burnett tadburn...@vermontel.net wrote: Hi Julie You have come to the right place... We all have a similar story to tell... Your story is exactly like mine.. Two black and white tux kittens.. Boy was pos and girl was neg... I didn't have room to separate them and the vet advised that she surely she had been exposed and she might be one of the few that have a strong natural immunity or else she wouldgo pos at some time later... Anyway she got vaccinated but not separated The 2 were very close and played together all the time.. I remember thinking how sad it was going to be when the pos one got sick and passed on leaving her As fate would have it the neg one stopped eating one evening after only a month... Took her to the vet 1st thing in the morning and she got some emergenct treatment but she died while still at the vets in the middle of the morning The vet said it was FIP... The point is there are many things that can take a cat early... My pos boy lived on for seven years... During his life I got hms several other pos kitties and most of the he out lived too... There is also a good chance that the 1st test is a false pos... Do get that 2nd test and we will all hope for the best... If it were me I would let the stay together... Keep them happy and no stress... Feed them a good quality food and have a vet that approves of keeping a pos kitty and will give you an appointment in very short time if you think something is wrong.. They may have a weak immune system and need antibiotics quickly... FeLV+ kitties seem to know that you are taking special care of them and are extra loving in return Tad Julie Dalesio Gladnick wrote: Hi there- I don't know if this is the right place, but I am hoping for some feedback. I recently adopted two kittens, a brother and sister. At 7 weeks, I had them tested for FeLV. The boy kitty is positive but the girl kitty is negative. Is that even possible? They have been living together for 7 weeks; wouldn't she be positive if he was at this point? I am taking them both in tomorrow so he can be re-tested with
Re: [Felvtalk] needing support
Oops, correction, people are often misinformed by their human doctors. My vet said she can't believe some of the things people tell her that their have doctors told them. On Tue, Jun 1, 2010 at 9:43 AM, Heather furrygi...@gmail.com wrote: Hi, I think you are referring to Toxoplasmosis, I too wondered if perhaps Julie was misinformed and that was what she was referring to as I know of no reasons that any human being around an FELV+ cat is a problem. For anecdoctal value, I am somewhat immune compromised and have cared for a Toxo+ cat with no problems. I mentioned to my vet how sad it is, the # of people misinformed by their vets who think that pregnant women must get rid of their cats and she agreed--she is a very cautious person and has had 2 babies of her own in the last 3 years, she said she even scooped her own litterboxes (not to mention all she does at their cat only vet practice). She indicated that it takes something like 48 hrs. for toxo to even begin to develop after a cat has defecated (something like this) so it's mostly a risk for people who don't keep their boxes clean. Anyway, I would never want to steer anyone wrong so hopefully someone else will pipe in, but to my knowledge there is no reason for anyone, pregnant, baby or otherwise, to worry about being around an FELV+ kitty. Julie, you obviously care about these kitties very much and it is to be commended! I do resecue and all we seem to hear day in and day out is people who are NOT willing to even do the smallest thing to help a cat in need, let alone all you are doing. Wishing you the best with these special babies! Please do post the test results. Heather On Tue, Jun 1, 2010 at 12:24 AM, Tad Burnett tadburn...@vermontel.netwrote: There is a disease that pregnant women can get from the litter box cleaning... It is very rare and I think you have to stick your fingers in your mouth after handling litter in order to get it... I don't think it has anything to do with FeLV It can cause brain damage to the fetus if you should get it and that is why some doctors make such a big deal about it But if you wash your hands after cleaning litter box or wear gloves or even better get daddy to do litter duty than it is almost impossible that you will get it Tad Julie Dalesio Gladnick wrote: Hi Tad- Thank you so much for your supportive words. I am so sorry to hear about your girl kitty, but it certainly does bring some perspective and reality. I think I will take your advice and let them be together at least until the second test; they are so much happier. I guess my hesitancy is that I don't think I could deal if they both were positive. Then again, I never imagined dealing with either of them facing this. Do anyone have any info on pregnant woman or babies and FeLV cats? I've obviously read that they should not be together, but does anyone have actual experience? I've been finding that a lot of info online tends to be pretty negative. Thanks again, I feel truly grateful. On Mon, May 31, 2010 at 8:40 PM, Tad Burnett tadburn...@vermontel.net wrote: Hi Julie You have come to the right place... We all have a similar story to tell... Your story is exactly like mine.. Two black and white tux kittens.. Boy was pos and girl was neg... I didn't have room to separate them and the vet advised that she surely she had been exposed and she might be one of the few that have a strong natural immunity or else she wouldgo pos at some time later... Anyway she got vaccinated but not separated The 2 were very close and played together all the time.. I remember thinking how sad it was going to be when the pos one got sick and passed on leaving her As fate would have it the neg one stopped eating one evening after only a month... Took her to the vet 1st thing in the morning and she got some emergenct treatment but she died while still at the vets in the middle of the morning The vet said it was FIP... The point is there are many things that can take a cat early... My pos boy lived on for seven years... During his life I got hms several other pos kitties and most of the he out lived too... There is also a good chance that the 1st test is a false pos... Do get that 2nd test and we will all hope for the best... If it were me I would let the stay together... Keep them happy and no stress... Feed them a good quality food and have a vet that approves of keeping a pos kitty and will give you an appointment in very short time if you think something is wrong.. They may have a weak immune system and need antibiotics quickly... FeLV+ kitties seem to know that you are taking special care of them and are extra loving in return Tad Julie Dalesio Gladnick wrote: Hi there- I don't know if this is the right place, but I am hoping for some feedback. I recently adopted two kittens, a brother and sister. At 7 weeks,
Re: [Felvtalk] needing support
Thank you so much, Sarah and Heather- Everyone's posts have really helped me, though I am still so worried about both Max and Maggie. It seems like I'm hypervigilant to everything he does. He sneezed twice in 24 hours and I'm freaked out. It's amazing how attached we can get to these furry people so quickly. Thank you everyone for your words of encouragement, experience, thoughts and prayers. We are getting the IFA test this afternoon for Max, so I imagine I will have the results in a couple of days. I will certainly keep you all posted. Warmest regards, Julie On Tue, Jun 1, 2010 at 6:44 AM, Heather furrygi...@gmail.com wrote: Oops, correction, people are often misinformed by their human doctors. My vet said she can't believe some of the things people tell her that their have doctors told them. On Tue, Jun 1, 2010 at 9:43 AM, Heather furrygi...@gmail.com wrote: Hi, I think you are referring to Toxoplasmosis, I too wondered if perhaps Julie was misinformed and that was what she was referring to as I know of no reasons that any human being around an FELV+ cat is a problem. For anecdoctal value, I am somewhat immune compromised and have cared for a Toxo+ cat with no problems. I mentioned to my vet how sad it is, the # of people misinformed by their vets who think that pregnant women must get rid of their cats and she agreed--she is a very cautious person and has had 2 babies of her own in the last 3 years, she said she even scooped her own litterboxes (not to mention all she does at their cat only vet practice). She indicated that it takes something like 48 hrs. for toxo to even begin to develop after a cat has defecated (something like this) so it's mostly a risk for people who don't keep their boxes clean. Anyway, I would never want to steer anyone wrong so hopefully someone else will pipe in, but to my knowledge there is no reason for anyone, pregnant, baby or otherwise, to worry about being around an FELV+ kitty. Julie, you obviously care about these kitties very much and it is to be commended! I do resecue and all we seem to hear day in and day out is people who are NOT willing to even do the smallest thing to help a cat in need, let alone all you are doing. Wishing you the best with these special babies! Please do post the test results. Heather On Tue, Jun 1, 2010 at 12:24 AM, Tad Burnett tadburn...@vermontel.net wrote: There is a disease that pregnant women can get from the litter box cleaning... It is very rare and I think you have to stick your fingers in your mouth after handling litter in order to get it... I don't think it has anything to do with FeLV It can cause brain damage to the fetus if you should get it and that is why some doctors make such a big deal about it But if you wash your hands after cleaning litter box or wear gloves or even better get daddy to do litter duty than it is almost impossible that you will get it Tad Julie Dalesio Gladnick wrote: Hi Tad- Thank you so much for your supportive words. I am so sorry to hear about your girl kitty, but it certainly does bring some perspective and reality. I think I will take your advice and let them be together at least until the second test; they are so much happier. I guess my hesitancy is that I don't think I could deal if they both were positive. Then again, I never imagined dealing with either of them facing this. Do anyone have any info on pregnant woman or babies and FeLV cats? I've obviously read that they should not be together, but does anyone have actual experience? I've been finding that a lot of info online tends to be pretty negative. Thanks again, I feel truly grateful. On Mon, May 31, 2010 at 8:40 PM, Tad Burnett tadburn...@vermontel.net wrote: Hi Julie You have come to the right place... We all have a similar story to tell... Your story is exactly like mine.. Two black and white tux kittens.. Boy was pos and girl was neg... I didn't have room to separate them and the vet advised that she surely she had been exposed and she might be one of the few that have a strong natural immunity or else she wouldgo pos at some time later... Anyway she got vaccinated but not separated The 2 were very close and played together all the time.. I remember thinking how sad it was going to be when the pos one got sick and passed on leaving her As fate would have it the neg one stopped eating one evening after only a month... Took her to the vet 1st thing in the morning and she got some emergenct treatment but she died while still at the vets in the middle of the morning The vet said it was FIP... The point is there are many things that can take a cat early... My pos boy lived on for seven years... During his life I got hms several other pos kitties and most of the he out
Re: [Felvtalk] needing support
Next time a doc warns you of some possibility of an off the wall disease that you could get ask him if the risk is greater or less than the risk of you getting hurt in an automobile accident while driving to his office He probably won't give you an answer but watch the expression on his face... The risk in a car accident is hundreds or thousands of time more likely than many things that we worry about... Tad Heather wrote: Oops, correction, people are often misinformed by their human doctors. My vet said she can't believe some of the things people tell her that their have doctors told them. On Tue, Jun 1, 2010 at 9:43 AM, Heather furrygi...@gmail.com wrote: Hi, I think you are referring to Toxoplasmosis, I too wondered if perhaps Julie was misinformed and that was what she was referring to as I know of no reasons that any human being around an FELV+ cat is a problem. For anecdoctal value, I am somewhat immune compromised and have cared for a Toxo+ cat with no problems. I mentioned to my vet how sad it is, the # of people misinformed by their vets who think that pregnant women must get rid of their cats and she agreed--she is a very cautious person and has had 2 babies of her own in the last 3 years, she said she even scooped her own litterboxes (not to mention all she does at their cat only vet practice). She indicated that it takes something like 48 hrs. for toxo to even begin to develop after a cat has defecated (something like this) so it's mostly a risk for people who don't keep their boxes clean. Anyway, I would never want to steer anyone wrong so hopefully someone else will pipe in, but to my knowledge there is no reason for anyone, pregnant, baby or otherwise, to worry about being around an FELV+ kitty. Julie, you obviously care about these kitties very much and it is to be commended! I do resecue and all we seem to hear day in and day out is people who are NOT willing to even do the smallest thing to help a cat in need, let alone all you are doing. Wishing you the best with these special babies! Please do post the test results. Heather On Tue, Jun 1, 2010 at 12:24 AM, Tad Burnett tadburn...@vermontel.netwrote: There is a disease that pregnant women can get from the litter box cleaning... It is very rare and I think you have to stick your fingers in your mouth after handling litter in order to get it... I don't think it has anything to do with FeLV It can cause brain damage to the fetus if you should get it and that is why some doctors make such a big deal about it But if you wash your hands after cleaning litter box or wear gloves or even better get daddy to do litter duty than it is almost impossible that you will get it Tad Julie Dalesio Gladnick wrote: Hi Tad- Thank you so much for your supportive words. I am so sorry to hear about your girl kitty, but it certainly does bring some perspective and reality. I think I will take your advice and let them be together at least until the second test; they are so much happier. I guess my hesitancy is that I don't think I could deal if they both were positive. Then again, I never imagined dealing with either of them facing this. Do anyone have any info on pregnant woman or babies and FeLV cats? I've obviously read that they should not be together, but does anyone have actual experience? I've been finding that a lot of info online tends to be pretty negative. Thanks again, I feel truly grateful. On Mon, May 31, 2010 at 8:40 PM, Tad Burnett tadburn...@vermontel.net wrote: Hi Julie You have come to the right place... We all have a similar story to tell... Your story is exactly like mine.. Two black and white tux kittens.. Boy was pos and girl was neg... I didn't have room to separate them and the vet advised that she surely she had been exposed and she might be one of the few that have a strong natural immunity or else she wouldgo pos at some time later... Anyway she got vaccinated but not separated The 2 were very close and played together all the time.. I remember thinking how sad it was going to be when the pos one got sick and passed on leaving her As fate would have it the neg one stopped eating one evening after only a month... Took her to the vet 1st thing in the morning and she got some emergenct treatment but she died while still at the vets in the middle of the morning The vet said it was FIP... The point is there are many things that can take a cat early... My pos boy lived on for seven years... During his life I got hms several other pos kitties and most of the he out lived too... There is also a good chance that the 1st test is a false pos... Do get that 2nd test and we will all hope for the best... If it were me I would let the stay together... Keep them happy and no stress... Feed them a good quality food and have a vet that approves of keeping a pos kitty and will give you an appointment in very short time if you think
Re: [Felvtalk] needing support
Good one! Sent from my iPhone On Jun 1, 2010, at 9:42 AM, Tad Burnett tadburn...@vermontel.net wrote: Next time a doc warns you of some possibility of an off the wall disease that you could get ask him if the risk is greater or less than the risk of you getting hurt in an automobile accident while driving to his office He probably won't give you an answer but watch the expression on his face... The risk in a car accident is hundreds or thousands of time more likely than many things that we worry about... Tad Heather wrote: Oops, correction, people are often misinformed by their human doctors. My vet said she can't believe some of the things people tell her that their have doctors told them. On Tue, Jun 1, 2010 at 9:43 AM, Heather furrygi...@gmail.com wrote: Hi, I think you are referring to Toxoplasmosis, I too wondered if perhaps Julie was misinformed and that was what she was referring to as I know of no reasons that any human being around an FELV+ cat is a problem. For anecdoctal value, I am somewhat immune compromised and have cared for a Toxo+ cat with no problems. I mentioned to my vet how sad it is, the # of people misinformed by their vets who think that pregnant women must get rid of their cats and she agreed--she is a very cautious person and has had 2 babies of her own in the last 3 years, she said she even scooped her own litterboxes (not to mention all she does at their cat only vet practice). She indicated that it takes something like 48 hrs. for toxo to even begin to develop after a cat has defecated (something like this) so it's mostly a risk for people who don't keep their boxes clean. Anyway, I would never want to steer anyone wrong so hopefully someone else will pipe in, but to my knowledge there is no reason for anyone, pregnant, baby or otherwise, to worry about being around an FELV+ kitty. Julie, you obviously care about these kitties very much and it is to be commended! I do resecue and all we seem to hear day in and day out is people who are NOT willing to even do the smallest thing to help a cat in need, let alone all you are doing. Wishing you the best with these special babies! Please do post the test results. Heather On Tue, Jun 1, 2010 at 12:24 AM, Tad Burnett tadburn...@vermontel.net wrote: There is a disease that pregnant women can get from the litter box cleaning... It is very rare and I think you have to stick your fingers in your mouth after handling litter in order to get it... I don't think it has anything to do with FeLV It can cause brain damage to the fetus if you should get it and that is why some doctors make such a big deal about it But if you wash your hands after cleaning litter box or wear gloves or even better get daddy to do litter duty than it is almost impossible that you will get it Tad Julie Dalesio Gladnick wrote: Hi Tad- Thank you so much for your supportive words. I am so sorry to hear about your girl kitty, but it certainly does bring some perspective and reality. I think I will take your advice and let them be together at least until the second test; they are so much happier. I guess my hesitancy is that I don't think I could deal if they both were positive. Then again, I never imagined dealing with either of them facing this. Do anyone have any info on pregnant woman or babies and FeLV cats? I've obviously read that they should not be together, but does anyone have actual experience? I've been finding that a lot of info online tends to be pretty negative. Thanks again, I feel truly grateful. On Mon, May 31, 2010 at 8:40 PM, Tad Burnett tadburn...@vermontel.net wrote: Hi Julie You have come to the right place... We all have a similar story to tell... Your story is exactly like mine.. Two black and white tux kittens.. Boy was pos and girl was neg... I didn't have room to separate them and the vet advised that she surely she had been exposed and she might be one of the few that have a strong natural immunity or else she wouldgo pos at some time later... Anyway she got vaccinated but not separated The 2 were very close and played together all the time.. I remember thinking how sad it was going to be when the pos one got sick and passed on leaving her As fate would have it the neg one stopped eating one evening after only a month... Took her to the vet 1st thing in the morning and she got some emergenct treatment but she died while still at the vets in the middle of the morning The vet said it was FIP... The point is there are many things that can take a cat early... My pos boy lived on for seven years... During his life I got hms several other pos kitties and most of the he out lived too... There is also a good chance that the 1st test is a false pos... Do get that 2nd test and we will all hope for the best... If it were me I would let the stay together... Keep
Re: [Felvtalk] needing support
Hi everyone. Max has had really soft stool for the past 24 hours and Maggie had a little bit of diarrhea with blood on it this morning (she's the one who tested negative). They can't give Maggie the vaccination today bc of the diarhea but will test max with the ifa. I'm creaking out. I'm bringing in both stool samples today. They had their distemper vaccs and were deepened last Thursday. This just isn't right. They are both full of energy and eating well. On Jun 1, 2010 7:58 AM, Gloria Lane gbl...@aristotle.net wrote: Good one! Sent from my iPhone On Jun 1, 2010, at 9:42 AM, Tad Burnett tadburn...@vermontel.net wrote: Next time a doc warns... ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] needing support
Hi there- I don't know if this is the right place, but I am hoping for some feedback. I recently adopted two kittens, a brother and sister. At 7 weeks, I had them tested for FeLV. The boy kitty is positive but the girl kitty is negative. Is that even possible? They have been living together for 7 weeks; wouldn't she be positive if he was at this point? I am taking them both in tomorrow so he can be re-tested with the IFA and she can be vaccinated. I am absolutely devastated. I am in love with both of these kitties and am looking for some hope. My boy kitty is active and playful, though he has had a little diarrhea today and is eating a little less. I'm totally freaked out. I am keeping the two apart, which is also killing me, because they are such a comfort for each other. Does anyone know what my odds are for his second test being negative? Is is weird that she's negative? If he is positive, do I have to keep them apart forever? If we have a baby and he is positive, do we have to get rid of him? I can't even bare thinking of all of this, as he snuggles on my tummy purring while I type. Any advice, support, guidance is sincerely appreciated. -- -Julie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] needing support
Julie, I, too, freaked out when I found out my new kitty was positive. She lives in a my household with 4 other cats and as far as I know, none of the others have been infected. I do get each one of them (except for the + one) FeLV boosted every year. She's now 4 years old and is a fun, playful cat with no signs of sickness. You need to just try to relax because you may not have that much need for concern. If you get the girl vaccinated and then boosted every year, they may be able to live together for the rest of their lives. His second test could be negative. She may be negative because there wasn't that much physical contact between the two? Mine, that is FeLV positive, played intensely with one of my young boy kitties and he tested positive; however, I kept them separated and 6 weeks later, he tested negative and, as far as I know, he is still negative. This was 4 years ago and my healthy ones show no signs of disease. Good luck and try not to get too upset. Just relax and enjoy them. Kathi Date: Mon, 31 May 2010 19:26:55 -0700 From: juliegladn...@gmail.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: [Felvtalk] needing support Hi there- I don't know if this is the right place, but I am hoping for some feedback. I recently adopted two kittens, a brother and sister. At 7 weeks, I had them tested for FeLV. The boy kitty is positive but the girl kitty is negative. Is that even possible? They have been living together for 7 weeks; wouldn't she be positive if he was at this point? I am taking them both in tomorrow so he can be re-tested with the IFA and she can be vaccinated. I am absolutely devastated. I am in love with both of these kitties and am looking for some hope. My boy kitty is active and playful, though he has had a little diarrhea today and is eating a little less. I'm totally freaked out. I am keeping the two apart, which is also killing me, because they are such a comfort for each other. Does anyone know what my odds are for his second test being negative? Is is weird that she's negative? If he is positive, do I have to keep them apart forever? If we have a baby and he is positive, do we have to get rid of him? I can't even bare thinking of all of this, as he snuggles on my tummy purring while I type. Any advice, support, guidance is sincerely appreciated. -- -Julie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org _ The New Busy is not the old busy. Search, chat and e-mail from your inbox. http://www.windowslive.com/campaign/thenewbusy?ocid=PID28326::T:WLMTAGL:ON:WL:en-US:WM_HMP:042010_3 ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] needing support
Thank you so much, Kathi- I'm needing as much support as I can get. I love these two more than anything and can't stand thinking about them in pain. Yes, they have been playing and grooming each other for 7 weeks; I'm hoping that the test was faulty, because if not, it sounds like Maggie will soon be infected, as well. I can't stand waiting, yet that's all I seem to be able to do right now. I have them separated currently, as well, which both they and me are hating. Thanks again for your support. On Mon, May 31, 2010 at 8:05 PM, Kathi Clark kathi_cl...@hotmail.comwrote: Julie, I, too, freaked out when I found out my new kitty was positive. She lives in a my household with 4 other cats and as far as I know, none of the others have been infected. I do get each one of them (except for the + one) FeLV boosted every year. She's now 4 years old and is a fun, playful cat with no signs of sickness. You need to just try to relax because you may not have that much need for concern. If you get the girl vaccinated and then boosted every year, they may be able to live together for the rest of their lives. His second test could be negative. She may be negative because there wasn't that much physical contact between the two? Mine, that is FeLV positive, played intensely with one of my young boy kitties and he tested positive; however, I kept them separated and 6 weeks later, he tested negative and, as far as I know, he is still negative. This was 4 years ago and my healthy ones show no signs of disease. Good luck and try not to get too upset. Just relax and enjoy them. Kathi Date: Mon, 31 May 2010 19:26:55 -0700 From: juliegladn...@gmail.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: [Felvtalk] needing support Hi there- I don't know if this is the right place, but I am hoping for some feedback. I recently adopted two kittens, a brother and sister. At 7 weeks, I had them tested for FeLV. The boy kitty is positive but the girl kitty is negative. Is that even possible? They have been living together for 7 weeks; wouldn't she be positive if he was at this point? I am taking them both in tomorrow so he can be re-tested with the IFA and she can be vaccinated. I am absolutely devastated. I am in love with both of these kitties and am looking for some hope. My boy kitty is active and playful, though he has had a little diarrhea today and is eating a little less. I'm totally freaked out. I am keeping the two apart, which is also killing me, because they are such a comfort for each other. Does anyone know what my odds are for his second test being negative? Is is weird that she's negative? If he is positive, do I have to keep them apart forever? If we have a baby and he is positive, do we have to get rid of him? I can't even bare thinking of all of this, as he snuggles on my tummy purring while I type. Any advice, support, guidance is sincerely appreciated. -- -Julie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org _ The New Busy is not the old busy. Search, chat and e-mail from your inbox. http://www.windowslive.com/campaign/thenewbusy?ocid=PID28326::T:WLMTAGL:ON:WL:en-US:WM_HMP:042010_3 ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org -- -Julie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] needing support
You are definitely in the right place! You'll get lots of good ideas here... As someone owned by 3 FELV - 1 FELV+ cat, I can understand how frightening this all is. My Tucson is 8 + years old I've had her since she's a kitten. I never seperated them no one has turned pos in all these years. My Tucson had a neg Elissa (snap) test when she was a kitten had pos 4 years later--go figure! I had one other cat, Romeo, who I took in after feeding him as a stray for a couple of years. He was the oldest cat lived w. me for several years, healthy happy--sadly he succumbed to lymphoma last fall. You might want to wait a bit for the IFA--its always possible he fights the virus off. As for risk to humans, there is absolutely none. FELV is a virus that suppresses cat's immune system--pos cats don't ever die from the virus but they are much more prone to succumb to any sort of infections or some forms of cancer. W. kittens, the riskiest things are upper respiratory or urine tract infections or gum infections, etc. There are folks on this group who have used interferon some other experimental drugs. I have not though when my Tucson has had a couple of bouts with really low white blood cell counts, my vet gave her some shots of immuno regulin. Tucson could never handle more invasive sorts of treatments--its just her personality. I give them all some decent food, they're all inside cats other than the occasional tussles among each other, they lead a pretty stress free life! -Original Message- From: Julie Dalesio Gladnick juliegladn...@gmail.com Sent: May 31, 2010 10:26 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: [Felvtalk] needing support Hi there- I don't know if this is the right place, but I am hoping for some feedback. I recently adopted two kittens, a brother and sister. At 7 weeks, I had them tested for FeLV. The boy kitty is positive but the girl kitty is negative. Is that even possible? They have been living together for 7 weeks; wouldn't she be positive if he was at this point? I am taking them both in tomorrow so he can be re-tested with the IFA and she can be vaccinated. I am absolutely devastated. I am in love with both of these kitties and am looking for some hope. My boy kitty is active and playful, though he has had a little diarrhea today and is eating a little less. I'm totally freaked out. I am keeping the two apart, which is also killing me, because they are such a comfort for each other. Does anyone know what my odds are for his second test being negative? Is is weird that she's negative? If he is positive, do I have to keep them apart forever? If we have a baby and he is positive, do we have to get rid of him? I can't even bare thinking of all of this, as he snuggles on my tummy purring while I type. Any advice, support, guidance is sincerely appreciated. -- -Julie ___ 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] needing support
There is no rhyme or reason for who fights the virus off who doesn't... Don't assume she'll automatically become positive. My youngest 2 cats were with my Tucson as kittens before I knew she was positive. They were kittens from the street though not in horrendous shape, they hadn't eaten the best of food had the best of lives when they were out there. They shared litter boxes, ate out of each other's dishes, groomed each other, etc neither caught the virus. Its not as easily transmitted as some of the literature says--though clearly, a kitten is much more vulnurable. Basically, FELV is not an automatic death sentence. I've had 2 who proved that. But again, any infection can take kittens... -Original Message- From: Julie Dalesio Gladnick juliegladn...@gmail.com Sent: May 31, 2010 11:10 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] needing support Thank you so much, Kathi- I'm needing as much support as I can get. I love these two more than anything and can't stand thinking about them in pain. Yes, they have been playing and grooming each other for 7 weeks; I'm hoping that the test was faulty, because if not, it sounds like Maggie will soon be infected, as well. I can't stand waiting, yet that's all I seem to be able to do right now. I have them separated currently, as well, which both they and me are hating. Thanks again for your support. On Mon, May 31, 2010 at 8:05 PM, Kathi Clark kathi_cl...@hotmail.comwrote: Julie, I, too, freaked out when I found out my new kitty was positive. She lives in a my household with 4 other cats and as far as I know, none of the others have been infected. I do get each one of them (except for the + one) FeLV boosted every year. She's now 4 years old and is a fun, playful cat with no signs of sickness. You need to just try to relax because you may not have that much need for concern. If you get the girl vaccinated and then boosted every year, they may be able to live together for the rest of their lives. His second test could be negative. She may be negative because there wasn't that much physical contact between the two? Mine, that is FeLV positive, played intensely with one of my young boy kitties and he tested positive; however, I kept them separated and 6 weeks later, he tested negative and, as far as I know, he is still negative. This was 4 years ago and my healthy ones show no signs of disease. Good luck and try not to get too upset. Just relax and enjoy them. Kathi Date: Mon, 31 May 2010 19:26:55 -0700 From: juliegladn...@gmail.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: [Felvtalk] needing support Hi there- I don't know if this is the right place, but I am hoping for some feedback. I recently adopted two kittens, a brother and sister. At 7 weeks, I had them tested for FeLV. The boy kitty is positive but the girl kitty is negative. Is that even possible? They have been living together for 7 weeks; wouldn't she be positive if he was at this point? I am taking them both in tomorrow so he can be re-tested with the IFA and she can be vaccinated. I am absolutely devastated. I am in love with both of these kitties and am looking for some hope. My boy kitty is active and playful, though he has had a little diarrhea today and is eating a little less. I'm totally freaked out. I am keeping the two apart, which is also killing me, because they are such a comfort for each other. Does anyone know what my odds are for his second test being negative? Is is weird that she's negative? If he is positive, do I have to keep them apart forever? If we have a baby and he is positive, do we have to get rid of him? I can't even bare thinking of all of this, as he snuggles on my tummy purring while I type. Any advice, support, guidance is sincerely appreciated. -- -Julie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org _ The New Busy is not the old busy. Search, chat and e-mail from your inbox. http://www.windowslive.com/campaign/thenewbusy?ocid=PID28326::T:WLMTAGL:ON:WL:en-US:WM_HMP:042010_3 ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org -- -Julie ___ 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] needing support
Hi Chris, Again, thank you for your support and experience. I had cats all my life growing up, and this is my first experience with FELV, so I am certainly still learning. I certainly am waiting (and praying) for the IFA tomorrow. He's a tough little guy and I have to keep believing in him. Do you think I should keep the kittens away from each other? I feel like they hate it; they have been together every day since this morning. I'm not sure one day will change all of the exposure they've already had with each other, but I'm still afraid of risking her getting infected. Thanks again; Wish I had found the group 3 days ago! On Mon, May 31, 2010 at 8:12 PM, Chris ti...@mindspring.com wrote: You are definitely in the right place! You'll get lots of good ideas here... As someone owned by 3 FELV - 1 FELV+ cat, I can understand how frightening this all is. My Tucson is 8 + years old I've had her since she's a kitten. I never seperated them no one has turned pos in all these years. My Tucson had a neg Elissa (snap) test when she was a kitten had pos 4 years later--go figure! I had one other cat, Romeo, who I took in after feeding him as a stray for a couple of years. He was the oldest cat lived w. me for several years, healthy happy--sadly he succumbed to lymphoma last fall. You might want to wait a bit for the IFA--its always possible he fights the virus off. As for risk to humans, there is absolutely none. FELV is a virus that suppresses cat's immune system--pos cats don't ever die from the virus but they are much more prone to succumb to any sort of infections or some forms of cancer. W. kittens, the riskiest things are upper respiratory or urine tract infections or gum infections, etc. There are folks on this group who have used interferon some other experimental drugs. I have not though when my Tucson has had a couple of bouts with really low white blood cell counts, my vet gave her some shots of immuno regulin. Tucson could never handle more invasive sorts of treatments--its just her personality. I give them all some decent food, they're all inside cats other than the occasional tussles among each other, they lead a pretty stress free life! -Original Message- From: Julie Dalesio Gladnick juliegladn...@gmail.com Sent: May 31, 2010 10:26 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: [Felvtalk] needing support Hi there- I don't know if this is the right place, but I am hoping for some feedback. I recently adopted two kittens, a brother and sister. At 7 weeks, I had them tested for FeLV. The boy kitty is positive but the girl kitty is negative. Is that even possible? They have been living together for 7 weeks; wouldn't she be positive if he was at this point? I am taking them both in tomorrow so he can be re-tested with the IFA and she can be vaccinated. I am absolutely devastated. I am in love with both of these kitties and am looking for some hope. My boy kitty is active and playful, though he has had a little diarrhea today and is eating a little less. I'm totally freaked out. I am keeping the two apart, which is also killing me, because they are such a comfort for each other. Does anyone know what my odds are for his second test being negative? Is is weird that she's negative? If he is positive, do I have to keep them apart forever? If we have a baby and he is positive, do we have to get rid of him? I can't even bare thinking of all of this, as he snuggles on my tummy purring while I type. Any advice, support, guidance is sincerely appreciated. -- -Julie ___ 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 -- -Julie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] needing support
Hi Julie You have come to the right place... We all have a similar story to tell... Your story is exactly like mine.. Two black and white tux kittens.. Boy was pos and girl was neg... I didn't have room to separate them and the vet advised that she surely she had been exposed and she might be one of the few that have a strong natural immunity or else she wouldgo pos at some time later... Anyway she got vaccinated but not separated The 2 were very close and played together all the time.. I remember thinking how sad it was going to be when the pos one got sick and passed on leaving her As fate would have it the neg one stopped eating one evening after only a month... Took her to the vet 1st thing in the morning and she got some emergenct treatment but she died while still at the vets in the middle of the morning The vet said it was FIP... The point is there are many things that can take a cat early... My pos boy lived on for seven years... During his life I got hms several other pos kitties and most of the he out lived too... There is also a good chance that the 1st test is a false pos... Do get that 2nd test and we will all hope for the best... If it were me I would let the stay together... Keep them happy and no stress... Feed them a good quality food and have a vet that approves of keeping a pos kitty and will give you an appointment in very short time if you think something is wrong.. They may have a weak immune system and need antibiotics quickly... FeLV+ kitties seem to know that you are taking special care of them and are extra loving in return Tad Julie Dalesio Gladnick wrote: Hi there- I don't know if this is the right place, but I am hoping for some feedback. I recently adopted two kittens, a brother and sister. At 7 weeks, I had them tested for FeLV. The boy kitty is positive but the girl kitty is negative. Is that even possible? They have been living together for 7 weeks; wouldn't she be positive if he was at this point? I am taking them both in tomorrow so he can be re-tested with the IFA and she can be vaccinated. I am absolutely devastated. I am in love with both of these kitties and am looking for some hope. My boy kitty is active and playful, though he has had a little diarrhea today and is eating a little less. I'm totally freaked out. I am keeping the two apart, which is also killing me, because they are such a comfort for each other. Does anyone know what my odds are for his second test being negative? Is is weird that she's negative? If he is positive, do I have to keep them apart forever? If we have a baby and he is positive, do we have to get rid of him? I can't even bare thinking of all of this, as he snuggles on my tummy purring while I type. Any advice, support, guidance is sincerely appreciated. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] needing support
Hi Tad- Thank you so much for your supportive words. I am so sorry to hear about your girl kitty, but it certainly does bring some perspective and reality. I think I will take your advice and let them be together at least until the second test; they are so much happier. I guess my hesitancy is that I don't think I could deal if they both were positive. Then again, I never imagined dealing with either of them facing this. Do anyone have any info on pregnant woman or babies and FeLV cats? I've obviously read that they should not be together, but does anyone have actual experience? I've been finding that a lot of info online tends to be pretty negative. Thanks again, I feel truly grateful. On Mon, May 31, 2010 at 8:40 PM, Tad Burnett tadburn...@vermontel.netwrote: Hi Julie You have come to the right place... We all have a similar story to tell... Your story is exactly like mine.. Two black and white tux kittens.. Boy was pos and girl was neg... I didn't have room to separate them and the vet advised that she surely she had been exposed and she might be one of the few that have a strong natural immunity or else she wouldgo pos at some time later... Anyway she got vaccinated but not separated The 2 were very close and played together all the time.. I remember thinking how sad it was going to be when the pos one got sick and passed on leaving her As fate would have it the neg one stopped eating one evening after only a month... Took her to the vet 1st thing in the morning and she got some emergenct treatment but she died while still at the vets in the middle of the morning The vet said it was FIP... The point is there are many things that can take a cat early... My pos boy lived on for seven years... During his life I got hms several other pos kitties and most of the he out lived too... There is also a good chance that the 1st test is a false pos... Do get that 2nd test and we will all hope for the best... If it were me I would let the stay together... Keep them happy and no stress... Feed them a good quality food and have a vet that approves of keeping a pos kitty and will give you an appointment in very short time if you think something is wrong.. They may have a weak immune system and need antibiotics quickly... FeLV+ kitties seem to know that you are taking special care of them and are extra loving in return Tad Julie Dalesio Gladnick wrote: Hi there- I don't know if this is the right place, but I am hoping for some feedback. I recently adopted two kittens, a brother and sister. At 7 weeks, I had them tested for FeLV. The boy kitty is positive but the girl kitty is negative. Is that even possible? They have been living together for 7 weeks; wouldn't she be positive if he was at this point? I am taking them both in tomorrow so he can be re-tested with the IFA and she can be vaccinated. I am absolutely devastated. I am in love with both of these kitties and am looking for some hope. My boy kitty is active and playful, though he has had a little diarrhea today and is eating a little less. I'm totally freaked out. I am keeping the two apart, which is also killing me, because they are such a comfort for each other. Does anyone know what my odds are for his second test being negative? Is is weird that she's negative? If he is positive, do I have to keep them apart forever? If we have a baby and he is positive, do we have to get rid of him? I can't even bare thinking of all of this, as he snuggles on my tummy purring while I type. Any advice, support, guidance is sincerely appreciated. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org -- -Julie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] needing support
Julie, you've gotten some great advice here already, but just one more thing I don't think anyone has mentioned at length: your boy is asymptomatic now, and that's great. But as has been mentioned, he is more liable to pick up opportunistic infections and the like, and they may be likely to hit him harder than they would a negative cat. Since stress and poor nutrition make basically every living thing more vulnerable, the best thing you can do for him is get him the best foods and the most stress-free circumstances you can, and that comes back to the issue of separating them. I don't think that is at all the way to go, since they are so fond of each other that separating them would be a major stressor for him. I think that separating them now won't keep her from getting infected -- I think if she were going to, the time they've spent together already would have made it happen. Good luck with your babies, and wishes that they both stay healthy indefiinitely. Diane -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Julie Dalesio Gladnick Sent: Monday, May 31, 2010 11:02 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] needing support Hi Tad- Thank you so much for your supportive words. I am so sorry to hear about your girl kitty, but it certainly does bring some perspective and reality. I think I will take your advice and let them be together at least until the second test; they are so much happier. I guess my hesitancy is that I don't think I could deal if they both were positive. Then again, I never imagined dealing with either of them facing this. Do anyone have any info on pregnant woman or babies and FeLV cats? I've obviously read that they should not be together, but does anyone have actual experience? I've been finding that a lot of info online tends to be pretty negative. Thanks again, I feel truly grateful. On Mon, May 31, 2010 at 8:40 PM, Tad Burnett tadburn...@vermontel.netwrote: Hi Julie You have come to the right place... We all have a similar story to tell... Your story is exactly like mine.. Two black and white tux kittens.. Boy was pos and girl was neg... I didn't have room to separate them and the vet advised that she surely she had been exposed and she might be one of the few that have a strong natural immunity or else she wouldgo pos at some time later... Anyway she got vaccinated but not separated The 2 were very close and played together all the time.. I remember thinking how sad it was going to be when the pos one got sick and passed on leaving her As fate would have it the neg one stopped eating one evening after only a month... Took her to the vet 1st thing in the morning and she got some emergenct treatment but she died while still at the vets in the middle of the morning The vet said it was FIP... The point is there are many things that can take a cat early... My pos boy lived on for seven years... During his life I got hms several other pos kitties and most of the he out lived too... There is also a good chance that the 1st test is a false pos... Do get that 2nd test and we will all hope for the best... If it were me I would let the stay together... Keep them happy and no stress... Feed them a good quality food and have a vet that approves of keeping a pos kitty and will give you an appointment in very short time if you think something is wrong.. They may have a weak immune system and need antibiotics quickly... FeLV+ kitties seem to know that you are taking special care of them and are extra loving in return Tad Julie Dalesio Gladnick wrote: Hi there- I don't know if this is the right place, but I am hoping for some feedback. I recently adopted two kittens, a brother and sister. At 7 weeks, I had them tested for FeLV. The boy kitty is positive but the girl kitty is negative. Is that even possible? They have been living together for 7 weeks; wouldn't she be positive if he was at this point? I am taking them both in tomorrow so he can be re-tested with the IFA and she can be vaccinated. I am absolutely devastated. I am in love with both of these kitties and am looking for some hope. My boy kitty is active and playful, though he has had a little diarrhea today and is eating a little less. I'm totally freaked out. I am keeping the two apart, which is also killing me, because they are such a comfort for each other. Does anyone know what my odds are for his second test being negative? Is is weird that she's negative? If he is positive, do I have to keep them apart forever? If we have a baby and he is positive, do we have to get rid of him? I can't even bare thinking of all of this, as he snuggles on my tummy purring while I type. Any advice, support, guidance is sincerely appreciated. ___ Felvtalk mailing list
Re: [Felvtalk] needing support
Hi Diane- Thank you for your note. I definitely agree to letting my kitties be together makes them the happiest. Of course, I am still praying that his first test was a false positive, but if not, will hope that Maggie has built some immunity and I can keep them both happy and loved as Iong as I can. I will certainly keep you all posted as to the results from his next test later this week. He is being tested tomorrow, so I hopefully won't have to wait too much longer. Thank you again for your care. On Mon, May 31, 2010 at 9:17 PM, Diane Rosenfeldt drosenfe...@wi.rr.comwrote: Julie, you've gotten some great advice here already, but just one more thing I don't think anyone has mentioned at length: your boy is asymptomatic now, and that's great. But as has been mentioned, he is more liable to pick up opportunistic infections and the like, and they may be likely to hit him harder than they would a negative cat. Since stress and poor nutrition make basically every living thing more vulnerable, the best thing you can do for him is get him the best foods and the most stress-free circumstances you can, and that comes back to the issue of separating them. I don't think that is at all the way to go, since they are so fond of each other that separating them would be a major stressor for him. I think that separating them now won't keep her from getting infected -- I think if she were going to, the time they've spent together already would have made it happen. Good luck with your babies, and wishes that they both stay healthy indefiinitely. Diane -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Julie Dalesio Gladnick Sent: Monday, May 31, 2010 11:02 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] needing support Hi Tad- Thank you so much for your supportive words. I am so sorry to hear about your girl kitty, but it certainly does bring some perspective and reality. I think I will take your advice and let them be together at least until the second test; they are so much happier. I guess my hesitancy is that I don't think I could deal if they both were positive. Then again, I never imagined dealing with either of them facing this. Do anyone have any info on pregnant woman or babies and FeLV cats? I've obviously read that they should not be together, but does anyone have actual experience? I've been finding that a lot of info online tends to be pretty negative. Thanks again, I feel truly grateful. On Mon, May 31, 2010 at 8:40 PM, Tad Burnett tadburn...@vermontel.netwrote: Hi Julie You have come to the right place... We all have a similar story to tell... Your story is exactly like mine.. Two black and white tux kittens.. Boy was pos and girl was neg... I didn't have room to separate them and the vet advised that she surely she had been exposed and she might be one of the few that have a strong natural immunity or else she wouldgo pos at some time later... Anyway she got vaccinated but not separated The 2 were very close and played together all the time.. I remember thinking how sad it was going to be when the pos one got sick and passed on leaving her As fate would have it the neg one stopped eating one evening after only a month... Took her to the vet 1st thing in the morning and she got some emergenct treatment but she died while still at the vets in the middle of the morning The vet said it was FIP... The point is there are many things that can take a cat early... My pos boy lived on for seven years... During his life I got hms several other pos kitties and most of the he out lived too... There is also a good chance that the 1st test is a false pos... Do get that 2nd test and we will all hope for the best... If it were me I would let the stay together... Keep them happy and no stress... Feed them a good quality food and have a vet that approves of keeping a pos kitty and will give you an appointment in very short time if you think something is wrong.. They may have a weak immune system and need antibiotics quickly... FeLV+ kitties seem to know that you are taking special care of them and are extra loving in return Tad Julie Dalesio Gladnick wrote: Hi there- I don't know if this is the right place, but I am hoping for some feedback. I recently adopted two kittens, a brother and sister. At 7 weeks, I had them tested for FeLV. The boy kitty is positive but the girl kitty is negative. Is that even possible? They have been living together for 7 weeks; wouldn't she be positive if he was at this point? I am taking them both in tomorrow so he can be re-tested with the IFA and she can be vaccinated. I am absolutely devastated. I am in love with both of these kitties and am looking for some hope. My boy kitty is active and playful, though he has
