Re: Welcome, Kathryn
I wonder if Smokey has feline herpes virus, not that it makes much of a difference in light of his other problems. My Snowy, a rescue cat, was diagnosed with that and before she was released to us both of her eyes were terribly infected, one being left with scarring, and a URI. Again, stress brings outbreaks on. Fortunately she hasn't had one since we've had her. I doubt she will either as she's the most indulged, spoiled cat on the planet. I commend you for your dedication to and love of these less fortunate creatures. Life with you will be the best thing that could ever happen to dear Smokey. Lynne - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Saturday, July 05, 2008 10:40 PM Subject: Re: Welcome, Kathryn Thank you all for the information. Right now he does have an eye infection and a little upper respiratory issue that we are dealing with . We don't know if it's the disease or if it's just from being neglected. He really loves to sit on my lap and be petted and seems to be pretty relaxed. He also is eating well, loves canned food, which I am giving him plenty of. I know that might not be good for him, however, I want him to enjoy his life for as long as he can. I have dogs ( 2 rescues) which pose a little problem for us. I haven't introduced them yet, I'm waiting because I don't want to stress Smokey out. I really hope he's one of those guys that will live a few years. My vet, who never suggested putting him down, says that it is possible. She's been very supportive. You are all correct with the expense though, I've had him only about a week and I've all ready spent about $500 with another $200 for shots and such coming up next week. It's worth it if I can make a difference in his life. I also ha ve two horses. One is a rescue with ringbone. My large animal vet did not want me to get Monty, but I didn't listen and it was the best decision I ever made regarding my pets. I'm sure little Smokey will bring me as much joy as my horse Monty has. I will keep you all posted on Smokey's progress. I really appreciate everyone's support. Kathryn -Original Message- From: Lynne [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Sat, 5 Jul 2008 6:07 pm Subject: Re: Welcome, Kathryn I totally agree with everything Diane has said Kathryn. Good food and a stress free life are probably the two most important things you can do for your little one. Of course if he becomes ill hopefully he can be treated with medication. It can all be a tremendous expense once they become ill. I would suggest you have blood work done to try and get an idea of what you are dealing with here. When we had that done I got 3 opinions, all telling me it wa s a hopeless situation and very grim. That didn't stop us from trying other methods of treatment but in the end the disease won. I don't regret for one moment the expense of trying to save our little guy who was only with us for one month but you have to be realistic when or if he starts to really deteriorate. Our cat was 4 when we got him and was already quite advanced with the disease, unknown to us until that first trip to our vet but if your kitty is healthy and active he may very well live a good long life. Many on this group have had their cats do just that. I truly hope yours will be one of these long time survivors. Don't let it make you crazy though. I think my constant worry and sadness over our little one's illness didn't help him any. Best of luck to you. Lynne - Original Message - From: Diane Rosenfeldt To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Saturday, July 05, 2008 1:35 PM Subject: Welcome, Kathryn You've come to a great place for information and support. Others have much more experience with these babies, but I can tell you that diet and stress control are paramount. If you can give your new guy (what's his name?) the best food possible and keep him as happy as possible, that's a great first step. You can also supplement his diet with L-lysine (from natural food stores, without the addit ives found in the kind you find in most drugstores, which is toxic to cats). Make sure your vet is knowledgeable on FeLV -- if he/she didn't immediately suggest euthanasia, that's a good sign. If he/she isn't, look around for one who is. Some people here like holistic vets, if there are some in your area, in addition to their regular vet. There's no way to know how long any of them will last. Some people here have kitties who have lived long and well with FeLV, and then there are some (like my Patches, who came to me as a stray, too, who only stayed with me six weeks.) What's important is to enjoy him every minute he's with you, fight the good fight together, but know when it's time to let go. Not easy, but doable. Go od luck with your guy. Diane R.
Re: Smokey update
Hi Everyone, I had a real scare with Smokey over the weekend. I thought I was loosing him and I didn't even know if an emergency vet would treat him because of his disease. Do they?The good news is that I didn't need to find out, he's snapped out of it. I've been treating him for an upper respiratory problem and an eye infection. He also has ulcers on his mouth, poor boy! The little cat is a wreck, but he appears to have turned the corner. As of today, his mouth is healing, his eye isn't running and his breathing is normal. I do not want to get my hopes up too much, but I sure do want the little boy to stay with me. I can't believe how many tears I have shed for a little guy I've known less then two weeks. He's just so sweet. Is it normal for them to snap back so quickly? Is this a good sign that he might live a while? My vet says that he could live a few years and has even emailed me outdoor enclosures to look at. He was a stray and longs to be outside, so it would be nice for him to go outside once in a while. I really appreciate this site. It's wonderful to hear from people who know about this and also who understand. As with my horse, (he's a rescue, too)?most of my friends think I am nuts for taking on this little cat. Thank you for listening, Kathryn -Original Message- From: catatonya [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Sun, 6 Jul 2008 7:33 am Subject: Re: Welcome, Kathryn I didn't get your original email Kathryn.? Welcome to ghe group.? Is your cat showing any symptoms? How old is he? tonya Diane Rosenfeldt [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: You've come to a great place for information and support.? Others have much more experience with these babies, but I can tell you that diet and stress control are paramount.? If you can give your new guy (what's his name?) the best food possible and keep him as happy as possible, that's a great first step.? You can also supplement his diet with L-lysine (from natural food stores, without the additives found in the kind you find in most drugstores, which is toxic to cats).? Make sure your vet is knowledgeable on FeLV -- if he/she didn't immediately suggest euthanasia, that's a good sign.? If he/she isn't, look around for one who is.? Some people here like holistic vets, if there are some in your area, in addition to their regular vet.? ? There's no way to know how long any of them will last.? Some people here have kitties who have lived long and well with FeLV, and then there are some (like my Patches, who came to me as a stray, too,?who only stayed with me six weeks.)? What's important is to enjoy him every minute he's with you, fight the good fight together, but know when it's time to let go.? Not easy, but doable.? Good luck with your guy. ? Diane R. From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Saturday, July 05, 2008 9:50 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Melina Please add to the CLS :( I am very sorry to hear of the passing of Melina. I am new to this site and really know nothing of this terrible disease. I have recently (just bringing him home from the vets today) adopted the sweetest little boy who sadly has this virus. He showed up a few days ago as a stray. My husband and I fell in love with him and took him to the vet for shots, etc. Sadly, we were informed that he has tested positive. ? I really do not know what this means. Any information will be greatly appreciated. I especially would like to know what I can do to keep him well for as long as possible. The vet suggests Vitamin C. Any information will be greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Kathryn -Original Message- From: Lynne [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Thu, 3 Jul 2008 8:20 pm Subject: Re: Melina Please add to the CLS :( I'm so saddened Sherry that Melina couldn't rally yet another time.? My heart honestly aches everytime I hear of another passing.? It sometimes makes one wonder just how much a body can endure.? But I guess the courage and trusting nature of these dear creatures makes it possible to go on. ? Lynne - Original Message - From: Sherry DeHaan To: Felvtalk Sent: Thursday, July 03, 2008 10:44 PM Subject: Melina Please add to the CLS :( First of all I want to thank all of you for your prayers and good thoughts for this beautiful baby.The aweful disease was way too much for her this time.She was a VERY spunky little girl.My heart aches without her in my life.I need to keep telling myself that I gave her so much love that she was happy until the end.I will miss her little loving head butts and rubbing her sweet face on mine.Ok now the tears are coming out. :( Once again thank you all so much for having to listen to all my sadness.But I also get ALOT of goodness out of these creatures. Sherry ___ Felvtalk mailing list
Re: Welcome, Kathryn
Thank you for the information. I am taking Smokey back to the vet on Wednesday. I will ask about a herpes virus. It does appear that with the eye ointment I've been giving him he's getting better. I love to hear about these guys that are six and seven years old. It gives me hope. It really is possible, so my vet says, that Smokey has problems because of neglect and maybe not the virus. I think the fact that he's perked up so much is positive. Sunday he didn't want to leave his bed and today he's looking all around. I will get him the supplements that you all have suggested and I will look in to a holistic vet. I am lucky though that my current vet has taken a special interest in this cat. I feel he's getting good care from her. Thanks again, Kathryn -Original Message- From: Lynne [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Sun, 6 Jul 2008 5:48 am Subject: Re: Welcome, Kathryn I wonder if Smokey has feline herpes virus, not that it makes much of a difference in light of his other problems.? My Snowy, a rescue cat, was diagnosed with that and before she was released to us both of her eyes were terribly infected, one being left with scarring, and a URI.? Again, stress brings outbreaks on.? Fortunately she hasn't had one since we've had her.? I doubt she will either as she's the most indulged, spoiled cat on the planet. ? I commend you for your dedication to and love of these less fortunate creatures.? Life with you will be the best thing that could ever happen to dear Smokey. ? Lynne - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Saturday, July 05, 2008 10:40 PM Subject: Re: Welcome, Kathryn Thank you all for the information. Right now he does have an eye infection and a little upper respiratory issue that we are dealing with . We don't know if it's the disease or if it's just from being neglected.? He really loves to sit on my lap and be petted and seems to be pretty relaxed. He also is eating well, loves canned food, which I am giving him plenty of. I know that might not be good for him, however, I want him to enjoy his life for as long as he can. I have dogs ( 2 rescues) which pose a little problem for us. I haven't introduced them yet, I'm waiting because I don't want to stress Smokey out. I really hope he's one of those guys that will live a few years. My vet, who never suggested putting him down, says that it is possible. She's been very supportive. You are all correct with the expense though, I've had him only about a week and I've all ready spent about $500 with another $200 for shots and such coming up next week. It's worth it if I can make a difference in his life. I also ha ve two horses. One is a rescue with ringbone. My large animal vet did not want me to get Monty, but I didn't listen and it was the best decision I ever made regarding my pets. I'm sure little Smokey will bring me as much joy as my horse Monty has. I will keep you all posted?on Smokey's progress. I really appreciate everyone's support. Kathryn -Original Message- From: Lynne [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Sat, 5 Jul 2008 6:07 pm Subject: Re: Welcome, Kathryn I totally agree with everything Diane has said Kathryn.? Good food and a stress free life are probably the two most important things you can do for your little one.? Of course if he becomes ill hopefully he can be treated with medication.? It can all be a tremendous expense once they become ill.? I would suggest you have blood work done to try and get an idea of what you are dealing with here.? When we had that done I got 3 opinions, all telling me it wa s a hopeless situation and very grim.? That didn't stop us from trying other methods of treatment but in the end the disease won.? I don't regret for one moment the expense of trying to save our little guy who was only with us for one month but you have to be realistic when or if he starts to really deteriorate. Our cat was 4 when we got him and was already quite advanced with the disease, unknown to us until that first trip to our vet but if your kitty is healthy and active he may very well live a good long life.? Many on this group have had their cats do just that.? I truly hope yours will be one of these long time survivors.? Don't let it make you crazy though. I think my constant worry and sadness over our little one's illness didn't help him any.? ? Best of luck to you. ? Lynne - Original Message - From: Diane Rosenfeldt To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Saturday, July 05, 2008 1:35 PM Subject: Welcome, Kathryn You've come to a great place for information and support.? Others have much more experience with these babies, but I can tell you that diet and stress control are paramount.? If you can give your new guy (what's his name?) the best food possible and keep him as happy as possible, that's a great first step.?
Re: Melina Please add to the CLS :(
Sherry, How are you today? I hope you're doing better. I'm sorry about Melina. :) Wendy Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world - indeed it is the only thing that ever has! ~~~ Margaret Meade ~~~ - Original Message From: Sherry DeHaan [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Felvtalk felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Thursday, July 3, 2008 9:44:02 PM Subject: Melina Please add to the CLS :( First of all I want to thank all of you for your prayers and good thoughts for this beautiful baby.The aweful disease was way too much for her this time.She was a VERY spunky little girl.My heart aches without her in my life.I need to keep telling myself that I gave her so much love that she was happy until the end.I will miss her little loving head butts and rubbing her sweet face on mine.Ok now the tears are coming out. :( Once again thank you all so much for having to listen to all my sadness.But I also get ALOT of goodness out of these creatures. Sherry ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
RE: Smokey update
Wow, Kathryn...what a rough weekend-for the both of you! It sounds like it took a while for the antibiotic to kick in for him...and that can make us completely frantic with worry, I know! I am still learning a lot about the disease process...but it sounds like he might get through this episode alright. I agree that getting him outside would be therapeuticthose enclosures are So expensive, thoughperhaps someone here has another idea? Good luck with your little guy...it's gonna be a rough ride, and your heart will be broken in the end...but you are doing a wonderful thing!Debbie (COL)You gotta bloom where you're planted! To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]: Re: Smokey updateDate: Mon, 7 Jul 2008 10:10:11 -0400From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Everyone,I had a real scare with Smokey over the weekend. I thought I was loosing him and I didn't even know if an emergency vet would treat him because of his disease. Do they?The good news is that I didn't need to find out, he's snapped out of it. I've been treating him for an upper respiratory problem and an eye infection. He also has ulcers on his mouth, poor boy! The little cat is a wreck, but he appears to have turned the corner. As of today, his mouth is healing, his eye isn't running and his breathing is normal. I do not want to get my hopes up too much, but I sure do want the little boy to stay with me. I can't believe how many tears I have shed for a little guy I've known less then two weeks. He's just so sweet.Is it normal for them to snap back so quickly? Is this a good sign that he might live a while? My vet says that he could live a few years and has even emailed me outdoor enclosures to look at. He was a stray and longs to be outside, so it would be nice for him to go outside once in a while.I really appreciate this site. It's wonderful to hear from people who know about this and also who understand. As with my horse, (he's a rescue, too) most of my friends think I am nuts for taking on this little cat. Thank you for listening,Kathryn-Original Message-From: catatonya [EMAIL PROTECTED]To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]: Sun, 6 Jul 2008 7:33 amSubject: Re: Welcome, Kathryn I didn't get your original email Kathryn. Welcome to ghe group. Is your cat showing any symptoms? How old is he? tonyaDiane Rosenfeldt [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: You've come to a great place for information and support. Others have much more experience with these babies, but I can tell you that diet and stress control are paramount. If you can give your new guy (what's his name?) the best food possible and keep him as happy as possible, that's a great first step. You can also supplement his diet with L-lysine (from natural food stores, without the additives found in the kind you find in most drugstores, which is toxic to cats). Make sure your vet is knowledgeable on FeLV -- if he/she didn't immediately suggest euthanasia, that's a good sign. If he/she isn't, look around for one who is. Some people here like holistic vets, if there are some in your area, in addition to their regular vet. There's no way to know how long any of them will last. Some people here have kitties who have lived long and well with FeLV, and then there are some (like my Patches, who came to me as a stray, too, who only stayed with me six weeks.) What's important is to enjoy him every minute he's with you, fight the good fight together, but know when it's time to let go. Not easy, but doable. Good luck with your guy. Diane R. From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]: Saturday, July 05, 2008 9:50 AMTo: [EMAIL PROTECTED]: Re: Melina Please add to the CLS :( I am very sorry to hear of the passing of Melina. I am new to this site and really know nothing of this terrible disease. I have recently (just bringing him home from the vets today) adopted the sweetest little boy who sadly has this virus. He showed up a few days ago as a stray. My husband and I fell in love with him and took him to the vet for shots, etc. Sadly, we were informed that he has tested positive. I really do not know what this means. Any information will be greatly appreciated. I especially would like to know what I can do to keep him well for as long as possible. The vet suggests Vitamin C. Any information will be greatly appreciated.Sincerely,Kathryn-Original Message-From: Lynne [EMAIL PROTECTED]To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]: Thu, 3 Jul 2008 8:20 pmSubject: Re: Melina Please add to the CLS :( I'm so saddened Sherry that Melina couldn't rally yet another time. My heart honestly aches everytime I hear of another passing. It sometimes makes one wonder just how much a body can endure. But I guess the courage and trusting nature of these dear creatures makes it possible to go on. Lynne - Original Message - From: Sherry DeHaan To: Felvtalk Sent: Thursday, July 03, 2008 10:44 PM Subject: Melina Please add to the CLS :( First of
RE: Smokey update
Any responsible vet will treat an FeLV+ kitty. One of the first things to know about this virus is that it isn't nearly as casually contagious as was first thought, though it is more readily transmittable than the other bugaboo, FIV. Unless the cat is in a position to bite other cats, or is sharing food and water with them, which is not likely in an emergency-vet situation, it's not readily transmittable. And as some on this list will attest, from letting their + kitties mingle with their negatives, even the food and drink isn't necessarily a problem. My Patches escaped his temporary confinement -- he was a 3 a.m. rescue, we lured him into our back hall, fed him, left him there blocked from the rest of the house by a 7-foot screen door, and went back to sleep...at 6 a.m. woke up to find him in our FRONT porch room 50 feet from where we'd left him, having a conversation with one of our other cats! He'd had 3 hours to get over or under that door, wander the length of the house and interact with all the cats, and partake of their grazing crunchies and water. He died 6 weeks later, but none of the others have shown a single symptom. If he had lived, we would have had the others vaccinated as an extra precaution, and let him hang out with them. As it was, we had to keep him in a room by himself while he was sick, and he really wanted to join us all, he was such a sociable little guy. That was really hard. At least we were able to give him some comfort -- when he came, he had such huge, severe mats of fur on his sides that they looked like wings. They must have hurt him horribly, he wouldn't let you touch him past his shoulders. He came to us over a 4th of July long weekend so it was a few days before we could get him to the vet, and we were able to get some of the matting off him by me distracting him and my housemate snipping at the mats practically one strand of fur at a time. (A few months later, cleaning behind some furniture in the porch room, we found another piece of wing that he must have rubbed off himself on the furniture.) He was also filthy, and we would pet him with damp cloths wherever he'd let us, and he cleaned up into a lovely Turkish Van. Thankfully, our vets, who don't usually do extensive grooming like this, took pity and were able to clean him up and deflea him during his exam. After that he loved being petted all over. We would gladly have kneecapped whoever left him out on his own to get into this condition, even if he had been FeLV negative! We had already socialized a near-feral cat, and it had taken months. This guy was immediately friendly and had obviously been someone's pet. Oops, I digressed a little there! But the point is that no knowledgeable vet would refuse to treat a cat on the basis of its FeLV status. It's so good that your regular vet is being so supportive. It can be really disheartening to have to look for a new vet on top of everything else. Diane R. From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, July 07, 2008 9:10 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Smokey update Hi Everyone, I had a real scare with Smokey over the weekend. I thought I was loosing him and I didn't even know if an emergency vet would treat him because of his disease. Do they?The good news is that I didn't need to find out, he's snapped out of it. I've been treating him for an upper respiratory problem and an eye infection. He also has ulcers on his mouth, poor boy! The little cat is a wreck, but he appears to have turned the corner. As of today, his mouth is healing, his eye isn't running and his breathing is normal. I do not want to get my hopes up too much, but I sure do want the little boy to stay with me. I can't believe how many tears I have shed for a little guy I've known less then two weeks. He's just so sweet. Is it normal for them to snap back so quickly? Is this a good sign that he might live a while? My vet says that he could live a few years and has even emailed me outdoor enclosures to look at. He was a stray and longs to be outside, so it would be nice for him to go outside once in a while. I really appreciate this site. It's wonderful to hear from people who know about this and also who understand. As with my horse, (he's a rescue, too) most of my friends think I am nuts for taking on this little cat. Thank you for listening, Kathryn -Original Message- From: catatonya [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Sun, 6 Jul 2008 7:33 am Subject: Re: Welcome, Kathryn I didn't get your original email Kathryn. Welcome to ghe group. Is your cat showing any symptoms? How old is he? tonya Diane Rosenfeldt [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: You've come to a great place for information and support. Others have much more experience with these babies, but I can tell you that diet and stress control are paramount. If you can give your new guy
Re: New server?
And me blockquote dir=ltr style=MARGIN-RIGHT:0px; img src=http://us.i1.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/i/mesg/tsmileys2/04.gif;font face=Comic Sans MSPaula Howell/font/blockquote - Original Message From: catatonya [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Friday, July 4, 2008 4:26:27 PM Subject: Re: New server? me Sky Danncer (Davy S) [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: How many of us are there to divide the cost? Davy - Original Message - From: Sue Koren To: FeLV Talk Sent: Wednesday, June 25, 2008 10:19 AM Subject: New server? Hello everyone - I went to the archives today and found that I am only getting about half of the messages. Earlier this month it was suggested that we all chip in if a new server is needed. The support of this group has meant a great deal to me and I would be very happy to help in some way. Is it feasible to make this new server idea happen? Sue ___ 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
Re: New server?
Hi Sue, How are you getting into the archives? It's asking me for a password, and I have no idea what that is. I've been a member for a few years now. Thanks, Wendy Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world - indeed it is the only thing that ever has! ~~~ Margaret Meade ~~~ - Original Message From: Sue Koren [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: FeLV Talk felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, June 25, 2008 9:19:19 AM Subject: New server? Hello everyone - I went to the archives today and found that I am only getting about half of the messages. Earlier this month it was suggested that we all chip in if a new server is needed. The support of this group has meant a great deal to me and I would be very happy to help in some way. Is it feasible to make this new server idea happen? Sue ___ 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: Sissy has joined Hobbs, 6/27/08
Heather, I'm so sorry to hear about all your losses. It sounds like all of those kitties were so blessed to have the love they did. Praying for your strength and peace... :) Wendy Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world - indeed it is the only thing that ever has! ~~~ Margaret Meade ~~~ - Original Message From: Heather Wienker [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Friday, June 27, 2008 2:42:56 PM Subject: Sissy has joined Hobbs, 6/27/08 With much sadness, I wanted to share with everyone that Hobbs' sister, Sissy, has now joined him. The loss of her dear brother affected Sissy very much, which was to be expected as they were quite bonded, and she began to take a similar road as Hobbs did in his final days. Their people-Mom Jann had wanted to avoid Sissy suffering as she felt Hobbs did, and had planned for her to cross this morning, though unfortunately they had a very bad night, and stayed the night in the garage together, where Sissy had actually been spending a lot of time lately. I apologize that I haven't been active since the outpouring of support from you all regarding the loss of Hobbs, unfortunately the following week we lost another FELV+ rescue, Shennanigans (whom a friend in another city had given a home to for these last 3 months), and also a dear Torti rescue named Freckles who we found living in a woman's yard, very ill and with an old very uncomfortable injury. She was such a sweet, beautiful kitty and her spirit really touched us all very much, a rescue was assisting with her medical care but force feeding with her injury was very stressful for Freckles, and her caregiver, and given the severity of her illness (which prevented her from being a candidate for surgery for her long-healed injury, unless she made a remarkable recovery), they felt it was best to release her from her pain. I found out after the fact and have struggled with it ever since as I feel I didn't do enough for her, soon enough, and wonder if things could have been different. Shennanigans was a beautiful little charcoal grey long haired kitty whom we found outside at my vets, likely dumped around Febuary. She appeared to be only 4 - 5 months old, though we aren't really sure. The woman who she went to live with said her vet thought she might be older than we initially thought, she wasn't spayed when we found her and I still think she was a pretty young kitty. Her initial FELV test was a weak+. I really should have posted about Shennanigans here but was fairly numb with all of the loss. I was not the direct caregiver, but the rescuer, for these kitties so can only imagine what my friends have been going through as they loved them all dearly. Even if it was only for 3 months, I know Shennanigans spent those last 3 months sleeping in a bed with someone, though she was afraid of the other cats. What Jann did for Hobbs and Sissy, giving two little FELV+ kittens a home which is so hard to find, I will be eternally grateful for. I hate the pain it's caused her, yet she is such a giving soul and does nothing but thank me for entrusting her with their care and for the precious time she had with them over this last year. While I am always full of doubts as to how I handle things, I am so confident in the wonderful, loving happy lives they had with Jann, no matter how short. I just hate how painful the end has been. She still has their Mother, a double+ kitty I found at my new job with an eye ear injury, she has outlived all of her kittens--I found them all last April under a trailer behind my new office. I had moved accross campus after almost 20 years in the same building, and kept looking for a sign from God as to whether I should make the move...when I found Mom her babies, and their testing status, I knew had anyone else found them they'd most likely have immediately been put down, and that they were the sign I was looking for. We also have a new Leuk+ rescue, this poor kitty had scabies so bad his eyes were crusted shut (and still are quite infected), a friend made a heroic rescue standing on a truck and plucking this kitty out of a tree, and it hit hard when we found out he was leuk+. We are still looking for a home for him, and he is still boarding at the vets being treated (3 weeks now), but we are glad we've had the chance to give him the chance he deserves to feel good love and care. Well I am sorry as this must be a very sad update...but I know you all will keep Sissy, Hobbs, Shennangans, and Jann Kate the loving humans they've left behind, in your close thoughts and prayers. Please add them to the candle light memorial service. Thank you all for giving kitties with leukemia a chance, no one should have to lose the chance to know love just because of what is in their blood. Heather Tampa, FL
Re: Smokey update
Ebony was an adult feral when he moved in with me. I bought a 6x6x12 chain link dog kennel, put a top (very securely) on it and attached it to the house by way of a bathroom window. He went thru a dog/cat door into duct work then onto a landing and into the kennel. He loved it all his days, had free access except when I blocked the door for some reason (really bad weather etc), and was safe. Good luck. I am glad Smokey rebounded. The emergency vets I know do treat FeLV+ cats. On Jul 7, 2008, at 9:10 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi Everyone, I had a real scare with Smokey over the weekend. I thought I was loosing him and I didn't even know if an emergency vet would treat him because of his disease. Do they?The good news is that I didn't need to find out, he's snapped out of it. I've been treating him for an upper respiratory problem and an eye infection. He also has ulcers on his mouth, poor boy! The little cat is a wreck, but he appears to have turned the corner. As of today, his mouth is healing, his eye isn't running and his breathing is normal. I do not want to get my hopes up too much, but I sure do want the little boy to stay with me. I can't believe how many tears I have shed for a little guy I've known less then two weeks. He's just so sweet. Is it normal for them to snap back so quickly? Is this a good sign that he might live a while? My vet says that he could live a few years and has even emailed me outdoor enclosures to look at. He was a stray and longs to be outside, so it would be nice for him to go outside once in a while. I really appreciate this site. It's wonderful to hear from people who know about this and also who understand. As with my horse, (he's a rescue, too) most of my friends think I am nuts for taking on this little cat. Thank you for listening, Kathryn -Original Message- From: catatonya [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Sun, 6 Jul 2008 7:33 am Subject: Re: Welcome, Kathryn I didn't get your original email Kathryn. Welcome to ghe group. Is your cat showing any symptoms? How old is he? tonya Diane Rosenfeldt [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: You've come to a great place for information and support. Others have much more experience with these babies, but I can tell you that diet and stress control are paramount. If you can give your new guy (what's his name?) the best food possible and keep him as happy as possible, that's a great first step. You can also supplement his diet with L-lysine (from natural food stores, without the additives found in the kind you find in most drugstores, which is toxic to cats). Make sure your vet is knowledgeable on FeLV -- if he/she didn't immediately suggest euthanasia, that's a good sign. If he/ she isn't, look around for one who is. Some people here like holistic vets, if there are some in your area, in addition to their regular vet. There's no way to know how long any of them will last. Some people here have kitties who have lived long and well with FeLV, and then there are some (like my Patches, who came to me as a stray, too, who only stayed with me six weeks.) What's important is to enjoy him every minute he's with you, fight the good fight together, but know when it's time to let go. Not easy, but doable. Good luck with your guy. Diane R. From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] ] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Saturday, July 05, 2008 9:50 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Melina Please add to the CLS :( I am very sorry to hear of the passing of Melina. I am new to this site and really know nothing of this terrible disease. I have recently (just bringing him home from the vets today) adopted the sweetest little boy who sadly has this virus. He showed up a few days ago as a stray. My husband and I fell in love with him and took him to the vet for shots, etc. Sadly, we were informed that he has tested positive. I really do not know what this means. Any information will be greatly appreciated. I especially would like to know what I can do to keep him well for as long as possible. The vet suggests Vitamin C. Any information will be greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Kathryn -Original Message- From: Lynne [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Thu, 3 Jul 2008 8:20 pm Subject: Re: Melina Please add to the CLS :( I'm so saddened Sherry that Melina couldn't rally yet another time. My heart honestly aches everytime I hear of another passing. It sometimes makes one wonder just how much a body can endure. But I guess the courage and trusting nature of these dear creatures makes it possible to go on. Lynne - Original Message - From: Sherry DeHaan To: Felvtalk Sent: Thursday, July 03, 2008 10:44 PM Subject: Melina Please add to the CLS :( First of all I want to thank all of you for your prayers and good thoughts
Re: I must be nuts!
Sue, Congratulations on your new furbaby! I hope living with you is a dream come true for him! :) Wendy Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world - indeed it is the only thing that ever has! ~~~ Margaret Meade ~~~ - Original Message From: Sue Koren [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: FeLV Talk felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2008 8:06:59 AM Subject: I must be nuts! Hi Everyone! Saturday I went to a local cat rescue home and adopted a beautiful 16lb. flame point siamese boy. He is 10 years old and FeLV+. I have been missing my cuddler, Tucker, so much that I just wanted another loveable lap cat kitty. There were over 200 cats in that home but when I picked up Orlando it was all over. He just snuggled right in. His previous owner passed away in January. She had a lot of acreage, a couple of barns and a shop where she made signs. She had 17 cats who roamed the place and were never let inside or given vet care. When she passed away her husband brought all the cats to this rescue and several were FeLV+. Ironically, that was about the time Buzz was diagnosed and I was still trying to find a home for him. When I called this rescue they told me that they had just taken in several positives and did not have room. If someone had told me then that I would be taking one of the positives I never would have believed them. Anyway, Orlando is a very special sweetheart of a cat. He is even getting along fairly well with the other 5. Yesterday I had him to the vets and they found that he had once had a broken leg that was never taken care of and healed wrong. (I knew his back right leg was stiff). Time will tell if that is something to take care of now or not. They also re-confirmed the FeLV+. Anyway I am getting way too long winded. Thanks for listening to me ramble, Sue ___ 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: Welcome, Kathryn
Hi Kathryn, I definitely back the other members who mentioned oral Lysine, when you're dealing with herpes/conjunctivitis in the eyes. Even the three different meds that my vet gave me, one of which did contain Lysine (small amounts), did not help my cat's condition. She had already lost one eye to conjunctivitis before we adopted her, so I was very worried about her losing her other one. I took her off all her meds, and only gave her oral lysine, 500 mg 2x per day, sprinkled on her wet food. The ulcer started going away within 5-7 days!!! I was so happy. So I strongly recommend lysine to anyone, skin or fur, who is dealing with a virus, because lysine is a natural amino acid that is believed to be an antiviral. Make sure you get pure lysine because there is one additive that can cause blood issues in cats. Good luck and let us know how Smokey fares! :) Wendy Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world - indeed it is the only thing that ever has! ~~~ Margaret Meade ~~~ - Original Message From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Monday, July 7, 2008 9:25:52 AM Subject: Re: Welcome, Kathryn Thank you for the information. I am taking Smokey back to the vet on Wednesday. I will ask about a herpes virus. It does appear that with the eye ointment I've been giving him he's getting better. I love to hear about these guys that are six and seven years old. It gives me hope. It really is possible, so my vet says, that Smokey has problems because of neglect and maybe not the virus. I think the fact that he's perked up so much is positive. Sunday he didn't want to leave his bed and today he's looking all around. I will get him the supplements that you all have suggested and I will look in to a holistic vet. I am lucky though that my current vet has taken a special interest in this cat. I feel he's getting good care from her. Thanks again, Kathryn -Original Message- From: Lynne [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Sun, 6 Jul 2008 5:48 am Subject: Re: Welcome, Kathryn I wonder if Smokey has feline herpes virus, not that it makes much of a difference in light of his other problems. My Snowy, a rescue cat, was diagnosed with that and before she was released to us both of her eyes were terribly infected, one being left with scarring, and a URI. Again, stress brings outbreaks on. Fortunately she hasn't had one since we've had her. I doubt she will either as she's the most indulged, spoiled cat on the planet. I commend you for your dedication to and love of these less fortunate creatures. Life with you will be the best thing that could ever happen to dear Smokey. Lynne - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Saturday, July 05, 2008 10:40 PM Subject: Re: Welcome, Kathryn Thank you all for the information. Right now he does have an eye infection and a little upper respiratory issue that we are dealing with . We don't know if it's the disease or if it's just from being neglected. He really loves to sit on my lap and be petted and seems to be pretty relaxed. He also is eating well, loves canned food, which I am giving him plenty of. I know that might not be good for him, however, I want him to enjoy his life for as long as he can. I have dogs ( 2 rescues) which pose a little problem for us. I haven't introduced them yet, I'm waiting because I don't want to stress Smokey out. I really hope he's one of those guys that will live a few years. My vet, who never suggested putting him down, says that it is possible. She's been very supportive. You are all correct with the expense though, I've had him only about a week and I've all ready spent about $500 with another $200 for shots and such coming up next week. It's worth it if I can make a difference in his life. I also ha ve two horses. One is a rescue with ringbone. My large animal vet did not want me to get Monty, but I didn't listen and it was the best decision I ever made regarding my pets. I'm sure little Smokey will bring me as much joy as my horse Monty has. I will keep you all posted on Smokey's progress. I really appreciate everyone's support. Kathryn -Original Message- From: Lynne [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Sat, 5 Jul 2008 6:07 pm Subject: Re: Welcome, Kathryn I totally agree with everything Diane has said Kathryn. Good food and a stress free life are probably the two most important things you can do for your little one. Of course if he becomes ill hopefully he can be treated with medication. It can all be a tremendous expense once they become ill. I would suggest you have blood work done to try and get an idea of what you are dealing with here. When we had that done I got 3 opinions, all telling me it wa s a hopeless situation and very grim. That didn't stop us from trying