[Felvtalk] New member
Hello Everyone, I'm a new member to the FelV group, but not new to cat rescue and TNR, which I've been doing for a long time. For years I didn't test for FelV, because back in the 1980's I tested all of my cats for it, and two were positive, so I put had them put down to protect my other cats. I've felt horribly guilty ever since, and because of this I quit testing. I started testing again about 4 years ago when I began taking care of a feral colony I discovered in our small town of Terra Alta, WV. There were always kittens I couldn't find homes for, and if I kept them, or kept any strays that were dumped at our house I felt I should have them tested.. None of them were ever positive. I guess I was just lucky, but now my luck has run out. Several kittens in a litter I rescued have tested positive for FelV. I intend to learn everything I can about FelV, and meanwhile I'll vaccinate my negative cats with the FelV vaccine. In the 80's it wasn't too effective, so I hope it's improved I'd appreciate input on the efficacy of the vaccine. I understand FelV is contagious, but not highly contagious. From what I've read it is apparently spread through blood (bites) food dishes, water bowls and mutual grooming. The virus apparently doesn't live long outside the cat's body, but in even a few hours other cats could be infected. The vet didn't tell me to euthanize the positive kittens, but she did give me a grim outlook :-( I'd appreciate hearing from any of you in regard to this. Lorrie in Terra Alta, WV ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] Letter from new member
Hi, Diane, Thanks for replying to my first post on this group. The kittens are 5 1/2 months old now. I've been trying to find homes for them since they were 8 weeks old, but no luck :-( I had no clue that some of them had FelV until a friend adopted one, and it became extremely sick. It was tested for FelV and soon died. The others are still fine, they had their shots and other than feeling bad for 24 hours, which most kittens do, they recovered and are running all over. My vet is good. She has always answered all my questions, given me plenty of time, and she is also understanding about my ordering vet meds online to save money. In fact she will tell me what to use and what dosages to give. The vet I used before got p.o'ed big time about this! There are only 2 vet clinics in our very small town, and I really like the one I use now. I assume she had to cover her butt by giving me a worst case scenario on FelV. One of the things she told me, that didn't seem right, was that felV could be transmitted in ways other than by sharing food water bowls, grooming or biting My cats often escape their quarters, and my vet indicated that a negative cat might walk where a positive cat had been and pick up the virus. This sounded a bit far fetched to me. What do you think? Is she just covering all bases? I am now giving the kittens L Lysine, which I understand will help boost their immune systems, however they are all still together. I have no place to separate them. I have 15 cats at home (they are rescued inside/outside cats) and I bought a building in town which I use as a shelter. There are 33 cats there, so we're full up! These cats are not in cages, they all have individual rooms, but the rooms are full, without being over crowded. I'm working on finding more space where all FelV cats can be separated. Thanks for writing. Lorrie in WV On 09-19, Rosenfeldt, Diane wrote: Hi, Lorrie -- Glad you found this group. You'll get lots of great advice here. Firstly, don't beat yourself up too much -- it's too bad about the kitties you put to sleep, but nobody knew much about FeLV back then, it would have been universally considered to be a death sentence anyway. Now, there is so much hope for your positive kittens! Admittedly, your vet was probably trying to let you know the worst of what you're facing, but if all she can offer is grimness, you might want to consider finding another vet, at least for these babies. The fact that she didn't suggest euthanasia is a point in her favor, but the kittens would be better served by someone on the cutting edge of FeLV. Or, if she's willing to work with you, you can print off stuff from the files on the felineleukemia.org website and help her expand her knowledge base. ;-) I assume the kittens are not showing signs of disease. If they aren't, depending on their age, they may yet shake off the virus. But if they don't, there are still ways to keep them asymptomatic. FeLV *isn't* an automatic death sentence these days. You'll get lots of advice here on diet and supplements, and (along with some heartache) some nice success stories. Diane R. -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Lorrie Sent: Friday, September 19, 2008 9:34 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: [Felvtalk] New member Hello Everyone, I'm a new member to the FelV group, but not new to cat rescue and TNR, which I've been doing for a long time. For years I didn't test for FelV, because back in the 1980's I tested all of my cats for it, and two were positive, so I put had them put down to protect my other cats. I've felt horribly guilty ever since, and because of this I quit testing. I started testing again about 4 years ago when I began taking care of a feral colony I discovered in our small town of Terra Alta, WV. There were always kittens I couldn't find homes for, and if I kept them, or kept any strays that were dumped at our house I felt I should have them tested.. None of them were ever positive. I guess I was just lucky, but now my luck has run out. Several kittens in a litter I rescued have tested positive for FelV. I intend to learn everything I can about FelV, and meanwhile I'll vaccinate my negative cats with the FelV vaccine. In the 80's it wasn't too effective, so I hope it's improved I'd appreciate input on the efficacy of the vaccine. I understand FelV is contagious, but not highly contagious. From what I've read it is apparently spread through blood (bites) food dishes, water bowls and mutual grooming. The virus apparently doesn't live long outside the cat's body, but in even a few hours other cats could be infected. The vet didn't tell me to euthanize the positive kittens, but she did give me a grim outlook :-( I'd appreciate hearing from any of you in regard to this. Lorrie in Terra Alta, WV
Re: [Felvtalk] FelV Vaccine
Sabrina, Thanks for your feedback on the FelV vaccine. Years ago when the vaccine first came out I heard it was not too effective, but I hoped it had improved. Has anyone else had experience with the vaccine to share with me? Lorrie On 09-19, Sabrina wrote: Hi Lorrie, Don't give up hope! I just posted a couple of days ago about the two kitties I rescued who were positive just were retested and are now negative!! Of course I don't know if what I did had anything to do with changing their status, but if you are interested in the diet I fed them and the supplements I gave them, contact me offlist. Furthermore, the FeLV vaccine doesn't have a terribly high efficacy even now. Someone on one of these lists said she worked in a cat clinic for a number of years and out of the 2000 or so cases of leukemia she saw, most of the ones who died had been vaccinated for the disease. Sabrina www.Pet-Sitter-Pro.com www.LovingGraceRescue.org Orange County, CA ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] FelV Kitten news
Hi Everyone, A few days ago I joined your group and wrote telling you about the rescued kittens I have where some tested positive for FelV. Today a wonderful thing happened.. An older couple came by and fell in love with one of my positive kittens. A couple of years ago they adopted another kitten from me, which they still have, and they wanted this FelV kitten even tho I told them he had tested positive. This is the kind of adoptive home we all dream about, and I was so happy I cried when the wife told me they'd take care of him and spare no expense for vet bills when or if needed. Zing Zing will have his own quarters in their home and a happy life, even if it is a short one. They even gave me a $60. donation. Good things like this happen so seldom I wanted to share it with you. I still have more kittens who need homes, but this made my day. Lorrie in WV ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] Kitten returned
I wrote earlier in the week about the FelV kitten I had adopted. Then yesterday there was a knock on the door and the people who had taken him brought him back!Apparently they had trouble keeping him confined in one part of their house, as he is a very active kitten, and their vet scared them half to death warning them about the danger to their other two cats being exposed to this positive kitten. She cried when she brought him back with all the cat toys they'd bought for him, and I felt like crying too. I suppose the vet had to warn them, but I think he went overboard and little Zing Zing lost a wonderful home. I'm really upset about this. Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Kiwi
If Kiwi hasn't eaten or had much to drink for awhile it will take a few hours for him to need to use his box. Just keep an eye on him. It sounds like he is making good progress. Lorrie On 09-28, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I gave Kiwi water and some pumpkin via a syringe. He did ok. He has not thrown it up so far. I changed his dry food to another and he has actually eaten a few. My concern this moment is that he hasn't urinated or defecated. I am going to give him a little tuna in a few hours. I don't want to put to much in his delicate system. I will try to coax him to use his kitty litter box. Well, that's all for now. Bye, Robin ___ 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] Vaccinations for FelV kittens
Mary Christine, I had two FelV kittens. One was vaccinated by the vet after having testing positive with the Elisa test. He had one day of feeling bad, like all kittens do, but has been fine ever since. The other kitten, also positive, got extremely sick, couldn't even hold his head up, and soon died. I'm assuming his immune system was gone, whereas the other kitten had an immune system that was still pretty much alright. Re: your other e-mail.. I agree, vets want to give kittens way, way too many vaccinations. They also get the same amount of vaccine a full grown cat gets, which doesn't seem right to me. Lorrie On 10-29, MaryChristine wrote: i respectfully disagree. asymptomatic FeLVs are not sick cats. every sanctuary or multi-cat household will tell you that until the virus is activated, FeLVs are just normal cats--they get sick, they get treated, they get well. in sanctuary settings, FeLVs are kept with other FeLVs, in all stages of sickness and health. since FeLV kills through opporunistic infections as well as lymphomas and other manifestations, if the healthy FeLVs in the populations were seriously immune-compromised, each time one of them went into their final battle, all the others would get sick as well and be unable to fight off the onslaughts of new infections. this does not happen. if you have two FeLVs in the house and one becomes ill, why doesn't the other, sick cat, immediately succumb? this is another misunderstanding, i truly believe, from vets who haven't bothered to keep up on the research, and/or to adequately educate their patients. let me tell you, however, if you've ever seen a cat die of panleukopenia, you won't ever want it to happen again. there are ALWAYS risks in using ANY drug, and while there have certainly been reactions to vaccines throughout time, the way to counter our over-vaccinated society isn't necessarily to stop doing them at all. a symptomatic cat is sick; it may not have a thing to do with the FeLV, but an asymptomatic cat being sick because it may have FeLV, is like saying that all of us who had chicken pox are sick, because we've got that herpes virus just waiting to break out into herpes. MC (haven't you missed me?) On Wed, Oct 29, 2008 at 5:29 PM, MacKenzie, Kerry N. [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Sally, I personally would not vaccinate a positive cat. See Jean Dodds' and Charles Loop's (both vets) views here. (The paragraph below is taken from the website.) Kerry M. http://www.newsagepress.com/protectyourpet.html All packages of vaccinations carry warnings that they should be injected only in healthy animals. In the case of cats, vaccine manufacturers advise against vaccinating pregnant or nursing cats. However, many pets are not healthy when vaccinated although they might not have outward signs of health problems. Charles Loops, DVM, a holistic veterinarian from Pittsboro, North Carolina, notes that chemically killed viruses or bacteria are injected directly into the blood stream, which is an unnatural route of infection. (7) This causes the animal's antibodies to attempt to fight off the offending virus molecules and render them harmless. If the animal's immune system is too weakened, he or she cannot fight off these viruses and can develop a reaction to the vaccine. Even small amounts of a virus that is introduced through a vaccination may be too much for sick animals to fight off. They then may fall ill from the very disease to which they have been vaccinated. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Seeking homes for cats after death
On 10-31, Sharyl wrote: Kelly, how does one go about finding a a list of sanctuaries for pets to list in ones will. I have a combo of healthy cats, CRF kitties, and FeLV+ kitties. I'd like to make plans in advance. At 61 I can reasonably expect to live for many years but there is always the chance of accidents, unexpected illness, etc. How does a person plan for something like this when it might not be needed for 20 yrs? Sharyl This is a HUGE concern of mine too. I have 15 cats at home, and I'm 75 and my husband is 86!! Some of these cats are quite young and I'm sure we won't out live them. I'll pay whatever is necessary to find them a good home, but finding the place or persons is the problem. In my will I left $2,000 per cat to each person who will take one of my babies, but so far I've not found anyone who will take them. My three grown kids can take one or two each, but they all have a bunch of cats and dogs of their own. I worry about this constantly. If anyone has any ideas speak up. Lorrie in WV ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Seeking homes for cats after death
Kelley, Wouldn't they spend their remaining lives in cages at Texas AM? I'd believe I'd rather see my cats euthanized than living in a cage. Lorrie On 10-31, Kelley Saveika wrote: My plan is not to leave them to a sanctuary, but to the Stevenson Companion Animal Life-Care Center at Texas AM University. Vet students live on the premises to care for them and they also receive great care from the University's Vet Medical Center, which is right next door. You can leave any excess money that is not needed for their care, should they cross the bridge before their funds run out, to whichever medical program you want - for me it would probably be studying feline heart disease, for yall it would probably be studying FELV (depending on how they plan to study it, some of the studies have been...not good). http://www.cvm.tamu.edu/petcare/ I do not plan to leave to relatives, I have seen too many relatives dump the pets at the kill shelter before the person is cold in the ground. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Seeking homes for cats after death
We have the same problem here. A bullet is the easiest way to dispense with an unwanted animal. I'm sure most rural areas are the sam way. Lorrie On 11-01, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: that is my problem, rural area about 2hrs drive from St. Louis, with no no kill sanctuary. i don't know about your area, but around here, a bullet is cheaper and easier than dealing with the animal is the general opinion. they all think i am nuts for taking in stray cats and dogs. l take them in, but bring them in my house and take them to the vet and spend all that money! dorlis ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Buzz
Dear Sue, I have been thru this so many times, and knowing WHEN to put a kitty down is s terrible decision. No matter when you do it you will feel you either did it too soon, and your cat may have been able to live longer, or you'll think you waited too long, and your cat suffered I believe your Buzzy used the last of his strength to fight going into the cat carrier, because we all know how much cats hate being put in carriers! I don't think it meant he was going to get better. We all hope our cats will die at home in their sleep, but this so seldom happens, and I know how awful it is to have to make the decision to take them to the vet to be put to sleep. Don't let this haunt you. He knew he was loved, and I'm sure you made the right decision. Lorrie On 11-23, Sue Frank Koren wrote: Jane, What a wonderful idea. I believe it is because of this list that Buzz was able to have his last few months of life, and to donate to the list in his memory would be just the thing. I am by no means wealthy and I have no idea how much running something like this costs, but maybe my little drop in the bucket would help some. It is probably selfish, but to set up my own little Buzzy Fund that I add to regularly and then give away would make me feel a little better. This has been such a heartbreaking weekend. I am really wondering if I should not have had him PTS. When I went to put him in his carrier he struggled to push his way out with more energy than he has had in at least a week. The image of him trying to get away will live with me forever. : ( All I wanted was for him not to be in pain. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Death of B B
Gloria, It's heartbreaking when our kitties leave us, and I'm so sorry you lost your B B. Find comfort in knowing you made his last years so good. He was loved and cared for which is much more than a lot of cats ever get. Lorrie On 12-03, Gloria B. Lane wrote: One of my FELV kitties, B.B., died in the early morning of Dec 2, 2008, and I'd love to have him added to the Bridge list. He was a double positive (FELV+, FIV+), had been found at a local dump in the Little Rock vicinity, and taken in to our rescue. I've fostered him since October 2006, and he's been such a sweet, loving cat. But he developed a tail infection a while back, and we've been dealing with that ever since. He alway ate like a horse, till the last couple of days. He never could gain weight or pull out of the illness, he may have had other things going on, I'm not sure. B.B., who I think stands for Beautiful Boy, crossed over to the Bridge early yesterday morning, Tuesday December 2, 2008. He was a sweet boy. Gloria ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] Re Sick FelV kitten
Thanks to all who replied to my e-mail about our FelV positive kitten. I appreciate your help, and we are hoping some of the treatments you suggested will give her a bit more time. Lorrie On 12-17, Lorrie wrote: One of our FelV kittens is very anemic. Has anyone ever tried iron suppliments? We went back to the vet yesterday, and got her vitamins and iron, and hope this will buy her a bit more time. She is 8 months old and only weighs 3 1/2 pounds. She didn't actually lose the weight, she just never gained anymore weight than that, as she is also a small cat. She recently lost control of her back legs and the vet isn't sure this is caused by the FelV. He thinks it may be a neurological thing.. This happened suddenly about a week ago. First she was wobbly and then she got so she couldn't stand at all, and also lost control of her bladder and bowels. She is still eating and does not seem to be in any pain. Thanks, Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] How old to test kittens?
Trissa, How old are these kittens? From what I understand, if they contracted FelV from the mother cat and they are going to throw it off they will do so by about 5 or 6 months of age. As for the length of time it takes after exposure, I believe that is about 6 weeks or so. Someone please correct me if I'm wrong. They say it is good to wait a couple of more months before retesting to see if the cat turns negative. Lorrie On 12-23, patricia.a.elk...@gsk.com wrote: Or in other words, how old does a kitten have to be before you can believe that a negative test means the kitten is negative? And since you all are the experts, does anyone have any reliable info on how long it takes after exposure before a cat or kitten would test positive on a combo snap test? I have been thinking that an FELV carrier came into my home but tested negative because it was tested close to the time of infection. Is that a possible/reasonable hypothesis? I haven't identified the carrier so dont' know if later it tested positive. Thanks! Trissa in Philly ___ 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] FelV kittens
I wrote two weeks or so ago about a very sick FelV kitten who was anemic and had lost control of her back legs, and her bladder. We took her to the vet and he felt she was in the last stages of FelV, with little or no hope for recovery. She was 9 months old and only weighed 3 and a half pounds. Sadly she soon went to the rainbow bridge. Then yesterday we found another of her litter mates dead with absolutely no apparent sickness. This kitten was eating, playing and acted fine, but suddenly died. We've so far lost 4 kittens from this litter of FelV pos. kittens, and it's heart breaking. Has anyone else found kittens who look fine, eat well and play and then suddenly die? I don't think this is a symptom of FelV, and I'm wondering if this last kitten we found dead yesterday had a genetic heart problem or something else unrelated to FelV. Any ideas? Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Assist Feeding vs Force Feeding
Hi Sharyl, I see what you mean about assist rather than force, and I would definitely assist feed a cat who is just off it's food for awhile or one who had a non terminal illness. The story I wrote about happened many years ago, and this cat was dying of kidney failure, but I was too young and too dumb to know it, and I kept hoping he'd get better. Now I realize I was probably torturing the poor cat by forcing food into him. As a matter of fact I am assist feeding my very old cat now. His recent blood work was very good for his age, and he had his teeth cleaned again, plus had an extraction, but he will not eat unless I sit there with him, and give him small amounts of food several times a day. I see what you mean about assist rather than force. Lorrie On 12-29, Sharyl wrote: I'm hoping Lorrie did not mean she would never assist feed another cat.? There are so many reasons a cat stops eating that can be treated if a person is willing to assist feed for a period of time.? Constipation and dehydration are two that come to mind that anyone of us with a FeLV+ kitty might face.? Assist feeding while the medical problem is being addressed will save the cat's life. ? There are many ways to assist feed.? Please note I use the term assist feeding instead of force feeding.? A lot of the process is the state of your mind while helping your cat.? I assist my cats to consume the daily calories they need.?? My Pequita only eats if I spoon feed her on my bed.? Works for her, works for me.? ? Bright Eyes is bouncing back and forth between diarrhea and constipation while I try and figure out the problem and the right dose of lactulose.? ?He gets syringe fed 20 cc of Gerbers 2 Chicken and Gravy every few hours to supplement what little he does eat on his own.? He is the only one of the 4 FeLV+ babies I rescued last fall that isn't doing well.?? I've accepted that I might lose him but by golly he isn't going to starve to death.? I can't fix FeLV but I can prevent starvation.? ? Once again here is the link to the Yahoo Assist Feeding group. http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/Feline-Assisted-Feeding/ It is a good one to bookmark. Sharyl ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] Re Update on Tommy
Hi Tonya, Do you think your negatives could have turned positive? I worry all the time about my 9 month old kitten who was negative when I brought him home, because he was exposed to his litter mates and 4 of them have already died from FelV. So far he is doing well, but I still worry. What is wrong with your three? Lorrie On 01-11, catatonya wrote: I'm dealing with 3 cats that are very ill, and they are all my negatives. (Knock on wood.) My positive is fat and sassy and doing fine. She's especially enjoying all the treats I've been using trying to get my 3 sick ones to eat and take med.s. lol. tonya ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Baby Girl
Sally, I'm so sorry you lost Baby Girl. I believe we will see all our precious kitties again some day, and I know she'll be waiting for you. Lorrie On 01-12, Sally Davis wrote: Please add sweet Baby Girl to the CLS if possible she was not positive but had 7 good years as a Feral cat next to where I work. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] Re Benny
April.I'm so sorry you lost Baby Ben. Two days after Christmas I lost two FelV kittens who only lived to be 8 months old. It is SO hard and seems so unfair. You did so much to help Benny, and perhaps you now have room in your home and your heart to help another cat or kitten in need. We all deal with grief in our own way, but my way is to hug and kiss the kitties I still have. Lorrie On 01-15, April Martella wrote: I am sad to say that my baby Ben has gone home to be with the Lord at 2:53 a.m. on January 14, 2009. My heart is broken and I can't imagine this horrible pain ever subsiding. Thank you all for your help. Please add him to the CLS. This is a ruthless unfair disease and a horrible way for our babies to have to go. How do you deal with the extreme grief and sadness knowing you will never see or touch them again? I am so not good with things like this. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] OT: Puppy Mills in WA.
Absolutely.. Put those breeders in a small cage and let them sit in their own poop. On 01-23, dlg...@windstream.net wrote: i have been unable to get to computer for a while so please forgive my tardiness in some of my answers. dorlis RE: puppy mills, i too believe that these people should be shot or better yet, made to live in same conditions they made these animals live in. another problem with these people is that when they do this to animals, they also do it to people. when investigator for eastern Mo came out on a call i made to him, he said 8 out of 10 times he checked on animal abuse, he also reported child, elder abuse. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Tiger Ranch
Yes, it was Tiger Ranch. On 01-29, patricia.a.elk...@gsk.com wrote: In 2008, a large private no-kill rescue in western PA was raided and shut down for bad conditions. I can't remember the name of it - but maybe it was Tiger Ranch. There were plenty of news articles on it. Why don't you check into who the authorities were in that case and maybe that can give you a lead on who in your area would be the comparable people to go to. I'm sorry that I don't have time right now to look it up and give you the details. Trissa in Philladelphia ___ Felvtalk mailing ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Spaying/neutering of FelV cats
I have had two FelV pos. kittens neutered at 6 months with no problems, but of course a spay is a much more invasive proceedure. I will be interested in knowing what others on the list have done. Lorrie On 02-10, Marci Greer wrote: Hi All, I have a FELV+ kitty, Maddie 3 yrs old who came as a stray to us in October 2008, she is strictly indoors now, she is on interferon, and she is eating well, gaining weight, playing, lovable, etc. She has not been spayed, My vet who wanted to put her to sleep in October just because she was positive, which of course I did not do, told me not to have her spayed it could stress her and she would die, another vet told me to have her spayed. I don't know what to do, looking at her you would never even know that she was sick. Any advice? I love her so much and I don't want to do anything that may harm her. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Laser?
On 02-10, Cougar Clan wrote: You may want to have someone do it who uses a laserless bleeding and easier recovery. On Feb 10, 2009, at 5:28 PM, gary wrote: A laser spay?? I didn't know this was an option. Lorrie If she were my kitty, I would have her spayed. Yes, there is some stress involved in having it done, but there is also stress every time she goes into heat. There are other advantages to having her spayed, like a much reduced chance of mammary cancer, etc. I have had many positive kitties spayed with no problems. We can never know for sure but the odds are in kitty's favor. Gary ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Jazzman and Oscar
Sherry, My heart goes out to you. I am now nursing my precious old cat, Beezer, who is 16 years old and has stopped eating and is just sleeping and laying by the fire on blankets. I believe he is on his way to the Rainbow Bridge, so I know what you are going through. It is even worse when our cats are young, as perhaps Oscar and Jazzman are, as they should have so many more years of life ahead of them. My Beezer had a wonderful full life. He was a hard stray, and it took me almost two years to gain his trust, but once he decided to trust me he became the sweetest lap cat ever. We get so attached to them and it's so hard to let them go. You and Jazzman and Oscar are in my thoughts and prayers.. Lorrie I am pleading for a major prayer request for these two wonderful Sids boys.Jazz I fear is not going to pull through and Oscar is under the weather too.Thanks so much. Sherry ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Shots when FelV pos.
I had a 5 month old kitten die when he got his shots. I didn't know he was even positive for FelV until he got his shots, and when he got terribly sick I rushed him to the vet and he was FelV pos. I should add this was a kitten I planned to adopt out, and it was his second shot which I gave him. I usually give the shots because it is SO expensive to take kittens to the vet. I have given shots many times, which I'm sure a lot of you do, and this is the first and only time I had problems. After this I had to test all the rest of the kittens from that litter, and half were FelV pos and the rest neg. Lorrie On 02-18, Jane Lyons wrote: Hi I would think twice about vaccinating a positive kitten. I know that the vet that I use would not vaccinate a positive cat because vaccines can stress and assault a fragile and compromised immune system. Can you postpone the appointment and give yourself some time to do some research and talk to other people for different viewpoints? Does your kitten go outdoors? There is a really good book on the subject that describes the benefits and risks associated with vaccines. http://www.amazon.com/Vaccine-Guide-Dogs-Cats-Should/dp/1881217345/ ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8s=booksqid=123 I know this subject is controversial subject, but I think it is worth taking the time to educate yourself on all the possibilities. Jane ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] Shots when FelV pos.
No it wasn't anaphylactic shock or the kitten would have died right away. She got sick the next day. She was so weak she just fell over and apparently the shot stressed her immune system too much. She must have been fairly far advanced with FelV, as she was always much more quiet than the other kittens. On 02-19, Heather wrote: Was it an anaphylactic shock reaction? I lost a 5 month old little feral girl, she died right after having her rabies shot--she was not tested though I'm guessing likely negative. On Wed, Feb 18, 2009 at 4:42 PM, Lorrie felineres...@kvinet.com wrote: I had a 5 month old kitten die when he got his shots. I didn't know he was even positive for FelV until he got his shots, and when he got terribly sick I rushed him to the vet and he was FelV pos. I should add this was a kitten I planned to adopt out, and it was his second shot which I gave him. I usually give the shots because it is SO expensive to take kittens to the vet. I have given shots many times, which I'm sure a lot of you do, and this is the first and only time I had problems. After this I had to test all the rest of the kittens from that litter, and half were FelV pos and the rest neg. Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] FelV vaccine for FelV positive cats?
Hi, Gloria, Let me get this straightYour vet vaccinated FelV positive cats with the FelV vaccine to deal with FelV. I understood that once a cat was FelV positive the vaccine was not going to change it's status, and the cat would still remain positive. Does anyone else know anything about this? Lorrie On 02-19, gbl...@aristotle.net wrote: Sorry, didn't see your message till today. I've had 10 or 15 FELV cats over the last 6 years. I have 5 now. Two of the current cats, Oliver and Chloe, came from a lady in Oklahoma who had to give them up because of family problems. Her vet there vaccinated them regularly against FELV, as a way to deal with the FELV. I'd never heard of that, always believed that was not appropriate. HOWEVER - these are the only FELV cats I've had that live beyond 10 years old. Go figure. had that live beyond 10 years old. Go figure. Anyhow - I also have a friend with 1 FELV and 1 non-FELV cat who are great buddies, had them since they were kittens. She's kept the FELV cat on interferon daily, and they're doing great - now beyond 4 years old, no problems. She's had them tested once or twice - the FELV- cat stays negative. Gloria ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] mixing FeLV pos and neg
Thanks for your post Carmen. It was very comforting. Vets are entirely too quick to suggest euthanasia for FelV pos. cats. This fall I adopted out a FelV pos kitten to a wonderful couple who also had two other cats, not positive for FelV. The first vet at their cinic told them not to take the kitten, so they brought him back to me with tears in their eyes. Then two weeks later they returned to get the kitten, because the other vet in that clinic they go to told them to get their neg. cats vaccinated, and go ahead and bring home the kitten, as it wasn't that contagious. I just visited them yesterday and their positive kitten looks wonderful. He is healthy and happy and has a super good home with them. I can thank this second vet who was so much better informed than his partner was. Lorrie On 02-21, Carmen Conklin wrote: I am writing in response to Lauries note about Isabella. I have had several negative FeLV cats that have been mixed with the FeLV positives over the years and NONE of them ever acquired a positive status to the FeLV. It is definitely NOT an airborne disease in any way and it takes a very prolonged exposure for any negative cats to even possibly acquire the FeLV UNLESS they are bitten and direct blood is passed. Most adult cats are simply immune to FeLV and IF exposed at all, simply shed it off-they do not test postive even if living with those kitties. We have worked with hundreds of FeLV kitties over the last 25 years, and the non positives who lived with even the sympomatic positives did not become positive in their long lifetimes. One recently died of old age-not FeLV. Anyway, most people and some vets still have a pretty healthy fear of FeLV, but for those of us who have worked with these wonderful kitties for awhile and have them for companion animals, experience is a great calmer of all fears of FeLV positives. Carmen ___ 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] My Mickey
Viky, Your story just broke my heart. It made me remember when my precious cat Panda Bear died of liver failure. I wrapped him up and walked with him to all his favorite places. You are in my thoughts, and I know how difficult this was for you, and your Mickey. Lorrie In October I joined the group requesting information on hemangio sarcoma which my felv cat was diagnosed with. Everything I read was bad. He had the first tumor removed on 10-13-08. It came back this time two tumors and they were removed on 1-6-09. This surgery was very, very difficult on him to get over. Then on 2-13-09 the vet discovered it had come back even more rapidly than the first time. x-rays showed nothing in the lungs or spleen but the liver was hard to see though not enlarged. This past Monday he stopped eating and drinking and I knew it was time. The next morning I took my heart disguised as a little 7 pound black and white angel to the vet for the final time. The night before I laid him on the bed next to me and he stared into my face purring for hours. The cancer had spread to his liver and I knew I could not stand for him be in pain. Before I took him to the vet I wrapped him in his cat blanket and walked him all over the yard so he could see his ducks and feel the air on his face. He loved to be outside. So from start to finish he lived 19 weeks from diagnosis. This is a deadly, aggressive cancer and I hope none of you experience it with your babies. I had my little man for 8 years and 7 months and they were worth every minute. Viky Digangi ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Talkative Cats
I think certain cats are more vocal than others, and I never heard of it having anything to do with FelV. I also never heard of FelV causing dementia. Please correct me if I'm wrong about this. Lorrie On 03-11, Maria Ianiro wrote: So I was just wondering if having a very vocal cat is related at all to feline leukemia. I've never had a cat as talkative as my Felv+ kitty Bernie. Besids when he is sleeping, eating or looking out the window... he is making noises. Maybe this is normal, I don't know. In the back of my mind I was thinking about the dementia that is sometimes realted with Felv+ cats. Thanks ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Neurological disorders in FelV cats
Yes, neurological disorders for sure. I had a FelV kitten who lost control of her back legs as well as bladder control. She was a sweetheart who is now at the Rainbow Bridge. On 03-12, Maria Ianiro wrote: Maybe dementia is a bad word... I'm pretty sure Felv can cause neurological disorders? Someone correct me if I'm wrong. My felv+ cat is also the most loving and friendly cat that I have had so much personality. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] Vaccines
I have several cats who are 5+ years old, and all tested FelV negative years ago when I adopted them. However they are inside - outside cats, and are also exposed to rescued cats I bring home to be adopted out. These cats also tested neg. but there is always that window area where FelV may not show up yet or the test may be inaccurate I want to have my home cats vaccinated for FelV just in case. Please give me some info. on this.. Do I need to retest them all first, or is it safe to give them the vaccine without testing them. They all appear to be in excellent health, but if they should be pos. would the vaccine hurt them?? Thanks for your help, Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] FelV Vaccines
Oh wow, we're talking big bux here, as I have 14 permanent cats at home :-( I just wondered if anyone knew if the vaccine would hurt my cats if they were positive, but asymptomatic. I'll ask my vet tomorrow, but I value the opinions of the people in this group as much as any vet's opinion. And besides the vet stands to make a lot more money by testing each cat, so might insist or the tests. Lorrie On 03-30, Sharyl wrote: Lorrie, JMO but if they have never been vaccinated I'd have them tested before getting the vaccine. Sharyl --- On Mon, 3/30/09, Lorrie felineres...@kvinet.com wrote: From: Lorrie felineres...@kvinet.com Subject: [Felvtalk] Vaccines To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Cc: feral_c...@yahoogroups.com Date: Monday, March 30, 2009, 1:21 PM -Inline Attachment Follows- I have several cats who are 5+ years old, and all tested FelV negative years ago when I adopted them.? However they are inside - outside cats, and are also exposed to rescued cats I bring home to be adopted out. These cats also tested neg.? but there is always that window area where FelV may not show up yet or the test may be inaccurate I want to have my home cats vaccinated for FelV just in case. Please give me some info. on this.. Do I need to retest them all first, or is it safe to give them the vaccine without testing them. They all appear to be in excellent health, but if they should be pos. would the vaccine hurt them?? Thanks for your help, Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Paragoric
I used to use paragoric for myself for diarrhea but that was years ago. I didn't think they still sold it. Last time I bought it I had to sign for it and that was also years ago. Apparently drug addicts enjoy it, so I thought they took it off the market. Lorrie On 04-05, Gloria B. Lane wrote: Wow, paregoric. Have to remember that. Thanks for the info - Gloria On Apr 3, 2009, at 4:13 PM, Pat Kachur wrote: This probably seems pretty obvious but--my Mandy (Felv) had diarrhea for months, all the time. After trying many things, my vet said use paregoric and the diarrhea stopped like magic and has not returned. - Original Message - From: TANYA NOE sashacatgodd...@yahoo.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Friday, April 03, 2009 5:06 PM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Advice on 9 month old FELV + kitty Debbie and Heather, Thanks for the reply. Maggie has had several(5-6)fecals done and one sent away to a lab as a feline diarrhea panel which cost $160 and checked for fungus, parasites, etc. All of which were normal. She has diarrhea more than she doesn't anymore. She was born in June and began having FELV symptoms in August. The diarrhea has been off and on since then. Do you know is the Fortiflora something you need to get at the vets or can I find it elsewhere? Again thanks for the advice ladies. Tanya Warner --- On Thu, 4/2/09, Heather furrygi...@gmail.com wrote: From: Heather furrygi...@gmail.com Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Advice on 9 month old FELV + kitty To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Date: Thursday, April 2, 2009, 10:32 AM Ditto that all, and, some Fortiflora might not be a bad idea. 2009/4/2 Debbie Harrison dlh1...@hotmail.com First off, I'd like to thank you for keeping this little one despite all of your other demands. Then, has your vet done any fecal testing? Maggie could possibly only need some antibiotic or antiparasitic... Other than that, the wonderful people here will tell you to feed her a good quality diet and keep her life as stress free as possible. Your kitten could conceiveably live a good, long life. Best of luck to you and your family. Debbie (COL) The time is always right to do what is right - Martin Luther King Date: Thu, 2 Apr 2009 07:05:57 -0700 From: sashacatgodd...@yahoo.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: [Felvtalk] Advice on 9 month old FELV + kitty I am sure you have covered this a thousand times but I haven't been on here all that long and am very far behind on reading the emails. I have a newborn and work and times get hectic, sorry. We adopted a kitten that after a neg test later turned out to be pos. We love her so we are keeping her. The clinics around us usually recommend euthanasia and don't have a ton of experience treating pos cats. We have a neg cat 12 years old as well. My problem is that Maggie goes through boughts of what I call horribly smelly Pancake batter poops. They are very watery and smell very foul. During these times she acts as though she is not feeling well ( I wouldn't either if that came out of my bottom). I would like to know what stuff seems to work best and what stuff to avoid. I asked my vet about interferon to build immune, she didn't seem very knowledgeable about it but prescribed it anyway. Seems like the diarrhea has been worse since she got on it and it is $40 plus shipping a month. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I hate seeing her miserable. Thanks, Tanya ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org _ More than messages?check out the rest of the Windows Live?. http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowslive/ ___ 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 ___ 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
[Felvtalk] Charlotte is positive
Ooops, I see you are already a member of this excellent group. I didn't look at where your post came from and I thought it was from my other group. Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] One eye won't dilate
I have a rescued male (neutered now) who is probably 2 or 3 years old. When I got him I noticed one eye wouldn't dilate. The vet said he is probably blind in that eye, but it hasn't bothered him in the least. He is active, eats like a pig and is a big lovable boy. He was also FelV neg when tested a year ago. Lorrie On 04-15, Giselle de Grandis wrote: This morning I noticed something strange about one of Pixie's eyes -- it won't dilate in response to light like the other eye and the pupil stays the size of a fat grain of rice. She's four years old. Does anyone know why this is happening? Does she need to see the vet? My Google searches on this topic yield some scary results. Thanks for your help. Giselle ___ 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] Head injury caused eye not to dilate
Giselle, In my previous e-mail I neglected to mention this cat I rescued had an injury to his head just above the eye that won't dilate and the vet said most likely this caused him to go blind in that eye. Lorrie On 04-15, Giselle de Grandis wrote: Karen, thanks for your reply. I'm not aware of any head injury but that doesn't mean it couldn't have happened when I wasn't around. Pixie is a little monkey and we have very steep stairs. The prospect of a head injury or a slight stroke causing the unresponsive pupil is upsetting but needs to be dealt with, I guess. I wonder what my vet can/should/will do for her since the general approach to medicine (human and animal) in the Netherlands, where I live, is wait and see. She's not on any meds and eats a tiny cube of tuna for cats mixed with L-lysine and a drop of fish oil each morning. She grazes on grain-free dry food for the rest of the day. Giselle Message: 20 Date: Wed, 15 Apr 2009 07:24:41 -0400 From: Karen Griffith griff...@frognet.net Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] One eye won't dilate To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Message-ID: e652fa59b4dc4ddda9eba401f4fdd...@karenaxjwddhoj Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset=iso-8859-1; ? ? ? ?reply-type=original Giselle, You should probably take her in for an exam. ?This could be caused by a head injury from a fall, etc. (i.e.,what could have caused the head trauma or imbalance to cause such a bump), slight stroke, etc., all of which needs to have your vet take a quick look. ?Is she on any meds that could initiate such a response? ?(Very few meds will cause such a reaction.) Hope all turns out O.K. Karen Griffith - Original Message - From: Giselle de Grandis giselle.degran...@gmail.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, April 15, 2009 4:06 AM Subject: [Felvtalk] One eye won't dilate This morning I noticed something strange about one of Pixie's eyes -- it won't dilate in response to light like the other eye and the pupil stays the size of a fat grain of rice. She's four years old. Does anyone know why this is happening? Does she need to see the vet? My Google searches on this topic yield some scary results. Thanks for your help. Giselle ___ 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] Petey
I'm so sorry about Petey. These losses are so hard on us, and it never gets any easier no matter how many times we go thru it. Lorrie On 04-16, Kerry MacKenzie wrote: I just got the very sad news that Petey was put to sleep this morning. I want to thank everyone for their feedback and support yesterday. Petey's mom is also the new mom of my former foster FeLV Daisy. I'll be (gently) encouraging her to join the list. I didn't know Petey was even ill until yesterday, and I think she and Petey would have benefited enormously from being part of this wonderful group. Good wishes as always to all of you and your furbabes. Kerry M. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Testing an 8 week old kitten
Some low life put an adorable little female kitten in a box that was taped shut. I rescue and TNR cats, so I have her now and I'm trying very hard not to fall madly in love with her, but it's not easy :-) I have to find a forever home for her because I have 14 cats at home now and I just can't keep anymore. This little kitten appears very healthy, but I must have her tested if I let her out of my spare room and in with my other cats before I adopt her out. Would a snap test be reliable at her age, or iffy? Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] Re Update on Charlotte
Hi Laura, Thanks for the update on Charlotte. I'm so glad she is doing better now after her tranfusion, but egads what a vet bill!!! Your mom sounds like mine (God rest her soul). She was always upset about the money I spent on my cats, and she always suggested I put them to sleep. Lorrie On 04-19, Laura Mostello wrote: I brought Charlotte back to the vet yesterday. She still wasn't doing well, just nibbling at her food and appearing very lethargic. Since I wasn't especially happy with my vet's response to her, I tried another clinic that I'd heard good things about, just to get a second opinion. Dr. Ray took more blood and told me that Charlotte was indeed very anemic - her PCV was 9% versus about 40% for a healthy young adult cat. So I was a little ticked off that my regular vet didn't tell me just how anemic she was, and a week had gone by when something else could have been done. The vet was concerned about tumors but X-rays showed nothing. He recommended that a blood transfusion be done immediately, so he packed up his 22 pound donor cat and I brought both cats to North Fulton emergency center since they were just down the road Dr Ray's office was closing for the day. I picked Charlotte up at 11:30 last night (lots of coffee was needed since it was an hour and a half drive) and she was so hungry! She started chowing down right away. She now has doxycycline and Prednisilone twice a day. Now we just have to wait for the rest of the test results to come back. I'll keep you all updated. Thank goodness for Visait was almost $900 yesterday. My mom asked me, Why didn't you just put her down? but I couldn't. She doesn't want to die. She's purring and rolling over to be petted and even yesterday when she didn't feel good she was going up to everybody and looking for attention. Laura ___ 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] Zuckerman has crossed
Amy, I am so sorry you lost Zman. We lost a 9 month old FelV kitten a few mohths ago, and it is so awful to lose an especially sweet cat when they are so young. Thank you for holding paws when he left you. Our mitty died in our arms being loved til the end, but it doesn't make it any easier to loose them. We don't have guilt about what we could/should have done for them, but the loss is just as painful. Lorrie On 05-12, Amy Dalgliesh wrote: My Zman lost his fight today.? He is my 6th in the past 9 months.? I know that it is to be expected when you take in sickly street kids, but it doesn't help with the pain of losing any one of these wonderful creatures.? . ? Zuckerman was a 2 week old kitten with a horrible URI when I found him.? He quickly became a momma's boy, going to work with me during the day and holding paws through the carrier door at night. ? Once old enough to graduate from the carrier,?he became quite the?snuggler, curling up at my?neck during the night. ?He loved to suckle earlobes and would launch himself off a piece?of furniture onto any unsuspecting person?who happened by in order to attach himself to one.??I told him that he would have to stop because we couldn't have a 12 pound adult catapulting himself onto everyone.? Guess I don't have to worry about that now,?he was only 8 months old and less than?4 pounds at the end.? ? We were holding paws when he left. ? It's been said before by all of us and unfortunately I know it will be said many more times, but?I hate this freaking disease. ___ 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] PA Sanctuary
Where is The Best Little Cat House in PA? On 05-26, CATHERINE DIDONNA wrote: Where are you located? Where is the Sanctuary? The best little cat house in Penn. will take him for free when there is room. Regards. C ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Senior Boy Needs To Get To Sanctuary
There are only three days left to raise the money needed to get Boscoe to his sanctuary. I just made a donation and they are now up to $380. and the goal is $550 PLEASE send what you can, every little bit helps, and if they don't reach the $550 goal the money is returned and Boscoe has no place to go. Read his story below, and thank you Michael for your offer to give Boscoe a loving home for the rest of his life. Lorrie On 05-26, secondchancem...@aol.com wrote: Good afternoon, my name is Michael and my wife and I run Second Chance Meows The home where Boscoe is going. I would like to thank all of those that are donating to help Boscoe. We have been running a home for FeLV+ cats for about 8 yrs now and have had some great success with longevity in them. Our eldest is now 16 yo. My wife and I are grateful to be able to offer Boscoe a home with lots of kids to play with and be loved by. Please, PLEASE help Boscoe come home Michael Co-Founder Second Chance Meows -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Susan Hoffman Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2009 4:01 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Urgent: FeLV+ senior boy needs money to get to sanctuary Fundable takes a 10% cut for using their service, so that's why the ultimate goal is $550. I think Boscoe may have a couple of very good years ahead of him, despite the FeLV. He is a tough old guy to have survived life on the streets with an infected mouth, broken rib, matted and dirty. And now that he's gotten the mouth taken care of, he's been eating 4 cans of food a day. He's getting so strong, it's like trying to shove a rhino back in its cage when he tries to get out. I think he has some very good quality of life ahead of him, And how could I not help him. A cat shows up at your door in that condition, you do what you can. Boscoe's fundraising page is set up at http://www.fundable.com/groupactions/groupaction.2009-05-26.2918289545 BOSCOE'S STORY Boscoe is a really hard luck boy. He used to be someone's pet but somehow wound up trying to survive on the streets. He showed up at my house wearing a tight dirty flea collar, emaciated and filthy. We took him in, put him in a quarantine cage till we could get him to a vet. Boscoe had his vet appointment May 17th and the poor old boy had a lot going on: 1. His mouth was a mass of bad teeth and infection. How he managed to eat enough to survive is anyone's guess. Also, he has a condition called ankylosis - the teeth fuse to the bone of the jaw. This made dental work more difficult but they did a really good job with the boy. 2. He was filthy. He could not groom himself with his diseased mouth and when he tried he just got foul smelling spit all over himself. And he had burrs and debris stuck in what should have been a longhaired gray and white coat. His tail was like one solid dreadlock. So Boscoe was shaved from neck to tail. BIG improvement. 3. He was neutered, got his FVRCP and rabies vaccines, nails trimmed, ears cleaned. 4. And Boscoe tested FeLV+ The FeLV+ part really sucked. It meant I could not offer Boscoe lifetime sanctuary. We have 9 cats of our own, including two who are FIV+, senior and special needs fosters, as well as a steady stream of more readily adoptable foster cats. So Boscoe is stuck in a cage at my house. There???s just no alternative. But Boscoe has gotten very very lucky. He has been accepted into a small home-based sanctuary ??? a home with a family where they take only FeLV+ cats. He can spend what time he has left in this world napping on a bed in a sunbeam, having his long coat brushed daily (once it grows back), never missing a meal. This is a HOME for this boy! The family that runs this sanctuary quite reasonably requests a donation when they accept a new cat. In Boscoes case, because of his age (estimated between 6 and 8 years though a vet tech swears he is 14 because of his nails), the requested donation is $500. They want to get Boscoe a senior blood panel immediately and that isn???t cheap. The donation is reasonable and the opportunity for Boscoe to have a wonderful life in a family environment is just so amazing. I have to raise the money to get him there. I can???t afford $500 out of my own pocket. I can kick in something. But I really need help with this. Please, please, please help me get the money that Boscoe needs to go to this sanctuary. Any donation will help. Thanking you in advance on behalf of Boscoe and myself. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] Boscoe made it to his sanctuary!
What wonderful news that Boscoe will be going to his new home tomorrow.. I am SO HAPPY. Rescue work is terribly heartbreaking at times, but it's stories like this that make it all worth while. Thanks to all of you who sent money for this old boy. Have a long, happy life dear old Boscoe. Lorrie, Beezer, Saffron, Buzzy, Tizzy, Satchmo, Rosebud, Asha, Sooty, Polar Bear, Marmalade, Jupiter, Sophie, and all my ferals ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Darcy
I hope Darcy has been to the vet by now, as something is definitely wrong. It sounds like she might have an infection. Please keep us posted on her condition. Lorrie On 05-29, Jody Butler wrote: Our sweet baby, Darcy, ten months old and FeLV+ was neutered on Tuesday.? We brought her home Wednesday and she seemed okay, considering she'd just had surgery. ? Yesterday she was in more pain, but we just figured the pain shot they'd given that was supposed to be good for two days was wearing off. ? Today is even worse.? I called the vet this AM.? She suggested giving a baby aspirin, which I did before going to work. ? Tonight, she barely lifts her head and is mewing so pitifully.? She ate some earlier in the day but won't eat tonight.? I called the vet again, and she had me give 1/8 of an antibiotic and we'll bring her in tomorrow morning first thing.? We've had other FeLV kitties neutered with no troubles, but I'm getting scared tonight. ? I just needed to share this tonight.? Any encouraging words or suggestions are greatly appreciated! ? Jody ( Darcy) ___ 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] Aspirin for cats.
Two different vets told me one whole baby aspirin (enteric coated) every 48 hours, for full grown cats, was the proper does. Lorrie On 05-29, Diane Rosenfeldt wrote: Jody, Did the vet say a whole baby aspirin? On the internet I'm seeing that the recommended dose is 1/4 of a baby aspirin every 3 or 4 days, since cats' livers don't process aspirin very well. It's not common but not unheard of for a vet to prescribe aspirin, but usually a mini-dose as described. Is there an emergency vet where you live that you can call to check whether the dose you gave Darcy is okay? I'm not trying to scare you (I know, probably too late for that) but if another vet thinks the dose your vet said is okay, then it probably is, but if it isn't you'll want to know that asap, right? I would assume you have checked the incision site for inflammation? Here are big vibes that Darcy feels better very soon without further intervention. Hugs to you. Diane R. -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Jody Butler Sent: Friday, May 29, 2009 10:37 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: [Felvtalk] Thoughts Prayers Needed for Darcy Our sweet baby, Darcy, ten months old and FeLV+ was neutered on Tuesday.? We brought her home Wednesday and she seemed okay, considering she'd just had surgery. ? Yesterday she was in more pain, but we just figured the pain shot they'd given that was supposed to be good for two days was wearing off. ? Today is even worse.? I called the vet this AM.? She suggested giving a baby aspirin, which I did before going to work. ? Tonight, she barely lifts her head and is mewing so pitifully.? She ate some earlier in the day but won't eat tonight.? I called the vet again, and she had me give 1/8 of an antibiotic and we'll bring her in tomorrow morning first thing.? We've had other FeLV kitties neutered with no troubles, but I'm getting scared tonight. ? I just needed to share this tonight.? Any encouraging words or suggestions are greatly appreciated! ? Jody ( Darcy) ___ 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: [Felvtalk] Aspirin
Thanks for the info about aspirin. I can see that due to the lack of an enzyme in the cat's liver giving aspirin anymore often could result in death. Thankfully, I've only given baby aspirin to a cat once. Lorrie On 05-30, Sharyl wrote: Jody, I hope by now you have take Darcy to a vet. She should not be in this much pain this long after the surgery. Like others I suspect an infection. Regarding aspirin, like others I'd be very cautious. When Pequita was Rx aspirin for a pulled muscle the dose was 1/2 of a baby aspirin every 72 hrs. Aspirin poisoning is a very real concern. Here is more info http://www.valleypetnews.com/venerable_vet_i.htm Aspirin. Yes, you can give aspirin to a cat but ONLY once every 72 hours. The cat is missing a liver enzyme that helps break down aspirin. This causes aspirin, and many other drugs, to be slowly broken down and thus the effects of aspirin lasts for 72 hours in the feline patient. So, if you gave aspirin three to four times a day to a cat you would certainly have a dead cat by the second or third day. Cat aspirin dose is 10mg/kg once every 72 hours. Aspirin should be given with food. NEVER give aspirin if the cat is also on a glucocorticoid (prednisone) or a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDS). This is almost always the rule with other species as well. A baby aspirin is 81mg, and a regular aspirin is 324 mg. If the vet that performed the surgery doesn't seem helpful I'd go to an ER. Sharyl ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] Darcy
Jody... We have not heard anything about Darcy, the little female who was in such pain after her spay. PLEASE let us know how she is. Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Darcy
Did anyone hear anything more about Darcy, the little female who was in such pain after her spay. PLEASE let us know how she is. I have been worried about her, but I may have missed a post from Jody letting us know how she is. Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Darcy
Thanks for the update, Kerry. It's very sad news, but I wanted to know one way or the other. Lorrie On 06-04, Kerry MacKenzie wrote: Lorrie, Jody wrote on June 1: Thank you all for the words of support. Sweet Darcy went downhill so fast, becoming unable to walk. I drove to an emergency clinic where they did their best for her through the weekend. Yesterday we helped her to the Bridge, knowing there was just no more anyone could do. Her FeLv wouldn't let her fight off the ravages of whatever attacked her - probably a cancer that centered in her nervous system. We miss her dreadfully but know she had a good life with us, short though it was. She was much loved. Jody Help blind cats see a future! On 04/06/2009, at 3:24 PM, Lorrie wrote: Did anyone hear anything more about Darcy, the little female who was in such pain after her spay. PLEASE let us know how she is. I have been worried about her, but I may have missed a post from Jody letting us know how she is. Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Freezing meds.....
Gary, we all count on you for info. on our vet meds, so thanks. As for freezing stuff... I freeze all my meds, vet meds and human meds. I've had human meds in the freezer as long as ten years and they still work fine. I've also had Clavamox in the freezer for two years past the expiration date and it works fine. I've asked several pharmacists about freezing meds, and they all say not to do it, BUT I wonder if they have to say this to cover their butts just in case. There is a lot of CMA in the medical field. What are your thoughts on this? Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] Re OT- Tiffany, blind DUMPED cat
Kelly, I'm alsp very concerned about this cat. She should have gotten her meds right away, and I also believe a vet who has been practicing for that long may not be up on current treatments. All physicians and vets have to continue to read, and learn about new treatments for as long as they are in practice. Some do and others don't. They just stick with whatever they learned in vet school or med school. Lorrie On 06-22, Sharyl wrote: Kelly, I know you are waiting to hear from your primary vet but the longer the kitty goes without meds the less chance she will ever regain any of her sight. To be honest it may be to late to save her sight but the high BP needs to be addressed before any other damage occurs. Here is a link to some general info on high BP. http://www.marvistavet.com/html/high_blood_pressure.html There is a Yahoo heart group that has may be able to help with the meds and dose amounts. http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/feline-heart/ You should be able to purchase the meds at your local pharmacy with a Rx from a vet. Usually the 1st choice for cats is Amlodipine for high BP. A vet who has been practicing for over 40 yrs may not be current on what is now available for special needs kitty. If possible she needs to be seen by a specialist. Hugs to her. Sharyl ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Ebony and FELV
Hi Grahame, Hemobartonella often doesn't show up in the tests, and your vet should start Ebony on Doxicycline anyway. As for the anemia. I have a CRF cat, and this also causes anemia. I am giving him baby formula with iron. Just a tablespoon (undiluted) mixed with Whiskas cat milk once a day. I'm not a vet or a vet tech, just a desperate cat lady who will try anything for my cat. My vet said Epogen probably wouldn't work, but this human infant formula has pinked him up and he's doing much better. I know his days are numbered, but it's buying him some time. Has anyone else tried this for CRF or FelV? Lorrie On 06-24, Grahame Lippert wrote: Hi my name is Grahame and my 2 year old cat Ebony has diagnosed with FELV about a month ago. She was also anemic. That vet pretty much said there was nothing that could be done. We then went to a second vet and had some more tests done. She tested negative for hemobartonella and she had non regenetive anemia. I asked the vet about Imuunoregulin and epogen. She decided we should start Ebony on the immunoregulin and she has been on this for 2 weeks for a total of 6 shots. I have also been giving her pettiinic during this time. Ebony actually had improved on her condition 2 weeks ago, before we started the immunoregulin. Now its 2 weeks later and I can tell she is more anemic by the way she is acting and the color of her tongue. I am going to the vet tonite to get her blood counts. What should I try for my Ebony? I'm willing to try anything albeit reasonably priced. Prednisone? Epogen? Could it still be Hemobartonella? Thank you in advance for the help Grahame Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile ___ 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] Re OT: DNA
I was wondering too. Lorrie On 06-28, wendy wrote: What is a confidential DNA? Thanks, Wendy From: Laurieskatz lauriesk...@mchsi.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Sunday, June 28, 2009 4:18:20 PM Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] OT: DNA All, I have a confidential DNA. If you want to inquire, please email me privately. Thanks, Laurie lauriesk...@mchsi.com ___ 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] Bloodwork (attn. Belinda)
Hi Belinda, I've been reading your posts about bloodwork, and I've learned a lot. I have a CRF cat I will start on the Nutrived. Thank you for all the valuable information. Lorrie On 07-11, Belinda Sauro wrote: Hi Amy, Petinic doesn't contain folic acid which is also needed to build new blood, Nutrived does ... most vets carry the Petinic and not the Nutrived that is why they recommend it. If you can find the Nutrived I would switch to it, I used to buy it online, I'll see if I can find it. This is the one I used to get: http://www.calvetsupply.com/product/Nutrived_B_Complex_4oz/Veterinary_Nutritional_Supplements When I need to order supplements I order a lot from them. They are a reputable company and have been around for a while: http://www.calvetsupply.com/ Belinda happiness is being owned by cats ... http://bemikitties.com http://BelindaSauro.com ___ 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] Baby Bella
I'm so sorry Sarai. I've never seen the symptoms you described. It this must have been just terrifying to watch. You did the right thing to put Bella down, but I know how hard it is to lose a precious baby. Lorrie My girl kitty, Bella, 4 months old had a pretty bad herpes infection with a fever of 105 for over two weeks. She stopped eating her hard food and I so I was spoon feeding her baby food to try to get her to gain weight. She was also on antibiotics- She had good days and bad days, it was quite the roller coaster for those weeks. She seemed to be doing better this past week- interacting more, eating lots, etc. Then all of a sudden, in the middle of the night on Wednesday, her neurological system went haywire. She began biting herself uncontrollably, running into walls, stumbling around and she lost most of her vision. Within 6 hours of the symptoms beginning, we were forced to love enough to let her go. Our new vet was wonderful and helped us through the whole process with kindness. He thinks that the leukemia went systemic and settled in her brain. It feels like it happened so fast. While we are still grieving our loss, we are also very worried about our other kitten. While he is FeLV positive, he has not had any clinical issues. He seems perfectly normal, loving and active. I am wondering if there are others out there with a not sick FELV kitty and if so, what kind of measures are you taking to help increase their chance of making it through this? Our vet said that if he makes it to 6 months old, we may be able to re-test to see if he has suppressed the virus. He is just over 4 months old now and has lost his sister, which has been very stressful on him. He is an indoors only kitty. We also have him taking Lysine (to keep herpes symptoms at bay) and Pet-tinic (vitamins). ~Sarai ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Adoption of cats
On 07-30, Cindy Jackson wrote: How can you make sure that someone who wants to adopt your cat is legitimate? Has anyone ever offered to adopt your cat here on felvtalk or have you found someone here that you called to ask if they could adopt your cat? If so, how did you make sure they are reputable? ? ? ? It's not easy, but here are some tips.. If you are doing this via computer, use e-mail for the first interview. If the e-mail exchanges are good, I ask for a phone number. If the person can't respond with a complete e-mail sentence stop right there. If you get a phone number for the person call them at that number early in the screening process. If the number can't be verified as valid, go no further. When you call the potential adopters ask them to tell you about themselves and the home they have to offer. Ask if they've had cats or a cat before, and what happened to the cat. A really good indiction of commitment is if the people tell you they nursed a senior cat through the end of it's life. A bad indication is someone who says their cats keep getting run over, their dog kills them, or they don't have a clue why their cats keep disappearing! Always ask a nominal adoption fee. But feel free to waive it if you feel really good about the people or ask them to donate to a rescue group instead. The willingness to pay a small fee is just one indicator of commitment. When you choose a family after the initial interview, go to their house and look around carefully. Are there other animals - how do they interact? Are there young children - how do they react to the cat? Is this house and family suitable? Look around and make a bit of a judgment call on whether or not this family can afford your cat. Not everyone should own a pet if they can't afford the vet bills involved. If you feel this is not the family for your pet, be gracious in saying, I'm sorry I do not think my cat would be suited to your family. Then try again.. Once you find the family, let them know that you will be popping by some time in the next 2 weeks to see how the cat is doing. If he is well adjusting then you know your job is done and if not, then make it clear that you reserve the right to pull the pet back out and try again. Leave the family your contact information so they can reach you if they decide they do not want the pet. Also leave them the information on the pet's vet of the past and a medical history. This looks like a lot to do, but it's for the protection of your cat. Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] Difficult decision
Dear Friends, I have a difficult decision to make, and I hope you can help... I have several FelV cats at a shelter I have in town. Most remain in good health by all appearances, however one 8 year old female has been steadily losing weight, she is now very anemic; extremely emaciatedm and she stopped eating two days ago. She will still lick a bit of baby food from my fingers, and she is still drinking water, but this is all. I know she is probably going to die soon, but I want her to die in familiar surroundings where she is loved, rather than having to make a trip to the vet which is always terrifying for cats. The vets here will not come out to see or euthanize a sick cat. This cat does not appear to be in any pain. She has no tumors, nor neurogical symptoms, but I know she will soon die from the anemia. I do not believe in extending the life of a cat who has a terminal illness, therefore I will not put her through transfusions or heroic measures. If I had a terminal illness I would not wish this for myself! What I'm asking is this I'm sure some of you have had anemic FelV cats and I want to know if dying from anemia is painful. If so I will have her put to sleep. Even though I know the trip to the vet will be frightening for her... I do not want her to suffer. Thank you for your help, Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] Thank you for your help
Dear Friends, I want to thank all of you for your help and advice about the FelV cat in my cageless FelV shelter who is slowly wasting away. I really appreciate your caring responses. I did not want to take Mimi to the vet to be PTS, as it is so stressful for her, and you helped me make my decision to just love and comfort her where she is now, in her favorite sleeping place. Frank, I too am haunted by the memory of taking a dying cat to the vet and watching him use what little strength he had left to fight going there. It was awful, and unless a cat is in extreme pain I will never do this again. Maybe I shouldn't comment on this here, but I also have a cat who is 16 years old and has the beginnings of CRF, so I joined the CRF group, but I only stayed there about a week. It tore my guts out to read about the horrendous things so many of the members were putting their very old, (16 to 19 years old) termininally ill cats through They described how the cats no longer came to them for love, as they knew they'd be poked and prodded! It seemed everyone in the group was determined to keep their cats alive no matter what they put them through. I couldn't stand reading about it, so I dropped out. The members of this FelV group seem to have a more realistic attitude. We will all die someday, and keeping people or animals alive on tubes and needles is not the way I want to leave this earth! Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] CRF cat (Sharyl)
Hi Sharyl, I agree completely... I always start treatment on a sick cat. My CRF cat is hand fed (assist fed, not force fed) every 2 or three hours all day. He gets his meds, and I'll try fluids sub Q. when my vet feels he needs them. So far he is thriving, his coat has improved, he's gained weight and he is still enjoying life. What I meant was, I think the time comes when we have to acknowledge the fact that we can do no more for our cats. Trying to keep them alive when they are obviously dying is not right. Sorry if I came across wrong to anyone. By all means try treatments, but when the end is near let them go in peace. Lorrie On 08-12, Sharyl wrote: Lorrie, Just a comment about CRF kitties. My Pequita was dx with CRF over 3 yrs ago. She'll be 17 this Oct. She has been on meds and daily sub q fluids for most of those 3 yrs. I assist feed her several times per day. She will only eat from a baby spoon. I do the meds, feedings and fluids on her terms and she is doing fine. Often when a kitty crashed they are are very resistant to treatment. It is all new and strange for them. Once the person develops a treatment schedule things usually go a lot better. Like people, cats like to know what is going to happen and when it is going to happen. I just don't want people here to think that treating CRF or any chronic disease should not be attempted. Each kitty is unique and will respond to treatment plans differently. Often members of the CRF group are in a panic mode and are still dealing with a kitty in crisis. You don't know how yours will respond until you try. Whatever problem our beloved companions have we need to remember to love them and treasure each day we have together. Sharyl ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] End of life decisions
Thanks for writing, Jane. Having to make the decision to end a beloved pet's life has got to be the most difficult decision in the world. I agree that a day too early is better than waiting too long, but no matter when I make the decision I feel guilty. I'm so sorry about your kitty with the tumor on her spine, but how could you have known? Try not to blame yourself, you did what seemed right at the time, which is all any of us can do. On 08-12, Jane Lyons wrote: Hi Laurie I have been composing a reply to your post for a long time. It is so difficult to know what the right time is. I think MC's advise; a day too early, rather than five minutes too late is the best I have ever heard. I am still wracked with the incredible guilt I felt in treating my 18 year old for arthritis when she in fact had a tumor at the base of her spine that was causing her lameness. The end of her life must have been so painful and I still have nightmares about it. I wish none of us ever had to make these decisions but a day too soon allows a dying cat some dignity, which is what they teach us. Jane ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Difficult decision
Yes, watching them struggle or gasp for breath is just unbearable. I've used Klonopin to ease the fear or struggle when a cat is dying. It really helps and it is used for cats because I checked with my vet. It's like Valium. Have any of you used this for dying cats? I have a prescription for myself, so I always have it on hand. Ace promazine would have to be gotten from a vet wouldn't it?? We all hope our furry ones will died peacefully at home, preferably in their sleep, but as you said, it seldom happens that way. Same for people. We all hope to die peacefully at home. On 08-13, POTT, BEVERLY wrote: I have given cats ace promazine in situations like that, before I take them to the vet to be put to sleep. That way, they aren't stressed out from going there, and don't end up wasting away for days or weeks on end. I've often wished that a cat would pass away in his/ her sleep, so that I wouldn't have to take them in (of course that never happens), but it's just too painful to watch them gasping for breath, or trying to walk and falling down, etc. Just my personal opinion... ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Uneven pupils
One of my rescues has uneven pupils, and he is negative for FelV and FIV. He had an injury to his head when I found him, and the vet thinks it caused him to go blind in one eye. He's fine otherwise. I've had him for over a year now and he's turned into a real head bonker. I don't think (but not sure) uneven pupils are caused from FelV, but the breathing problem could be caused from anemia, a common thing with FelV cats. On 08-13, Heather wrote: My 14/15 year old feral FIV+ feral kitty Bobbi had uneven pupils, the vet felt it was a tumor but in her remaining 9 months there were no further changes or indications, she also had toxoplasmosis my vet didn't think it was due to that, but, I sort of suspected it was since there were no further problems and to me it looked more normal after Toxo treatment. On Tue, Aug 11, 2009 at 4:29 PM, Claire Smith sassybean...@yahoo.comwrote: I have a question - not sure how to submit it. I have 2 cats who are feline leukemia positive. From outward appearances, they look and basically act healthy. One of them has started having a dilated pupil - it is not constant but it has been occuring a lot lately. She will also start panting and breathing heavy - I have central air and keep it on all the time.The last time she did this, it was actually very cool in her room. The other one had seizures one day several months ago - that was the one and only time that occured. But several months ago, his 3rd eyelid (on both eyes) started staying out. He can still see but not too well. Is there anything I need to do or is this just part of the disease? There are no other symptoms for either one of them at this time. Claire ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] RIP Mattie 7/09 - 8/09
Sharyl, I'm so sorry you lost Mattie. In May we lost a FelV kitten who had neurological symptoms, and then lost control of her bladder and bowels. Mitty was such a special, sweet girl, and we still miss her. Even tho we're sad to lose them, Mattie and Mitty were both loved and cared for during their short lives. Many sick kittens are not that fortunate. Lorrie On 08-13, Sharyl wrote: I had to make that last vet trip with my dear sweet Mattie today. She lost the use of her back legs last week due to neurological issues from the FeLV. The paralysis spread and she had lost bladder and bowel control. She was still eating and grooming herself but I couldn't wait until she was suffering. She deserved better than that. She fell asleep in my arms from the sedative and never felt the 2nd shot. Even though blind since birth she was the most inquisitive kitten I've ever had. No challenge was too great for her. She is the last of a litter of 4 positive babies I rescued last summer. What amazes me is that their mom and 3 aunts, all positives and now spayed, are still doing fine. All I can say is Mattie had a wonderful 12 months wanting for nothing and teaching me so much. I learned not to let a handicap limit me. It sure didn't limit her love of life. She is now at the Rainbow Bridge with Bright Eyes, Houdini, and CJ. Sharyl ___ 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] Santuary
I run a rescue too. I bought a 2,000 sq foot building in an older section of town and made it into a cageless no kill shelter. There are 28 cats there, and they have cat trees, second hand furniture, and all the comforts of home. I also have a large FelV room. It's a lot of work and expense, but it's my calling in life. However I seem to accumulate more cats than I adopt. Everyone in our small town seems to have a reason they can't adopt or foster! Lorrie in WV On 08-13, Susan Hoffman wrote: It feels like it sometimes but no. I run a small rescue. We average around 150 adoptions a year and have the cats in various foster homes. Here's our petfinder site: http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/CA1136.html I usually take older kittens, teenagers and adults at my house. Some seniors and special needs types too. The foster homes are usually more into the tiny kittens. I do wind up sanctuarying some of the harder to place cats, or at the very least fostering them for a long time till the right home is found. I've had some for 12-18 months before they were adopted. I also have a weakness for Siamese and will take more risks with older feral or undersocialized Siamese. May take a year to tame them for adoption but, hey, they're gorgous and eventually I do manage to place them. Our senior girl who just passed away from a grey and white tuxedo who had been with us 9 years. She showed up 9 years ago, starving and hugely pregnant. We took her in and kept her. She was at least 15 on Monday when she went to the bridge, possibly older. I know we did right by her all the years that she was with us and I'm glad she was here so long. Gave her plenty of time to forget her former life that had left her in such bad straits by the time she found us. --- On Thu, 8/13/09, Reyna Castano rcpin...@yahoo.com wrote: Do you work at a sanctuary? ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Mo, Please add to the CLS
I'm so sorry you lost your sweet Mo. He sounds like he was a very special cat full of love and personality plus. Lorrie On 08-15, Sherry DeHaan wrote: We lost our sweet three legged Mo(missing one) tonight.he was quite a character.I used to get a laugh when he would swat at the other Sids kids with his phantom leg and THEY would actually duck like he was going to hit them.He also would scratch at your foot to get your attention.He also would put his paw up on your back while you sat on the floor. He sure made it clear he wanted to be loved. :) Dr. Jen gave me the chance to go say my good byes today and he purred like a motor boat. He also gave me a quick kiss on my hand.We will miss you our beautiful black tripod boy. :( Sherry ? ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Mae
Sharyl, I'm so sorry you lost Mae. It's terribly hard to keep losing our FelV kitties... Thank you for giving this dumpster kitty such love and kindness during her short life. Lorrie On 08-24, Sharyl wrote: Please add Mae to the CLS. Mae was a 2 y/o FeLV+ dumpster kitty I TNR'd last year. I had trapped her again to relocate her to my back yard since the area the colony was living is being developed. She was living in my garage/cat enclosure while acclimating to my yard and seemed to be doing fine. She was a brave little thing and would almost let me pet her. She was fine Friday morning but I found her passed away Friday night. At least I know she had a safe home and was well fed. Sharyl ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Kittens leaving
I know that feeling! If I have to keep one more cat or kitten I can't find a home for I may go crazy! Date: Tue, 25 Aug 2009 15:19:16 -0700 From: susan_hoff...@yahoo.com To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Snowball Yes it does, it gets much easier. I always tell people that if you foster long enough you'll reach the point where you cry when they DON'T leave. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Price of Second Chance santuary
Your prices are very reasonable, considering you will undoubtedly have a lot of veterinary expenses with these FelV cats. These other places are way out of line, and only the very rich could afford them. There must be a medium priced santuary for cats (not necessarily FelV cats) someplace, but I don't know where. Lorrie On 08-25, Second Chance Meows wrote: WOW, I sit here and read all this about all these NEW places to take FeLV cats and get very scared... $7500??? for the life and i feel bad asking $500 for the lifetime and all we take are FeLV's.. who are these people and where do they get off asking that much??? Michael Johnson Founder/Owner Second Chance Meows A FeLV Sanctuary ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] My Mystique
Sherry, that is so scary, and I know how you feel because my cats have inadvertently been exposed to FelV too, but not one has shown any signs of illness. I need to have them all tested, but it is so expensive for the office call plus the testing, so I just pray for the best. You are in my thoughts, and prayers. Adult cats seem to be much less likely to contract FelV than kittens. Lorrie On 08-27, Sherry DeHaan wrote: My girl went to the clinic today for some bloodwork that I requested because she has been losing weight.What I feared the worst was true. She now is fiv+ and felv+. :( I never had her retested before I brought her home almost 2 years ago. So now I worry about my boys because I decided not to vaccinate them for felv this last year.I figured as long as I am not going to bring a felv+ home again that it was not needed. My boys are pretty healthy with the exception of Xander who has Stomatitis along with his fiv. Dr. Jen says not to worry,that they are healthy adults.So right now I am in a whirlwind of emotions... Please add ME and Mystique?to your thoughts and prayers.I have soo much stress going on right now in my life and now this. :(? Thanks for listening Sherry ? ? ? ? ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] World without man
On 08-30, dlg...@windstream.net wrote: Like Mary Christine says - spay and neuter your neighbors. maybe that will make a difference. i know a lot of people i would like to do that to. same ones that don't take care of pets also do not take care of children. when i reported a case of abuse, the investigator said that at least 8 out of 10 cases of abuse he checks on, he also turns in a report of child or spouse abuse. i wonder some times would the world be better off without man? doris I wonder about that too Dorlis If God supposedly made man in his image it's not saying much for God. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] World without man
On 09-07, Laurieskatz wrote: I had not seen this thread until now. I read it as man, not men. I thought people were talking about humans in general...? Right, we were talking about humans in general not men! -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Malone Sent: Monday, September 07, 2009 10:56 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] World without man I thought this was a site about helping felines with feline leukemia. Instead it seems to have turned into a male bashing site for the moment. There are many men that are wonderful people. You sound very bitter and hateful toward a whole group because of the actions of one. I am very blessed to know men that are caring and productive members of society--and one that has truly been a blessing to many infected cat--working multiple jobs to ensure that the cats were given the very best care. -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Lorrie Sent: Sunday, August 30, 2009 4:23 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] World without man On 08-30, dlg...@windstream.net wrote: Like Mary Christine says - spay and neuter your neighbors. maybe that will make a difference. i know a lot of people i would like to do that to. same ones that don't take care of pets also do not take care of children. when i reported a case of abuse, the investigator said that at least 8 out of 10 cases of abuse he checks on, he also turns in a report of child or spouse abuse. i wonder some times would the world be better off without man? doris I wonder about that too Dorlis If God supposedly made man in his image it's not saying much for God. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Misundestanding here........
Malone, We were not talking about men. There are many wonderful caring men, who love cats. We were speaking about unkind HUMANS who do cruel things. Thankfully they are in the minority. Most people are good. On 09-07, Malone wrote: I thought this was a site about helping felines with feline leukemia. Instead it seems to have turned into a male bashing site for the moment. There are many men that are wonderful people. You sound very bitter and hateful toward a whole group because of the actions of one. I am very blessed to know men that are caring and productive members of society--and one that has truly been a blessing to many infected cat--working multiple jobs to ensure that the cats were given the very best care. -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of Lorrie Sent: Sunday, August 30, 2009 4:23 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] World without man On 08-30, dlg...@windstream.net wrote: Like Mary Christine says - spay and neuter your neighbors. maybe that will make a difference. i know a lot of people i would like to do that to. same ones that don't take care of pets also do not take care of children. when i reported a case of abuse, the investigator said that at least 8 out of 10 cases of abuse he checks on, he also turns in a report of child or spouse abuse. i wonder some times would the world be better off without man? doris I wonder about that too Dorlis If God supposedly made man in his image it's not saying much for God. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] LTCI
I just read about LTCI in the November issue of Cat Fancy, but they didn't say much. I was hoping the article would be longer and more detailed. Lorrie On 09-23, mitchell wrote: Approved by the United States Department of Agriculture On Wed, Sep 23, 2009 at 9:54 AM, MaryChristine twelvehousec...@gmail.comwrote: approved by whom, i keep asking. and it's not a treatment, it's a treatment aid. that's all they're allowed by law to call it. On Tue, Sep 22, 2009 at 11:47 AM, mitchell hhur...@gmail.com wrote: I don't know much about this product, but I do know that there is an approved treatment for FeLV. That is LTCI. It can be obtained easily. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Xana, FelV positive - interferon?
Michael, you are doing such a wonderful thing with your FelV sanctuary, and I agree that love and a stress free environment are what keeps them going. I am not in favor of heroic measures, that are extremely stressful and often painful for our fur babies. Lorrie On 09-27, Second Chance Meows wrote: I run a FeLV sanctuary here in the states and have found that the best treatment is love and attention. Having spent almost a year on interferon, I know the side effects of it very well, and would not wish them on any living being.( human or feline). spend time with them, show them that you really care about them when no one else did. Let them spend hours in your lap, sleep on the bed, sun in the window just as any other healthy cat would do. just so you know Esther, my oldest cat here is about 16 and has had FeLV since birth, the rest are all about 3-6 yrs old and doing well Michael Johnson Founder/Owner Second Chance Meows A FeLV Sanctuary ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Adopting neg kitten to family with positive cat
Last year I adopted a FelV positive kitten to a couple who had two neg. cats. They knew the kitten they wanted was positive, but they fell in love with him and took him anyway. I kept him until their other two cats were vaccinated against Felv and had time to build up immunity. I'm still in touch with this couple, and all their cats are doing fine, including the FelV pos. one who is now 18 months old. People who adopt a FelV cat or kitten are tops in my book! Lorrie On 09-30, MaryChristine wrote: hard choices re: all the usual vaccines plus the FeLV one, but these folks have taken on the task of dealing with a positive cat, which rather raises them up on MY scale of being good cat-parents if they're in love with the little one, and you can hold it long enough for the two shots (which would give you a bit longer to do the neutering, too), i'd probably go with them. MC ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] FelV testing
I'm with you on that one Ignorance is bliss. I still feel guilty over a cat I PTS years ago, just because I tested him and he was FelV pos. This was what was recommended then, but I'd have never known he was positive otherwise. I had 4 other cats at the time and he'd been with them for years, and none of them were pos. They also hadn't gotten FelV vaccinations, so I really don't think it's as contagious as they say. Now I'd NEVER put a positive cat down unless it was extremely ill or dying. Lorrie On 10-01, MaryChristine wrote: sometimes i wonder, too, about why we bother testing: as chris says, ignorance is bliss MC ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Interferon, etc
Hi Michael of Second Chance Meows... Just a note to let you know I agree with what you wrote. I have seen people put their cats through all sorts of painful, invasive proceedures, and use numerous powerful drugs which make the cats sicker than they are already, when there is no hope for a cure. In my opinion this only prolongs the life of a cat, and I feel it causes the poor animal to suffer longer than it should. It breaks my heart to see what some owners put their cats through. I wouldn't want to be kept alive if I was suffering from something incurable. I also have FelV cats who live in a two large cageless rooms in my cat sanctuary, which is a 2,000 sq foot building I bought as a cat shelter. I do not give them any drugs like interferon, I only give them antibiotics if they come down with a URI or have any other condition which requires veterinary treatment. As long as they respond to the treatment I know they will have a few more good months or years before FelV eventually claims them. Thank you for asking people in the group to look into their hearts to see if these treatments are for the cat or for themselves because they want to keep the cat alive no matter what it has to endure. Lorrie On 09-29, Second Chance Meows wrote: my suggestion is to do some research on it. Interferon is used to fight forms of cancer, and is considered to be chemo. side effects include: loss of weight, nausea, hair loss, heart issues, pain, chills,temperature, and many others. I know your talking about low doses of it but anything that is placed into these little bodies that has the power to kill not only the bad cells BUT THE GOOD ONES TOO can not be good for them. their systems are compromised already. JUST MY OPINION. before you make the decision to give this to the cat...look into your own heart and ask is this for the cat..or for yourself? will this really improve the quality of its life or just prolong the agony its going thru or create more agony, stress for it? Michael Johnson Founder/Owner Second Chance Meows A FeLV Sanctuary ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Dogs vs cats
On 10-02, Stray Cat Alliance wrote: Here here! I wish we would no longer test at all. If a cat is sick, they are sick. Treat that. It just seems like cats always get the short end of every stick - while I love dogs - they are much higher up the totem pole than cats, who are way down at the bottom. I agree, cats are seldom favored as dogs are, and yet they give us just as much love, and they are so much easier to care for. Why don't we declaw dogs? Or test them for parvo - or whatever? How about debarking dogs! There are two in our neighborhood that run loose and bark all night. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Interferon, etc
Jane, I'm sorry this came across as santimonious and unkind. I sincerely believe we all do the very best we can for the cats we LOVE and care for. Lorrie On 10-02, Jane Lyons wrote: Lorrie wrote: Thank you for asking people in the group to look into their hearts to see if these treatments are for the cat or for themselves because they want to keep the cat alive no matter what it has to endure. This is an unkind and sanctimonious remark, Lorrie. I hope you are kinder to the cats you care for. Jane ___ 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] Mystique Please add to the CLS
Sherry, I'm so sorry you lost Mystique. I know how sad you are, as I've gone through these losses so many times, and you never get hardened to it. It hurts terribly every time we lose one of our babies. Lorrie On 10-23, Sherry DeHaan wrote: My heart is heavy this morning.My beautiful Mystique had to cross the bridge yesterday. She was with me for almost 2 yrs and had the happiest and sweetest personality. She always talked to me and followed me everywhere. I told her she is going to go to sleep for a short time and when she wakes up my mom will be there waiting for her to carry on loving her,and she will not be sick any longer.She has MANY wonderful souls up there with her.In a way I guess she is the lucky one.I miss you my Tiki Tiki Boom Booms. Sherry ? ? ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Raw Food
I think a raw food diet is best for cats, as it's certainly more natural, with none of the by-products and other awful stuff they add to cat food. However only one of my cats will eat it. The others just sniff it and walk away. I'd be interested in hearing what your diet consists of. Are there any particular proportions you use of the chicken, bones, organ meat, egg, vitamins etc, and can bone meal be used instead of bones? I don't know how I'd grind bones. Lorrie On 11-15, Tracey Shrout wrote: Anna, I will give you my personal opinion dealing with severe diahrrea in 2 of my kitties, one of which is +. After many trips to the vet and having many tests for parasites and doses of parasitic medicines, antibiotics, trying fortiflora (which does help some), nothing completely resolved their issues until I started feeding my cats what I feel is the best food possible -- a raw homemade diet of chicken and bones (and organ meat, egg, and vitamins, etc). Lots of people are totally against feeding raw, but I have 5 very healthy kitties who've been eating it for almost 2 years now with remarkable changes in all of them. No more diahrrea for my kitties, and most of the time is doesn't even have an odor (no kidding!) I will never go back to dry, and I use only a good quality grain-free can food if necessary. Cats with diahrrea are naturally going to be dehydrated, so you really need to be giving them water WITH their food -- a canned food. If the homemade diet is not an option for you though, just try a grain free diet. Wellness has a good canned one, and there are a few grain-free dry foods as well. Most cats merely 'tolerate' grains, and other cats cannot. It is not natural for them to eat grains. Oh, and LOTS of cats throw up. No, it is not good, but it is very common. My cats don't throw up anymore (other than hairballs) EVER! I spent tons of time researching making my own food because of so many health issiues w/my kitties -- now I don't have any issues at all. If you want to learn more, check out catnutrition.com and catinfo.com. If you follow the recipes to a T'', you will be amazed! Good luck, and I hope they get better! Tracey ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Raw Food
Thanks for the info. Tracey... Fortunately I already have a heavy duty grinder. Lorrie On 11-19, Tracey Shrout wrote: Lorrie, Yes, I think raw is the best also. If you go to those websites, they give you step-by-step instructions on how to make it. You have to be careful to follow the recommended proportions. It does take a little time to convince the cats that this is what they should be eating. One of mine, a 12 year old dry food 'addict' took almost 2 months to completely change to this diet. The others were much easier to convince. I just mixed it with a good canned food, progressively adding more raw. They will eventually eat it by itself and love it, you just have to be determined. Occasionally, I do give some canned food for variety, or when I run out of the raw. On those websites, they also explain how to grind it -- you will have to buy a grinder, and yes, you should use real bones. Its daunting at first, but gets easier everytime you make it. Tracey ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] I Hate PETA
Sharyl, PETA is terrible. I donated to them for years before I found out what they do to feral cats. I've horror stories about how they are out to exterminate all the feral cats they can. When I heard about the things they do to cats I e-mailed them and they admitted it. They said the cats were killed to spare them any suffering in the future!! I'm so sorry you had this happen to Smokey Jo and Butterball. I know you must feel just terrible about it. Lorrie On 12-03, Sharyl wrote: Thnksgiving Day I finally trapped Smoky Jo in the dumpster colony I feed. Then Sunday I trapped Butterball. A new group is organizing here on the Eastern Shore to help with low cost speutering of ferals. Wed. the PETA SNIPS van came to speuter pets ($45) and ferals (#25). I took Smokey Jo and Butterball. My other low cost speutering place had fallen through and the only other option is $200 per cat at the animal hospital. I knew PETA sucks but had no idea how bad. The release form I signed said they could kill any animal testing positive for FeLV or FIV. I explained to the vet I would sanctuary them if they tested positive in my garage/cat enclosure. She checked with her supervisor and told me no exceptions. I should have left then but both of mine seemed healthy. When I went to pick them up I found out they had killed both Smoky Jo and Butterball!! I am devastated. PETA has a real problem with feral cats. The only way they'll let their van spay/neuter ferals is if all who test positive for FeLV or FIV are killed. PETA's way of exterminating ferals I guess. Smoky Jo tested positive for FeLV and Butterball for FIV. What really burns me is the SNAP test used is not 100% for FeLV. Don't know about FIV. But FIV is generally spread by deep bites. Once Butterball was fixed he wouldn't be fighting anymore. Just PETA's way of 'thinning the herd' I guess. Then they kept my money. Needless to say I won't be going back unless I find a way around the PETA policy. The Spay the Shore guy is going to try and find a vet to pre-test any future ferals I trap. Then if they are positive for either I'll have to find some other way to have them fixed. I'm broken hearted. Those two kitties trusted me to do right by them. Neither was ill. And now they are gone. It rained all the way home. Almost like the heavens were crying with me for them. Please consider what PETA stands for before donating any money to them. Sharyl ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Shots For FeLV+ Kittens
I give my cats their basic PCRC shots and rabies shots every three years but I just started giving my FelV negative cats the FelV shots. I'd like an opinion from all of you as to whether a booster is necessary once a year for the FelV shot. I have no FelV cats at home that I know of. All 14 cats were tested when I took them in but it's too expensive to retest them every year. Lorrie On 12-03, Sharyl wrote: Crystal, all 8 of my positive kittens received their shots and were spayed/neutered with no ill affects. Fixing the boys will reduce the stress in their lives. I follow the new shot protocol. After their 1st yr shots mine get boosters every three years. They do to the vet annually for a check up. Good Luck Sharyl ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] I Hate PETA
Janine, I'm glad you brought this up. This is the first thing that came to my mind, because I've heard PETA kills all the ferals they can. On 12-03, janine paton wrote: Is it just me, or does anyone else think maybe PETA killed these cats regardless of their test results. In other words, is it possible the cats didn't test positive for anything but feral, so was an excuse to kill them? Sharyl, I am so very sorry. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] PETA's e-mail address
This is a letter I wrote to PETA. The e-mail address is about a year old so I hope it's still good. Jeff, I was a member of PETA for many, many years, but I stopped donating money to your organization when I found out how PETA treats feral and stray cats. I have cared for a colony of feral cats for several years, and they are all healthy, happy cats. Your attitude towards killing all the feral cats you can is sick and disgusting for a supposedly humane organization. Lorrie MacArgle Jeff Haine Correspondence Assistant, PETA Foundation Email: je...@peta.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] PETA
PETA does not object to people having pets (owned pet kept inside). They object to people feeding strays or ferals. They round up all the strays and ferals they can and euthanize them. They also take cats from animal shelters and euthanize them. How absolutely infuriating that they ignored your e-mail and had the audacity to request a donation! On 12-06, dlg...@windstream.net wrote: i sent my angry email and got a request for money from them. they totally ignored my question. Diane Rosenfeldt drosenfe...@wi.rr.com wrote: Aren't they vehemently opposed to any pet ownership at all? But I simply don't get why they would consider this treatment ethical -- nor how they can justify killing animals by saying they're saving them from future suffering that might never happen -- and in Sharyl's case, would NOT have happened. These people need slapping down. Diane R. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Ethical assistance needed
Hi Nancy, I'm sure you'll hear from many people about this, but I'll chime in for now. First of all thank you for taking care of these cats. I too have a rescue building, but mine is strictly cats, no dogs. I have two rooms in my cageless shelter where I have FelV cats. I have adopted out a few, to people who have been told they are FelV positive, and who are also people I know will care for them, can afford their vet bills, and will give them a stress free life. This is very important for FelV cats. Some of these cats have lived long lives in spite of the FelV and others have died at around 2 or 3 years of age. Every case is different. Good luck with your cats. Lorrie in WV On 12-19, nancy crandall wrote: Hi, I was introduced to this list by a friend who is a cat rescuer. I am a newly placed member of the BOD of a local no kill rescue (dogs mostly). We find ourselves in a very sad predicament for which we have no past experience. We have a cat room with 15 cats all infected with feline leukemia.(they are isolated from all other animals) What is the current ethical guidelines concerning this sort of situation? Can we adopt them out with full disclosure to inside homes only with no other cats? Or is there too much of a chance that they will spread this illness on? Bottom line we would prefer that they were in homes but we are willing to allow them to live out their lives in the shelter as sanctuary if necessary. We do not want to euthanize them if at all possible. Nancy C. ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] question on coat/clavamox
I wondered about using Clavamox too. It is an antibiotic for bacterial infections. This sounds more like a flea allergy to me. Even a couple of fleas can cause some cats to get scabs all over their bodies. On 01-17, Tracey Shrout wrote: I haven't heard any of you mention the cats diets. Are they eating a good quality food? I believe that is one of the most important things to consider. Isn't clavamox an antibiotic? I know they sometimes have side effects. I don't know a whole lot about it, but probiotics would be something to consider to keep the good bacteria in check. Just an idea . . . Tracey ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Advice please?
The only thing I know for sure is kittens born with FelV usually throw the virus off or die during their first year. Cats who are exposed to FelV when older seem to be much more resistant to the virus. As you said, there really are no statistics to go by as each situation is different. On 01-26, Jane Lyons wrote: Hi Avia I've heard about the five year mark and I've also heard the three year obstacle and I've learned from my cat that there are no guarantees for any of us. When I got my cat she was highly symptomatic (URI, swollen glands, stomatitis, diarrhea...you name it). I have had her for three years and she has recovered from everything with the exception of stomatitis. She is roughly four years old and I sweated getting her past the three year mark and of course I am trying to ignore the 'five year theory' because I think we can all become victims of statistics and other people's consideration. I am coping by doing everything I can to help her live as comfortably as possible for as long as possible. She is doing fine. I'm the one who needs to do the work. Ignore the woman from the rescue group. Every FeLV kittten has its own path. Just keep loving them. Jane ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Article at Bestfriends
Good letter! I'll send one too. Lorrie On 01-26, Laurieskatz wrote: Here is what I wrote to this address: edi...@bestfriends.org Dear Editor: The article about Feline Leukemia Virus by Virginia Clemans is inconsistent with my experience and, I believe, does a great injustice to cats diagnosed with this virus. Certainly not all cats diagnosed with FeLV have the health issues Clemans reports. I lived with two cats who were diagnosed with feline leukemia after I adopted them. Stripes lived to age 16 years. Squeaky lived to age 22 years. They were robust boy cats who lived together for 15 years. They weighed 15-16 lbs. People always commented about what big boys they were. They were playful and fully engaged in life. Stripes had an occasional undiagnosed illness that always resolved. Squeaky was never sick a day in his life until his final three weeks. Squeaky died from oral cancer. We did not determine Stripes' cause of death. My vets did not treat these cats any differently than other cats I have had. There was no alarm sounded when their tests came back positive. The information was given to me as part of a routine exam. I had no idea anyone thought this was a big deal. Certainly my vets did not think so. I rescued two other cats who tested positive for FeLV. Ollie lived to an old age, asymptomatic except for some dental issues at the time he was rescued. Bella is still alive. She is a 13 lb ball of love. She was rescued 3 years ago and was an adult cat at that time. She was anemic and had a high fever when rescued but these situations quickly resolved with medication treatment by an internal medicine specialist. Feline Leukemia does not have to be a death sentence. The kitties who test positive should be retested as there can be false positives (and false negatives). Their owners can find information and support groups on the internet (yahoo offers several groups for FeLV cat owners). In this group format they can talk to other people who live or have lived with cats with FeLV. They can get questions answered. They can learn about feeding a quality food, keeping stress to a minimum and various supplements and treatments in the event of illness. Not all the cats who test positive will be as lucky as those I mentioned here, but there is another side to this disease and there are many cats who survive and thrive with this disease. Sincerely, Laurie Crawford Stone Cedar Rapids, Iowa ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] [ article regarding Feline Leukemia Viirus
I get the Best Friends magazine and I read the article on FIV. However, FIV and FelV are not the same. On 01-31, Laurieskatz wrote: Fyi... From: Estelle Munro [mailto:este...@bestfriends.org] Sent: Thursday, January 28, 2010 6:00 PM To: Laurieskatz Subject: RE: Virginia Clemans article regarding Feline Leukemia Viirus Dear Laurie, There is a new article in the Jan/Feb 2010 issue of Best Friends magazine on FIV. I think you'll find it more in line with your thinking. Best Wishes, Estelle Munro Assistant Editor ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Li Won has passed on
Gloria. Thank you for giving Li Won a loving home after her original owner died. It seems Siamese cats often have long lives. I had a Siamese who lived to be 21, and all my other cats have passed at 16 or so. Lorrie On 01-31, Gloria B. Lane wrote: Li Won passed from my care about 2 days ago - she was 23 year old Siamese, not FELV. I've had her for at least a couple of years maybe 3 - she belonged to a friend's mother, who had cancer and died of it. She was a sweet, beloved kitty, liked to sleep and eat - and was certainly the oldest kitty I've had. I wish her well in her journey to the bridge and am grateful that she was here. Gloria ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Sable
Sherry, I'm so sorry you lost Sable. It never gets any easier, no matter how many we lose, and it's especially devastating when we lose one of our favorite cats. Lorrie On 02-08, Sherry DeHaan wrote: Sweet Sweet Sable,she was the most ladylike of all the cats I have met at Sids in the 4 years volunteering. She would gently tap your shoulder to get your attention.I will miss this little lady very much.bye sweet angel. :( Sherry ? ? ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Newbie with FeLV kitten
Gorgetta, I have never been to Second Chance personally, but from all I have heard it is a wonderful place; an actual home with a loving family. Others in the group will know more. Bravo for fostering neonatal kittens. I rescue too, but this is one thing I'm not good at. My very patient daughter feeds the teeny tiny ones. Lorrie On 03-22, G Brickey wrote: Dear List, I haven't read too many of your list posts, but I ran onto one while googling for sanctuary options and wondered if somone on the list could provide me with more information about Snowball's placement in the Second Chance Meow in Reno. I have a 5-6 month old kitten who has been in my care (quarantined) since January 2. She was a mess when she arrived - very scared, skinny, dehydrated, bad case of mange, diarrhea, etc... She has tested positive with 2 different FeLV tests (Snap and a confirming test that the vet sent out for analysis). I foster bottle babies for a local (So. Calif.) rescue and this is my first FeLV + kitten in 6 years (and over 150 kittens) of fostering neonatals. I have spent many hours googling and reading about FeLV in cats, but have been unable to locate a sanctuary that will consider taking my little Wisp tabby girl. She has some special needs in that she has to have wet food mixed with water and Benefiber powder instead of free feeding kibble or she gets horribly plugged up bowels. I happened onto the post where one of your members (Laurie) found a sanctuary for Snowball at Second Chance Meow in Reno. Can Laurie or someone give me more information about it and possibly contact information/link to their website? Kitten season is beginning here and I can't safely quarantine Wisp for much longer. She is getting too big and active. I dread the thought of euth. but I can't risk the health of our 3 cats (former fosters) and I just got my first litter of 2010 - 5 10-day olds found in an attic. Little Wisp wants so badly to come out and play with the other cats - I need to find her a place where she can get the care she needs and hopefully have a few FeLV friends to play with. She is sweet and lively and pretty darn feisty now that she is feeling so good. Thank you in advance for any advice and/or information you can provide. Georgetta ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] day 9 of baytril
Yes Baytril of for the UTI not the FelV, and it would be scary using Baytril for that long when you read about cats going blind. Why don't you compromise and finish up the ten days, and if the UTI returns ask the vet for an alternative drug. I used Clavamox for one of my cats with a UTI. Lorrie On 03-26, Twisted Princess wrote: hi, me again... ? i know you can't believe everything you read on the internet but i have read from several sources regarding b aytril can cause blindness. one person mention? it will after 10 days. my vet has my cat on it. he gave me 4 ml and the dose is .3ml so that is nearly 2 weeks. i called the office and they said just give it to him until its gone. ? ?i called my regular vet who's office apparently has been told not they can not give an opinion that would be opposing another vet. any idea here? today (friday) is the 9th day he has been on the medicine - at least here. he may have been on it the 3 days he was at the vet, i don't know. ? the office person is suppose to get back to me to me as to whether our vet does the LTCI. the vet who treated the cat does not. anyone know of a good vet that does in the long beach california area? i don't drive freeways, i hardly drive at all so it basically has to be in long beach or within a few miles of long beach. ? and i guess the baytril is for the uti and not the felv. ___ 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] Vaccine
A friend who lives in the Wash. DC area just told me her vet no longer recommends vaccines for FelV. In her case, she had a cat she adopted who was FelV pos. and he died at 18 months of age. She had her other two cats vaccinated last year when she found out he was pos. and when she went to get their annual FelV boosters she was told they don't recommend them. I'm not sure if this means just the boosters or any FelV shots. Have any of you heard anything about this? Lorrie ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Vaccine
No her cat who was positive died and the two she has left are negative, and inside only cats. She called about annual boosters for them, and her vet told her he didn't recommend the annual booster. I haven't checked with my own vet yet. My own cats are inside/outside cats and all originally tested negative, but because of going outside they may still need annual FelV vaccinations. Thanks for the link Lorrie, Beezer, Saffron, Marmalade, Polar Bear, Satchmo, Tizzy, Weegie, Asha, Rosebud, Pony, Sophie, Jupiter, Kitzi and Sooty. On 03-27, Sally Davis wrote: HI Lorrie, Here is a link to recommendations for core vaccines as well as vaccinations for cat at risk of exposure to FELV. http://www.catvets.com/uploads/PDF/FINALVaccineTable12.15.pdf. FeLV is not a core vaccination but for cats at risk it is Still an annual booster. Due to the economic situation I have not continued this vaccination. I do not have any positives and the cats I have were mixed. My is natural immunity in these cats. These are my opinions. Now that being said many vets think giving a FELV vaccination to a positive cat can overload the immune system and therefore do not recommend this. If I am reading you correctly the cat is already positive. Hope this helps. Silver is one of these cats and joined my crew after my initial panic over the FELV outbreak.He had a canine tooth cut off yesterday because he broke it and it was sideways in his mouth. Seems he has feline resorptive lesion. He has always had bad breath. He was abanoned in my neighborhood and starving when I found him. The vet said he was missing other teeth as well. He is fat and happy now. For some reason when I lose a cat another one shows up to take it's place. I had lost two cats to this disease when he found my porch and was no longer intimidated by Ittle Bitty. Sally Black(MIA), Lily, Daisy, Pewter, Junior Junior, Hotdog (newest) Silver, and Spike ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Vaccine
I'm sure different vets have different opinions I like the one your vet has. With 14 cats it's very expensive keeping up with and paying for all these shots. L. On 03-27, Laurieskatz wrote: My vet no longer recommends FeLV vaccine, either. Tessa, my last rescue, has not been vaccinated for FeLV. She was tested and isolated before being introduced to the others. I have usually tested new cats at least twice before introducing to the others. I don't have any FeLV+ cats living in my house. If I did, I would vaccinate the others - at least the first shot and first booster. My vet thinks the first two (30 days apart) will protect for life. L ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
