advice sought, contacts needed
Hello All, I'm new to this, so bear with me. Here's my situation: I live in rural Nebraska. Caring people are few and far between here when it comes to cats. I have just rescued a FeLV positive female. She's young, so her chances of survival are not good for the long-term, but she could live a happy life, however short that may be. However, I have 3 FeLV negative cats in my home and not a large enough home to have separate areas for the positive/negative ones. Someday I plan to operate a FeLV shelter, but I just don't have the money at this time. If you have any ideas for me-any place I can take Cassidy (the FeLV cat), I would greatly appreciate it. I'm willing to drive almost any distance to save her. She's at my vet's office awaiting a decision. I'm contacting as many shelters as I can, but I really don't want to surrender her to a shelter because the quality of care in many is questionable, and her chances of adoption are slim anyway. I've posted her description at the adoption site on felineleukemia.org. Right now, Cassidy is healthy except for some nerve damage which affects her right back paw. I'm going to pay for her spay, her shots, etc., (I didn't mention that on the adoption site to prevent abuse), but I still need to find a home for her. Otherwise, I'll have to put her down, but I just know there has to be a place that can save her. Let me know if you have any options or advice for me. Thank you very much for your time and your compassion! Melissa
Updates on Cassidy
It's the newbie again. I'm not sure if I'm using this mailing list correctly-please advise me if I'm not! And I apologize for being wordy-I'm an English major/instructor who just can seem to mince her words! Cassidy is getting spayed today. She's very healthy considering what she's gone through with her lame foot, and her tail seems to not know where it's at sometimes due to the nerve damage. I forgot the digital camera again today, so the vet's going to take a picture of her for my adoption posting. Yesterday I did copious amounts of research, and I've been emailing places all over Nebraska. I'm going to work on South Dakota and the Twin Cities area (Minnesota) today since these areas are relatively close to where I live. I've been astonished by the outpouring of support. Even though I haven't found a home for her, I'm now convinced that I could never euthanize her. There just wasn't any support around here for my passion for cats, so I was feeling a little desperate! I know I'll find a home for her eventually. I've received other reports of people housing their FeLV positives with the negatives. I'm just not sure I can do that just yet. Plus, my youngest (less than a year old) is not vaccinated because my vet did not recommend it. He said that the vaccine has a 1 in 10,000 chance of causing a sarcoma which would lead to amputation and chemotherapy. I certainly cannot afford that emotionally or financially! My vet doesn't vaccinate his house cats against FeLV either since (like mine) they never go outside or even occasionally escape. I have mixed feelings about getting my youngest, Smokey, vaccinated after reading more about FeLV. I haven't decided yet what to do. If I didn't have her, I believe the older cats (5 and 10 years of age) would be resistant to the disease. Crazy enough-another cat found me last night! I've named her Ashley since she looks like my Smokey and they are about the same age (smoke/ash, get it?). Luckily, her test came back negative for FeLV (the Elisa test). She's getting spayed Wednesday, and I'll pick both her and Cassidy up on Thursday. I think I'll be able to find a home quite easily for Ashley. I talked to my vet about having another test. He strongly suggested the better test (IFA is it?) that others have also advised me on. If I still have Cassidy in a couple weeks, I'll get her tested. If she comes back negative then, I'll consider getting Smokey vaccinated and keeping them all together, that is if my husband doesn't kick us all out before then! No, he's very tolerant, but if I ever got his baby Smokey sick from another cat, he'd be very upset (as would I). In defense of my vet, he's very knowledgeable-much more so than any vet we've had in these areas when it comes to pets (cows and pigs are the thing here)-but I think he's used to dealing with penny-pinchers around these parts who won't even consider spending money on cats like these-so he wasn't expecting that I'd be so open to alternatives. I've let him know that I'm going to make up a handout for his clients who might bring in an FeLV positive cat in the future. He was very pleased and luckily very supportive. I hate it when vets are condescending or think that people shouldn't save strays. He's discussed doing a feral trap and spay/neuter project-I'll work on that with him for the summer. If you'd like, I'll keep you posted on Cassidy. Again, sorry about the length of this email! Melissa
Cassidy is a boy!
Ha! Ha! The vet called me with interesting news-Cassidy fooled us all! He is now neutered. Luckily, I named him after a fictional cowboy, so the name will stay. I appreciate all the info on mixed households, but I'm still leery about trying it. We'll see how the search for a home goes.and then I'll make a decision when the time comes. I've found places in Minnesota and Iowa that might be able to take him, but I haven't contacted the one in Utah yet. The ones in MN and IA are both sanctuaries for cats, and they are no-kill. The one in Minnesota is the Feline Leukemia Care Center http://www.felineleukemiacarecenter.org http://www.felineleukemiacarecenter.org/ which only takes FeLV cats, but I haven't heard back from them. The one in Iowa can be viewed at www.rustichollowshelter.org http://www.rustichollowshelter.org/ . but they have a waiting list. I'll just have to wait and see. I apologize for not responding to the other posts at this time-I'm swamped with following leads for Cassidy, but I want to keep active on this mail list even if I don't have a FeLV baby in the future. My poor students.but right now I care about cats more than them! Wendy, I should have known that I'd find other English people on here! I think all my English professors in undergrad had cats-some with an entire household of them. I'll write down what you're reading, and look into it later-I'll add it to my must-read list. Why is it that English-minded people (or literature enthusiasts) are so compassionate with animals? Maybe it's because our studies (and our paychecks) have taught us that not everything valuable and honorable involves a price tag. Linda Hogan has a great book called Intimate Nature: The Bond Between Women and Animals. Perhaps many of you would find it comforting. Well, back to work for Cassidy the Cowboy Kitty! I'll let you all know how it goes. Melissa, Osmond, NE To give a thing a name, a label, a handle; to rescue it from anonymity, to pluck it out of the Place of Nothingness, in short to identify it--well, that's a way of bringing the said thing into being. --Iff, the Water Genie
Cassidy and Ashley are home!
I haven't had time to read all the posts, but I'm starting to, and it's comforting to know there are others out there like all of you! I'm so sorry about all the losses I read on here. Marissa, I hope a beautiful kitty finds you soon. I'll be thinking of you. I only wish there were people like you around here to take on my newest kitties. I know that I've been strongly encouraged to mix my household, but I just can't-at least not yet. You all have so much experience, and I'm just starting out, just learning about FeLV, and I'm such a doubter-I've been taught to question everything-so I have a hard time trusting.I have all these worries about endangering my other cats. I can hear all the success stories, but it still doesn't change things. If Smokey (less than one year) were older, I wouldn't have a problem with it. Maybe in the future I'll consider it, but I hope to have a sanctuary by then anyway for FeLVs and others. But, with good news.I chose to put Cassidy (FeLV+) in my office with me since that's where I spend most of the time. Oh the joys of having a litter box in a small, warm room! But, I'm not sure if he's even used it yet! He's been eating very nicely since we got home today, so I expect some treats by morning. He's still pretty tired after his neuter-and he spends the majority of the time at my feet under the desk all curled up. He talks every once in a while to let me know he's there! How precious! It sounds as if he'll be with us for a while since most FeLV sanctuaries/rescues require another IFA in 3 months for confirmation before they'll take him in. I won't get his IFA results (only Elisa so far) back until next week. But, he's doing really well-quite the talker. His lion-cut is adorable, and I'm sure he feel so much better without that snarly fur. My other three cats in the house are upset that they don't get to hang out in their favorite room! But, not so good news.Ashley (FeLV neg.), the stray who found me the day after Cassidy, also came home today. She was spayed yesterday and is just not moving around as much as I thought she would. I had to put her in the garage. I was going to put Cassidy in there, but he has a problem paw, so I thought the cement would be bad for it. Well, Ashley liked the garage fairly well when she stayed the first night-found herself a nice place to nest on my husband's work coats near a window. Today I covered the coats with a furry blanket-an Alpaca one I got in Peru and was saving for special-but who's more special then these guys? Then I also put a little pet-safe space heater in the garage for her. It's still pretty chilly here in Nebraska. She cried through the door a little today, and that was heartbreaking, but it's for the best. The vet had suggested that Ashley stay quarantined for 60 days until she has another FeLV test to be sure she's still neg. He also thought that she should be isolated since she could be carrying other things. I'm very worried about her upper respiratory. She was sneezy when I first got her--now she seems to have some respiratory problems--wheezy and phlegmy-sounding. I heard the girls (vet techs?) at the vet's office talking to him about her nose, etc., and I heard him say something about some cats can have severe respiratory infections, but then when he came in the room, he never said anything to me. I'm going to call tomorrow and see if I need to give Ashley anything for that. I've never had cats with anything more than routine issues, so I'm sorry if I sound dumb--I'm new to this-I've had to learn so much just this week! I was also worried because the vet girls were looking at me in a way I was not comfortable with (not like I smell), but they looked like they knew something I didn't. I don't understand why they wouldn't send me home with something for Ashley's nose, etc., I picked up antibiotics for my other cat, Bandit, who gets abscesses all the time from the littlest scratch. I'm glad I've finally embraced my passion and found my calling. Now it's time to plan for the future and more room for cats (and kids too I hope). This week I've heard so many negative comments about saving cats that I just stopped telling people about my new kitties. Some people's comments surprised me, some didn't. But, I'm glad I have you guys to talk to so I don't feel so alone. I don't understand the lack of compassion-but I'm sure you all know what that's like. It doesn't make any sense to me why people can be so mean about cats. One of my closest friend said, Well, I just don't like how they're always rubbing up against me. She meant cats in general-not just mine. And I thought, that's what makes them so great! They're loving and they show it! I could go on and on, but you already know all of this. It just feels nice to tell it to some people who agree. Bless all of you for all you do! And thank you for the support! Melissa
pictures of Cassidy and Ashley
Okay, I know you're all sick of hearing from me, but here are some pictures. I hope this works. Cassidy: http://picasaweb.google.com/mzurovsk/Cassidy/photo?authkey=Iq5dHa-Vucs#50501 79613677810130 Ashley: http://picasaweb.google.com/mzurovsk/Ashley/photo?authkey=imb76PXJObI#505018 0614405190130 They're kind of grainy since my flash isn't working, and I had to lighten them manually. Melissa
Re: Cassidy and Ashley are home!
Beth, Yes, yes, they spayed, vaccinated, the works. I'm sorry if this was not the thing to do; I'm not very knowledgeable yet. As someone pointed out on an earlier post-we're all learning. I guess I have a lot of learning to do-more than most. I appreciate the advice. I asked my vet today if I should give her anything-he said no as long as the discharge is clear. Poor baby, she just sits on her nest in front of the heater. But, she has moved around a lot more since yesterday. Now when I go to visit her, she comes down to eat and talk a little. Let me know if you have any advice for us. I'm going to look into Lysine. Problem around here is that there are not a lot of resources for sick kitties. No one cares. Melissa
Re: feline glaucoma-question for anyone with knowledge
Jenna, First of all, I agree with everyone else-if you won't help this poor soul, who will? I'm new to the rescue business and special needs cats, but I'm finding so much support and help. I know there will be heartbreak in my future, and I'm often crying when reading everyone's experiences on here-but just know that you are part of an amazing group of people who's hearts are so large and benevolent, that they can take almost anything-I know you can too! As for information, on another discussion board that I've just recently joined (but not as focused as you all are on FeLV and special needs kitties), I think there's a lady with two blind kitties-Cosmo and Cooper. I'm not quite sure, but she has them as part of her signature. Her user name is Laura IMOM and the web address is http://www.imom.invisionzone.com/community/index.php?showforum=49 This website is for people seeking financial assistance for their special needs animals. I just get advice here-so you don't have to be asking for money. But, you might be eligible with the new baby. Here's the link to a post with her name on it-it was one of my topics that she responded too. http://www.imom.invisionzone.com/community/index.php?showtopic=2554 I'll also post something for her and see if she responds. I can pass the info on to you if you'd like. Best wishes for you, and I hope you can take the poor thing-but you'll know what to do and what is best for your situation. Just know that there are many people who would support you emotionally if you decided to take on this new kitty. Melissa
Re: Diesel
Sherry, You and diesel are in my prayers. I have to go to church today at 3:00-I'll think the most about him while I'm there. But all of you will be in my prayers-I'm so thankful to have found you! Melissa
Third cat this week!
You guys won't believe it! I went to the gas station today-and anther baby found me! I can't believe it! I've rescued 3 cats in the last 10 years and fostered 2. Now, I've had 3 cats find me this week alone! I was much panicked at first, but I knew I had to do the right thing. I couldn't walk away from this one after doing right by two others this week. There's always room for more in my heart and my home (well, for now anyway). I lured this tabby (gray, white, brown) into my car-poor thing could've gotten run over or kicked or who knows what. It was hanging out by the front door as people came in and out, and I couldn't bear the thought of people being mean to it during the day. It wanted love so badly! The gas station was full of men drinking coffee, gossiping, etc., which although I know there are cat-loving men out there (my husband is one), I also know that most men in my community (only 800 people in my town) are cat-haters-with a passion. I had to get her out of there fast! The vet's office was surprised, but pleased, that I had the third one in this week. This new girl is so beautiful! She's a bob tail, and I've never been up close to one. Her fur is soft and silky-not much damage from scratching. I think she was a backdoor feeder or recently kicked out. No tags, so she's fair game for the new spay police (that's me). Unfortunately, she is pregnant (Ashley, stray #2 this week, was not). I'm sad to say since she's not far along, she will have a kitty abortion, but I'm trying to prevent the overpopulation, and even though I know her babies would be beautiful, I just cannot afford it. Please please don't admonish me for this choice-it was a tough one to make since all kitties are beautiful and deserve loving homes. One of the girls at the vet's office wanted to take her home immediately-but she wanted her as a barn cat. I said I wanted to find her an indoor home, but I'd let her know if I didn't. Truth is: I'll keep her here in our house indefinitely before sending her back outside. It's a relief to have a fairly healthy kitty this week after the FeLV+ and sickly Ashley. However, I haven't told my husband, so mums the word until next week. He'll fall in love her instantly, but he has to see her first. He'll think of the bills if he knows about her beforehand. I've never kept secrets from my hubby, none, but this one might have to be-it's for his own good because he worries about money as much as I worry about kitties. I think I'll name her Frosty, but I'm open to suggestions. I don't have a picture of her to share, but she has a frosted look to her fur. If you have any suggestions, throw them my way-I'll know if they fit or not. I'm not sure if Frosty is really the right name-it doesn't sound right, but it was the first thing I thought of when I found she was a girl. I originally named her Thomas on the ride to the vet's office. I'm 1-2 for guessing the genders this week! But, although I was panicked at first, I'm now overjoyed. This is what I was meant to do, and I know you guys will give me the strength to do it. I'm sorry this is not a FeLV issue (that I know of), but I just wanted to share with some people who understand-my family just shakes their heads. About the FeLV+ (Cassidy), he's finally figured out the litter box after I sniffed around the carpet and found his piddles. The crystal litter was too confusing to him-so it's back to old school clay until I can switch him over gradually. He hadn't had a bm until just now-I think he was waiting to be sure he went in the right place! He's a lot more comfortable, I can tell. Again, I have a super long post-thanks for listening! Now it's onto the job search.gotta pay the vet somehow! Does anyone know of a spay/neuter assistance program? I'm gonna need it! Melissa
Vegetarian cat food
Ha!-all this talk about food reminds me of something dumb I tried: vegetarian cat food. I think it was honorable in concept, but stupid in practice. I used Evolution Diet or Evolution Science Diet for a while on my 3. I found it through the peta website. The food claimed to extend the life of your pet by like a third or so. I think the concept was good-no by-products or anything that wasn't fit for human consumption-the results weren't. Although I can live without meat, my cats can't. Bandit had issues with his urinary tract; plus, the cats just didn't like it-no wonder! My husband would die without meat, so how could I expect my little carnivores to like it? I'm glad to report that after I switched to better cat food (Science Diet from the vet's office: C/D is they type they get), the results were amazing. Bandit's coat has been smooth and shiny for the first time ever. I used to use Purina, but even then his coat was coarse and dull. I don't give my kitties any supplements, but I'm going to learn about them since many of you have suggested them. Happy Ham-less Easter! (well, at least for me!) Melissa
Re: feline glaucoma--question for anyone with knowledge
Hi Jenna, I got a quick response to my post on the other website. Here's what the lady I was talking about wrote (although she misunderstood the fact that you are thinking of taking the cat, not giving it up, if I understand correctly): There is absolutely no issue to blind cats..they are every bit as easy to take care of as sighted cats are. I know many people are afraid of dealing with a blind pet, but in all honesty there really is nothing to deal with. The only things that I have to keep in mind with Cosmo, is that he can not go outside (I don't believe in letting cats outside to roam anyway, all mine are indoor only) and I try not to move furniture around much. He has always found his litter box and navigates my house just like a sighted cat. When your friend's cat has his other eye removed he should be fine, he already knows the layout of his house, so he won't have to learn it like my Cosmo did (and Cosmo learned my house remarkably fast). So there is no reason she should even consider adopting him out...I really don't think she'll notice much of a difference in him without the other eye. Juli IMOM is Cooper's mom (the other kitty in my banner) , and I'm sure she will post about blind kitties once she sees this thread. When you have a chance go to the Cool Cats Chatter forum and read Cooper and Cosmo's threads (they each have a thread there), you may direct your friend there as well. She'll see that blind cats really are no different than sighted cats, just a bit more special Here's the website to this post and then to the Cooper and Cosmo threads: http://www.imom.invisionzone.com/community/index.php?showtopic=2577 http://www.imom.invisionzone.com/community/index.php?showforum=10 Good luck with everything! No matter what you decide-you are still a caring, loving person! Melissa
Re: Third cat this week!
Thanks for the well-wishes everyone! I'm surprised at how happy I am to have this many kitties at once (we'll not really surprised when I think about it). But, I've been keeping my head to the ground when I go out-don't want to put out the cat vibe! I've been kinda blue lately, so this is a real pick-me-up, and I'm so motivated now. Kelly: I live in Northeast Nebraska. The closest big cities are Norfolk, Nebraska and Yankton, South Dakota. I'm about 3 hours from Omaha, Nebraska. I'm going to try to find something to help out with these expenses! I don't really mind it-it's for a good cause, but it's still a strain on the pocketbook. Diane: I agree--I knew with this last one that I'd have to put the word out. With Cassidy, I know in his horrible condition, that he's not been loved; however, he could have been missing for some time, so I'll put his name out there too, but with his FeLV, I doubt anyone around here will take him. As you can see, I don't have much to say about the generosity of folks in my part of the woods (plains) when it comes to cats. And then with Ashley, I actually know she was living in the beer garden at our local bar. My friend said she was so hungry that she didn't care if he was power-washing the beer garden--she'd still stick it out to get the scraps of food that were dropped during a recent BBQ. Then there's another that lives in the dumpster by the bar--she had babies last year, but she's not tame, and I don't blame her! All those drunks have to be scary! Some day I might try to help her too. So, yes, I'll put out some flyers for a found cat--but I'm going to make people describe their missing babies to me (if I get any calls) and request that the vet bill be paid--unless of course I know the people are responsible. I'd say the only one that probably could have been loved would be this last one; she looks so much better than my other scruffy, skinny kids. But, considering she was outside enough to get pregnant and roam around, I'm not sure how loved she was...we'll see. Thanks for the advice though! I know if one of my precious fur babes escaped and ran off, got lost, etc., I'd hope someone would put out an ad. Chances are slim though that these guys had owners. But, we live in an area that is sparsely populated, so if anyone is missing a friend, I'll find out right away! Ashley is doing better--she was off her nest when I went out just now. She likes to eat in front of me. I just look at this poor scrawny kitty and think about our Smokey. Smokey and Ashley are approximately the same age but completely different when it comes to health. Imagine, if Smokey wouldn't have found us in December, she would look the same as Ashley now. So sad to think what these guys go through...Ashley's got an appearance right now that only a mother could love, but I know she's beautiful inside, what a little jewel. Melissa
pungent urine
Cassidy, my new FeLV+, has very aromatic pee! I had to use clay litter because he didn't understand the crystals, but even so, I think when I get him switched to crystals, it will still be unbearable. Baking soda does not cover this smell. He's been neutered, and he's not marking, it's just out of his litter box. Is there anything I can feed him? Any product that could help? I couldn't even sleep last night because our house is unreasonably stinky! I love this guy, but I'm going to be embarrassed to let anyone over! Even my husband, who works around manure every day, was sickened by the smell!
RE: Felvtalk - introduction - Chewie and Stitch
Hi Joe! I'm also very new to this list, but I'm in love with it and everyone here is so very supportive. I'm learning a lot about FeLV too. I rescued three cats last week (well, three found me). But, one, our beautiful Cassidy is FeLV+. The rest are negative, as are the three permanent cats we have in our house. Cassidy is currently camped out in our office room to protect the others. Many people on here have had successful mixing of FeLV positives and negatives, but I'm not prepared to do that since our youngest (less than one year) is most susceptible at this age. I don't know where you live, but Cassidy is the most beautiful, friendly, loving cat! He's probably less than one year old, or around there. Here's his picture: http://picasaweb.google.com/mzurovsk/Cassidy/photo?authkey=Iq5dHa-Vucs#50501 79613677810130 I'm trying to find an FeLV positive home for him. Some day I'd like to have a shelter with plenty of room for positives, but right now we don't have the resources. If you'd like him, or if you know of a good home for him, please let me know! I want to keep him so badly, he's stole my heart, but it's just not fair to keep him in one room forever. He's super healthy-better than one of the negatives I rescued last week. He talks constantly-but not annoyingly-and I understand his pungent urine will be subsiding as soon as his hormones are out of his system. He's only newly neutered. And he loves to bite at the letters as I type on the computer-so cute! A very good office buddy and helper. Best of luck with your new quest on educating yourself on FeLV. There's so much to learn as I've found out this past week! But, the people here are so helpful and understanding-I'm so glad you've found this resource as well! Best Wishes, Melissa
Re: Laurel Please add to CLS
Sherry, I'm thinking of you right now! I hope all goes well! Here's the email I got from a shelter about Cassidy: I spoke with the director of the humane society and he has declined to accept Cassidy. It is his opinion that, unfortunately, he needs to be put down. I couldn't believe such insensitive advice! I had emailed them before I realized how the shelters were around here-not very caring for FeLV cats. I'm so happy there are people like you who ignore what others say and take care of the FeLV babies! Cassidy is healthy and very athletic-no reason to put him down now! So, stay strong! I'm very new to this, but I feel like I understand you guys already! And I'm glad to hear the good news about Laurel! Hugs and Prayers, Melissa
Nonie is the name
Hi all, I know that my third rescue cat in a week was not FeLV+, but I just thought I'd let you know that she has a name! She must have let the girls at the vet's office know her name this weekend-Nonie is what they've named her, and it fits! What a relief for me as I just couldn't find the right name! I'm working on putting out flyers now in case she is somebody's baby. But, for now, she and Ashley are getting to know each other in the garage. I think Ashley was a little upset that her home was being invaded! But, I hope they'll become snuggle-buddies in a few days. For now I'll keep an eye on them since Ashley is scrawny and Nonie is strong. But, Ashley seems to be standing her ground-not giving up her comfy bed! A side note, Cassidy, our FeLV+, almost escaped out the window just now! I was busy typing, not paying attention, and he had clawed a hole in the screen and was half-way out! Good thing he didn't do that when I was gone. And luckily he didn't get hurt or scratched by the screen-it's old and soft. I could have lost him for good, and who knows how many other cats he could have infected! The bad news is that now I can't open the window in here-and it's super stinky as I've mentioned before-that's probably why he wanted out! I'm working on integrating the crystal litter-it's clearly just the hormones left over-a very distinct tom-cat smell. He has no trouble peeing like my other cat has had with a UTI; plus the food I feed them is designed to neutralize (I think that's the word the vet used) their urine to prevent UTIs, which my Bandit is very prone to-or more to the point, his urine turns crystal-like and blocks up. This food prevents that (but doesn't treat it). He hasn't had any problems since the new food was introduced. My vet's office said the same thing as several of you did-it'll take probably 4 weeks for the smell to subside. Lucky me! But, now, poor Cassidy can't hear the birds or smell the fresh air! Even if I get the screen replaced, he'll still be able to chew through it! Any advice for indestructible screens? The poor guy is so used to being outside, he just wants to go chase the birdies, bunnies, squirrels! I've tried to tell him that it's best for him to be inside, but he just doesn't listen! Melissa
RE: pungent urine
Thanks Nina! Cassidy is about one year old and he just got neutered last week-so I assume it will be a while before the smell dies down. My husband is not a happy man today since he didn't get much sleep last night what with our baby Smokey running around all night and bringing all kinds of toys and treasures into our bed and Cassidy's smell which was overpowering to say the least. Poor thing is just staring out the window. I just propped it open a little with your advice, but I'll get the lattice work-what a great idea! I'm not very good at visualizing things like that-so thanks! I'll keep my eye on the window for the time being! Melissa
RE: OT-ARGH to Pet Health Pharmacy
Kelly, sorry to hear about your troubles! I give my Bandit (10 years) fluoxitine (Prozac) from the vet's office-half a pill per day. It stopped his spraying from anxiety immediately and only costs me around $6.00 per month. His behavior otherwise is fine-not dopey or sluggish. However, I'm not an expert by any means-but that might work for you! Melissa
RE: pungent urine
Nina, no cat wandering around that I could see, but there very well could be. But, his piddles are always in the litter box. At first he used the carpet until I switched to clay. Luckily I caught that right away. Now, he's goes very nicely in the box-which is very large. I always buy those storage totes after I discovered that my Bandit had a tendency to not realize how big he was-piddled off the side a lot before the storage totes were bought. Candles seems to work a little-it's a least tolerable in here for me to get some work done! Cassidy is now snuggled up on my lap-he's finally learning not to use his claw on me so much! By the way, I see that many of you are responding to messages that I don't see until you've all responded! Am I doing something wrong? Is it because I batch my emails? How would one unbatch them? Melissa
RE: OT-ARGH to Pet Health Pharmacy
Kelly, I feel so bad for you after you've described your troubles-your cats do much more random peeing than my Bandit used to. He only went in the heat vent (very nice) or on top of it once we covered it with plastic and all sorts of contraptions. I think I tried EVERYTHING before my vet suggested the prozac. Like you, I found that Feliway was interesting to my cats, but did nothing to their behavior. I'm so sorry that your babies are difficult to pill. Bandit just opens up and swallows very obediently. Unlike yours, he hears the bottle opening and usually comes into the kitchen-weird I know. I'm not sure what his pills taste like, but he must be okay with them-or else he's just very excited to please-plus he gets extra love and attention when he takes his medicine-that could be why. You must be a very patient and loving person to have dealt with so much trouble this long! I know how exhausting and frustrating it can be! Plus, I'd find myself crawling around the floor with my nose ridiculously sniffing the carpet :-), very embarrassing if anyone came over! But, I was relieved, if you could call it that, that my cat only chose one place other than the litter box. I only pray it gets better for you! Bless you for sticking it out! I had people tell me they would have put down a cat that was doing what mine did! That's just horrifying! But, I also agree with you Nina about not listening to those who are not as experienced-and I certainly am not experienced. I'm very new to medicating cats-I've only recently had special needs with Bandit and then with the 3 rescues this week. I'm learning quite a bit. So, if anyone thinks what I am doing is wrong-don't hesitate to let me know! I won't take it personally if you don't take my ignorance personally! I'm trying to learn quickly. By the way, what is this Flagyl? Melissa
RE: OT-ARGH to Pet Health Pharmacy
Kelly Lane-I love your pictures of your cattery! How wonderful! If only I could afford that! Someday. But, let's hope the locals don't get angry because of zoning and whatnot. I live in a town of 800 people, and it just depends as to what will set people off! I've printed lots of pictures from your site to save in my dream folder. What great ideas you have! Melissa
Re: pungent urine
Great news-we were able to sleep last night! The smell has already dissipated (knock on wood). Maybe he just had some squirts of really stinky stuff to get out. We can only hope. I spent yesterday monitoring candles all over the house, baking cookies, chili, anything to mask the smell! I found candles I didn't even know I had. Need to get those warmers though-much safer. My husband is much happier now that he's slept a full night without trying to stuff our faces into our pillows from the odors! And I can work in my office without too much discomfort! (I know you were all dying to get an update on my pee stories-sorry I don't have anything more interesting or meaningful!) Melissa
RE: OT-ARGH to Pet Health Pharmacy
Kelly, That's great that you live out of the city. We plan to live on the edge of town, well, in a town our size, that's not too hard-technically we're on the edge anyway-but I think I can convince my husband that if he gets to build a big garage/man cave, that I get part of it for a shelter! But, in the meantime, I might work on him for the English garden idea for our walk out basement. Unfortunately, too many people around here don't wait for invitations-they just come over! But, I'll have to say that small town life does have its benefits-very safe-but I'm not so sure how safe it would be for my cats. But, all of you have really motivated me to realize my dreams and get to work on a better job so I can afford to do this! In the meantime, I might work on educating people this summer about spay/neuter. So many people around here are back-door feeders, but they don't bother to spay/neuter! That makes me irate! They think they're helping cats, but they're only adding more starving, sick babies. I hope I can get some people to help me take outdoor cats to a shelter that has a free spay/neuter program. We'll see how it goes.Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Kelly L Sent: Tuesday, April 10, 2007 11:17 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: RE: OT-ARGH to Pet Health Pharmacy At 06:45 PM 4/10/2007, you wrote: Thank you.. It just sort of grew.. Fortunately I have 1.5 acres and do not live in the city. I also do not give my address out, .If you have a back yard you could start with something small, Use a bit of shade cloth and that nice llattice and tell people you have a hot house or small english garden,, and never invite anyone over!! Kelly Kelly Lane-I love your pictures of your cattery! How wonderful! If only I could afford that! Someday. But, let's hope the locals don't get angry because of zoning and whatnot. I live in a town of 800 people, and it just depends as to what will set people off! I've printed lots of pictures from your site to save in my dream folder. What great ideas you have! Melissa No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.446 / Virus Database: 269.0.0/754 - Release Date: 4/9/2007 10:59 PM
suspicious email
Hi all, I have posted two cats (Ashley and Cassidy) on petfinder.org and Cassidy on the FeLV adoption site. I have to borrow a digital camera since my flash broke, then I'll have pictures of Nonie (the new arrival). I received this email twice today: I have a new email address! You can now email me at: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hey, i like to adopt this pet,get back with the last asking price - billy homes It seems kind of suspicious to me. I don't even know which pet he is talking about. He didn't list the name of the cat, or even the fact that it was a cat. Do you suppose this is one of those evil people who sells animals to research labs? I'm not even going to respond back. Furthermore, why the uk address? Hmmm.Any experience with this before? Melissa
RE: more added to the list--including cat dog treats
Prayers going out for Ginger! You're not stupid! Bless you for all the work you go to for these babies! Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Wednesday, April 11, 2007 5:00 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: more added to the list--including cat dog treats Well now I am in a position or whatever you call it w/ Sunshine Mills They make Ol Roy dog biscuits..And are ONLY recalling the 10 lb. bags.!!! And, I know, Ol Roy is cr*p, but I buy the 5 lb. bags 'cause my veggie dog can only eat the green ones, and they always have an excess of them in bags And, trust me, I've tried almost all the supposedly good veg. brands. NONE of my dogs would eat them!!! So, w/ the non-green cookies, I do give them to my other 3.. And, to me, (2) 5 lbs. = (1) 10 lb. Right? So whose to say they all don't come from the same batch? Makes sense to me And, the CS person at Sunshine gave me a lame explanation. Made NO sense at all. http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/smi/0201e0309e/11 And, now my Ginger has not been right. She goes to vet tomorrow. (Fingers crossed, prayers needed) I can't believe how stupid I've been Me, ever so careful, cooking for critters to avoid problems, and I bought Ol Roy!!! Just needed to vent... (Also wondering if poor Bart got so deathly ill so fast because of his wet food - Special Kitty. I know, lousy stuff too, but me being on such a limited income, tons of bills, gave it to him 'cause he loved wet food!!! And, I was feeding Innova Dry DUMB,DUMB,DUMB! ) It's at the point where I'm going to ALL home cooked foods, for cats dogs. Don't trust ANYTHING!!!) Hugs, Patti her gang http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/clip_art/gstres/anmls/cat _ See what's free at AOL.com http://www.aol.com?ncid=AOLAOF0002000503 .
RE: suspicious email
I'm glad to hear that many of you recognized this earlier! My sis-in-law was a target for the Nigerian scam when they were trying to sell their house. Luckily a realtor caught it before they accepted a phony check! I can't believe they're doing it with pets! Crazy! I'll watch out for any more of these. Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Chris Sent: Wednesday, April 11, 2007 4:36 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: RE: suspicious email This is a scam. Apparently the way this works is that the guy sends you a bogus money order for the transport of the animal. Then he tells you that he mistakenly sent you too much so could you just please send him a check for the difference. Once you send the check, you never hear from anybody Christiane Biagi 914-632-4672 [EMAIL PROTECTED] Katrina Animal Reunion Team (KART) www.findkpets.org Join Us Help Reunite Katrina-displaced Families with their Animals -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Melissa Lind Sent: Wednesday, April 11, 2007 4:24 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: suspicious email Hi all, I have posted two cats (Ashley and Cassidy) on petfinder.org and Cassidy on the FeLV adoption site. I have to borrow a digital camera since my flash broke, then I'll have pictures of Nonie (the new arrival). I received this email twice today: I have a new email address! You can now email me at: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hey, i like to adopt this pet,get back with the last asking price - billy homes It seems kind of suspicious to me. I don't even know which pet he is talking about. He didn't list the name of the cat, or even the fact that it was a cat. Do you suppose this is one of those evil people who sells animals to research labs? I'm not even going to respond back. Furthermore, why the uk address? Hmmm.Any experience with this before? Melissa
RE: suspicious email
Nope--good ol' Nebraska! But, now that I know it's a Nigerian scam, it makes sense. My sis in law had this happen--someone from Britain (supposedly--or somewhere in Europe) got in touch with her to buy their house--said he was moving here as a doctor, but was sending someone to inspect the house. He was also going to send them money for the inspection. They just had to write a check to the inspector from the money that this man would send, which of course would be in the form of a bad check. Luckily they were alerted by a realtor about this scam. Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of wendy Sent: Wednesday, April 11, 2007 9:08 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: suspicious email Do you live in the uk? His email addy is from there. :) Wendy --- Melissa Lind [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi all, I have posted two cats (Ashley and Cassidy) on petfinder.org and Cassidy on the FeLV adoption site. I have to borrow a digital camera since my flash broke, then I'll have pictures of Nonie (the new arrival). I received this email twice today: I have a new email address! You can now email me at: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hey, i like to adopt this pet,get back with the last asking price - billy homes It seems kind of suspicious to me. I don't even know which pet he is talking about. He didn't list the name of the cat, or even the fact that it was a cat. Do you suppose this is one of those evil people who sells animals to research labs? I'm not even going to respond back. Furthermore, why the uk address? Hmmm.Any experience with this before? Melissa Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world: Indeed it is the only thing that ever has! ~~~ Margaret Meade ~~~ Don't be flakey. Get Yahoo! Mail for Mobile and always stay connected to friends.http://mobile.yahoo.com/mail
RE: more added to the list--including cat dog treats
Patti, I can't agree with you more! I take much better care of my furbabies than I do myself! I think my husband might be jealous too! Just kidding of course.but sometimes I wonder why I can't spend more time on me! I really am turning into the crazy cat lady that everyone warned me I'd become :-). Wish there was a way to take the kids for walks-then I'd at least get some exercise! Best wishes for Ginger..Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Thursday, April 12, 2007 3:44 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: more added to the list--including cat dog treats In a message dated 4/11/07 8:36:54 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: We do the best we can do with what we know at the time. And Bart really loves youhe may come back as a housecat now that he knows some people can love instead of hurt. ALL you guys are SO wonderful, compassionate understanding It just seems I always tend to kick myself when-ever something comes up w/ my babies(Like my Puma, being diagnosed w/ dry FIP - knowing when I had an FIP outbreak while fostering, and NOT getting my personal clan tested just the fosters...I blame myself. http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/smi/0201e0309e/14 ) As for Bart coming back as a housecat, I really believe that's possible, even probably very likely I swear my Timmy came back after I lost my Felv+ Ethan, in a healthy body.Timmy is so much like Ethan, looks, loving, etc, He's my special boy... And, my room mate always comments about how much more I spend on my fur babies when he does my shopping. The $$'s I spend are way more than I spend on myself, But, my babies ALWAYS come first And, now since the MVA, well, money's tight but I refuse to cut back on their needs. They are, and always have been my life.. That will never change And Ginger goes to vet Friday, not tomorrow, (This memory thing). I can only pray for the best.But I am VERY worried, and will blame myself if it's something I'm responsible for I think we all do that. Well, this insomniac is going to try to get some rest. Again, much love thanks to ALL of you... Hugs, http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/clip_art/peeps-emt/love/clips/mother9-clip2 Patti her gang http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/clip_art/gstres/anmls/cat _ See what's free at AOL.com http://www.aol.com?ncid=AOLAOF0002000503 .
RE: More info on Joey
Kelly, I hope your dreams come true! I can only hope to be independently wealthy someday so I can have a beautiful shelter! Good luck with your seniors! Yes, we'll have to have old folks wings on our shelters! Good idea! Best wishes! Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Kelley Saveika Sent: Thursday, April 12, 2007 7:56 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: More info on Joey Hi Wendy, He has it written down on Kitty's bloodwork (sorry, there was a pair of senior owner surrenders turned in to me at the same time. Both are now pretty gravely ill). I am thinking of not taking in any more seniors. They do not do well in my home. It is really hard, but young cats seem to adjust much better and with much less stress. I am trying to find a foster w/fewer cats so that she could have less stress, but no one who does rescue has few cats. When all my dreams come true and I have a full-fledged sanctuary/adoption center, perhaps I can dedicate a room to seniors and adjust it to their special needs. Though I did get Caroline fully adjusted to my home...it took 5 months..and she is only 5.5 years.. On 4/11/07, wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Lipidosis is the same thing as fatty liver disease, if I'm not mistaken. Is the vet saying Joey has this??? This is very serious if so; it's related to the lack of food. I hope Joey is ok Kelley. :) Wendy --- Kelley Saveika [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Yes, Kitty's bloodwork (they called her Kitty for 12 years so who am I to change it). ALB 3.0 ALKP 294 ALT 78 AMYL 849 BUN 39 CA 10.6 CHOL 155 CREA 1.1 GLOB 6.0 GLU 171 PHOS 5.6 TBIL 0.3 TP 9.0 He has written hypothyroidism, chronic hepatitis, lipiodosis, and some other stuf I can't read. WBC 16.09 LYM 0.93 MONO 2.39 NEU 12.28 EOS 0.40 BASO 0.10 HCT 35.4 RBC 7.43 HGB 14.7 HGH 14.7 RETIC 26.9 MCV 47.6 RDW 20.1 MCH 19.79 PLT 517 MPV 11.26 PCT 0.6 PDW 23.0 On 4/11/07, Hideyo Yamamoto [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Could you post your female kitty's blood work anyway? Your vet may not have much experience with FIP if he did not say anything about it by looking at the blood work - and lots of vets don't know how to look at the blood result for FIP illness. -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Hideyo Yamamoto Sent: Wednesday, April 11, 2007 4:15 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: RE: More info on Joey You might also want to start giving him a sub Q fluid (may be every other day - like 100 cc??) as some of his kidney values are high normal range - -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Hideyo Yamamoto Sent: Wednesday, April 11, 2007 4:10 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: RE: More info on Joey Do you have bilburin values? Did THL mean TBL? His TP/Gloub is very high? Did he get tested for the corona virus titers? I am a bit concerned that this mimics some of the blood work from the kitties I lost to FIP (anemia, high globulin and low ALB and high AMYL), but he is not a young kitty -but I would ask for the corona virus titer just to see what it is though there is no definitive answers on it either -- I have lots of kitties with high corona titer who don't have FIP, and lower titer and have had FIP.. but trying to eliminate what we can eliminate. -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Kelley Saveika Sent: Wednesday, April 11, 2007 3:49 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: More info on Joey Ok, here is his other bloodwork. ALB 2.5 ALKP 25 ALT 43 AMYL 1743 BUN 48 CA 9.8 CHOL 209 CREA 1.5 GLOB 7.5 GLU 146 PHOS 5.4 THL 0.7 TP 10.1 I had Blood Chemistry and CBC on his female buddy done...I have the result in the car but they are inconclusive. So we are waiting for urine to see if it is diabetes or not. On 4/11/07, Hideyo Yamamoto [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I am sorry, I did not minimize your concerns by any means --- since my household is always lots of kaos, my standard is probably off -- Lots of my kitties have had anemia problems and it can be a life threatening, I lost 6 kitties to anemia during the past several months already, so I know that it's not to be taken light.. but I also wanted you to remember his clinical behavioral conditions as it's most important thing of all to consider. I really do suggest thought, Kelley, have the blood work done for everything, and also female buddy kitty to run all the blood work as well -- urine samples will tell lots of stuff, but not as much as the blood work can tell and to what degree
OT-cute things
Ummm.I think I did this right-OT means off topic or some such thing? I'm new to internet lingo, so bear with me. Anyway, there's so much sad stuff that everyone is enduring and going through, that I thought a discussion of the good stuff would help raise some spirits. Of course, my prayers and support go out to all of you who are dealing with special needs and FeLV complications! You are all a blessing! But, does anyone have any cute stories to share? I'm so proud of our little Smokey (less than one year old). She thinks she's a dog, and constantly wants to play fetch with her toys! We'll play fetch for a half an hour at times-until she wears me out! It's so cute how she's constantly bringing the toy back, dropping it in my lap, and excitedly anticipating the next toss! Then every morning there are usually several of her nightly treasures left for us in one of the food bowls-usually a quarter, or my makeup tubes, or her favorite-pens stolen out of the pen holders! Such an angel, and always a good chuckle to see what treat is in the dish! Then Cassidy, the new FeLV foster cat, is starting to let me know all his quirks. He loves to just lie in my arms and stare into my eyes-actually eerie at times, but very beautiful! I've never had a cat make eye contact for that long! And of course, there's the constant attempt to catch the words on the computer screen-he's always trying to bite them! Well, those are a couple of my favorite things-just thought I'd share like the proud mommy I am! Please let me know any of your funny stories-we could all use some cheering up now and then! And forgive me if you've already done this in the past-I'm new to this! Meows and purrs, Melissa
RE: OT-cute things
Hi Kelly, Oh so precious! At least you've got some happy times to get you through all the medical troubles you're having! Poor things, being so sick--but what a trooper! I like to think that kittens can warm even the coldest of hearts... Clever name for Dibs! Hope you have many happy times in the future! Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Kelley Saveika Sent: Thursday, April 12, 2007 9:19 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: OT-cute things Hi Melissa, Well, one of the new kittens, who I have named Dibs (ha! I am adopting her, that's why she's named Dibs. If you want Dibs, start your own rescue - get it? OK, it is probably just me that thinks it is funny). Anyway 3 of them are sick with diarrhea, so I took them to the vet yesterday. He thinks they are younger than I had originally thought - maybe 4 weeks? But they are completely weaned and everything, so maybe since they were feral they just had to be tougher. She can't be contained by anything. She's very smart and has learned how to climb stairs and she can wiggle under doors. She climbed all the way up into my *bed*.that is a long climb for such a little girl, not even a pound...curled up on top of my ear, and went to sleep. A! So cute! On 4/12/07, Melissa Lind [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Ummm.I think I did this right-OT means off topic or some such thing? I'm new to internet lingo, so bear with me. Anyway, there's so much sad stuff that everyone is enduring and going through, that I thought a discussion of the good stuff would help raise some spirits. Of course, my prayers and support go out to all of you who are dealing with special needs and FeLV complications! You are all a blessing! But, does anyone have any cute stories to share? I'm so proud of our little Smokey (less than one year old). She thinks she's a dog, and constantly wants to play fetch with her toys! We'll play fetch for a half an hour at times-until she wears me out! It's so cute how she's constantly bringing the toy back, dropping it in my lap, and excitedly anticipating the next toss! Then every morning there are usually several of her nightly treasures left for us in one of the food bowls-usually a quarter, or my makeup tubes, or her favorite-pens stolen out of the pen holders! Such an angel, and always a good chuckle to see what treat is in the dish! Then Cassidy, the new FeLV foster cat, is starting to let me know all his quirks. He loves to just lie in my arms and stare into my eyes-actually eerie at times, but very beautiful! I've never had a cat make eye contact for that long! And of course, there's the constant attempt to catch the words on the computer screen-he's always trying to bite them! Well, those are a couple of my favorite things-just thought I'd share like the proud mommy I am! Please let me know any of your funny stories-we could all use some cheering up now and then! And forgive me if you've already done this in the past-I'm new to this! Meows and purrs, Melissa -- Rescuties - Saving the world, one cat at a time. http://www.rescuties.org Vist the Rescuties store and save a kitty life! http://astore.amazon.com/rescuties-20 Please help Joey! http://rescuties.chipin.com/joey-autoimmune-hemolytic-anemia
RE: More info on Joey
Thanks for the info Kelley! I should look into that, and ask my financial advisor, well, my cousin, for some help with setting one up. Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Kelley Saveika Sent: Thursday, April 12, 2007 9:49 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: More info on Joey Hey Melissa, We are going to be getting off the topic a bit, but I don't think we need to be independently wealthy to have shelters. That's why I started a 501(c)(3) so that I can take donations.:) (If I had to wait until I was independently wealthy I'd never make it!) Kelley On 4/12/07, Melissa Lind [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Kelly, I hope your dreams come true! I can only hope to be independently wealthy someday so I can have a beautiful shelter! Good luck with your seniors! Yes, we'll have to have old folks wings on our shelters! Good idea! Best wishes! Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Kelley Saveika Sent: Thursday, April 12, 2007 7:56 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: More info on Joey Hi Wendy, He has it written down on Kitty's bloodwork (sorry, there was a pair of senior owner surrenders turned in to me at the same time. Both are now pretty gravely ill). I am thinking of not taking in any more seniors. They do not do well in my home. It is really hard, but young cats seem to adjust much better and with much less stress. I am trying to find a foster w/fewer cats so that she could have less stress, but no one who does rescue has few cats. When all my dreams come true and I have a full-fledged sanctuary/adoption center, perhaps I can dedicate a room to seniors and adjust it to their special needs. Though I did get Caroline fully adjusted to my home...it took 5 months..and she is only 5.5 years.. On 4/11/07, wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Lipidosis is the same thing as fatty liver disease, if I'm not mistaken. Is the vet saying Joey has this??? This is very serious if so; it's related to the lack of food. I hope Joey is ok Kelley. :) Wendy --- Kelley Saveika [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Yes, Kitty's bloodwork (they called her Kitty for 12 years so who am I to change it). ALB 3.0 ALKP 294 ALT 78 AMYL 849 BUN 39 CA 10.6 CHOL 155 CREA 1.1 GLOB 6.0 GLU 171 PHOS 5.6 TBIL 0.3 TP 9.0 He has written hypothyroidism, chronic hepatitis, lipiodosis, and some other stuf I can't read. WBC 16.09 LYM 0.93 MONO 2.39 NEU 12.28 EOS 0.40 BASO 0.10 HCT 35.4 RBC 7.43 HGB 14.7 HGH 14.7 RETIC 26.9 MCV 47.6 RDW 20.1 MCH 19.79 PLT 517 MPV 11.26 PCT 0.6 PDW 23.0 On 4/11/07, Hideyo Yamamoto [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Could you post your female kitty's blood work anyway? Your vet may not have much experience with FIP if he did not say anything about it by looking at the blood work - and lots of vets don't know how to look at the blood result for FIP illness. -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Hideyo Yamamoto Sent: Wednesday, April 11, 2007 4:15 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: RE: More info on Joey You might also want to start giving him a sub Q fluid (may be every other day - like 100 cc??) as some of his kidney values are high normal range - -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Hideyo Yamamoto Sent: Wednesday, April 11, 2007 4:10 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: RE: More info on Joey Do you have bilburin values? Did THL mean TBL? His TP/Gloub is very high? Did he get tested for the corona virus titers? I am a bit concerned that this mimics some of the blood work from the kitties I lost to FIP (anemia, high globulin and low ALB and high AMYL), but he is not a young kitty -but I would ask for the corona virus titer just to see what it is though there is no definitive answers on it either -- I have lots of kitties with high corona titer who don't have FIP, and lower titer and have had FIP.. but trying to eliminate what we can eliminate. -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Kelley Saveika Sent: Wednesday, April 11, 2007 3:49 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: More info on Joey Ok, here is his other bloodwork. ALB 2.5 ALKP 25 ALT 43 AMYL 1743 BUN 48 CA 9.8 CHOL 209 CREA 1.5 GLOB 7.5 GLU 146 PHOS 5.4 THL 0.7 TP 10.1 I had Blood Chemistry and CBC on his female buddy done...I have the result in the car but they are inconclusive. So we are waiting for urine to see
RE: Ages please
Cassidy: about 1 year old, diagnosed last week (when rescued) with Elisa test still waiting on results from IFA test. Will retest in 3 months. -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Kelly L Sent: Thursday, April 12, 2007 6:26 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Ages please Would anyone mind sharing me the ages of your FELV cats and age of diagnosis. Thanks so much Kelly
RE: Ages please
This keeps coming up in posts, and I have to ask: What is an AC? I think of air conditioner! Please help the newbie! :-) Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Marylyn Sent: Friday, April 13, 2007 7:15 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: Ages please Those nasty ferals just are not sure why they are not free to live the lives they want to. Just think how you would feel if your world was turned upside down and you were being held captive by people your parents and grandparents and .. into history feared. You are doing a good thing with them but they don't really understand. If you can find an ac who could explain things to them it might help. I've done that with ferals I've had to confine for various reasons. If nothing else it gives the cat a chance to express himself and to tell you what might make life easier for him (and you). I have had the privilege of sharing my life with a number of ferals including one who broke my finger. They are just trying to protect themselves..the same as any of us would do. Bless you for carrying about them and for them. If you have men who will exclude any of God's creatures from the shelter of compassion and pity, you will have men who will deal likewise with their fellow man. St. Francis - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Friday, April 13, 2007 6:47 AM Subject: Re: Ages please My Ethan was diagnosed (SNAP) + when he was rescued as a baby. Needless to say, he would have been PTS immediately by rescuing. shelter, so I took him. My original intention was to place him in shelter I was involved with, since we are No-Kill, and house both Felv FIV babiesHowever, I fell in love w/ him (it was mutual) I gave him a home. Also had him tested Elisa IFA. Both positive Vet said he was most likely born w/ it... He was NEVER symptomatic, but at around 18 mos. he developed lymphoma it was crushing his heart, (Mine too..) And sadly, since he was having so much trouble just to breathe, I did have him PTS. One of the saddest days of my life.. Now, at the shelter, we have MANY Felv+'s. All ages too. Most come to us because of their diagnosis, and at all diff. ages. And we do everything possible to help them. We have had many successes, like George, who is now approx. 15 still going strong. And Snappy lived to about 10. However, we have lost (too) many at a young age At least they knew they were loved But dear , sweet Snappy was both Felv+ FIV+, so he did have a good life. (In fact, I believe ALL our Felv's FIV's, and all other residents have a good life) The shelter does everything for these babies... That's why I became so involved w/ Felv... They are the sweetest creatures... Well, we do have somenasty ferals...(Like our Mr.Big- a Maine Coon who is approx. 12) But I think even they appreciate the care they are given I don't know if this information addressed your question, but I just had to share... One thing I learned is Feline Leukemia is NOT a death sentence. Just wish everyone would agree to that Including vets shelters Hugs, Patti her gang http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/clip_art/gstres/anmls/cat _ See what's free at AOL.com http://www.aol.com?ncid=AOLAOF0002000503 .
good news, sort of, for Cassidy
Cassidy has been accepted to Best Friend in Utah for their FeLV ward. This is wonderful, but I am still hoping to find him a forever home in the meantime. He's such a wonderful guy, I'd just hate for him not to go to a real home. He's about one year old and not exhibiting any symptoms, so I've got my fingers crossed for a long, healthy life. Here's the rub: even though I advised them that I wouldn't be able to bring Cassidy out there until July, they've asked that he come around May 1st. I want to confirm his FeLV status with a second IFA in three months before exposing him to other FeLV cats. His first IFA is still not back; the only confirmation of his FeLV status is the Elisa. I know the people who work there are very busy, but I made this clear in my emails, but no one seemed to heed it. I've emailed back saying I just couldn't take him until his status is determined with another test. This would mean he'd be available after July 1st, unless he finds a home before then. So, I'm not sure if they'll be able to keep him on the list since other FeLV+ babies might need a home before then. But, he just can't live in my office room forever! He started crying last night through the door-kept me awake most of the night. I'd go comfort him, but the only way he'd stop is if I'd just quit coming into the room-it's very sad for me. One more thing-even if they could isolate him from the other cats until another test is given-I can't afford to travel to Utah right now! I mentioned that I'd have to save up anyway. I don't know if there is any place to get financial assistance for travel expenses. One contact there suggested that I get in touch with people through their website, especially people in Nebraska. But, how could I convince people that I'm not just stealing their money? Furthermore, I'm not sure if I'd be eligible for assistance because of my husband's income. I know it's technically our money, but when it comes to the rescue cats, my husband is less than enthusiastic about spending his truly hard earned money. If only I had a real job! Around here (the middle of no where) I have too much schooling! G! My only hope is freelance jobs over the internet-which is slow going so far. I guess it's just going to be a waiting game, and in the meantime, I really need to get the word out that Cassidy needs a forever home. If any of you have advice or comments, send them my way! Thanks for listening! Melissa
RE: good news, sort of, for Cassidy
Kelley, Thanks for the info on Best Friends--it might be a better place like you said--finding the right place for him is so risky. I'm so anxious that he won't go to a home that's as loving as mine! I only wish I had more room so I could adopt an FeLV buddy for him. Diane, Good idea--and lets hope and pray that he tests negative on the IFA! Then I'd probably (well, maybe) vaccinate my youngest and let him hang out with the clan until he gets a home. I'm still unsure about vaccinating Smokey--I'm so worried she'll get a sarcoma--but we've been over all this before! I'm just a chronic worrier! Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Kelley Saveika Sent: Friday, April 13, 2007 9:28 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: good news, sort of, for Cassidy Melissa, I don't know. I expect that Best Friends is better than some forever homes - it is a wonderful place, for sure. And much cleaner than my house, from looking at the pictures. Not cheap to travel to, though, for sure - I can't afford to go either! I wish I could tell you the answers you need. On 4/13/07, Melissa Lind [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Cassidy has been accepted to Best Friend in Utah for their FeLV ward. This is wonderful, but I am still hoping to find him a forever home in the meantime. He's such a wonderful guy, I'd just hate for him not to go to a real home. He's about one year old and not exhibiting any symptoms, so I've got my fingers crossed for a long, healthy life. Here's the rub: even though I advised them that I wouldn't be able to bring Cassidy out there until July, they've asked that he come around May 1st. I want to confirm his FeLV status with a second IFA in three months before exposing him to other FeLV cats. His first IFA is still not back; the only confirmation of his FeLV status is the Elisa. I know the people who work there are very busy, but I made this clear in my emails, but no one seemed to heed it. I've emailed back saying I just couldn't take him until his status is determined with another test. This would mean he'd be available after July 1st, unless he finds a home before then. So, I'm not sure if they'll be able to keep him on the list since other FeLV+ babies might need a home before then. But, he just can't live in my office room forever! He started crying last night through the door-kept me awake most of the night. I'd go comfort him, but the only way he'd stop is if I'd just quit coming into the room-it's very sad for me. One more thing-even if they could isolate him from the other cats until another test is given-I can't afford to travel to Utah right now! I mentioned that I'd have to save up anyway. I don't know if there is any place to get financial assistance for travel expenses. One contact there suggested that I get in touch with people through their website, especially people in Nebraska. But, how could I convince people that I'm not just stealing their money? Furthermore, I'm not sure if I'd be eligible for assistance because of my husband's income. I know it's technically our money, but when it comes to the rescue cats, my husband is less than enthusiastic about spending his truly hard earned money. If only I had a real job! Around here (the middle of no where) I have too much schooling! G! My only hope is freelance jobs over the internet-which is slow going so far. I guess it's just going to be a waiting game, and in the meantime, I really need to get the word out that Cassidy needs a forever home. If any of you have advice or comments, send them my way! Thanks for listening! Melissa -- Rescuties - Saving the world, one cat at a time. http://www.rescuties.org Vist the Rescuties store and save a kitty life! http://astore.amazon.com/rescuties-20 Please help Joey! http://rescuties.chipin.com/joey-autoimmune-hemolytic-anemia
RE: Ages please- OT- Ferals
Hey Patti, I think that's great that you have a way with the ferals-I've never encountered any, but I just had a friend commit to helping me catch and release this summer, pending I find funding for the spays/neuters. I'm going to contact the nearest shelters (30 miles from here is the closest, I believe). Of course, I'd love to run a sanctuary for them, but this is all I can do for now. Like you've mentioned-education is the key, and I hope to start educating myself and those in my community, and work from there. Talking about mean people, I thought I'd vent a little. One of my internet friends informed me of her attempts to catch ferals in Iowa (we live in Nebraska). An officer from the humane society in that area of Iowa (not sure where exactly) seemed to believe that population control means shooting the cats! He just watched and laughed as they spent 5 hours catching ferals on a farm-they ended up with 22, but no thanks to him. It's sad to think that people who work in humane societies are like that. It's horrible that they are even allowed to work for them! Thank goodness there are kind people to help-I only with there were more! Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Friday, April 13, 2007 10:20 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: Ages please- OT- Ferals I know all too well what those poor babies are feeling - being in captivity.And I didn't mean to put them down using the term nasty. Sorry, my mistake. It's not their fault at all But, bless them, being trapped rescued being at the shelter is a lot better than what they were facing - CERTAIN DEATH!!! We got so many calls from people begging for help because they were facing other (kill) shelters coming out to trap them due to complaints from neighbors. And, our shelter/sanctuary is not a bad place All cats are placed in large rooms/areas after initial isolation while doing all tests/bloodwork. And, each area has an outside deck for them. Plus, lots of beds, little huts (to act as hiding places), etc. And, they always have plenty to eat.dry wet. So, they will never face hunger again. Or any illness - we have vets on property 3X a week (Now, medicating them is tricky, but it does get done.) And, I always had (still do, I think[?]) a way in working w/ ferals. Fostered MANY was able to bring them around. Can't even count how many former ferals were adopted. And, now I have my Charity...a former feral. Ended up in ER many times from her!!! And, I was just trying to help.. Even Bart (RIP), meanest feral I ever encountered, trusted me, sadly, too late, when Charity led me to him. I really believe the whole reason Charity is a love-muffin (with me only), is because she knew I had helped Bart, her constant companion. People are the problem, NOT the poor cats. And, education IS the key, but, sadly, too many people won't listen. After all, They're only animals!. Boy, does that p*ss me off! Heard that WAY too many times! Just wanted to clarify expand on my previous post Hugs, Patti her gang http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/clip_art/gstres/anmls/cat _ See what's free at AOL.com http://www.aol.com?ncid=AOLAOF0002000503 .
RE: good news, sort of, for Cassidy
Wendy, Thanks for the photos! Also, that's great to know about the bed and breakfast! I've been complaining that my husband gets to go fishing in Canada every year, but that we never get to go anywhere together! So, maybe I can persuade him (I'll need all the prayers for that) to go with me--maybe we can volunteer to help out for a couple of days! I would love that, and I think that he needs to get out of his element as see what people are doing for animals. He truly has a kind heart, but he needs a little (a lot) of coaxing to open the pocketbook. He's never had to worry about money until now (marriage!), and I've grown up in a family that often had troubles making ends meet, but we didn't sweat it because it always works out one way or another, but my husband is not so flippant or at ease about money as I am. This is probably a good thing! Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of wendy Sent: Friday, April 13, 2007 1:00 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: good news, sort of, for Cassidy Melissa, This is WONDERFUL!!! If you saw the facility, you would really be at peace with Cassidy going there. It's a fantastic shelter!!! I told my husband when I was there that in some cases, I bet it's better that some of these babies live out their lives at Best Friends rather than be adopted because it's such a peaceful, well-taken care of, and loving facility. And the girl who runs the shelter is GREAT! I can't pull up her name at the moment (I'm wanting to say Diane), but she really impressed me. I had long conversations with her both days I volunteered in that unit, and she really knows her stuff. Cassidy is so very lucky! There are pics of the cattery at this link: http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/wendy2724/album?.dir=bea1re2.src=phstore=pr odid=.done=http%3a//photos.yahoo.com/ph//my_photos I completely agree with you wanting to verify her FeLV status with another test, especially considering the cost of traveling there. Maybe your husband will consider going with you and you can take a little vacation. They have a cute bed and breakfast there that we stayed in, and the canyons are beautiful! Again, I think this is great. Let us know how things turn out! :) Wendy --- Melissa Lind [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Cassidy has been accepted to Best Friend in Utah for their FeLV ward. This is wonderful, but I am still hoping to find him a forever home in the meantime. He's such a wonderful guy, I'd just hate for him not to go to a real home. He's about one year old and not exhibiting any symptoms, so I've got my fingers crossed for a long, healthy life. Here's the rub: even though I advised them that I wouldn't be able to bring Cassidy out there until July, they've asked that he come around May 1st. I want to confirm his FeLV status with a second IFA in three months before exposing him to other FeLV cats. His first IFA is still not back; the only confirmation of his FeLV status is the Elisa. I know the people who work there are very busy, but I made this clear in my emails, but no one seemed to heed it. I've emailed back saying I just couldn't take him until his status is determined with another test. This would mean he'd be available after July 1st, unless he finds a home before then. So, I'm not sure if they'll be able to keep him on the list since other FeLV+ babies might need a home before then. But, he just can't live in my office room forever! He started crying last night through the door-kept me awake most of the night. I'd go comfort him, but the only way he'd stop is if I'd just quit coming into the room-it's very sad for me. One more thing-even if they could isolate him from the other cats until another test is given-I can't afford to travel to Utah right now! I mentioned that I'd have to save up anyway. I don't know if there is any place to get financial assistance for travel expenses. One contact there suggested that I get in touch with people through their website, especially people in Nebraska. But, how could I convince people that I'm not just stealing their money? Furthermore, I'm not sure if I'd be eligible for assistance because of my husband's income. I know it's technically our money, but when it comes to the rescue cats, my husband is less than enthusiastic about spending his truly hard earned money. If only I had a real job! Around here (the middle of no where) I have too much schooling! G! My only hope is freelance jobs over the internet-which is slow going so far. I guess it's just going to be a waiting game, and in the meantime, I really need to get the word out that Cassidy needs a forever home. If any of you have advice or comments, send them my way! Thanks for listening! Melissa Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world: Indeed it is the only thing that ever has! ~~~ Margaret Meade
RE: Ages please- OT- Ferals
Great resources! Thank you very much! _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Susan Hoffman Sent: Friday, April 13, 2007 1:20 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: RE: Ages please- OT- Ferals Try http://www.felinefriendz.org/ in Nebraska and see what they suggest for trapping and fixing ferals. Also, SpayUSA at http://www.spayusa.org/ (call their 800 number) sometimes has funds available and can offer $250 matching funds grants for feral spay/neuter in areas where there really aren't many resources (like your area). Melissa Lind [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hey Patti, I think that's great that you have a way with the ferals-I've never encountered any, but I just had a friend commit to helping me catch and release this summer, pending I find funding for the spays/neuters. I'm going to contact the nearest shelters (30 miles from here is the closest, I believe). Of course, I'd love to run a sanctuary for them, but this is all I can do for now. Like you've mentioned-education is the key, and I hope to start educating myself and those in my community, and work from there. Talking about mean people, I thought I'd vent a little. One of my internet friends informed me of her attempts to catch ferals in Iowa (we live in Nebraska). An officer from the humane society in that area of Iowa (not sure where exactly) seemed to believe that population control means shooting the cats! He just watched and laughed as they spent 5 hours catching ferals on a farm-they ended up with 22, but no thanks to him. It's sad to think that people who work in humane societies are like that. It's horrible that they are even allowed to work for them! Thank goodness there are kind people to help-I only with there were more! Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Friday, April 13, 2007 10:20 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: Ages please- OT- Ferals I know all too well what those poor babies are feeling - being in captivity.And I didn't mean to put them down using the term nasty. Sorry, my mistake. It's not their fault at all But, bless them, being trapped rescued being at the shelter is a lot better than what they were facing - CERTAIN DEATH!!! We got so many calls from people begging for help because they were facing other (kill) shelters coming out to trap them due to complaints from neighbors. And, our shelter/sanctuary is not a bad place All cats are placed in large rooms/areas after initial isolation while doing all tests/bloodwork. And, each area has an outside deck for them. Plus, lots of beds, little huts (to act as hiding places), etc. And, they always have plenty to eat.dry wet. So, they will never face hunger again. Or any illness - we have vets on property 3X a week (Now, medicating them is tricky, but it does get done.) And, I always had (still do, I think[?]) a way in working w/ ferals. Fostered MANY was able to bring them around. Can't even count how many former ferals were adopted. And, now I have my Charity...a former feral. Ended up in ER many times from her!!! And, I was just trying to help.. Even Bart (RIP), meanest feral I ever encountered, trusted me, sadly, too late, when Charity led me to him. I really believe the whole reason Charity is a love-muffin (with me only), is because she knew I had helped Bart, her constant companion. People are the problem, NOT the poor cats. And, education IS the key, but, sadly, too many people won't listen. After all, They're only animals!. Boy, does that p*ss me off! Heard that WAY too many times! Just wanted to clarify expand on my previous post Hugs, Patti her gang http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/clip_art/gstres/anmls/cat _ See what's free at AOL.com http://www.aol.com/?ncid=AOLAOF0002000503 .
RE: Ages please- OT- Ferals
Oh Nan, She sounds precious! I had an all black kitty once when I was a kid--I named her Gorgeous! I only wish I had room and lived closer to Michigan (I'm in northeast Nebraska), but I'm sure someone on here should be able to help you! Please keep us posted! Have you given her a name? Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Nan Gelman Sent: Friday, April 13, 2007 1:58 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: Ages please- OT- Ferals hi all, It has been a while since I have posted to this site, but I need some help is there anyone in southwest Michigan who would like to adopt a very sweet all black female sprayed kitty cat. This kitty was found in a camp grounds trying to get in to anyone's car that she could. She is about a year old sprayed and front declawed. She tested negative for both FELV and FIV She is very sweet and gentle. Please let me know asap. Thanks so much Nan Original message Date: Fri, 13 Apr 2007 11:20:11 EDT From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: Ages please- OT- Ferals To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] I know all too well what those poor babies are feeling - being in captivity.And I didn't mean to put them down using the term nasty. Sorry, my mistake. It's not their fault at all But, bless them, being trapped rescued being at the shelter is a lot better than what they were facing - CERTAIN DEATH!!! We got so many calls from people begging for help because they were facing other (kill) shelters coming out to trap them due to complaints from neighbors. And, our shelter/sanctuary is not a bad place All cats are placed in large rooms/areas after initial isolation while doing all tests/bloodwork. And, each area has an outside deck for them. Plus, lots of beds, little huts (to act as hiding places), etc. And, they always have plenty to eat.dry wet. So, they will never face hunger again. Or any illness - we have vets on property 3X a week (Now, medicating them is tricky, but it does get done.) And, I always had (still do, I think[?]) a way in working w/ ferals. Fostered MANY was able to bring them around. Can't even count how many former ferals were adopted. And, now I have my Charity...a former feral. Ended up in ER many times from her!!! And, I was just trying to help.. Even Bart (RIP), meanest feral I ever encountered, trusted me, sadly, too late, when Charity led me to him. I really believe the whole reason Charity is a love-muffin (with me only), is because she knew I had helped Bart, her constant companion. People are the problem, NOT the poor cats. And, education IS the key, but, sadly, too many people won't listen. After all, They're only animals!. Boy, does that p*ss me off! Heard that WAY too many times! Just wanted to clarify expand on my previous post Hugs, Patti her gang See what's free at AOL.com.
RE: sweet kitty in sw Michigan needs help
Debbie, I bet Nina meant that some people are superstitious or believe old wives tales (bad luck if a black cat crosses your path, etc.). Funny that this post occurred on Friday the 13th! Double superstitions! I just saw a beautiful, silky, short hair all black cat roaming our back yard. I called to it from our deck, but it had better things to do! I personally am not superstitious about black cats, but I do throw spilled salt over my left shoulder! :) Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Debbie Sent: Friday, April 13, 2007 2:41 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: sweet kitty in sw Michigan needs help out of curiosity - why would a cat have a strike against her for being black? I'm curious. -Original Message- From: Nina [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Apr 13, 2007 4:24 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: sweet kitty in sw Michigan needs help Hi Nan, I took the liberty of changing the subject line of your post to better indicate what it's about. What a little love this girl sounds like! Poor angel on her own with no front claws trying to get into the safety a human's car. It makes me want to go and scoop her up myself, (I won't even mention that to Bruce or my overcrowded household). Who has the cat right now? Has anyone posted flyers at the campground in case she accidently became lost from her people? Someone might be heartbroken and looking for her as I type this. Are you checking local papers for lost ads? Has someone posted a found ad in the paper near where the campgrounds are? They should also file a found report with the local animal shelter and ask if anyone has reported her missing to the shelter. She does have a strike against her because she's black, (I personally love black cats), but she has quite a rescue story and that might help to find her a home. The very best to you and this sweet baby, please let us know what happens to her. Hey... Wasn't there just someone very nice on this list that was thinking about adopting a neg cat??? Who was that? Wasn't it Marissa?? Marissa, did you end up adopting more cats yet?? Nina Nan Gelman wrote: hi all, It has been a while since I have posted to this site, but I need some help is there anyone in southwest Michigan who would like to adopt a very sweet all black female sprayed kitty cat. This kitty was found in a camp grounds trying to get in to anyone's car that she could. She is about a year old sprayed and front declawed. She tested negative for both FELV and FIV She is very sweet and gentle. Please let me know asap. Thanks so much Nan
RE: Well, it looks like i'm going to lose Tomi :(
Cassandra, I hope hope hope he pulls through this! I'm thinking of you in this tough time. I know what it's like to feel helpless, wishing you could do something. I've never lost a pet this way, but I've lost people, and there's no difference in my mind. Prayers for you and Tomi.Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of C J Sent: Friday, April 13, 2007 6:08 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Well, it looks like i'm going to lose Tomi :( I took Tomi to the vet today to have his PCV rechecked. He's been lethargic again lately. The PCV has gone down to 11 from 17 in the last week and a half. I just don't understand it. After his transfusion, his blood count went up on its own from 13, to 17, then 19. Now in the last few weeks, its gone down to 17, and now 11. I've been giving him prednisone again for the last week and a half, and now all the vet could suggest was to up his prednisone from 1 to 2 tablets a day. I guess his hemobartonella wasn't the only problem with his blood. The vet says that its likely his bone marrow is shutting down, and she didn't think another transfusion would be worth it. I don't know what the heck else to do. Maybe I should stop his interferon while giving him the prednisone. This is so hard, just when I had a glimmer of hope that he might actually pull through this, now my hope is pretty much gone :( It's such a feeling of desperation to see him slowly getting worse, and not being able to do anything about it. Cassandra
RE: Felvtalk - introduction - Chewie and Stitch/Cassidy
Thanks Joe! Vermont is quite a distance from Nebraska! But, of course keep us in mind if you know of any compassionate people would like and FeLV baby. A vacation with a purpose would be nice. However, I'm sure there are plenty of cats in need out East! And, luckily, Cassidy has been accepted to Best Friends in Utah (a little closer), if I don't find him a home before then. Best, Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Joe Reil Sent: Saturday, April 14, 2007 7:49 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: RE: Felvtalk - introduction - Chewie and Stitch/Cassidy I don't know where you live, but Cassidy is the most beautiful, friendly, loving cat! He's probably less than one year old, or around there. Here's his picture: He's gorgeous. I'm up in Vermont but am not really in a position to take in other cats at the moment, mostly because of Stitch's particular personality issues. :) If I think of or find anyone who is, though, or if my situation changes, I'll keep you in mind. Best of luck with your new quest on educating yourself on FeLV. There's so much to learn as I've found out this past week! But, the people here are so helpful and understanding-I'm so glad you've found this resource as well! Thanks! Joe [EMAIL PROTECTED] __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
RE: A couple of pictures I took of Tomi today
Cassandra, My heart hurts for you! Tomi is so beautiful. His eyes just speak volumes. Thanks for sharing your pictures. Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of C J Sent: Saturday, April 14, 2007 11:25 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: A couple of pictures I took of Tomi today I took these pictures today of my little Tomi boy: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v43/Fyrwulf/DSCF0053.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v43/Fyrwulf/DSCF0037.jpg And here is an older pic of Tomi and Kisa (my other Felv baby) together: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v43/Fyrwulf/TomiKisa.jpg Cassandra
RE: OT: Pregnant Feral Kitty....Questions
Terrie, I agree with Nina. I just made this difficult decision last week and had Nonie (a rescue) spay/abort. However, this is such a personal choice; you have to do what you feel is right. I took in 3 rescues/foster cats last week, and I don't run a shelter. Since I couldn't afford it if Nonie had babies, I decided to do this. Also, I know that where I live, trying to find a home for these three fosters will be next to impossible let alone a litter. But, I know it's a delicate and controversial issue-one that I grappled with quite a bit. Good luck with Little Girl-poor baby! Best Wishes, Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Nina Sent: Saturday, April 14, 2007 2:33 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: OT: Pregnant Feral KittyQuestions I see you haven't removed the invisible sign welcoming wayward ones from your front lawn :-) . I Googled your question about worming pregnant cats and got conflicting answers. If it where me, esp given her age and circumstance, I'd have her spayed and the kittens aborted. It may sound harsh, but I've come to that conclusion from harsh realities. I completely understand and respect your decision to let her have her kittens, esp if she is in good health and you are able to take on the responsibility. I love the babies and even with my harsh opening disclaimer would be thrilled to hear the pitter patter of little kitten paws about the place. If you are going to take this on, I would bring her to the vet and have her checked. At the very least, get a stool sample and have it checked for worms. I know there are certain worms that can be dangerous for the kittens. From the behavior you describe, I'm betting Little Girl will tame up in no time. She sounds like she is reaching out to you and has had at least some good experiences with humans. What a smart girl to have found her way to you! Congratulations. Please keep us informed, Nina [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi all, It looks as we have a Feral pregnant Mom that has found her way to us. I'm going to trap her and put her on my back porch so she can tame down. Also have her babies safely. She is just a tiger strip kitty and very small. I have named her Little Girl My question is Can she be wormed? Do you recommend she be vaccinated before or after the birth of the kittens? I use Heska...it is intra nasal vaccination on my cats. I've never had any problems with it. I can tell she wants to be friendly with me. I can get about 2 feet from her and drop some food down. I back off and she eats it up. I have been feeding her with my other Feral kitties. I normally wouldn't ask these questions but never had a pregnant kitty either that lived outside that is feral. I can tell she is a baby herself she is under a year old at the most maybe 7-9 months old. I will get her spayed for free after the babies are born. So as you can see I'm clueless on this! Thanks for your help in this matter. Hugs to all Terrie Mohr-Forker
RE: pungent urine
He was neutered April 3rd. I now realize that it was just his hormones coming out. And I'm happy to report that there is no more nasty smell. His poo is now more odorous than his piddles, so it's very tolerable now. Also, I was able to switch him over to crystals quite easily by sprinkling his used clay litter over the top. Now everything dries out much faster and the smell is contained. He has a giant litter box (a plastic tote); he doesn't spray or mark; all-in-all we are very happy! I'm not sure if you read this on my other posts, but he's been accepted to Best Friends in Utah for after May 1st, but I can't take him there until after July 1st (pending his second IFA test), so it's kind of up in the air about his future there. Best, Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of catatonya Sent: Saturday, April 14, 2007 1:37 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: pungent urine How long has it been since Cassidy was neutered??? t Marylyn [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: You can mix the crystals with the clay--I do and it works pretty good. Dixie gets the little round pearls in the pads of her paws so we are trying the chips. Also consider using a Rubbermaid or knock off storage box for his litter box (no lid please). I use the 18 gallon or larger ones and cut a u-shaped hole for the cat to walk in. More room, less concentration and high walls for any difficulties hitting the litter. I love them. I started using them when Ebony was about 18 years old and was having trouble getting down. If you have men who will exclude any of God's creatures from the shelter of compassion and pity, you will have men who will deal likewise with their fellow man. St. Francis - Original Message - From: Marylyn mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, April 10, 2007 7:33 AM Subject: Re: pungent urine Try probiotics (health food store or order Fastrack). Also have him checked for a UTI. This is not natural. If you have men who will exclude any of God's creatures from the shelter of compassion and pity, you will have men who will deal likewise with their fellow man. St. Francis - Original Message - From: Melissa mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Lind To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, April 10, 2007 6:55 AM Subject: pungent urine Cassidy, my new FeLV+, has very aromatic pee! I had to use clay litter because he didn't understand the crystals, but even so, I think when I get him switched to crystals, it will still be unbearable. Baking soda does not cover this smell. He's been neutered, and he's not marking, it's just out of his litter box. Is there anything I can feed him? Any product that could help? I couldn't even sleep last night because our house is unreasonably stinky! I love this guy, but I'm going to be embarrassed to let anyone over! Even my husband, who works around manure every day, was sickened by the smell!
RE: ? Stomatitis ?
Hi Sheila, This is not an answer to your question-sorry! I'm off topic, but I couldn't help but notice that you're from Nebraska. I have 1 FeLV cat and 2 negatives that need homes. I'm new to this. I've contacted many rescues in NE with no luck. If you have any helpful contacts, could you let me know? You can always email me straight to my address if you want. Thanks, Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Sheila Coyle Sent: Saturday, April 14, 2007 2:05 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: ? Stomatitis ? ? In a colony of feral felines, can stomatitis be fatal ? Thank you. Sheila Nebraska
RE: Cassandra and Brunello Please add to the ClS :(
Sherry, hugs and prayers. Sometimes the most difficult things are the most wonderful, as you've pointed out. I hope a little ray of sunshine finds you today. Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Sherry DeHaan Sent: Saturday, April 14, 2007 2:15 PM To: Felvtalk Subject: Cassandra and Brunello Please add to the ClS :( Ok now that I have stopped crying for the moment,let me ask that these sweet angels be added to the list. Cassandra beautiful sleek black girl left us yesterday,she is now with her beautiful sister Carissa. Brunello had a very rough life before Jen took this wonderful rough looking but very handsome boy with the loudest motor into Sids.I fell in love with him the second that I saw him.This was a shocker,I was just there Thursday and he was fine.Yesterday morning when one of the volunteers came in,she found him gasping for breath.It was found that he had a large mass on his trachea. This volunteering is the hardest yet most rewarding thing that I have done in my life.I am soo glad that I have all of you to talk to. Sherry _ Ahhh...imagining that irresistible new car smell? Check out new http://us.rd.yahoo.com/evt=48245/*http:/autos.yahoo.com/new_cars.html;_ylc= X3oDMTE1YW1jcXJ2BF9TAzk3MTA3MDc2BHNlYwNtYWlsdGFncwRzbGsDbmV3LWNhcnM- cars at Yahoo! Autos.
RE: OT: Roombie-the new Roomba - for those of youconsideringpurchasing one
Marylyn, I have this rubber spongy thing that my friend gave me. They're cheap, and I love it! It's grayish black and kind of shaped like a rectangle, but with a curved inner part for you to grip. I think she got it from Drs. Foster and Smith, but I'm not really sure. But, this thing takes the fur and rolls it up when you drag is across the upholstery. This is the only way I can vacuum my furniture-I have to do this first which gets up the majority of the hair, but the stuff that's left is actually vacuum-able. I also bought some vacuum spray stuff that's supposed to allow the hair to not stick to furniture, but it was a mess and didn't really work, and it would get in places I didn't want. By far, I stand my rubber thing! I'll look later for a link to one, I couldn't find one on the Drs. Website, but I know it's out there somewhere. But, I did read while looking that many people use a rubber glove. I've never tried it. If you do, let us know! Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Marylyn Sent: Sunday, April 15, 2007 6:47 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: OT: Roombie-the new Roomba - for those of youconsideringpurchasing one I saw something about rubber gloves (like for washing dishes) getting up fur on upholstery. Has anyone had any experience with this? If you have men who will exclude any of God's creatures from the shelter of compassion and pity, you will have men who will deal likewise with their fellow man. St. Francis - Original Message - From: elizabeth trent mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Sunday, April 15, 2007 6:34 PM Subject: Re: OT: Roombie-the new Roomba - for those of you consideringpurchasing one I'm curious -- how much does it hold? I love my purple dyson for animal hair but so help me - we're such a shedding bunch I have to empty it frequently. how does it perform? elizabeth On 4/15/07, wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hey guys, Just wanted to let you guys know that Roombie (our new Roomba Sage for pet owners) went on it's maiden voyage this morning. The kitties were somewhat alarmed at first, but by the time it cleaned for 45 minutes and docked itself, they weren't too concerned with it. Smookie ran over to it when it stopped and has been trying to get the brushes out from underneath it. It's too cute. So far, Roombie did a bang-up job of vacuuming my tile floors-the living room, kitchen, and eating area along with the front entry way and hallway leading from that. That's as far as it could go since all the doors were shut along the hallway. I was very surprised with how well it patterned itself while cleaning. It got in and out of tight spaces. It even tried to eat Smookie's feather toy, but I rescued it. We paid $219 for it at the irobot website, which is the company that makes Roomba. A better deal than at Linens and Things or Bed, Bath, and Beyond. They have a pretty decent special, which includes free shipping, and a free home dock (normally $60); fairly cheap for a Roomba. Normally, I am a very frugal person, but I have bought three vacuum-cleaners in the past few years at about $50 each at Walmart, and all have died. Plus, I don't actually have to do the vacuuming myself, so that itself was worth the extra money. With the tile, as opposed to the carpet we had that hid a lot of dirt, every speck of dirt shows up, and I'm having to sweep every day as it is. So all in all, I'm happy as of day one. We'll see after a month or so if Roombie was worth it. :) Wendy Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world: Indeed it is the only thing that ever has! ~~~ Margaret Meade ~~~ __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
RE: Fires in the home/Update on Jax cats and dogs--off topic now
I can't afford a fire suppression system, but I plan to have everything hooked on power strips. Did you know that if you only use a microwave less than seven minutes each day, its clock requires more power than the microwave itself?! Based upon a family of four, if you'd plug most appliances into power strips you could save $100 and up per year. Here's a link to how much you can save by either unplugging your appliances or keeping them on power strips and just flicking them on when needed. This was in the January issue of Vegetarian Times (not just for vegetarians!), and here's the link to the article: http://www.vegetariantimes.com/document/552 It's short and interesting, and shows you some simple ways to save water, energy, and money!! Sorry this is completely off topic! Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Taylor Scobie Humphrey Sent: Sunday, April 15, 2007 8:32 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Fires in the home/Update on Jax cats and dogs I'm also building a fire suppression system--a retrofit in a ranch style--thank goodness it'll be relatively easy. All the stuff that should be unplugged will also save you gobs of $$$ if you plug those items into strips and then just throw the switches at night or whenever. Spend the money you've saved on--who else!?-- THE KITTIES! Taylor Scobie Humphrey [EMAIL PROTECTED] On Apr 15, 2007, at 4:16 PM, Marylyn wrote: OK..to gross out more people. Electricity continues to run to appliances even if they are turned off. A friend's apartment building burned because a curling iron was plugged in-not on but plugged in and left. Same with almost everything. No you can't unplug every appliance in the house but the cheaper ones seem to be the most dangerous. Also washers can over flow causing problems. Guess the lesson is to leave as little running as possible. I just had a tv smoke up when I tried to turn it on. Also, keep a fire extinguisher handy. I'm so concerned about fire that in the house I am building there is a fire sprinkler system (no, it is not that expensive comparatively--a lot less than a granite counter top). If you have men who will exclude any of God's creatures from the shelter of compassion and pity, you will have men who will deal likewise with their fellow man. St. Francis - Original Message - From: wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Sunday, April 15, 2007 2:31 PM Subject: Re: Fires in the home/Update on Jax cats and dogs Hey guys, An addition to the warning to never leave a dryer running while away: never leave your dishwasher running while you're gone either! It can also catch fire. My apartment complex ten years ago experienced this exact thing, and I didn't believe it until I actually spoke with a fireman who verified it. So happy they found more kitties alive!!! That fireman probably saved their lives ! I am going to send him snail mail tomorrow. :) Wendy --- dede hicken [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I am heading for bed, but I just called a friend who is a HS volunteer. He was working with them to find homes for 4 feleuk+ cats. He said Scooter was an orange tabby? Right now he has no info, but the cats were housed in a room near the cattery. This morning they found a cat sitting on top of the rubble. Later today they discovered a black kitten peeping through the rubble. Later a large gray one came running out of the woods and sat where his cage had been. He was VERY hungry! These 3 are fine. That brings the total to at least 11 who have survived. 4 of the survivors are in critical care, and the local vets have all chipped in with supplies. The other cats that did survive have all been adopted by volunteers saying they will never be in a cage again The young fireman who was hurt did not leave when the command was given. They ran through the cat area opening cages, then smashing windows and breaking open doors trying to shoo them out. He went back in the last time to grab 2 puppies, and the roof caved in on him. I will tell you how to contact him tomorrow. Fire started in the dryer. Word is that either lint caught fire, or the timer failed and it overheated. Never leave a dryer on when you're away! Will keep you posted. Dede When you are in the service of your fellow beings,
update on Cassidy
Well Cassidy has to go to Best Friends soon after May 1st. They can't wait until July 1st for me to get a second IFA, but they said they'd keep him apart from the other FeLV cats if there was any doubt as to his status. But, I wonder what they consider doubt. I'd hate to expose him and he turns up negative in the future. And then there's the problem of funding the trip. I don't know how to come up with just the gas money before May 1st! Do you guys know of any place to turn to for help in a hurry? I figure it will cost me at least $240 for gas round trip. Plus, according to Map Quest, the drive is a little over 18 hours! That'll mean lodging along the way and at the destination. Then lodging on the way home unless I can get someone to take turns driving/sleeping. I know! Maybe I'll just hitch a ride with a trucker! They're used to long days like that! (Just kidding of course). Then there's the fact that I still don't have his first IFA test results (just the Elisa). I'm so frustrated by my vet's office! I like my vet quite a bit, but some of the helpers are a bunch of, pardon me, morons! I'm sure I couldn't do they're jobs, but I know I could keep things straight. They told me today that the lab work for Cassidy's IFA got lost in the mail, at the lab, somewhere. My guess is they forgot to send it, and now they need another sample. Who knows, but now we're really pushing the deadline for his trip to Utah. They want him to come in on Monday since they won't send to the lab until next week anyway. I think that if they won't put a rush on it (like tomorrow), then I'll just have to find a vet who will. Furthermore, I called this morning about my two rescues in the garage. One has the squirts, but I can't figure out which one. I can never catch them in the act! I wanted to know what I should do, and I also called to get Bandit's Prozac refilled. Okay, the receptionist takes down the info, and says they'll call back. So, I finally get a call back late in the afternoon (I had called early in the morning). The message they left was something about Bandit needing blood drawn again (but Cassidy's the one who actually needs it), and the rest of the message said that the food I wanted would be there in the morning. What?!?! I didn't ask for food; Cassidy needs the blood work; what about the diarrhea?; what about the Prozac? G! Sorry I'm ranting, but seriously! So, I called back and politely explained the real situation. Sometimes one of the workers there (or several) just seem like complete space-cadets! I know we all have off days, but they seem to more than most. If I didn't like my vet so much.well, I suppose there are other likeable vets around.I just hate to travel too far since the car ride is usually traumatizing enough. Thanks for listening to me complain. I needed to vent. I know many of you are going through much worse situations and are dealing with a lot of sadness, so I'm sorry if my complaints seem trivial! I'm still not sure what I'll do with Cassidy. I'm just hoping his IFA comes back negative, but I know that's not going to happen. But, he's so healthy now, I just hope he has a wonderfully, long life. Melissa
RE: update on Cassidy
Hi Beth, No I'm not part of any rescue list. At the beginning of this month three rescues found me, and I couldn't turn them away. I wasn't out looking for cats, it just happened. It was a wonderful thing since I was kind of feeling lost as to my purpose in life, and I've found my calling; however, starting my own rescue/shelter will take some time and planning. I'm working on getting a better job. I teach on-line courses for high school kids for college credit. The pay is horrendous-I figured out that's it's less that minimum wage per hour that I work! I like the teaching, somewhat, but for the amount of time I put into it. If you know of any rescue transport resources, please let me know! I'd hate to take money from people for gas, but if worse comes to worst, I could probably swallow my pride and do it. I'd have to pay you back, of course. Right now I'm working on paying off the vet bill. My husband makes a good amount of money, but he doesn't part with it easily for cat stuff. He thinks I should be on my own with this. We're not rich by any means-we live paycheck to paycheck pretty much-but I think even though he's kind hearted, if I turned on the waterworks for this, he'd still not be willing to give for the trip. I'll see what I can do between now and May 1st. I'll keep looking for transport funding on websites, etc. Thanks for your help-I know you probably have a lot of other things on your mind right now with the loss of poor Stamp. Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Gussies mom Sent: Wednesday, April 18, 2007 8:06 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: update on Cassidy Are you part of any rescue lists? There are rescue transport lists with networks all over. There is even an air transport for animals. I'll see if I can find some info for you. If not, I'd be more than willing to send you a little money to help with gas. Beth Melissa Lind [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Well Cassidy has to go to Best Friends soon after May 1st. They can't wait until July 1st for me to get a second IFA, but they said they'd keep him apart from the other FeLV cats if there was any doubt as to his status. But, I wonder what they consider doubt. I'd hate to expose him and he turns up negative in the future. And then there's the problem of funding the trip. I don't know how to come up with just the gas money before May 1st! Do you guys know of any place to turn to for help in a hurry? I figure it will cost me at least $240 for gas round trip. Plus, according to Map Quest, the drive is a little over 18 hours! That'll mean lodging along the way and at the destination. Then lodging on the way home unless I can get someone to take turns driving/sleeping. I know! Maybe I'll just hitch a ride with a trucker! They're used to long days like that! (Just kidding of course). Then there's the fact that I still don't have his first IFA test results (just the Elisa). I'm so frustrated by my vet's office! I like my vet quite a bit, but some of the helpers are a bunch of, pardon me, morons! I'm sure I couldn't do they're jobs, but I know I could keep things straight. They told me today that the lab work for Cassidy's IFA got lost in the mail, at the lab, somewhere. My guess is they forgot to send it, and now they need another sample. Who knows, but now we're really pushing the deadline for his trip to Utah. They want him to come in on Monday since they won't send to the lab until next week anyway. I think that if they won't put a rush on it (like tomorrow), then I'll just have to find a vet who will. Furthermore, I called this morning about my two rescues in the garage. One has the squirts, but I can't figure out which one. I can never catch them in the act! I wanted to know what I should do, and I also called to get Bandit's Prozac refilled. Okay, the receptionist takes down the info, and says they'll call back. So, I finally get a call back late in the afternoon (I had called early in the morning). The message they left was something about Bandit needing blood drawn again (but Cassidy's the one who actually needs it), and the rest of the message said that the food I wanted would be there in the morning. What?!?! I didn't ask for food; Cassidy needs the blood work; what about the diarrhea?; what about the Prozac? G! Sorry I'm ranting, but seriously! So, I called back and politely explained the real situation. Sometimes one of the workers there (or several) just seem like complete space-cadets! I know we all have off days, but they seem to more than most. If I didn't like my vet so much.well, I suppose there are other likeable vets around.I just hate to travel too far since the car ride is usually traumatizing enough. Thanks for listening to me complain. I needed to vent. I know many of you are going through much worse situations and are dealing with a lot of sadness, so I'm sorry if my complaints seem trivial! I'm still
RE: update on Cassidy
Thanks Kelly! I'm hoping to get a steady income first--I'm trying to get into the freelance copywriting and/or copyediting market. This way I can work from home like I already do. Plus I live in the middle of no where, so job opportunities for my degree are slim to none. AND I can't get a job as a secretary/receptionist and the like because now I have too much school. That's how it goes I guess! $60,000 in student loans and I make like $400 a month! I have so much to learn about starting a rescue, but I don't know if I'll be able to start one until we move out of town. Our house is so small that I just can't figure out how to arrange for a shelter and still allow my husband to use his garage! He's upset already that I've got two cats in there and one in my office! I will definitely keep you in mind as a good source for information since you've just started and the experience is fresh in your mind! Do you have FeLV cats only or just all kinds? I just love that everyone is so supportive on this site. Thanks, Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Kelley Saveika Sent: Wednesday, April 18, 2007 8:42 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: update on Cassidy Hi Melissa, I recently started a rescue. It is exhausting, expensive, and super rewarding. I studied about it for 6 months before I did it and still make more than my share of mistakes. If you want help, resources, advice, etc I will be happy to share. Kelley On 4/18/07, Melissa Lind [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi Beth, No I'm not part of any rescue list. At the beginning of this month three rescues found me, and I couldn't turn them away. I wasn't out looking for cats, it just happened. It was a wonderful thing since I was kind of feeling lost as to my purpose in life, and I've found my calling; however, starting my own rescue/shelter will take some time and planning. I'm working on getting a better job. I teach on-line courses for high school kids for college credit. The pay is horrendous-I figured out that's it's less that minimum wage per hour that I work! I like the teaching, somewhat, but for the amount of time I put into it. If you know of any rescue transport resources, please let me know! I'd hate to take money from people for gas, but if worse comes to worst, I could probably swallow my pride and do it. I'd have to pay you back, of course. Right now I'm working on paying off the vet bill. My husband makes a good amount of money, but he doesn't part with it easily for cat stuff. He thinks I should be on my own with this. We're not rich by any means-we live paycheck to paycheck pretty much-but I think even though he's kind hearted, if I turned on the waterworks for this, he'd still not be willing to give for the trip. I'll see what I can do between now and May 1st. I'll keep looking for transport funding on websites, etc. Thanks for your help-I know you probably have a lot of other things on your mind right now with the loss of poor Stamp. Melissa From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Gussies mom Sent: Wednesday, April 18, 2007 8:06 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: update on Cassidy Are you part of any rescue lists? There are rescue transport lists with networks all over. There is even an air transport for animals. I'll see if I can find some info for you. If not, I'd be more than willing to send you a little money to help with gas. Beth Melissa Lind [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Well Cassidy has to go to Best Friends soon after May 1st. They can't wait until July 1st for me to get a second IFA, but they said they'd keep him apart from the other FeLV cats if there was any doubt as to his status. But, I wonder what they consider doubt. I'd hate to expose him and he turns up negative in the future. And then there's the problem of funding the trip. I don't know how to come up with just the gas money before May 1st! Do you guys know of any place to turn to for help in a hurry? I figure it will cost me at least $240 for gas round trip. Plus, according to Map Quest, the drive is a little over 18 hours! That'll mean lodging along the way and at the destination. Then lodging on the way home unless I can get someone to take turns driving/sleeping. I know! Maybe I'll just hitch a ride with a trucker! They're used to long days like that! (Just kidding of course). Then there's the fact that I still don't have his first IFA test results (just the Elisa). I'm so frustrated by my vet's office! I like my vet quite a bit, but some of the helpers are a bunch of, pardon me, morons! I'm sure I couldn't do they're jobs, but I know I could keep things straight. They told me today that the lab work for Cassidy's IFA got lost in the mail, at the lab, somewhere. My guess is they forgot to send it, and now they need another
foot problem, FeLV?
Hi, I'm writing about Cassidy again. I was looking into posting for adoption on other special needs websites, and I found one cat whose description fit Cassidy's, sort of. The other cat had the same problem of walking on the knuckles of one foot and wearing away the fur there. My vet said that with Cassidy, it was nerve damage to the spine somewhere around the pelvic area, but that he couldn't rule out the fact that it could be FeLV related. Since Cassidy has been living in my office, on carpet, he has not walked on the knuckles of that paw. He only does that when he gets to running around, and this room is so small, not much room to run. His foot is now looking very nice-not swollen or red, just pink from the missing fur. I guess what I want to know is this: do you think this is a symptom of FeLV? I'm still waiting on his IFA test (another blood sample must be taken, if you've read my other post), and I was hoping beyond hope that his IFA would be negative. I thought that since he had no symptoms whatsoever he might have a chance that the Elisa was wrong. He's very healthy. Good stools. Good appetite. Doesn't sleep more than most. Just all-over a regular cat. But, maybe this foot thing indicates his FeLV. I hope not. Even if his IFA comes back positive, I was hoping that since he has no symptoms now, that he'd have more time to live happily. Melissa
RE: update on Cassidy
Thanks Del, I think each case is individual. I don't foresee any unusual problems with transporting Cassidy since he's in excellent health other than the difficulty that transporting any cat can have. My only problem is financial. I can handle the transporting as incredible of an experience as it might turn out to be! :-) Melissa PS. Do hotels allow for cats? I know many do for dogs, but I'm not sure about cats. He's very vocal, so keeping him a secret could be difficult! _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Del H. Daniels Sent: Wednesday, April 18, 2007 4:02 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: update on Cassidy Re transporting FeLV+ cats, I have and I would never hesitate to transport any cat. It's difficult to find people to transport cats, period! Del - Original Message - From: TenHouseCats mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, April 18, 2007 11:44 AM Subject: Re: update on Cassidy http://purebredcatbreedrescue.org/transport.htm great info and resources on what is involved in setting up a transport; if you scroll down on the page, you'll find a link to some lists that work with cats. however, as a cat transporter, i'll tell you that most will not accept a cat with FeLV please contact me offlist at [EMAIL PROTECTED] with the name of the city you're in, and the nearest couple of airports, and i'll see if i can find out if we can arrange anything with our special-needs transporter. MC On 4/18/07, Melissa Lind [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi Beth, No I'm not part of any rescue list. At the beginning of this month three rescues found me, and I couldn't turn them away. I wasn't out looking for cats, it just happened. It was a wonderful thing since I was kind of feeling lost as to my purpose in life, and I've found my calling; however, starting my own rescue/shelter will take some time and planning. I'm working on getting a better job. I teach on-line courses for high school kids for college credit. The pay is horrendous-I figured out that's it's less that minimum wage per hour that I work! I like the teaching, somewhat, but for the amount of time I put into it. If you know of any rescue transport resources, please let me know! I'd hate to take money from people for gas, but if worse comes to worst, I could probably swallow my pride and do it. I'd have to pay you back, of course. Right now I'm working on paying off the vet bill. My husband makes a good amount of money, but he doesn't part with it easily for cat stuff. He thinks I should be on my own with this. We're not rich by any means-we live paycheck to paycheck pretty much-but I think even though he's kind hearted, if I turned on the waterworks for this, he'd still not be willing to give for the trip. I'll see what I can do between now and May 1st. I'll keep looking for transport funding on websites, etc. Thanks for your help-I know you probably have a lot of other things on your mind right now with the loss of poor Stamp. Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Gussies mom Sent: Wednesday, April 18, 2007 8:06 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: update on Cassidy Are you part of any rescue lists? There are rescue transport lists with networks all over. There is even an air transport for animals. I'll see if I can find some info for you. If not, I'd be more than willing to send you a little money to help with gas. Beth Melissa Lind [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Well Cassidy has to go to Best Friends soon after May 1st. They can't wait until July 1st for me to get a second IFA, but they said they'd keep him apart from the other FeLV cats if there was any doubt as to his status. But, I wonder what they consider doubt. I'd hate to expose him and he turns up negative in the future. And then there's the problem of funding the trip. I don't know how to come up with just the gas money before May 1st! Do you guys know of any place to turn to for help in a hurry? I figure it will cost me at least $240 for gas round trip. Plus, according to Map Quest, the drive is a little over 18 hours! That'll mean lodging along the way and at the destination. Then lodging on the way home unless I can get someone to take turns driving/sleeping. I know! Maybe I'll just hitch a ride with a trucker! They're used to long days like that! (Just kidding of course). Then there's the fact that I still don't have his first IFA test results (just the Elisa). I'm so frustrated by my vet's office! I like my vet quite a bit, but some of the helpers are a bunch of, pardon me, morons! I'm sure I couldn't do they're jobs, but I know I could keep things straight. They told me today that the lab work for Cassidy's IFA got lost in the mail, at the lab, somewhere. My guess is they forgot to send it, and now they need another sample. Who knows, but now we're really pushing
RE: update on Cassidy
Good observation Wendy. I had wondered the same. I think they're full now from what I've been told. The lady who is helping me said the only way to get an FeLV+ in is usually when another passes on :( She said that they are very seldom adopted out. I hope that this vacancy is being adopted out and that's why I have to wait until May 1st. I'm very excited to visit the place after the descriptions you've given! Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of wendy Sent: Wednesday, April 18, 2007 4:07 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: update on Cassidy The only thing I can think of as to how Melissa got Cassidy in is because she does not run a rescue. I bet those with rescues do not get first dibs, because they are rescues, and once BF takes one from a shelter, they know there will be others because they are dealing with a shelter. If this is the case, it's probably not something written down because that would be discrimination. But it could be a possibility. I didn't realize it was so difficult to get an animal into BF. I didn't think it was, because they were not at full capacity in Casa de Calmar when I was there visiting. There are three rooms there, and none of them were maxed out. :) Wendy Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world - indeed it is the only thing that ever has! ~~~ Margaret Meade ~~~ __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
RE: update on Cassidy
Great advice! As for the post about Ashley, she's not as sickly now, but her one eye does run a little. I'll ask my vet for something tomorrow when I go there. Thanks! Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Del H. Daniels Sent: Wednesday, April 18, 2007 4:57 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: update on Cassidy Hotels may not allow for cats ... you choose a motel with an outdoor entrance away from the main office and they will not know you have a kitty. Play music. I use an open wire dog crate large enough to litter box and place to lay while in the motel, some of those motels have hidey holes where it is difficult to get a hiding cat out, like behind the head of the bed! Del - Original Message - From: Melissa mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Lind To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, April 18, 2007 4:10 PM Subject: RE: update on Cassidy Thanks Del, I think each case is individual. I don't foresee any unusual problems with transporting Cassidy since he's in excellent health other than the difficulty that transporting any cat can have. My only problem is financial. I can handle the transporting as incredible of an experience as it might turn out to be! :-) Melissa PS. Do hotels allow for cats? I know many do for dogs, but I'm not sure about cats. He's very vocal, so keeping him a secret could be difficult! _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Del H. Daniels Sent: Wednesday, April 18, 2007 4:02 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: update on Cassidy Re transporting FeLV+ cats, I have and I would never hesitate to transport any cat. It's difficult to find people to transport cats, period! Del - Original Message - From: TenHouseCats mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, April 18, 2007 11:44 AM Subject: Re: update on Cassidy http://purebredcatbreedrescue.org/transport.htm great info and resources on what is involved in setting up a transport; if you scroll down on the page, you'll find a link to some lists that work with cats. however, as a cat transporter, i'll tell you that most will not accept a cat with FeLV please contact me offlist at [EMAIL PROTECTED] with the name of the city you're in, and the nearest couple of airports, and i'll see if i can find out if we can arrange anything with our special-needs transporter. MC On 4/18/07, Melissa Lind [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi Beth, No I'm not part of any rescue list. At the beginning of this month three rescues found me, and I couldn't turn them away. I wasn't out looking for cats, it just happened. It was a wonderful thing since I was kind of feeling lost as to my purpose in life, and I've found my calling; however, starting my own rescue/shelter will take some time and planning. I'm working on getting a better job. I teach on-line courses for high school kids for college credit. The pay is horrendous-I figured out that's it's less that minimum wage per hour that I work! I like the teaching, somewhat, but for the amount of time I put into it. If you know of any rescue transport resources, please let me know! I'd hate to take money from people for gas, but if worse comes to worst, I could probably swallow my pride and do it. I'd have to pay you back, of course. Right now I'm working on paying off the vet bill. My husband makes a good amount of money, but he doesn't part with it easily for cat stuff. He thinks I should be on my own with this. We're not rich by any means-we live paycheck to paycheck pretty much-but I think even though he's kind hearted, if I turned on the waterworks for this, he'd still not be willing to give for the trip. I'll see what I can do between now and May 1st. I'll keep looking for transport funding on websites, etc. Thanks for your help-I know you probably have a lot of other things on your mind right now with the loss of poor Stamp. Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Gussies mom Sent: Wednesday, April 18, 2007 8:06 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: update on Cassidy Are you part of any rescue lists? There are rescue transport lists with networks all over. There is even an air transport for animals. I'll see if I can find some info for you. If not, I'd be more than willing to send you a little money to help with gas. Beth Melissa Lind [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Well Cassidy has to go to Best Friends soon after May 1st. They can't wait until July 1st for me to get a second IFA, but they said they'd keep him apart from the other FeLV cats if there was any doubt as to his status. But, I wonder what they consider doubt. I'd hate to expose him and he turns up negative in the future. And then there's the problem of funding the trip. I don't know how to come up with just the gas money before May 1st! Do you guys
RE: update on Cassidy
Diane, Del, Yes, I'm in a tight spot. I can't keep him either way (if he ends up positive or negative), but if they isolate him for a while and he turns up negative, then as Wendy pointed out, they'd most likely find him a good home. If he's positive, then it sounds like he's in a better home than with me. Poor guy is sleeping on the cat tree right now having no clue that I'm anguishing about his fate... I don't really understand the time wait between the Elisa and the IFA. I was told that I had to have the Elisa's positive confirmed with an IFA positive, and then re-test in 90 days with another IFA. BF will re-test I've been told. What I basically understood from others is that the Elisa isn't really as reliable, so don't go by it anyway. But I do agree that another IFA is definitely needed to confirm his status. Such a dilemma, I'm not sure what I'll decide. I suppose the IFA results will tell me more. Maybe I'm making a mountain out of a mole hill. What's $400 dollars or whatever the trip will take compared to the happy life he could lead there? Maybe I could try and sweet talk my husband somehow...with that thought, I'd better go do the dishes! :) Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Rosenfeldt, Diane Sent: Wednesday, April 18, 2007 4:14 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: RE: update on Cassidy Wendy, I'm glad you posted this. I was afraid I had missed or forgotten some detail about the situation that made it absolutely vital that Cassidy actually go to BF NOW. I agree with you, if this is such a rush and a hardship, Melissa would be better off waiting for some firm results on the IFA -- preferably one taken a few months from now -- than trying to hustle together some arrangements to get Cassidy to BF in less than 2 weeks. Trying to move him now will take a toll on finances, marriage and emotions, and there would be an even greater toll if, after all this, Cassidy turned out to have shed the virus and it would all have been for nothing. No matter how wonderful BF is, by the nature of the cats they take in, there will, sadly, always be turnover. If Cassidy is truly positive, I am sure there will be a place for him down the line. I can't imagine that BF would be insensitive to the many difficulties Melissa is going through at the moment. Melissa, I know these decisions don't come easily, and ultimately you're the one who has to make them, but please don't let yourself be rushed into all this angst and expense without sitting down and thinking it through again. Diane R. -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of wendy Sent: Wednesday, April 18, 2007 2:18 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: update on Cassidy Hey Melissa, I called BF to talk to Joanie, the girl who is normally at BF's Casa de Calmar, but today is her day off, and the girl I spoke with didn't know if she would be back tomorrow or Friday. So I'm going to call and speak with Joanie again tomorrow and/or Friday and see what she thinks about this situation. So if you can hold tight for a day or two, we will probably have a better answer to this problem. I wish they were more flexible! If it were me, I'd probably wait and not go anyway, because of the costs associated and the fact that she might test negative. And I am betting come July 1 if she's still postitive, they'll be able to take her still and maybe by then you can get help with transport. This is all so rushed. And when I feel rushed, usually things don't feel right, you know? I wonder if your vet is aware there is a problem with his staff? You might let him know you are frustrated and thinking of going elsewhere because of all the mix-ups and that you aren't feeling secure with the service you are receiving which you take very seriously because you love your animals so much. Maybe he doesn't even know there are that many issues, and if he doesn't know, he can't fix it. I would be angry too if I were you. I do expect people in a business setting to get their job right as they are being paid to do so. I'm certainly not perfect at work, but I do a pretty decent job. If it were me dealing with people and their animals' health, I would take it very seriously. :) Wendy Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world - indeed it is the only thing that ever has! ~~~ Margaret Meade ~~~ __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com This electronic mail transmission and any attachments are confidential and may be privileged. They should be read or retained only by the intended recipient. If you have received this transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately and delete the transmission from your system. In addition, in order to comply with Treasury Circular 230, we
RE: update on Cassidy
Well, yesterday I went over to my mom's for supper, had to bring their cat inside since he always escapes, and I'm the only one he trusts to get him back in, well, there was another cat under the bushes--very pretty tabby. We sat in the grass and got to know each other for a while. My mom laughed and said, We were hoping you wouldn't see him. I have my limit on cats right now, but it made me think--if Cassidy's got a chance to go to a loving and wonderful home, I should do what I can to get him there. Once he's gone, I'll miss him so much, but that will make room for other cats who need me. This cat that I saw yesterday, my mom thinks belongs to the neighbors who yell at their kids. They feed him in the garage. Unfortunately, I know these people and they belong to our card club--can't really steal their cat away! But, if I see them, I'll talk to them gently. This cat has a funny eye--crooked, but not milky colored. The one eye looks up instead of straight. I don't know if that means he's blind in that eye, but either way, I think he should be a house cat, not a garage cat. But, that convinced me that I must do what's best for Cassidy by taking him to Best Friends, but also, I know that I'll have room for more cats should they choose to find me. One way or another, I know I can find resources to get him there--I just have to be resourceful! :) Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Rosenfeldt, Diane Sent: Wednesday, April 18, 2007 4:14 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: RE: update on Cassidy Wendy, I'm glad you posted this. I was afraid I had missed or forgotten some detail about the situation that made it absolutely vital that Cassidy actually go to BF NOW. I agree with you, if this is such a rush and a hardship, Melissa would be better off waiting for some firm results on the IFA -- preferably one taken a few months from now -- than trying to hustle together some arrangements to get Cassidy to BF in less than 2 weeks. Trying to move him now will take a toll on finances, marriage and emotions, and there would be an even greater toll if, after all this, Cassidy turned out to have shed the virus and it would all have been for nothing. No matter how wonderful BF is, by the nature of the cats they take in, there will, sadly, always be turnover. If Cassidy is truly positive, I am sure there will be a place for him down the line. I can't imagine that BF would be insensitive to the many difficulties Melissa is going through at the moment. Melissa, I know these decisions don't come easily, and ultimately you're the one who has to make them, but please don't let yourself be rushed into all this angst and expense without sitting down and thinking it through again. Diane R. -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of wendy Sent: Wednesday, April 18, 2007 2:18 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: update on Cassidy Hey Melissa, I called BF to talk to Joanie, the girl who is normally at BF's Casa de Calmar, but today is her day off, and the girl I spoke with didn't know if she would be back tomorrow or Friday. So I'm going to call and speak with Joanie again tomorrow and/or Friday and see what she thinks about this situation. So if you can hold tight for a day or two, we will probably have a better answer to this problem. I wish they were more flexible! If it were me, I'd probably wait and not go anyway, because of the costs associated and the fact that she might test negative. And I am betting come July 1 if she's still postitive, they'll be able to take her still and maybe by then you can get help with transport. This is all so rushed. And when I feel rushed, usually things don't feel right, you know? I wonder if your vet is aware there is a problem with his staff? You might let him know you are frustrated and thinking of going elsewhere because of all the mix-ups and that you aren't feeling secure with the service you are receiving which you take very seriously because you love your animals so much. Maybe he doesn't even know there are that many issues, and if he doesn't know, he can't fix it. I would be angry too if I were you. I do expect people in a business setting to get their job right as they are being paid to do so. I'm certainly not perfect at work, but I do a pretty decent job. If it were me dealing with people and their animals' health, I would take it very seriously. :) Wendy Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world - indeed it is the only thing that ever has! ~~~ Margaret Meade ~~~ __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com This electronic mail transmission and any attachments are confidential and may be privileged. They should be read or retained only by the intended recipient.
RE: new addition to the family
Hi Jeni, Bless you for taking another! Meer and my Cassidy would get along great! He's living in my office--never thought about the bathroom :). But, I completely understand about husbands. Mine is very tolerant, as I'm sure yours must be, but I have one foster in the office and 2 in the garage, um, his garage. Then we have 3 of our own! So, I'd love to take your kittens, but his back is close to breaking! Luckily he's been working a lot lately, and just sleeps at home. Soon he'll want to use his man cave (garage). Best of luck finding homes for the new ones! Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of JENI RECA Sent: Thursday, April 19, 2007 6:10 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: new addition to the family Hi, I just wanted to write and thank everyone for thier kind words about Hillman's passing and also wanted to say sorry to anyone that has lost a baby in the last few weeks. After we lost Hillman a few weeks ago, I wasn't on the search to find another feluk, but what do you know I just brought another one home. His name is Meer (means chief in hindu (i think hindu)) and he is a beautiful big black and white male. He was pulled from a city shelter and we found out he was feluk positive and now he is home with me. He is on a few meds, for his cold and eye discharge...fun fun fun. Hopefully the girls, will like him when they get a formally introduction. Poor guy has to live in my bathroom right now. And now on to a plea I might have to find homes for possibly 4 kittens, right now they are only three weeks old but only one tested positive on the snap and IFA and needs a home. I am willing to foster until 8 weeks old, but can not keep...she is really really cute...tabby and white. The other three her litter mates did not test positive on the snap and so are going to be re-tested in july and hopefully they do not test positive, but if they do then they will need homes too. Anyone out there want to help...willing to travel and will supply food and liter box and carrier. If need a longer fostering then I can do that, but not too long. My husband has been a saint, but I think the cat I just brought in, will be the cat that broke the camels back (my husband's back) and I can not keep another one. Please help, I know it's easier to adopt out babies then adults. In the new york area...please email me with any questions or suggestions! Thank you Jeni Nookie, Cree and Meer _ Get a FREE Web site, company branded e-mail and more from Microsoft Office Live! http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/mcrssaub0050001411mrt/direct/01/
RE: Genevieve( VitterVits)
Congratulations Sherry! Snuggles to the new one! What's her name? Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Sherry DeHaan Sent: Thursday, April 19, 2007 10:13 PM To: Felvtalk Subject: Genevieve( VitterVits) So I did it,I brought home my beautiful felv+ baby girl tonight.So far they are doing pretty good.She is checking out her new home and her new brothers are checking her out.She is doing all the hissing but nothing severe.I sure hope I did the right thing. Dr. Jen said that I better take her tonight cause she had a e-mail about someone interested in adopting her.I think it was a plot to make sure I took her. :) Oh well she is MINE now. :) I will post some pics for you to see her soon.Take care. Sherry and her 5 beautiful babies _ Ahhh...imagining that irresistible new car smell? Check out new http://us.rd.yahoo.com/evt=48245/*http:/autos.yahoo.com/new_cars.html;_ylc= X3oDMTE1YW1jcXJ2BF9TAzk3MTA3MDc2BHNlYwNtYWlsdGFncwRzbGsDbmV3LWNhcnM- cars at Yahoo! Autos.
RE: Genevieve( VitterVits)
Okay, I'm stupid-not enough coffee to start my brain today-Genevieve-that's one of my favorite names! I've even considered that for my future human kids. Best wishes for little Gennie! Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Melissa Lind Sent: Friday, April 20, 2007 8:44 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: RE: Genevieve( VitterVits) Congratulations Sherry! Snuggles to the new one! What's her name? Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Sherry DeHaan Sent: Thursday, April 19, 2007 10:13 PM To: Felvtalk Subject: Genevieve( VitterVits) So I did it,I brought home my beautiful felv+ baby girl tonight.So far they are doing pretty good.She is checking out her new home and her new brothers are checking her out.She is doing all the hissing but nothing severe.I sure hope I did the right thing. Dr. Jen said that I better take her tonight cause she had a e-mail about someone interested in adopting her.I think it was a plot to make sure I took her. :) Oh well she is MINE now. :) I will post some pics for you to see her soon.Take care. Sherry and her 5 beautiful babies _ Ahhh...imagining that irresistible new car smell? Check out new http://us.rd.yahoo.com/evt=48245/*http:/autos.yahoo.com/new_cars.html;_ylc= X3oDMTE1YW1jcXJ2BF9TAzk3MTA3MDc2BHNlYwNtYWlsdGFncwRzbGsDbmV3LWNhcnM- cars at Yahoo! Autos.
RE: [feline-hyperT] OT:Natural Balance-Melamine
Hi Patti and the gang! I hope everything is going better for you guys! I can't offer much advice since I've been feeding the same thing to these guys with no problems (Science Diet C/D Multicare Dry). But, it's scary considering that canned food has been recalled by Hill's. I can't feed my cats canned food since Bandit ultimately vomits it up. Anything too rich or too new or too exciting makes him chuck. He's also the one with the urinary tract problems, so I just give them all C/D since it's impossible to feed them separately. Since I'm new to the pet health thing, I'm probably doing something wrong. You all seem to know much more about what to feed your pets than I do. The vet said it was okay to feed them all C/D, so I am. But, I think I'll try cooking for them occasionally. One of my babies will not eat people food, but the others would be delighted. Patti-hang in there! I know it's frightening not being able to control a situation-I'm a control freak, so I understand! My only advice (since I'm not an expert on feline health!) is meditational breathing! :-) It won't give you the answers, but it might give you peace amongst the chaos. In fact, I'd better get back on the yoga track myself! I've been having daily freak outs as well! You're not alone! But, seriously, yoga/meditation really is a great way to calm down and deal with the things we can't deal with. If that makes any sense. Hugs and calm vibes, Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Thursday, April 19, 2007 6:19 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [feline-hyperT] OT:Natural Balance-Melamine No replys??? I'm going crazy and w ALL OTHER major PROBLEMS, I certainly don't need any more. I'm on thebrink and that's putting itmildly. My babies are my life, the entire reason I'm still here NO DOUBT, whatsoever. And, when I thought I was giving them the best... Now I am just not too sure. And I researched, lot of good that did, huh? You just never know.. Just had to vent and ask [please, please, please], for someone - anyone, to respond. This whole recall is driving all of us nuts, I DO understand, But w/ being a [multi] cat/dog Mom, I am going over the edge. And that's NOT a good thing. (Have enough other problems, don't need anymore - for sure.) My babies keep me going..And I need that desperately. (It's just about a year NO improvement. Probably getting worseAnd, it seems all my MANY Dr.s have given up.0h, I do try to think positive - NOT EASY!!! Once again, I apologize for venting... Hugs http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/clip_art/peeps-emt/love/clips/mother9-clip2 Patti her gang (My life, my love muffins) http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/clip_art/gstres/anmls/cat _ See what's free at AOL.com http://www.aol.com?ncid=AOLAOF0002000503 .
RE: new to the group
Welcome Mary. I'm sorry to hear about your kitty. What's his name? I'm new here as well, but I've found that these people are very knowledgeable and caring. They all know what it's like, what to expect, and they'll help you. My vet recommended that I put my FeLV rescue down even though he has no symptoms and only tested positive on the Elisa test. He's still awaiting the IFA results to confirm. I came here and realized that there is so much more a person can do for and FeLV kitty. Although the people on this group are not vets, they have had many diverse experiences that can really help you think about all your options and what to discuss with your vet. Best wishes to you in this sad time. Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of MarieG Sent: Friday, April 20, 2007 4:26 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: new to the group Hello everyone, My male cat who is three years old has just been dx with leukemia. The vet said all we can do at this point is try to make him feel better. He apparently has been born with it even though he tested negative. My other cat tested negative. They are indoor cats. He's eating a little. I'm new to all of this and don't know what to expect. I hope he has a chance of getting better. His gums are just starting to get paler. The good thing is he has been coming out of the cabinents. Mary wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: _ Ahhh...imagining that irresistible new car smell? Check out new http://us.rd.yahoo.com/evt=48245/*http:/autos.yahoo.com/new_cars.html;_ylc= X3oDMTE1YW1jcXJ2BF9TAzk3MTA3MDc2BHNlYwNtYWlsdGFncwRzbGsDbmV3LWNhcnM- cars at Yahoo! Autos.
RE: Please add Simms to the Candlelighting Ceremony on Monday
Anne, I wish you peace at this time. Your email was very touching. It sounds as though Simms was saying goodbye and comforting both of you when he let you pet him. I hope the best for you and your feline family. Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Annieb Sent: Saturday, April 21, 2007 11:37 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Please add Simms to the Candlelighting Ceremony on Monday Simms was 4 years old and feline leukemia positive. I had hopes that he was just a carrier as he did so well for the first three years I had him with me but he became very ill a couple of months ago, with sneezing and lots of congestion. He was very special. Such a big sweet guy. He had this tender, kind of puzzled but curious, look about him and he never fought with anyone. He was very friendly with the other cats, such a sweetheart. This list's dear Tamara found him at a beautiful waterfront park there in Maryland, along with his brother, Tambours. She posted on this very list about his needing a home and that he was feline leukemia positive. I was lucky enough to be chosen by Tamara. As I told her today on the phone, I thanked her for giving him to me because he gave me just pure joy and sunshine every single day. Tamara loved him so much that she drove 18 hours (wasn't it, T?), straight, to deliver him to me in Michigan from Maryland. (She also brought me Sophie that day, to those of you who are familiar with Sophie). He was a pretty peachy shade of color with that lovely target-shaped swirl on his sides and big creamy white feet and some white on his chest and face, too. He had big, tall elegant ears that I loved to stroke when he let me, finally. He was pretty big but when he meowed, it was so soft and high pitched, it was adorable. He didn't meow often as he was very uncomplaining. When Tamara left him with me, she told me I would find that he was a very special cat and she was right, indeed. :-) He must have died overnight, although he still felt a bit warm when I lifted him. I woke up and thought he was not breathing so I let the dogs out and had a better look and yes, my sweet darling boy is gone. His eyes were half open but he did not look scared or in pain. He was stretched out like he was having a good nap and his whiskers were pointing forward. I'm not sure what that meant but I am consoling myself by thinking he did go peacefully and unafraid. I got a package from Tamara yesterday. She had sent two kitty pop-up tents for Simms and the other cats, to cheer Simms up. They are so cool! He was not interested in the tent but he did want to sleep on the crinkly soft pad. I am kind of in shock and grief-torn because I thought he was doing a bit better after seeming like he would die earlier this week. He was diagnosed with either pneumonia or cancer last month and had been on two antibiotics at a time for a while and single antibiotics constantly, along with pain meds towards the end. He wouldn't eat during his last week or so but he would let me force-feed him A/D and chicken baby food along with squirts of water all day long. He was a bit interested in the window and the birdies outside yesterday and he let me stroke his soft head over and over which he never trusted me to do much, previously, so I had thought maybe he was a bit better and would continue to heal. I buried him earlier today with his Christmas stocking and his little mouse and this cute stuffed animal that Tamara sent with him, a purple beanbag bear. It was a beautiful day and that just made it even harder. He was such a dear polite gentle sweet funny gentleman of a cat, a very special, loving boy and I loved him mightily. Here is a link to a few of my favorite photos of him that I uploaded online in case someone would like to see what he looked like: http://tinyurl.com/38skop Well, sorry for this being so long but I know you guys, if anyone, would understand. Anne and angels Simms, Jimi Too Cool and Bugsy along with Sophie and my other living cats and dogs in Michigan
RE: Lost a kitten (OT now)
Nina, eloquently spoken (written). Your words are very encouraging. I, too, feel as though sometimes the love I feel for animals is overwhelming--or I guess that the resulting pain I feel from their suffering is overwhelming. I was visiting my husband on a job site, and saw all the mama pigs in this farmers' barn lying down in crates too small to even turn around or move back and forth. I was so sad for them. In the winter, my husband makes those crates; he makes the confinements; in the spring/summer our largest pay checks come from the waste products of these confinements (expensive fertilizer). And yet I don't love him less. I don't even want him to do something else. I guess I feel that he is only answering a need, not the one promoting it. I'm rambling and I haven't even mentioned the baby calves too, who, like your little finch, are so full of life and promise in the springtime--not knowing their soon fate. Sometimes I cannot bear the intolerable cruelty that animals suffer--animals that feed our families, our friends, but then I read what you've written, and I know that the little things we do make a difference. Sometimes I feel as though I'm not doing enough, but I'm doing what I can and what I can afford. Kelley, my heart goes out to you. There are so many inexplicable things that hurt us. Poor Hobo--at least he knew love if only for a short while. Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Nina Sent: Tuesday, April 24, 2007 10:05 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Lost a kitten Aw Honey, who do you think your kidding with the having more time to get attached to stuff? :'( Losing the little innocent ones is so very hard to bear! I woke up with tears in my eyes this morning over the loss of such innocence. Yesterday morning I was admiring a perfect little finch bathing on the dew of a leafy shrub outside my window. The sight of this tiny little creature and his flittering friends, so full of life, so close I could have reached out and touched him, brought me such pleasure. When our eyes met, his contagious delight in the coming of Spring welled up inside me. In that moment, I shared with him the joy of being alive. I thanked that little bird and the Universe for allowing me such a close communal with a fellow creature and went on about my day. The perfect little body, lying so still and warm in my hands, proudly brought to me by Ursula later that day, could have been the same tiny fellow... I know all too well that in our moments of loss and pain it can feel like a curse to love so much and so freely. As if our admiration for life somehow has something to do with the inexplicable course that life takes. But it's not a curse, and it's nobody's fault. It is our calling and it is a gift. A gift to us and our gift to them. We may never know why they aren't granted more time in our world. But I do know, and of course you do to, that in connecting with them, be it years, months or mere moments, does make a difference, to their lives and to ours. Bless you and all those that touch your life, With love and sympathy, Nina Kelley Saveika wrote: A little 2 week old orange tabby named Hobo. He didn't have anything obviously wrong with him, he just died.:( I hope this is the only kitten I will lose this year...but I know it is not.:( Paws crossed for the older ones that I have had more time to get attached to.
RE: I believe I am going to lose Tomi soon
My thoughts and prayers are with you Cassandra. I agree that making him endure a horrifying car ride and having to go to the vet's office with the scary smells, sights, sounds, would not be fair. I would contact your vet and see if he/she would visit. It would be very compassionate of you to let Tomi go in your arms where he is loved and where he only knows safety and happiness. Whatever you decide, you'll know that you were a wonderful person to Tomi! Hugs, Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of C J Sent: Wednesday, April 25, 2007 4:18 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: I believe I am going to lose Tomi soon I've been hoping and praying that Tomi would somehow pull through this, and last week he did seem to be doing better on the 2 prednisone per day. But now, the last few days, he's been going downhill fast. Today, he is out of breath just walking a few feet, and breathing fast. I'm still able to coax him to eat a bit of baby food, but he just threw up the last bit of food I gave him. He never throws up normally. I guess I have to finally accept the fact that he's not going to get better. I've been thinking about the whole euthanizing thing, but I honestly don't know how I could do that to him. To spend the last hours of his life doing to him what he hates the most (car ride and vet visit), seems too hard for me to handle. I don't think i'm strong enough to make that decision. To me it feels like I would be personally ending his life. I don't want him to suffer either, and i'm not sure at all how much longer he will last when he is having difficulty getting enough oxygen circulated due to anemia. I still can't believe all this has happened. Two months ago I was positive he would one day become a chunky, lazy old tom cat, lounging in the sun. I would never have dreamed I would lose him after only 2 and a half years. Over the last 7 weeks, i've become even closer to him than ever as I've been trying to nurse him back to health.He's always been so loving and tolerant of my hugs and kisses. Life is going to feel so empty when he is gone. Cassandra
RE: FELV+ WHITE FEMALE CAT NEEDS HOME! NJ
Here's a place in NJ that takes positives that you might check into: http://www.tabbysplace.org/ http://www.tabbysplace.org/ _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Thursday, April 26, 2007 11:39 AM To: Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: FELV+ WHITE FEMALE CAT NEEDS HOME! NJ Please forward to others that could possibly help in this matter. Do not reply back to me as I have no other information. Name and email is below. SALEM CO, NJ: I just got a call from another rescuer: today they were having a beautiful and sweet MOSTLY WHITE cat spayed...and she tested FELV+ on the table. She is about 2 yrs old...now spayed and vaccinated. Rescuers considered putting her to sleep, but I asked them NOT TO...as I was going to email EVERYONE I knew who MIGHT be able to help. Now I have promised to be able to help this cat...so..POST EVERYWHERE...to help me help this kitty. Several cats were tossed outside when their guardian was carted off to JAIL! This cutie is one of them. We fear the others may be positive also Located in Salem, CO, NJ, being fostered by wonderful person, Robyn CONTACT: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Terrie Mohr-Forker TAZZY'S ANIMAL TRANSPORTS SIAMESE COLLIE RESCUE Donations accepted at: https://www.paypal.com/ http://www.tazzys-siameses-collies.petfinder.org/ http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wasiameserescue http://hometown.aol.com/tatorbunz/myhomepage/petmemorial.html http://www.felineleukemia.org/ http://www.hometown.aol.com/tatorbunz/index.html http://www.petloss.com/ _ See what's free at AOL.com http://www.aol.com?ncid=AOLAOF0002000503 .
RE: big, beautiful white cat in VA
Mary Christine, I'm not familiar with Witty Kitty's, but do you have their contact info? Iowa is very close to me, and they could be a great resource. Unfortunately, I can't take any FeLVs at this time! Thanks! Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of MaryChristine Sent: Thursday, April 26, 2007 2:11 PM To: FeLVTalk Subject: big, beautiful white cat in VA i know that most of us really aren't looking for any new FeLVs, but if anyone is even CONSIDERING one, there is a GORGEOUS boy in VA looking for a place of his own.. he's two, is positive on both the snap and IFA, in good health--and there is just something about his smile and his eyes that won't let go of my heart. if there were any way that i could take him, i would, but there isn't. he DOES have a sanctuary placements--anyone familiar with Witty Kitty's in IA?--but like all cats, he deserves a home of his furry own i have his photo and info if anyone is interested. sigh. why CAN'T we save them all?? -- Spay Neuter Your Neighbors! Maybe That'll Make The Difference MaryChristine AIM / YAHOO: TenHouseCats MSN: [EMAIL PROTECTED] ICQ: 289856892
Cassidy now at Best Friends
Hi All, I haven't written in a while, and I haven't been able to read the posts for several weeks as the end of the semester was winding down and the amount of grading and advising I had to do has been enormous. So, bear with me as I try to ease back into the group! If you remember me and Cassidy (FeLV+), I'll give you an update. The sweet guy and I flew from Nebraska to Las Vegas and then drove to Best Friends in Utah. This all happened yesterday, and I flew back today-no overnight stay-just back to the airport and home. I'm exhausted emotionally and physically. Unfortunately, I didn't get to see Best Friends since I arrived after hours and had to hand Cassidy over to my contact there and a lady from Cats. It was the hardest thing I've ever done. I've never lost a kitty, but now I have a feel for what all of you have gone through. I felt like my heart was being torn out of my body. Cassidy has lived in my office at my house since the first week of April, and since I spend the majority of my time in there, we've spent a lot of time together. I can't help but cry and cry as I write this-the first email I've sent without his help since he got here. It's so lonely in my office now, and quiet. I miss our talks and discussions. I miss how he always asked me questions or just meowed a little bit to remind me he was there. I miss his soft little body curling of in my lap. What I miss the most is the way he would always look deep into my eyes like no other cat has ever done-as if he were communicating with me on a deeper level. I love him so much. Of course, I still have 3 permanent cats and 2 other rescues to keep me company, but there was something special about Cassidy-something that was so far beyond my other cats, and I just can't name it. I didn't think I could love another cat more than my Bandit who I've had 10 years, but in only a month and a half Cassidy completely stole my heart. It hurts so much to not have him here to talk to. Of course, I know he's much happier now. He'll have so much room to play and jump around and go outside and visit with other cats, but I'm selfish, and I wish he was here with me. I hope they'll be able to send me pictures or at least tell me how he's doing. He's going to have so much fun adventuring in his new home. I just wish I could have afforded to build a place just for him and other future FeLVs at my house. Someday I'll have a FeLV rescue, and I'll dedicate it to this boy who has opened my eyes and taught me my calling. He found me just when I needed to be found. I was lost, confused, didn't know what to do to feel more complete-to find my niche in this world. He showed me what I need to strive for and why. Luckily, since he's been here, I was hired for a new job-a full-time one! I start on Monday! I couldn't even get interviews around here because I have too much schooling. But, after nearly giving up hope, I got an interview and the job! I can't help but think that Cassidy was the catalyst for all of this-my guardian angel sent to set me straight! Everything is going to fall into place, I just know it. Now I can start saving for my dream, and if another special guy like Cassidy ever comes into my life, I'll be able to offer him a place to stay. Well, I have to sign off since I can't stop crying and I have work to do yet this evening. Thank you all for listening, and I'm sorry I haven't posted in forever! Melissa minus Cassidy, plus Bandit, Angel, Smokey, Ashley, and Nonie.
RE: Cassidy now at Best Friends
Kelly, I'd love to see the pictures you took! I wasn't able to visit Best Friends since I got there after hours-I was only able to drop Cassidy off. I'm so happy to hear that they are excited about Cassidy! I can't wait to visit during regular hours some day! Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Kelly L Sent: Tuesday, May 15, 2007 2:03 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Cassidy now at Best Friends At 12:08 PM 5/12/2007, you wrote: I just get back from Best Friends today and they were all excited to have Cassidy there, i took some great pictures of the new FELV area and saw one sweet Siamese22 years young with FELV!! Kelly Welcome back Melissa, sounds like an emotionally draining situation. I know you will get through it though! Just remember, he's in a happy place now, like you said. Congrats on the new job too! Phaewryn http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html Special Needs Cat Resources http://www.iGive.com/html/refer.cfm?causeid=21303 Sign up for iGive and a percentage of your purchases helps save animals! No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.467 / Virus Database: 269.7.0/803 - Release Date: 5/13/2007 12:17 PM
RE: Killing cats who pee on RUGS*****
Hi All, I haven't been able to respond lately since I've been super busy, but I had to read this pee thread--it hits close to home. Our Bandit started peeing in the heat vent--only one vent--for no apparent reason. We tried every natural remedy we could think of to change the behavior. While I agree that they are doing it on purpose much of the time, I also think that it results from anxiety oftentimes, not a sense of vengeance or naughtiness or vindictiveness. Our vet suggested Prozac (fluoxitine). For $6.00 a month, Bandit receives a half a pill a day, and I'm not kidding--overnight he stopped peeing in the vent (or on the plastic covering the vent). I swear by this stuff. It didn't change his attitude or anything that I can tell--only his reactions to stress. Our vet said we may not ever know what was stressing him out, but at least now Bandit is back to his old self. Our vet said that not many people would have kept a cat like him (most would put him to sleep). That just horrified me. Then I used some of Bandit's Prozac on Cassidy (the FeLV+ who just went to Best Friends) to stop his incessant howling at night. He was so sad--crying all night long--after the Prozac he stopped crying immediately, but it didn't change his behavior in other ways. He still talked and snuggled and was just as fun as before. So, I strongly recommend the Prozac, but I'm not a doctor, and I'm not as experienced as half of you on this list, but that is my experience so far. However, now I'm quite frightened about Best Friends. I'm going to write to my contact there about this. Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Gloria Lane Sent: Tuesday, May 29, 2007 10:31 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: To Anita: RE: Killing cats who pee on RUGS* I've also know some folks use Valium. One source on the internet praised Prosac. I don't know much about it from personal experience. Gloria On May 29, 2007, at 10:28 AM, Kelley Saveika wrote: I have heard Elavil works well for some. My Shimmer is on the highest allowable dose and pees on everything anyway. On 5/29/07, Gloria Lane [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Some in our group have had great luck using Elavil for cats that pee inappropriately. I think the way it was done, was to give it orally (or use ear cream) for 2 weeks, then gradually reduce it (like every other day) until the behavior showed up again, then administer as appropriate (weekly, daily, every two days, etc). Gloria On May 29, 2007, at 10:08 AM, wendy wrote: Anita, Maybe changing his name would help...lol. ;) Wendy --- Stray Cat Alliance [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Ever since we added 2 kittens to our household last July (they were initially fosters but due to illness and other issues we ended up keeping them), our cat Stinky (how appropro) has been peeing everywhere. Thank goodness we have only one area rug -- which of course, he does not pee on. He pees on vertical surfaces such as furniture like the stereo stand, walls, in front of the front and basement doors. Ugh. Our house smells like vinegar and the furniture is ruined. My husband keeps saying, we have to get rid of Stinky. I'm like -- I don't think so. We'll just have to deal with it. He is at least 7 years old and hopefully if we ever get to move to a bigger house, it will stop. Anita _ Change is good. See what's different about Windows Live Hotmail. www.windowslive-hotmail.com/learnmore/default.html?locale=en- usocid=TXT_TAGLM_HMWL_reten_changegood_0507 Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world - indeed it is the only thing that ever has! ~~~ Margaret Meade ~~~ _ _ __Choose the right car based on your needs. Check out Yahoo! Autos new Car Finder tool. http://autos.yahoo.com/carfinder/ -- Rescuties - Saving the world, one cat at a time. http://www.rescuties.org Vist the Rescuties store and save a kitty life! http://astore.amazon.com/rescuties-20 Please help Gandalf! http://www.firstgiving.com/gandalfkitty I GoodSearch for Rescuties. Raise money for your favorite charity or school just by searching the Internet with GoodSearch - www.goodsearch.com - powered by Yahoo!
RE: Killing cats who pee on RUGS*****
Yes, I agree now. I was concerned last night, but now that I think about it, one person in such a large organization as BF certainly does not represent the whole; although, I think they should do their best to obtain moderators who espouse their beliefs, but it doesn't always work that way! Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Pam Norman Sent: Wednesday, May 30, 2007 8:47 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Killing cats who pee on RUGS* This is a good point I wouldn't abandon BF just because of some moderator's comments. Altho Marion Hale has been there a LONG time. I don't know about Gina, but Marion has been there at LEAST 10 years. And NEVER been to the sanctuary! I think to be a moderator that should be mandatory! Kelley Saveika wrote: On 5/29/07, Melissa Lind [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: However, now I'm quite frightened about Best Friends. I'm going to write to my contact there about this. Melissa Melissa, I understand your fear, but I *personally* would not be concerned. That forum is on the Best Friends Network, which is provided by them as a service and is not their official stance on anything. There is a disclaimer - Content is posted freely by website members and may or may not reflect the opinions, goals, or mission of BFAS. It is largely volunteer run (I know the volunteer who edits the Texas community) and there may be a rogue moderator. Certainly I don't think it has a thing to do with how they take care of their animals.
RE: Update on Kisa
Cassandra: Best of luck with Kisa. I know that can be so discouraging when being told to put the kitty down or that it's not worth the money. It seems to me that we'd do whatever we could for humans, why not for our feline family members? Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of C J Sent: Wednesday, May 30, 2007 2:14 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Update on Kisa The thing is with the vomiting though, I don't think its just because i'm feeding her. For the last week, she's been vomiting consistently before I ever feed her. When the vomiting first started suddenly, she vomited several times a day with a completely empty stomach for about 3 days. We then started syringe feeding her, and as soon as we brought her out from her hiding spot, she would vomitthen we would syringe her the food. So yesterday, she vomited after syringing her the food, so I probably gave too much to start. I took her to the vet today, to get the tube put back in, and she got a shot of metachlopramide. Now the problem is, they didn't give me any more of the metachlopramide because they said its a drug filtered by the liver, and if her liver isn't functioning properly, too much of that will cause a problem. They just said to feed her about 12cc followed by 4cc water3 times a day.to see if she would keep that down. I mentioned that I didn't know how i'd be able to get enough calories into her with that small amount, but they just said to see how it goes. What a pain in the butt, because i'm fairly certain that even if I feed her such a tiny amount, i'm betting she's still going to vomit here at some point...possibly vomiting out that tube again. If she vomits again today, i'll have to get more of the metachlopramide even if its going to cause a problem with her liver. This seems to be a no win situation here. Plus, she's definately not feeling very well. All she wants to do is hide, and then lay in one spot all day. I wouldn't doubt it if she's depressed after all this. I notice her breathing seems fast also. I took her to bed with me last night, because she seems to enjoy that, and she did purr for awhile. The problem was, she was peeing about every 3 hours (probably from being on the IV for 2 days), and she was doing it in bed. I put plastic and towels under her, but she missed them once and I had to rip the bed apart in the middle of the night before it soaked too deep. She is too lethargic to get up for anything, unless its running to hide somewhere. All I can do is pray for a miracle, that somehow she will be able to pull through this mess since everything seems to be going wrong. Even my vet, who seems pretty good so far is gone now for a few weeks, so i'll have to deal with a different vet that doesn't know what's been going on so far. I was liking this vet, because he wasn't all doom and gloom like the last 2 vets i've dealt with. If he had the opinion that Kisa didn't have much of a chance, he kept it to himself, and was willing to try whatever I wanted. The last 2 vets i've had were always wanting to make it quite clear that she didn't have a chance and it wasn't worth spending too much on her. I don't see any reason why a vet has to make sure that you have no hope, hope is the only thing that keeps me functioning. Cassandra - Original Message - From: Belinda mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, May 30, 2007 7:47 AM Subject: Re: Update on Kisa Cassandra, I've had 3 cats with feeding tube (e-tube in the esphogus) and never had a problem with vomiting with any of them unless I was going too fast or giving meds on an empty tummy, once I figured out what I was doing wrong it was no longer an issue. All of my feeding tube experiences as far as the feeding themselves went beautifully. Fred did have an infection problem at the entry site that we couldn't get rid of because the vets wouldn't leave him on the antibiotics long enough. But his feedings went great and he gained back most of the weight he had lost, he never vomited once even with is infection problem. There are several reasons a cat will vomit when getting fed through a feeding tube, getting fed too fast, getting too much food at once, when a cat hasn't eaten for as long as Kisa hasn't you have to go slowly and build up to a bigger amount. What I mean is, she needs to be fed 10 to 20 cc's every hour or two, for the first day, then maybe 15 to 25 every couple of hours then next day, and unfortunetly you aren't going to find many, if any vets willing to devote that kind of time to one animal so it would probably be better if she were home if you can devote that kind of time to her care. Other reasons include the tube not being placed correctly, with an e-tube there is a specific area the tube should be, not higher not lower or it will cause nausea in some cats. It
RE: Update on Kisa
Cassandra, Best wishes are being sent your way. I hope you give Kisa some snuggles and kisses from me! How heart-breaking.Stay tough for her sake. Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of C J Sent: Wednesday, May 30, 2007 8:23 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Update on Kisa The metachlopramide doesn't seem to be helping. She had a shot this morning, and vomited mid afternoon. Then I gave her a shot tonight, and fed her 30 mins later...she vomited that up. We actually pulled her tube out, unclogged it, and put it back in. But when she vomited tonight, she vomited it out again, and bit it off. I'm thinking of getting some more tubes from the vet, and just putting them in ourselves. We syringe fed her 30cc along with her pills after that, hopefully she can keep that down for awhile. She seems to keep stuff down if you give it to her after she vomits. The syringe feeding is not a good thing to do with her, she gets so stressed out about it. Her breathing is fairly rapid now, and doing the syringe feeding, her breathing is super fast. I'm thinking we may be fighting a losing battle here. We can't seem to stop the vomiting, and while she's doing that, we can't keep food/water down her. She's going downhill meanwhile. I would like to try to feel less stressed and more positive around her, but it seems so hard. Everytime I look at her lying there so depressed, with her beautiful white fur stained from food/vomit, when she should be racing around the house without a care in the world, I just can't stop the tears. This waiting is definately the hardest part. Cassandra - Original Message - From: Belinda mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, May 30, 2007 7:49 PM Subject: Re: Update on Kisa I'd just like to add to this to try and feel be stressed, frustrated or think negatively, I know that seems almost impossible when things just seem to keep not working but cats are very sensitive to our feelings and your stress and fear is being picked up by her. With every fiber of your being think positive and actually see and picture things going right in your minds eye, it will make a difference, I promise ... positive, positive, positive energy, I can't stress that enough. Not sure what your vet told you about the metacloprimide but it should be given 3 times a day about a half hour before the meal it is preceding (Kisa should get more meals than that but give the metacloprimide a half hour to the meal it is closest to). There are exceptions to that, Bailey needed to get his metachloprimide an hour before or he was still a bit nauseous when I fed him. Buddie, Bailey and Fred got 1cc three times a day, it helps to get the digestive juices flowing since they aren't producing saliva because they aren't eating by way of the mouth, saliva starts the digestive process. Talk to her and see what she wantsexplain that you are not doing this to harm her or be mean to her but to help her stay with you where she is loved. She needs to understand what is going on. They pick up on so much but sometimes, like people, misunderstand or take it the wrong way. Talk to her. -- Belinda happiness is being owned by cats ... Be-Mi-Kitties http://bemikitties.com Post Adoptable FeLV/FIV/FIP Cats/Kittens http://adopt.bemikitties.com FeLV Candlelight Service http://bemikitties.com/cls HostDesign4U.com [affordable hosting web design] http://HostDesign4U.com BMK Designs [non-profit animals websites] http://bmk.bemikitties.com _ No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.472 / Virus Database: 269.8.3/824 - Release Date: 5/29/2007 1:01 PM
RE: Opinions Needed
Debbie: Way to Go! I only wish I had the guts to write a story like this in our local newspaper! I think this NEEDS to be published. It is such a sad, and too common, story. Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Debbie Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2007 2:49 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Opinions Needed This is a letter to the editor of our local paper concerning the kittens we found dumped over the weekend. My husband is afraid it will cause trouble if they print it with a name and town. What do you think? Myself, I doubt anyone will really pay attention. I am curious to know what you guys think. Thanks for the input. Debbie Dear Editor, On Sunday, May 27, Children's Home Bradford Rd., Greenville, someone pulled into a path in a field, north, a little ways off of 127. My husband and I were traveling to Lowe's and noticed this parked car and also kittens beside it. We thought oh, they must be picking them up. We agreed we would come back the same route on the way home to make sure. Unfortunately, on the way back, we saw the kittens were still there. We pulled over and got out. One was lying squashed on the path, 2 snuggled up to the small lifeless body. Whoever dumped them must have run over one. Three more came waddling up out of the ditch. There were 6 total. We gathered the 5 left alive and placed them in our van. My husband was kind enough that he even picked up the dead baby kitten and placed it in a bag, later he buried it in our side yard. We had our 2 Labradors with us - one which my husband had found dumped outside Bradford around Christmas time. She was only 4-5 weeks old. The kittens looked to be around 4-5 weeks old. We knew we could not just leave them because they would never have survived on their own. We also knew that we would not really be able to take on anymore because we have 14 rescued ones already (7 were found in a trash dumpster outside a condo in Dayton). All now spayed, neutered, shots, etc. I called and left a message at the Darke County Humane Society telling them the whole story. We decided if worse came to worse we would keep them until they could be adopted out. Amazingly the Humane Society phoned the next day. They agreed to take the abandoned babies in. My husband and I would like to publicly thank them for that. We are so very grateful. The lady that picked them up had a nice clean carrier and bedding for them. As to the people who constantly abandon, abuse, etc.. animals. What is wrong with you? What gives you the right to take away life of any kind? It always amazes me that humans can be so cruel. Poor defenseless creatures left to die, no food, no shelter, no one to love them. Would you do this to your mother, your grandfather, your child? We seem to be becoming a throw away society. If someone or something doesn't fit our idea of perfection or if taking care of them is an inconvenience - then we just dispose of it. Life to many, seems cheap. I recall I had a neighbor years ago that left his dog have pups year after year. His 2 little girls would love on them and play with them. Later the pups would disappear. I was told the father would take them out and shoot them. Of course you couldn't prove it, just like you couldn't prove that he also had his little girls drown kittens in their swimming pool. Wonderful lessons to teach our children, isn't it? Just like dumping 6 defenseless kittens in an area where there were no houses, no people, or food. How someone treats animals, in my opinion, is a reflection of how they treat others. It's sad to say that many people do not show a respect for life. I can only hope that the residents of Darke County will educate themselves and their children as to what being a responsible pet owner means. If each of us puts forth at least a little effort (and monetary support) we can help control the over population of cats and dogs and the unnecessary suffering they often times endure. For all those dollars we spend on lottery tickets, a pack of cigarettes, a six pack of beer, that new MP3 player, etc.surely we can spend some on a LIFE. Please consider donating to the local Humane Society or other animal welfare agencies.
RE: Anyone have experience with respiratory distress likely caused byanemia?
Cassandra, I would consider how traumatic it is for Kisa to ride in the car. Some cats are okay, some (like a few of mine), freak out. Would it be worse to go to the vet's? Would the trip cause more harm? Could you get the vet to visit you? I too wonder about cats and pain and what should be considered too much pain. How do you decide if a cat is better off being PTS than enduring the pain? Either way, you have a rough road ahead-but you are such a wonderful person to endure the pain with Kisa. Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of C J Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2007 4:12 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Anyone have experience with respiratory distress likely caused byanemia? I've been searching the web for info on respiratory distress, but can't seem to find what i'm looking for. Kisa's breathing is very rapid and deep, and she has her mouth slightly open most of the time. I can't decide if I should take her in to be put to sleep. I am just wondering if anyone has experience with this, and how long will an animal last in this sort of condition? I am sure she isn't feeling very well at all, but I don't know if she is in pain, or just some discomfort. If this is going to go on for days, I should probably put her to sleep. How will an animal die if the respiratory distress keeps getting worse? Will it be a painful ending, or just a cessation of breathing eventually? Thanks for any input. Cassandra
RE: Update on Kisa
Cassandra, I hope all is going well with you and Kisa this week. It's such good news that she's doing a little bit better. It's just too bad that the vets have to be that way. I know they think they're looking out for Kisa's best interest, but I think that there may be so many options that they just don't bother to explore which could lengthen Kisa's time here as well as improve her time with you. It's a wonderful thing and a great blessing that there are people like you who are willing to try. My vet suggested putting my FeLV to sleep, and he wasn't even outwardly sick! He's now very happy at Best Friends. I think too often people don't think of animals as deserving as people, but I'm glad that there are those out there who do. Stay strong and best wishes for you and your fur baby. Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of C J Sent: Saturday, June 02, 2007 11:46 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Update on Kisa My guess, is her rapid breathing is caused by anemia. She is very pale, her feet and gums are much paler than normal. I am wondering if the hemobart is possibly causing her immune system to attack its own red blood cells, and the Dex is slowling that down. It could be lymphoma too though, its hard to say. Basically the vets aren't very helpful for me anymore. The one vet I was dealing with that was actually being helpful is gone for a few weeks now, and all the other vets want to do is put her to sleep. I hate even consulting them, because they just try to talk me into putting her to sleep. When I got the IV bag, the vet I talked to said to give her like 200ml per day. I think that's way too much right now...when it took her like 12 hours to absorb 100ml. Cassandra - Original Message - From: wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Saturday, June 02, 2007 11:09 AM Subject: Re: Update on Kisa Hey Cassandra, Wow, I am surprised and so happy that Kisa is rallying! I hope she can pull through. The dex can make a difference. I think the combo shot I mentioned early on shrinks lymphoma, according to Michelle, the girl who used to be here who knows a lot about it. If that's the case, and she does have lymphoma, it might explain the easier breathing. Maybe something is growing quickly and pressing on her lungs or throat. My cat with CRF gets 200 CC a week of subQ fluids, but she is not in grave danger as Kisa is. She walks around with a little sac of fluid hanging off her little bony body for a few hours before it absorbs. She feels so much better after it's done. How much did the vet say you should give Kisa? I would ask them so that you don't overdo it. Keeping my fingers crossed for you guys. :) Wendy --- C J [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: A small update on Kisa. I didn't think she would make it through the night, and at one point I checked on her and thought she was gone, because I didn't see the heavy breathing. She did make it through the night, and I was seriously considering taking her in to the vet for euthanasia. I asked her if I should, and was very upset I wasn't strong enough to make that decision. Well, now she actually looks a little bit better. She's very weak, but she seems more alert and her breathing, while still fast, isn't quite as labored and she's not breathing through her mouth. It could be the dexamethasone making some sort of difference. And then the strangest thing of all happened, she ate about 1 and a half tablespoons of pureed liver, by licking it off the back of a spoon. This is the first time in two weeks since this started, that she didn't gag at the very sight/smell of food. I couldn't believe she actually ate. She must not be feeling as nauseous, and so far she hasn't vomited today. I'm trying not to get my hopes up, but this is the first positive thing that has happened for her in two weeks. I guess we'll just have to wait and see how she does over the next couple of days. If she's trying to get better, she has an awful lot to overcome yet in order to do so. I've got a full IV bag of sub-q fluids to keep her hydrated at least. Just a question on that, how much fluid should she get in a day? I gave her about 100ml, six hours ago, and it still hasn't all soaked in from under the skin at the back of her neck. Cassandra Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world - indeed it is the only thing that ever has! ~~~ Margaret Meade ~~~ Now that's room service! Choose from over 150,000 hotels in 45,000 destinations on Yahoo! Travel to find your fit. http://farechase.yahoo.com/promo-generic-14795097 -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.472 / Virus Database: 269.8.6/828 -
RE: OT - Phelix...and lessons learned.
Elizabeth, What a cute story about the lavender! I'm glad you included this information-I'm so bad at trying to clip their claws, and I really need to-poor Bandit (our 10 yr. old) got swiped the other day and it drew a little blood by his nose-poor guy-he never wants to really fight hard, just wrestle around a little, but the little fur kids sometimes don't understand. Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of elizabeth trent Sent: Monday, June 04, 2007 10:03 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: OT - Phelix...and lessons learned. Phelix was taking care of me today because I home and not feeling well. He's always by my side and took a nap with me. He's the one with allergies that was born with only one eye. He's been scratching a lot lately and I woke up and looked at him and he couldn't open his eye! And there was blood. I nearly panicked. I didn't care how bad I felt - I was getting that boy to the doctor. By the time we got there - he was looking a lot better and looking around - no bleeding - but I was so worried and I really need to protect his one good eye. They examined it and put drops in and looked to make sure he hadn't scratched his cornea. They also checked his ears - they look good...and checked for fleas (he doesn't have any). The vet thinks that when Phelix was scratching, his dew claw caught his eye and ripped through the bottom eyelid. They trimmed those for me and gave him a steroid shot because he's really been itchy lately (his tummy is bald but his ears have really been itchy). They gave him some salve for me to use in his eye 2-3 times a day -- it just says 'BNP-HC ophth. ointment'. It has an antibiotic and a steroid in it. Since Phelix's ears are so itchy, we're going to do the tresoderm a few days too just to be extra sure. I feel bad because I'm not very good about keeping toenails trimmedbut I sure will from now on! Thank goodness I was home when that happened. It looks much, much better now and Phelix keeps telling me it was no big deal. Just thought I'd pass that along in case it would help someone else. Phelix thinks it is his god-given right to go outside everyday when I get home and roll in the lavender. He'll let me know if I'm not fast enough letting him out. Today when I took him in the girls kept saying --- Phelix smells like lavender!! :0) He's such a ladies man. All good thoughts to you and your fur babies. elizabeth
RE: Update on Kisa
Cassandra, I never understand why vets of all people sometimes think/act that way. Why did they go into veterinary medicine anyway? For the glamour? I'm not sure if helping birth a calf or artificially inseminating hogs is really glamorous or exciting...at least that's what the vets around here work on mostly--livestock--so I think that often explains their attitudes to pets who don't make money. I'm so happy to hear that Kisa is improving--hang in there! It's great that she's eating more. I've got to take our Ashley in tomorrow--still has loose stools. But, she's not FeLV+, so I guess I should move my thoughts on her to the other discussion... Anyways, you made it through Monday--and that's great! Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of C J Sent: Monday, June 04, 2007 7:56 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Update on Kisa Thank you. Yes I get the impression from alot of vets that pets are somewhat disposable...if it starts giving alot of problems, throw it away and get a new one. This is how I would treat an old car, not a living creature. I've received much more help from this message list than I have from the vets. If it wasn't for this list, both Tomi and Kisa would probably be gone by now. Thank goodness for the people here that care so much and are willing to share their experiences. Cassandra - Original Message - From: Melissa Lind [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Monday, June 04, 2007 12:59 PM Subject: RE: Update on Kisa Cassandra, I hope all is going well with you and Kisa this week. It's such good news that she's doing a little bit better. It's just too bad that the vets have to be that way. I know they think they're looking out for Kisa's best interest, but I think that there may be so many options that they just don't bother to explore which could lengthen Kisa's time here as well as improve her time with you. It's a wonderful thing and a great blessing that there are people like you who are willing to try. My vet suggested putting my FeLV to sleep, and he wasn't even outwardly sick! He's now very happy at Best Friends. I think too often people don't think of animals as deserving as people, but I'm glad that there are those out there who do. Stay strong and best wishes for you and your fur baby. Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of C J Sent: Saturday, June 02, 2007 11:46 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Update on Kisa My guess, is her rapid breathing is caused by anemia. She is very pale, her feet and gums are much paler than normal. I am wondering if the hemobart is possibly causing her immune system to attack its own red blood cells, and the Dex is slowling that down. It could be lymphoma too though, its hard to say. Basically the vets aren't very helpful for me anymore. The one vet I was dealing with that was actually being helpful is gone for a few weeks now, and all the other vets want to do is put her to sleep. I hate even consulting them, because they just try to talk me into putting her to sleep. When I got the IV bag, the vet I talked to said to give her like 200ml per day. I think that's way too much right now...when it took her like 12 hours to absorb 100ml. Cassandra - Original Message - From: wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Saturday, June 02, 2007 11:09 AM Subject: Re: Update on Kisa Hey Cassandra, Wow, I am surprised and so happy that Kisa is rallying! I hope she can pull through. The dex can make a difference. I think the combo shot I mentioned early on shrinks lymphoma, according to Michelle, the girl who used to be here who knows a lot about it. If that's the case, and she does have lymphoma, it might explain the easier breathing. Maybe something is growing quickly and pressing on her lungs or throat. My cat with CRF gets 200 CC a week of subQ fluids, but she is not in grave danger as Kisa is. She walks around with a little sac of fluid hanging off her little bony body for a few hours before it absorbs. She feels so much better after it's done. How much did the vet say you should give Kisa? I would ask them so that you don't overdo it. Keeping my fingers crossed for you guys. :) Wendy --- C J [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: A small update on Kisa. I didn't think she would make it through the night, and at one point I checked on her and thought she was gone, because I didn't see the heavy breathing. She did make it through the night, and I was seriously considering taking her in to the vet for euthanasia. I asked her if I should, and was very upset I wasn't strong enough to make that decision. Well, now she actually looks a little bit better. She's very weak, but she seems more alert and her breathing, while still fast, isn't
RE: Update on Kisa
Thank you Nina-my vet said to give it a try-so, I'm going to order it tonight. I hope it works.Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Nina Sent: Tuesday, June 05, 2007 2:25 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Update on Kisa Melissa, Did you see the post about FortiFlora from Jane? You might want to ask your vet about it. Here's a paste from an email I sent to someone else battling diarrhea with her cat: My sister forwarded your update about Sophie to me and I had a thought... Someone on my felv list has a homeopathic vet that she really trusts and a kitty with diarrhea issues. Her vet suggested a probiotic, (which Sophie should be on anyway if she's taking abx), made by all people, Purina. It's called FortiFlora and this vet described the results she's had with it as profound. I did a quick search looking for studies/info besides that provided by the manufacturers and haven't been able to find anything yet, but that's probably because it's a proprietary blend supplement and I'd have to research ingredients rather than the name of the product. Anyway, I'm thinking of ordering it for my gang, (esp my IBD girl Gypsy) and thought you might be interested in checking it out too. It's suppose to promote immunity as well as intestinal health. I found it at EntirelyPets.com for $23.99: http://search.store.yahoo.com/cgi-bin/nsearch?catalog=entirelypetsquery=Fo rtiFlorax=12y=9.autodone=http%3A%2F%2Fstore.yahoo.com%2Fentirelypets%2Fns earch.html http://search.store.yahoo.com/cgi-bin/nsearch?catalog=entirelypetsquery=For tiFlorax=12y=9.autodone=http%3A%2F%2Fstore.yahoo.com%2Fentirelypets%2Fnse arch.html Melissa Lind wrote: I've got to take our Ashley in tomorrow--still has loose stools. But, she's not FeLV+, so I guess I should move my thoughts on her to the other discussion... Anyways, you made it through Monday--and that's great! Melissa
RE: FortiFlora
I ordered the FlortiFlora from another site--I'd be interested in the $16.00 price--much better! Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Jane Lyons Sent: Wednesday, June 06, 2007 7:38 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: FortiFlora Phaewryn, I think you are right about the success of FortiFlora having to do with the fact that cats actually like it and eat it. My vet is suspicious of anything out of Purina, but thinks that they got this one right. A friend found it on line for $16.00 a box (of 30 packets) with an $8.00 shipping rate. She ordered several boxes to reduce the price per box. She's counting on the 'money back guarantee', as her vet was also high on it. I'll post the site here (she is traveling) when I get it. I am hoping that it is helping MeMe's stomatitis. It is impossible to really examine her gums but her bad breath is really so much better. Jane
RE: Caroline still not eating or drinking
Sounds like a plan-we could get rich, quit our jobs, and dedicate all our time and money to our fur babies, and maybe our human families on the side :-) Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Taylor Scobie Humphrey Sent: Wednesday, June 06, 2007 1:54 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Caroline still not eating or drinking Is pedialyte the only brand? Or can we just start a brand! I like the Purr-o-lyte name. How many of us are actively in the group now? We could all be shareholders. Omigod, this is even crazier than the feline lymphoma discussion group trip to Seattle to the vet conference! Consciousness is Causal and Physicality is its Manifestation. On Jun 5, 2007, at 10:12 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: But they could label it specifically for cats, add chicken flavor (or tuna, or milk, etc), etc... it COULD be good money, if it was marketed. Catty-o-lyte. Maybe Purr-a-lyte? I dunno, but it could be done. Easily. Phaewryn http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html Special Needs Cat Resources http://www.iGive.com/html/refer.cfm?causeid=21303 http://www.iGive.com/html/refer.cfm?causeid=21303 Sign up for iGive and a percentage of your purchases helps save animals!
RE: OT - Phelix...and lessons learned.
Ha Ha! I've never had a cat stuck to the carpet either-but frequently to the screen door. They panic a little when they see me come to rescue them off the screen since they know they're not supposed to be scratching at it anyway! Those flies are so tempting! Even though I have a few scratch marks on our screen door-we've got no flies in the house! (Is it dangerous for the cats to eat the flies?) Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, June 05, 2007 9:31 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: OT - Phelix...and lessons learned. Your cats get STUCK to the carpet? Bizarre! I never trim claws here (I'm morally opposed to the idea) unless there's a medical necessity, and I can honestly say my cats have NEVER gotten stuck to the carpet. I have occasionally seen one get stuck on the side of the sofa while scratching it, but even that is rare. Phaewryn http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html Special Needs Cat Resources http://www.iGive.com/html/refer.cfm?causeid=21303 Sign up for iGive and a percentage of your purchases helps save animals!
To Cassandra and Kisa
Cassandra and Kisa: You two are in my thoughts today! Hope all is well and Kisa is eating more! Melissa
RE: To Cassandra and Kisa
Good news! Happy thoughts for Kisa! As for feeding the raw food-I don't think I could do it. I won't cook my husband steaks or hamburger that are pinkish just because of the parasite issue (I don't any meat or fish-but he and the fur kids do). Of course I've been told that it's much worse in chicken and pork anyway-that pork is horrifically loaded with parasites-but that wasn't told to me by an expert. But, I think with all the problems with cat food (and the waste products used in it), I'm going to start making my own-or at least experimenting with it. Does anyone have any ideas about what I could give Bandit to promote urinary health? He takes Science Diet C/D to prevent crystals from forming in his urinary tract/bladder or something like that. So far it's helped tremendously. I don't want to go back to those problems, but I do want to feed him fresher food that I know where it is coming from. Plus his food is so expensive, and I feed it to all the cats for simplicity in feeding arrangements. Are there supplements I can give him to prevent the crystals/neutralize his pee? Sorry this is better suited for the off topic place-I can move there once I get home from work (my home computer checks those messages). Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of C J Sent: Wednesday, June 06, 2007 11:44 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: To Cassandra and Kisa Thank you. So far so good. Kisa is eating mainly felidae canned right now, though she only eats when I hand feed her. When I try the foods she ate before she got sick, she shows an aversion to them now, even to the Tempations treats she absolutely loved before. She still wants to hide under the bed all day, and her lips/gums are very pale, but she is getting a little bit stronger each day. Hopefully she can get more of those red blood cells back into circulation soon. Cassandra - Original Message - From: Melissa Lind mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, June 06, 2007 9:00 AM Subject: To Cassandra and Kisa Cassandra and Kisa: You two are in my thoughts today! Hope all is well and Kisa is eating more! Melissa _ No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.472 / Virus Database: 269.8.9/834 - Release Date: 6/5/2007 2:38 PM
RE: OT - Phelix...and lessons learned.
Elizabeth, Funny-that's what we call it when the cats sit in the window-they're watching TV. I have a copy of Sibley's hanging out in the living room too! We have a bunch of feeders and the cats just love to watch the birdies all day. Our screens will be replaced this summer I think-but our cats really haven't scratched big holes in them-just little tiny marks. But, one of our rescues did get half way out a hole that he worked to enlarge. Our screens are incredibly flimsy. Let us know what you decide with the windows! Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of elizabeth trent Sent: Wednesday, June 06, 2007 8:11 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: OT - Phelix...and lessons learned. It's very dangerous for the flies -- this I do know Haha. They love their moths too, Melissa :0) The treasured ancient llama sweater is a favorite 'get stuck' place here...along with curtains and the blankets hanging off the bed. I had a man here at the house yesterday looking over the outside of my house for repairs. I'm replacing ALL the windows in my house. Every one of my screens has holes put there by my dear fur family. I asked him about getting windows that open from the top (or screens that aren't so flimsy I could push a hole in them with my fingernail). He really didn't get it until I started pointing to the evidence ( i.e. -- big shredded holes). I even asked if we could install the windows upside down! (The windows have to be replaced for reasons other than my poor shredded screens...but I want this to be a consideration). He's going to research the options for me and give me an itemized list of options in about a week. I'm still thinking about what Phaewryn said about chicken wire over the windows... I wish I had a big window seat in every window for the babies. I think I have about 12-15 bird feeders of various types and a wonderful variety of birds. I keep a copy of Sibley's handy --- it's cat tv. It gives them hours of entertainment. elizabeth On 6/6/07, Melissa Lind [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Ha Ha! I've never had a cat stuck to the carpet either-but frequently to the screen door. They panic a little when they see me come to rescue them off the screen since they know they're not supposed to be scratching at it anyway! Those flies are so tempting! Even though I have a few scratch marks on our screen door-we've got no flies in the house! (Is it dangerous for the cats to eat the flies?) Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, June 05, 2007 9:31 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: OT - Phelix...and lessons learned. Your cats get STUCK to the carpet? Bizarre! I never trim claws here (I'm morally opposed to the idea) unless there's a medical necessity, and I can honestly say my cats have NEVER gotten stuck to the carpet. I have occasionally seen one get stuck on the side of the sofa while scratching it, but even that is rare. Phaewryn http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html Special Needs Cat Resources http://www.iGive.com/html/refer.cfm?causeid=21303 http://www.igive.com/html/refer.cfm?causeid=21303 Sign up for iGive and a percentage of your purchases helps save animals!
RE: Sasquatch Please add to the CLS :(
Sherry, my thoughts are with you-Sasquatch was one of the lucky kitties to be loved by people like you! Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Sherry DeHaan Sent: Wednesday, June 06, 2007 8:37 PM To: Felvtalk Subject: Sasquatch Please add to the CLS :( This sweet gray handsome boy will be missed by all the volunteers at Sids.Dr. Jen had to let him go with dignity today.Thank you all for being here. Sherry _ Be a better Heartthrob. Get http://us.rd.yahoo.com/evt=48255/*http:/answers.yahoo.com/dir/_ylc=X3oDMTI5 MGx2aThyBF9TAzIxMTU1MDAzNTIEX3MDMzk2NTQ1MTAzBHNlYwNCQUJwaWxsYXJfTklfMzYwBHNs awNQcm9kdWN0X3F1ZXN0aW9uX3BhZ2U-?link=listsid=396545433 better relationship answers from someone who knows. Yahoo! Answers - Check it out.
RE: OT - Phelix...and lessons learned.
Yes, but I wish they would also learn where to puke and where not to. I flipped the cushion over on the lounge yesterday after an unsuccessful attempt to remove the vomit stain. I hope I didn't make it worse. Then this morning, out of all the places in the house to vomit, Ashley chooses the clean side of the lounge. Ack! How frustrating. I had left a message with our carpet guy yesterday, but he didn't return my call. This morning I left another message telling him that it has elevated to a crisis! For Pete's sake, we haven't even paid for the furniture yet, and I certainly don't want to re-upholster it already! I hope that he can get the stains out since they are in places that can't be covered up by cushions or blankets-right in the middle of course! G! What a day! Thanks for letting me vent-I know it's not a big deal; we've always said our kitties are more important than our furniture-but really-both sides of the lounge?! Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of elizabeth trent Sent: Wednesday, June 06, 2007 8:12 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: OT - Phelix...and lessons learned. Hey MC...I may be morally opposed after I try it once ;0) Pass the bandaids... Half of my furniture is cat furniture. The wonderful thing is they seem to know where it's ok to sharpen and where it isn't (at least when I'm here LOL) elizabeth On 6/6/07, MaryChristine [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: you're morally opposed to TRIMMING claws, dear? explain, please. (thinking that i would long ago have bled to death--not to mention having had to pay enormous vet bills for ingrown claws).. On 6/5/07, [EMAIL PROTECTED] [EMAIL PROTECTED] mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Your cats get STUCK to the carpet? Bizarre! I never trim claws here (I'm morally opposed to the idea) unless there's a medical necessity, and I can honestly say my cats have NEVER gotten stuck to the carpet. I have occasionally seen one get stuck on the side of the sofa while scratching it, but even that is rare. Phaewryn http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html Special Needs Cat Resources http://www.iGive.com/html/refer.cfm?causeid=21303 Sign up for iGive and a percentage of your purchases helps save animals! -- Spay Neuter Your Neighbors! Maybe That'll Make The Difference MaryChristine AIM / YAHOO: TenHouseCats MSN: [EMAIL PROTECTED] ICQ: 289856892
RE: Charity (Crossed The Bridge)- Heartfelt Thanks Update
Patti,
I've been trying and trying to keep up with all the happenings on here, but
I've finally got a spare second to post. I admire you for all you are doing
and for your commitment and energy. I have no physical handicaps, and I
manage to achieve only a fraction of your efforts. I think I shall remember
you and your courage with the kitties next time I'm grumbly. I'm so sorry
about Charity, but I'm so inspired by her story and her return to you.
Best,
Melissa
_
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Sent: Tuesday, June 12, 2007 12:36 PM
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
Subject: Re: Charity (Crossed The Bridge)- Heartfelt Thanks Update
In a message dated 6/11/07 4:02:09 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time,
[EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
Take
care of yourself and treat yourself to that slice of
cheesecake or a hot bath or whatever brings a smile to
your face. Charity would like that.
Dear Wendy ALL the wonderful, compassionate, supportive, et al list
members,
It's Tuesday now and I have not been online [too much other stuff-
devastated mainly]
Just wanted to let you all know [again], this group is so, so
wonderful.. I know I'll never leave...
I want to give thanks for all the suggestions on what to do w/ Charity's
remains When all of a sudden you're faced w/ such a tragedy, your mind
goes blank.. And, since MVA my mind doesn't function
My room mate was absolutely a god-send And, he didn't even like my
girl, thought I was crazy for taking her in...(Poor girl only liked me, she
was nasty w/ everyone else.) Can't blame her though, not one bit. (Being
taped in a cardboard box w/ her babies ) After that, was it any wonder
she despised humans??? I know, with all I've seen, I definitely prefer
critters over humans.
I couldn't get a cooler, but thank heavens we live in a real old home.My
room mate wrapped her {gently] very well and he put her remains down in the
basement..And, being such an old house, the basement has stone walls,
also, a crawlspace - which is where he placed her. And, it was HOT, but the
basement [always] remains cool
So, yesterday, Monday, I [we] took her to vet for cremation. And, when I
get her remains back, she will be [back] w/ her [our] Bart again.
She was such a loving girl - when I earned her trust when she came to me
to help Bart When she realized I DID help her [our] Bart, the change in
her behavior was unbelievable And, gaining trust is so wonderful
I can't even express just how I felt (Bart Charity both put their
trust in me And, that meant more than I can ever express).
I absolutely loved my Charity, and knowing that she loved me is..
WONDERFUL!!! AMAZING
I'm just so heartbroken she passed at such a young age. But, I can take
comfort knowing at the end, she finally knew she was much loved
I really believe it was FIP. Being together w/ Bart, well.
And, I have the comfort remembering cuddling her holding her right before
she passed I'll NEVER forget that!
And Wendy, as far as taking care of myself, well, being a vegan,
cheesecake is out. {I DO make tofu cheesecake, but I'm just not into baking,
or any cooking right now]. And yes, I did take a bath... but you know
what I did, that seemed to get almost all my feelings out Washed ALL
my windows, curtains, put diff. curtains up in all my windows But, you
know what??? It really, really helped me deal
Go ahead, call me crazy.
Much love thanks to EVERYONE
Hugs,
Patti her gang
http://cdn-cf.aol.com/se/clip_art/gstres/anmls/cat
_
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RE: Kisa is gone :(
Cassandra, I haven't been posting, but I've been trying to read and look for updates on your Kisa. I'm so sorry for your loss. She was such a little fighter recently. I'm always surprised at how diverse our kitties are-how there are numerous words to describe their personalities-like you said. I'm so happy there are people like you and everyone on this group who understand that-who have compassion in their hearts no matter how much their hearts hurt because of their giving nature. I think the amount of our hurt is directly related to how much we love. It's as though the more we love the more it hurts, but it ultimately won't stop us from saving more poor furbabies because if we don't, then no one will. Cassandra-I hope you find some peace in your grief-but sometimes it's just best to be sad while you remember darling Kisa. Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of C J Sent: Tuesday, June 12, 2007 4:51 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Kisa is gone :( Kisa passed away this morning while I was at work, exactly one month after Koda. My heart is broken, especially since I wasn't there with her at the end. I had prayed and hoped so much that she would continue to improve after she started eating again a week and a half ago. I suppose it was just too much for her to overcome. The anemia never really did improve much. Though her breathing was better, her skin was so pale. The last few days, her appetite faltered again, and she was getting weaker. I didn't think today would be the day she died, though i'm relieved she didn't have to go on suffering much longer. I don't think she was in pain, and I sincerely hope she wasn't in pain at the end. It was just so hard to see her so weak when she was as active and happy as a kitten 3 weeks ago. Kisa is going to be missed more than words can say. She never quite saw her 3rd birthday, but the time she spent with us will never be forgotten. She was special in so many ways, I wouldn't even know where to start to list them all. Fearless, loving, gentle, playful, curious, and sweet are just a few of the words that describe her. She's been sleeping on my pillow the last few nights, and i'm going to miss her warmth so much. If it ever stops raining, she will be buried next to Koda tonight. I made a rock garden full of flowers on top of Koda's grave. Now Kisa will join her there. Cassandra
RE: CLS for Jet
Tad and Marie, Jet was so blessed to have her loved ones close as she passed. What wonderful people you are. Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Tad Burnett Sent: Tuesday, June 12, 2007 10:52 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: CLS for Jet My sweet black cat Jet just passed away just a few minutes ago June 12, 2007 She is the 5th of the 6 FeLV+ cats from Angel Wings... She has been here with me for 2 years.. She is probably about 5 years old... She has been healthy all the time she was here and enjoyed her life here with Marie and myself and all the other cats... She has been especially close to my feral cat who was just starting to tame when jet came here... Jet most often slept curled up next to me and that's where she was tonight when I felt those now all to familiar little muscle contractions that signals when life has left the body on this earth... I knew her time was coming about a month ago when she started acting like an older cat and slowed down sum but even tonight she was eating but she had been acting quite weak today and only an hour before she passed was the 1st time that she wasn't able to stand up and walk... I pulled her up close to me and she felt comfortable... We all will miss our Jet Cat... Tad and Marie.
RE: Please add Nookie to CLS
Jeni, Poor Nookie. Bless you for your help. So many furbabies this week, but so much love and understanding. Peace to you and your furfamily. Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of JENI RECA Sent: Tuesday, June 12, 2007 11:10 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Please add Nookie to CLS Nookie passed on saturday night. She was a feral we took in a year ago, and though she hide quite a bit she was finally coming out and hanging out near us. She curled up into the little hiding place we made for her under the stairs and passed away peacefully. Thank you for all the support Jeni Meer and Cree _ Get a preview of Live Earth, the hottest event this summer - only on MSN http://liveearth.msn.com?source=msntaglineliveearthhm
RE: Regarding a freak accident to my hubby..it is long...sorry!
Terrie, My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family today and in the coming weeks. Sending good vibes your way. Melissa I also appreciated the information-I will tell my husband as well. _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Wednesday, June 13, 2007 10:40 AM To: Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: OT: Regarding a freak accident to my hubby..it is long...sorry! (I want apologized if you have already seen this from other groups I'm on) Hello all, I wanted to make everyone aware or least be alert of what can happen when you get behind brush mowers whether it's up close or at a distance. It is very dangerous. Yesterday, my husband was about 20 feet behind a tractor that had a brush mower on it which was operated by his friend. My husband was looking for items that may have been sticking out of the ground that the mower didn't get. Anyway, a huge rock flew out from the mower and my husband said he seen it at the corner of his eye. By then it was too late. The rock hit him on his right arm below the elbow and broke his arm in two places. I had to call 911 for help he was bleeding and going into shock. He was taken to the hospital and had x-rays done on him. The time was around noontime that this happened. My Dr. was on call who is a orthopedic surgeon had to do emergency surgery on him. I have a lot of faith in him as he done my knee replacements and other bone surgeries. One of the bones is shattered in my husband's arm and he said it look like a gunshot wound. He was taken into surgery about 5 pm was returned back to his room about 9:15 pm last night. The Dr. told me he was bad that he could lose his arm especially below the elbow. He has muscle and tissue damage. Many fragments of the bone was floating in his arm. Did what he could do for him at this point. Only time will tell. Since, my husband is a Diabetic and has HEP C from tainted blood in the 60's from a blood transfusion he is considered high risk. He has a tube in him that they call a Vacu this is to suck all the infection and excess blood from the area. He is also on two different IV lines for the loss of blood and for antibiotics. He is being monitored closely. I did noticed his blood pressure was high. So he will be in the hospital for at least some time. He will be taken back into surgery tomorrow to check out more of the damage and try to repair more of his arm. By the way my husband is right handed this is the arm that got injured. Some of you already know he just had two recent right shoulder surgeries on the same arm. He was supposed to return back to work for light duty on the 19th of this month. Believe it or not he was looking forward going back to work after being off for almost a year. Now that this has happened I don't know what we are going to do. Please pray and hope he doesn't lose part of his arm. That he makes full recovery. Terrie Mohr-Forker TAZZY'S ANIMAL TRANSPORTS SIAMESE COLLIE RESCUE Donations accepted at: https://www.paypal.com/ http://www.tazzys-siameses-collies.petfinder.org/ http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wasiameserescue http://hometown.aol.com/tatorbunz/myhomepage/petmemorial.html http://www.felineleukemia.org/ http://www.hometown.aol.com/tatorbunz/index.html http://www.petloss.com/ _ See what's free at AOL.com http://www.aol.com?ncid=AOLAOF0002000503 .
RE: hi, I am back to the list - need advise
Hideyo, Unfortunately, I don't have any useful advice for your friend, but I was wondering: was the tumor on the leg caused from an injection? The risk of these is the reason I haven't vaccinated my youngest against FeLV. Just curious. Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of HIDEYO YAMAMOTO Sent: Wednesday, June 13, 2007 12:34 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: hi, I am back to the list - need advise Hi, everyone, I came back to the list.. I have a friend whose kitty, Jack has been positive for Felk for a couple of years now. He originally had a tumor (turned out to be a cancer) on his leg and and his leg was amputated at that time. He has been doing really well -- recently, he seems to have developed a tumor behind his eyes and he seesms not feeling too well as he is hiding more.. we are thinking that the cancer has come back. I wanted to help Jack.. if you have any ideas on treatment that you tried with felk kitties with cancer, I would appreciate it very much. Hideyo
RE: Ki
I'm so jealous you're getting a cat enclosure! I'm going to beg and plead with my husband! With my Bandit, he reacts the same way when he's got an abscess, but I've never taken his temp. His thick fur has hid those abscesses for quite a while at times. Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of dede hicken Sent: Thursday, June 14, 2007 8:08 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Ki Just when you are feeling smug...I looked at Ki yesterday, and he just didn't look quite right. Picked him up and he yowled, and tried to bite me. Not like him at all. Took his temp (have 2 bites on my hand to prove it) and it was 106. I couldn't believe it. Gave him some fluids. Another bite. And went to the vet. They are calling it FUO, fever of unknown origin. She gave him something for the fever, and a penecillin shot. He is in a foul mood, but eating well. Still doesn't want to be touched. His gums look good. I wonder if someone bit him, and it is the beginning of an abcess? On the bright side, they are finishing the cat enclosure on Sat...Yippeee!!! Have a nice day, everyone, Dede When you are in the service of your fellow beings, you are only in the service of your God Mosiah 2:17 Yahoo! oneSearch: Finally, mobile search that gives answers, not web links. http://mobile.yahoo.com/mobileweb/onesearch?refer=1ONXIC
RE: Introduction
Welcome Laura! You've come to a great group. I don't have a FeLV kitty anymore--he's gone to a sanctuary and was only with me for a couple of months without symptoms, so I don't have any FeLV advice for you. But I will tell you this: Even though I don't have FeLV kitties, I still read and post to this site because there are so many loving and caring people. It's so nice to surround myself with kindred spirits since cat-lovers are few and far between in my area. I just enjoy reaffirming my beliefs and my feelings by reading about others compassion. It can be sad to read about all the poor babies who pass on, but it's so wonderful to have people to talk to and turn to who understand. I hope you enjoy the list, and I hope you find useful information. You've done a wonderful thing taking in Duncan! Congrats! Melissa Is this your only kitty? -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Laura Mostello Sent: Thursday, June 14, 2007 5:16 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Introduction Hi all - My name is Laura and I'm new to this list. I'm also new to FeLV, since I've just adopted an infected cat. I work at an animal shelter here in Georgia, and one of my favorite cats tested positive last week. We had planned to take him to an adoption fair but had to run the test first. Well, Duncan was one of the unlucky ones. He has a terrific personality and I'd grown quite attached to him during his 4 months at the shelter, so I adopted him myself rather than let him be euthanized. Duncan visited the vet today, and aside from slightly swollen lymph nodes, the vet says he looks great. He's extremely energetic, friendly and has a great appetite, and so far there are no symptoms of illness. It was a real surprise when the test came back positive. Cats rarely stay healthy for 4 months at the shelter - they usually contract a URI and, since there is no money in the budget for vet care and no medications, most deteriorate quickly and are euthanized. But we never worried about Duncan; he always seemed so strong and he never got sick. Of course at this point the vet can't give me a definite prognosis - we just have to wait and see what happens. I'm hoping to learn a lot from others on this list, especially what you all have done to keep your cats healthy. Thanks! Laura
RE: Thanks for info (was Re: Wallace not eating or drinking either
Jean, I hope your snuggles were comforting. Sometimes we need them just as much as they need us. I hope everything turns out for the best. You and Wallace are in my thoughts and prayers... Melissa -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Jean Sent: Thursday, June 14, 2007 6:17 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Thanks for info (was Re: Wallace not eating or drinking either Hi folks-- Just got home from the vet a little while ago. Wallace was such a good boy for both vets that he didn't need to be sedated for his sonogram or biopsy. That's my good boy. [sniffle] They really love Wallace at my vet hospital -- he was there for a week six years ago for FUS, and they all know what a sweetie he is. They have his picture (with Boo and William) in the waiting room, too. (If you'd like to see it, it's here: http://www.ratemykitten.com/pictures/392/000131996/ ) We won't know what the cancer is until the cytology report comes in, Saturday or Tuesday. BEST case at this point is lymphoma. Right now, both vets (my vet and the sonography specialist vet) think that he has adenocarcinoma in his small intestine, invading into the mesentery. His stomach wall and other sections of the small bowel are also thickening. This is *bad*. Of the two types of tumor, this *is* the operable one, but it's big -- 5cm -- and it's invaded beyond the small intestine. There's a partial blockage of the intestine's lumen, too, which is causing real concern and is probably why he stopped eating. I'm going to go snuggle my kitty and cry now. Thanks so much to everybody, esp. those who gave me the lymphoma information. Looks like it might be a moot point now -- adenocarcinoma is *bad*. Feels weird to be praying that it might be lymphoma -- as I said, the cytology report won't be in for a few days. Advice on enticing a sick kitty to eat is appreciated, but as he doesn't have FeLeuk/FIV, he's off topic. Thank you, though -- everybody here is so generous of spirit, and helpful. -Jean Don't get soaked. Take a quick peak at the forecast with the Yahoo! Search weather shortcut. http://tools.search.yahoo.com/shortcuts/#loc_weather
RE: Kisa is gone, thank you all
Cassandra, You're not being punished for something! Are you Catholic? :-) I am, and I often have these feelings of guilt or punishment-sometimes we just can't see through the bleakness and the sadness, and we try to rationalize in any way possible. There is no way that God or the Universe or Karma or whatever you may believe in is punishing you. I firmly believe that because we love so much, we will inevitably hurt more than other people who don't love animals. There's the old saying that God only gives us what we can handle, and I used to tell myself that when I lost my son. I'm not sure I believe it or not, but I want to. It's not that we are being punished, but we are people who can handle it. We have to for these kitties since no one will. We will suffer in the process, but we know that the time we did spend with these babies is still worth all our grief. We can handle it because we're strong people who stand up for our fellow creatures who are innocent, neglected, and abused. I guess I think of it as a yin/yang type thing-or a balance if you will. Our grief is directly proportional to our capacity to love-so clearly, you and everyone on this list are very loving people. Although the sadness can be overwhelming, it is the result of a greater love and compassion for others-it comes from your heart. It's not punishment that all this is happening at once, but I understand how you can feel that way. Another old saying: When it rains, it pours. For me this seems to be the case! But, you'll get through it! Keep your head up and realize how special you, your husband, and those around you are since what you do is a phenomenal gift to our world. Best, Melissa _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of C J Sent: Friday, June 15, 2007 10:34 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Kisa is gone, thank you all I just want to thank you all for your many kind words and thoughts regarding Kisa, Koda, and Tomi. This is one of the few places where I feel comfortable sharing how strongly I feel about my babies and how deeply saddened I am by their illnesses. My husband is about the only other person who understands how much our kitties mean to both him and I. Most other people I know don't understand the deep bond one can have with an animal. All your replies have meant much to me, and made me feel better. It is amazing that you have never met my babies or I, and yet can offer so many words of reassurance. I am missing Kisa terribly, as she was so much fun to have around. She was the social one, who interacted with my other cats, grooming and playing. Now I have three kitties left who have nothing at all to do with each other. I think they all miss her. Sadly, I am not having much time to grieve for Kisa, because I believe Tomi is getting sick again. The last few days, he seems to be getting more anemic again, and he vomited tonight. After he vomited, he was panting for a few seconds. I'm also worried that he hasn't grown back the hair on his neck that was shaved 3 months ago for his blood test. It still looks like it did a week after it was shaved. I'm thinking of bringing him into the vet again, even though they wanted to put him to sleep 2 months ago. I was wondering if his hemobartonella may be coming back, and that should be simple enough for them to test for. I am so scared to have to go through this again so soon, and afraid Tomi won't be able to pull off a miracle a second time. I almost feel like we are being punished for something, the way this nightmare seems to be unfolding. Cassandra - Original Message - From: C mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] J To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, June 12, 2007 4:50 PM Subject: Kisa is gone :( Kisa passed away this morning while I was at work, exactly one month after Koda. My heart is broken, especially since I wasn't there with her at the end. I had prayed and hoped so much that she would continue to improve after she started eating again a week and a half ago. I suppose it was just too much for her to overcome. The anemia never really did improve much. Though her breathing was better, her skin was so pale. The last few days, her appetite faltered again, and she was getting weaker. I didn't think today would be the day she died, though i'm relieved she didn't have to go on suffering much longer. I don't think she was in pain, and I sincerely hope she wasn't in pain at the end. It was just so hard to see her so weak when she was as active and happy as a kitten 3 weeks ago. Kisa is going to be missed more than words can say. She never quite saw her 3rd birthday, but the time she spent with us will never be forgotten. She was special in so many ways, I wouldn't even know where to start to list them all. Fearless, loving, gentle, playful, curious, and sweet are just a few of the words that describe her. She's been sleeping on my pillow
OT: frustrated
I know this is off topic, but I just had to jot this down at work since it's consuming my thoughts. A lady that I work with has farm cats. Sadly, mama kitty and baby climbed into the car trunk when open, and they didn't see them when they closed it. It's been really hot and the two spent an entire day in the trunk. Mama kitty didn't make it, but amazingly the baby did. But now my co-worker (more annoyed by the smell than anything) isn't sure what to do with the baby. She tried to feed it, I think, but she doesn't know about kitty milk or anything like that. And she actually sounds as if she'd rather just let it die. How horrifying. I've been close to tears all day after she told me so regularly as if it were nothing more than a nuisance. I really want to go take this baby and help it, but 1) I'm new here-it's overstepping some boundaries, 2) the baby might not have made it through today anyway without food, and 3) I have 3 of my own cats, 2 fosters, and a husband who loves cats but is getting a little frustrated that I haven't found homes for the foster cats yet. I know what the right thing to do is, but I'm conflicted. More than anything I'm angry at this lady (or saddened) by her lack of enthusiasm to help the poor baby. I can't stop thinking about this little kitty. Right now I'm generally disgusted with people.
