Hi Nina, this is my first time using this site so I hope I'm doing this
right. I replied to the first message you sent me but it goes to the
felvtalk@felineleukemia.org email. I hope that's correct...I guess it
automatically goes to your email as well?
From: Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Reply-To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
To: "felvtalk@felineleukemia.org" <felvtalk@felineleukemia.org>
Subject: Re: FeLV - Chris and Mylo
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2007 13:19:40 -0800
I sent this earlier this morning, but haven't seen it show up on list yet.
Forgive me if it duplicates...
Hi Chris,
I'm so sorry to hear about your kitten being so sick, we all understand
how devastating a pos test result can be and how hard it is to watch
their health deteriorate. First of all felv effects the immune system
making it harder for the kitties to fight off infection, it also makes
them more susceptible to things like cancer. It doesn't however mean
that you should give up. It isn't the felv itself making him sick.
Many, many of our cats, when treated for the underlying illness
effecting them, have gotten better. They may not live as long a life as
cats not infected, but they are certainly capable of living a quality
life. You need to find out what is causing the diarrhea and anemia and
start treating for it immediately. Did your vet give Mylo subq fluids
to help with the dehydration? Is he on antibiotics? If your vet is
unwilling, (or unable) to help you, you need to find one that will. Ask
your regular vet for a referral to a board certified internist. They
are much more familiar with the diseases that effect cats in general and
better able to diagnose and treat.
There are two types of interferon. The one prescribed by most vets is
the human interferon, Interferon A. This is given orally and your vet
should be able to get it for you easily. The other Interferon,
Interferon Omega, is a feline interferon that is injectable.
Unfortunately, it hasn't been approved for vet use in the US and you
have to get a special dispensation from the FDA for it.
IR is a type of bacteria that when introduced to the the system, (it's
usual to administer it IV, but some on the list have given it subq),
acts as a catalyst to boost the immune system into working better. It
is available without a prescription.
There's a ton of discussions about this stuff in the archives. Mylo
does sound like he's in bad shape, but kitties have bounced back from
being very sick when the right treatment is given. You need to find out
what is wrong in order to treat him. I'm so glad you were not willing
to accept your vet's assessment without looking for a second opinion.
Sometimes just getting him on the right antibiotic can turn things
around. In the meantime, he has to eat and you have to keep him
hydrated. Have you ever assist fed a cat before?
I know others will jump in with suggestions. Write as often as you
like, we are here to support you and truly understand.
Nina
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