Re: [Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat Household
thank you Jenny. not even my vet explained it this wel to me. dorlis jb...@tds.net wrote: Steven, It is a difficult diagnosis to hear, so first, I am sorry. Second, Felv+ is not an immediate death sentence for all felines in a household. I agree with what has already been said, in that separating him may only cause stress, and this is a huge factor for felv+ cats. It can push them over the edge. There is a great fear among vets with felv+ cats and often times they recommend euthanasia or at least strict separation. I think this is unfortunate, but because of the unpredictable nature of disease transmission; development, or lack of such development, of immunity; disease carrier state; and progression of disease, this is often what vets fall back on. In any event they almost always adovcate separation, but after a long history of prolonged exposure, it may be a mute point. Some vets believe transmission can occur at any time despite having been exposed to it in the past. In other words just because a cat has been exposed to the virus and fought it off, it they are exposed again they may acquire the disease, i.e. there is no lifetime immunity. It is a great source of debate, and the knowledge simply isn't there. Ultimately, it is a decision only you can make. Certainly people in this group have had good success with intermingling. I would recommend vaccinating any negative cats if you do comingle them. Do not, however, vaccinate a positive cat Third, felv is a virus that gets inside the cells responsible for a cat's immune response - white blood cells, including lymphocyts and macrophages. The virus actually implants its DNA into your cat's cells DNA and uses your cats cells to replicate itself. Because it is living inside of and playing with the DNA of your cats cells, these cells no longer function properly and can start to multiply out of control. This is why they develop into lymphomas - uncontrolled replication of lymphocytes. Additionally, your cats immune cells work to keep other cancers from forming - they actually kill other cells that start replicating out of control. In felv+ cats the immune cells are not working properly and can't kill those other out of control cells. This can lead to increased risk of other types of cancers as well. Finally, because your cats immune cells are also responsible for fighting off infections and they are not working properly, your cat is at an increased risk of developing infections. Often it is either these infections (or their sequelae) or the cancers that act as the cause of death in felv+ cats. So armed with this knowledge, it is understandable why everyone here strongly suggests decreasing stress (as increased stress often leads to decreased immune response), giving an excellent diet, give what can be given to strengthen the immune system, treat infections as necessary and give as much supportive care as possible. Since there is currently no cure for felv, supportive care and treatment of infections and secondary cancers (including lymphomas or sarcomas - another form of cancer) are currently our only options. This is perhaps another reason why vets are so fearful of this disease. There are many here that advocate different medications that help boost the immune system. Immulan and Acemannan are two such meds that have been discussed with this groups. There are others. Fourth, with respect to the lung mass. It is likely that it is a lymphoma or lymphosarcoma, but it generally helps to get a diagnosis first. There are different types of lymphomas that respond differently to chemotherapeutic regimens. In general a sample of the mass is taken first to be evaluated by pathology for a diagnosis. Once diagnosed treatment options can be discussed. Generally, any cancer treated earlier, rather than later, has a much better chance of a good outcome. There are a lot of questions you will likely be faced with concerning this situation. I am constantly amazed at the sincerity, support, and willingness to share that this group provides. If you need any help on this journey, this group is certainly one to rely on. Good luck and God bless. Jenny spertus...@aol.com wrote: Hello everyone, My name is Steven with a long history of feline stewardship; will not say owner because who owns who is always in question! :) Sorry for a long post. I am confused and wanting to make sure I get the most efficient and best treatment possible for a recent diagnosis: I have 6 felines in my household: Rosie-12 year old female brown tabby Samauri a/k/a Sammy- 9 year old male blonde tabby Olivander- 7 year old male Maine Coon Maggie- 3 year old female blonde and white tabby Squeaky-2 year old female tuxedo Fuzzy-2 year old male long haired tuxedo and brother of Squeaky
Re: [Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat Household
Steven, I understand your confusion. So little is understood about FeLV. My experience has been with 6 kittens born with FeLV that I rescued from a dumpster colony. They did not 'throw off' the virus but I have only lost one. They remaining 5 are doing fine and have been mixed with my negative kitties who were vaccinated. You are doing all the right things. Checking the status of your other companions. Seeing a specialist for Samauri. Giving him supplements to boost his immune system. I would suggest talking to your vet about adding L-lysine to his diet as well. I understand that Samauri is eating and playing just fine right now. The chemo may affect his appetite. It is important to monitor his eating starting now to make sure he maintains his ideal body wt throughout his treatment. The easiest way to do this is to weigh him regularly on a digital baby, postal or pet scale. He may need additional calories to fight through this episode. There is an Assist Feeding Group and a couple of Lymphoma Groups that can offer help while you develop a treatment plan for him. http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/Feline-Assisted-Feeding/ http://groups.yahoo.com/group/feline_lymphoma/ http://felinelymphomacaregivers.org/index.html The very best medicine is love and a low stress environment. It sounds like Samauri is receiving lots of love. All we can do is share our experiences. Hopefully they will help. Good luck with the rest of your companions and at the specialist next Tuesday. Sharyl --- On Sat, 3/21/09, spertus...@aol.com spertus...@aol.com wrote: From: spertus...@aol.com spertus...@aol.com Subject: [Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat Household To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Cc: spertus...@aol.com Date: Saturday, March 21, 2009, 2:03 PM Hello everyone, My name is Steven with a long history of feline stewardship; will not say owner because who owns who is always in question! :) Sorry for a long post. I am confused and wanting to make sure I get the most efficient and best treatment possible for a recent diagnosis: I have 6 felines in my household: Rosie-12 year old female brown tabby Samauri a/k/a Sammy- 9 year old male blonde tabby Olivander- 7 year old male Maine Coon Maggie- 3 year old female blonde and white tabby Squeaky-2 year old female tuxedo Fuzzy-2 year old male long haired tuxedo and brother of Squeaky My 9 year old Samauri just diagnosed yesterday with FELV and x-rays show moderate cancer mass in his chest cavity. His comprehensive blood work shows all is normal and in range so I am confused. He eats, drinks, sleeps, plays and behaves normally as he always has, would not know he was sick at all. All other felines being tested on Monday 3/23 and Samauri is currently quarantined in 1 large bedroom and we are all not happy about this. Is the cancer which my vet says is of the lymphoma type caused by the FELV virus as a secondary disease or is it possible the cancer is in addition to the FELV positive status and the virus is not causing havoc yet? Would the blood work be normal or are we just lucky so far? Samauri has been going to the vet lately for a cronic upper respiratory infection where his eyes tear because the nasal passages were clogged. Medication clears it up as it has occurred 2-3x per year for the past several years. I am seeing a specialist on Tuesday for the cancer that shows up on the x-rays. I imagine this is what I fight and do other things to ensure his immune system stays as healthy as possible? My vet has given me liquid Immuno Support Vitamins that contains Lysine, Larch Arabinogalactan, Reishi Mushroom and Lutein. He wants the specialist to come up with a cancer fighting chemotherapy protocol. Also, I have read posts regarding separating or not separating positive and negative felines, and my vet actually is already assuming the other cats to be tested will test positive. Should he be making that assumption? I am fairly convinced right now that I could let all kitties roam the house under certain managed conditions relating to shared bowls, etc. Am I even close to being on the right track here? I have supported CRF and Cardiomyopathy felines at home in the past but this is all new to me regarding FELV status and cancer. Thank you to everyone for bearing with me God Bless all our felines! Steven New York **Feeling the pinch at the grocery store? Make dinner for $10 or less. (http://food.aol.com/frugal-feasts?ncid=emlcntusfood0001) ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat Household
Hi Steven, Sorry to hear about Samauri, sending lots of positive, healing energy. My Bailey was 5 months old and positive when I found him, he lived together with his 8 vaccinated house mates for almost 11 years before I lost him to undiagnosed pancreatic cancer (none of the tests we did would confirm cancer even though we were reasonably sure he had some kind of cancer), my vet didn't feel comfortable treating for cancer when we did know where or what kind, different types and stages of cancer need different treatments. That said, I am a member of the feline lymphoma group, have been since my negative Buddie developed liver cancer in 2003, I lost her to it in 2004. I remain a member of the group and maintain the website we have put together to help others. You can find the website here: http://felinelymphoma.org/ you will find tons of info on treatments, vet referrals, financial aid websites, how to keep sick kitty eating and the most help I think are the case studies. There are over 70 case studies of members kitties who have and still are going through every type of cancer. Some are still battling, some have lost their battles and still others who acheived remission have passed from non cancer related thing, age, kidney issues ect ... It is a very informative site and we also have a yahoo group with almost 2000 members, all supportive and knowledgeable. You can find and join if you like here: http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/feline_lymphoma/ I wish the very best for you and your baby. -- Belinda happiness is being owned by cats ... http://bemikitties.com http://BelindaSauro.com ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
[Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat Household
Hello everyone, My name is Steven with a long history of feline stewardship; will not say owner because who owns who is always in question! :) Sorry for a long post. I am confused and wanting to make sure I get the most efficient and best treatment possible for a recent diagnosis: I have 6 felines in my household: Rosie-12 year old female brown tabby Samauri a/k/a Sammy- 9 year old male blonde tabby Olivander- 7 year old male Maine Coon Maggie- 3 year old female blonde and white tabby Squeaky-2 year old female tuxedo Fuzzy-2 year old male long haired tuxedo and brother of Squeaky My 9 year old Samauri just diagnosed yesterday with FELV and x-rays show moderate cancer mass in his chest cavity. His comprehensive blood work shows all is normal and in range so I am confused. He eats, drinks, sleeps, plays and behaves normally as he always has, would not know he was sick at all. All other felines being tested on Monday 3/23 and Samauri is currently quarantined in 1 large bedroom and we are all not happy about this. Is the cancer which my vet says is of the lymphoma type caused by the FELV virus as a secondary disease or is it possible the cancer is in addition to the FELV positive status and the virus is not causing havoc yet? Would the blood work be normal or are we just lucky so far? Samauri has been going to the vet lately for a cronic upper respiratory infection where his eyes tear because the nasal passages were clogged. Medication clears it up as it has occurred 2-3x per year for the past several years. I am seeing a specialist on Tuesday for the cancer that shows up on the x-rays. I imagine this is what I fight and do other things to ensure his immune system stays as healthy as possible? My vet has given me liquid Immuno Support Vitamins that contains Lysine, Larch Arabinogalactan, Reishi Mushroom and Lutein. He wants the specialist to come up with a cancer fighting chemotherapy protocol. Also, I have read posts regarding separating or not separating positive and negative felines, and my vet actually is already assuming the other cats to be tested will test positive. Should he be making that assumption? I am fairly convinced right now that I could let all kitties roam the house under certain managed conditions relating to shared bowls, etc. Am I even close to being on the right track here? I have supported CRF and Cardiomyopathy felines at home in the past but this is all new to me regarding FELV status and cancer. Thank you to everyone for bearing with me God Bless all our felines! Steven New York **Feeling the pinch at the grocery store? Make dinner for $10 or less. (http://food.aol.com/frugal-feasts?ncid=emlcntusfood0001) ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat Household
Steven, Why your vet would assume the others will be positive is distressing. You can have one positive and never have any other occurrences, ever, ever, amen. As for separating, if the cats have all been living together up till now, then you might as well let them continue to co-mingle. Separating everyone can create more stress than anything, and stress can be a very damaging factor. - Fight back spam! Download the Blue Frog. http://www.bluesecurity.com/register/s?user=Y3BxMzc0NQ%3D%3D From: spertus...@aol.com Date: Sat, 21 Mar 2009 14:03:38 -0400 To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org CC: spertus...@aol.com Subject: [Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat Household Hello everyone, My name is Steven with a long history of feline stewardship; will not say owner because who owns who is always in question! :) Sorry for a long post. I am confused and wanting to make sure I get the most efficient and best treatment possible for a recent diagnosis: I have 6 felines in my household: Rosie-12 year old female brown tabby Samauri a/k/a Sammy- 9 year old male blonde tabby Olivander- 7 year old male Maine Coon Maggie- 3 year old female blonde and white tabby Squeaky-2 year old female tuxedo Fuzzy-2 year old male long haired tuxedo and brother of Squeaky My 9 year old Samauri just diagnosed yesterday with FELV and x-rays show moderate cancer mass in his chest cavity. His comprehensive blood work shows all is normal and in range so I am confused. He eats, drinks, sleeps, plays and behaves normally as he always has, would not know he was sick at all. All other felines being tested on Monday 3/23 and Samauri is currently quarantined in 1 large bedroom and we are all not happy about this. Is the cancer which my vet says is of the lymphoma type caused by the FELV virus as a secondary disease or is it possible the cancer is in addition to the FELV positive status and the virus is not causing havoc yet? Would the blood work be normal or are we just lucky so far? Samauri has been going to the vet lately for a cronic upper respiratory infection where his eyes tear because the nasal passages were clogged. Medication clears it up as it has occurred 2-3x per year for the past several years. I am seeing a specialist on Tuesday for the cancer that shows up on the x-rays. I imagine this is what I fight and do other things to ensure his immune system stays as healthy as possible? My vet has given me liquid Immuno Support Vitamins that contains Lysine, Larch Arabinogalactan, Reishi Mushroom and Lutein. He wants the specialist to come up with a cancer fighting chemotherapy protocol. Also, I have read posts regarding separating or not separating positive and negative felines, and my vet actually is already assuming the other cats to be tested will test positive. Should he be making that assumption? I am fairly convinced right now that I could let all kitties roam the house under certain managed conditions relating to shared bowls, etc. Am I even close to being on the right track here? I have supported CRF and Cardiomyopathy felines at home in the past but this is all new to me regarding FELV status and cancer. Thank you to everyone for bearing with me God Bless all our felines! Steven New York **Feeling the pinch at the grocery store? Make dinner for $10 or less. (http://food.aol.com/frugal-feasts?ncid=emlcntusfood0001) ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org _ Express your personality in color! Preview and select themes for Hotmail®. http://www.windowslive-hotmail.com/LearnMore/personalize.aspx?ocid=TXT_MSGTX_WL_HM_express_032009#colortheme ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat Household
Steven, how long has Sammy lived with all the others? On Sat, Mar 21, 2009 at 2:03 PM, spertus...@aol.com wrote: Hello everyone, My name is Steven with a long history of feline stewardship; will not say owner because who owns who is always in question! :) Sorry for a long post. I am confused and wanting to make sure I get the most efficient and best treatment possible for a recent diagnosis: I have 6 felines in my household: Rosie-12 year old female brown tabby Samauri a/k/a Sammy- 9 year old male blonde tabby Olivander- 7 year old male Maine Coon Maggie- 3 year old female blonde and white tabby Squeaky-2 year old female tuxedo Fuzzy-2 year old male long haired tuxedo and brother of Squeaky My 9 year old Samauri just diagnosed yesterday with FELV and x-rays show moderate cancer mass in his chest cavity. His comprehensive blood work shows all is normal and in range so I am confused. He eats, drinks, sleeps, plays and behaves normally as he always has, would not know he was sick at all. All other felines being tested on Monday 3/23 and Samauri is currently quarantined in 1 large bedroom and we are all not happy about this. Is the cancer which my vet says is of the lymphoma type caused by the FELV virus as a secondary disease or is it possible the cancer is in addition to the FELV positive status and the virus is not causing havoc yet? Would the blood work be normal or are we just lucky so far? Samauri has been going to the vet lately for a cronic upper respiratory infection where his eyes tear because the nasal passages were clogged. Medication clears it up as it has occurred 2-3x per year for the past several years. I am seeing a specialist on Tuesday for the cancer that shows up on the x-rays. I imagine this is what I fight and do other things to ensure his immune system stays as healthy as possible? My vet has given me liquid Immuno Support Vitamins that contains Lysine, Larch Arabinogalactan, Reishi Mushroom and Lutein. He wants the specialist to come up with a cancer fighting chemotherapy protocol. Also, I have read posts regarding separating or not separating positive and negative felines, and my vet actually is already assuming the other cats to be tested will test positive. Should he be making that assumption? I am fairly convinced right now that I could let all kitties roam the house under certain managed conditions relating to shared bowls, etc. Am I even close to being on the right track here? I have supported CRF and Cardiomyopathy felines at home in the past but this is all new to me regarding FELV status and cancer. Thank you to everyone for bearing with me God Bless all our felines! Steven New York **Feeling the pinch at the grocery store? Make dinner for $10 or less. (http://food.aol.com/frugal-feasts?ncid=emlcntusfood0001) ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat Household
Steven, I'm not sure why your vet would assume that the others will test positive. It's certainly possible, but I wouldn't be quite so quick to assume. There seems to be a lot of debate about just how communicable the FeLV is; however it's seems widely held that it doesn't really become terribly infectious until the positive cat becomes symptomatic. I understand your devastation confusion; my 10 yr. old buddy was just diagnosed a few weeks ago. It may give you some hope to know that he has shared the house with two other cats for years, fighting, playing, sharing bowls etc, and the other two are negative. My cat is believed to have lymphosarcoma as well. I would tend to believe that the lymphoma is in fact a 'secondary disease', but there are others here with more knowledge who can comment on that. I would think that the chronic URI could be chronic as a result of the FeLV compromising his immune system. In my cats case, we are treating the symptoms as they arise, feeding him the best diet we can, immune boosting vitamins, etc. There is a wealth of information on here about diet. I have had the other two cats vaccinated everyone is mingling. We are not pursuing the cancer at this time. We've had him for five years, assume that he had FeLV when we got him, and he only started acting 'off' in the last month or so. There are many anecdotes here about FeLV+ cats who lived well into their middle to golden years, in mixed households. You've come to the right place for info support. Good luck on tuesday. Talk to the specialist your vet extensively about supporting Sammy's immune system during any chemo. Amy _ Get quick access to your favorite MSN content with Internet Explorer 8. http://ie8.msn.com/microsoft/internet-explorer-8/en-us/ie8.aspx?ocid=B037MSN55C0701A ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat Household
Hi Steven, Sorry to hear one of your babies is FeLV and has a lymphoma. Lymphoma is one of the things that can be caused by FeLV. I can't personally comment on the treatment for lymphoma, but I have a friend who had an FeLV kitty that had it and chemo was successful in that case. As someone else said, I don't know why your vet is assuming the others are positive, most/many adult cats are naturally immune or have been exposed and were able to clear the virus and are immune. It is possible they could all have it, but unless they were kittens when exposed, I would doubt it. Even being exposed as kittens does not necessarily mean they will have it. If these kitties have all been together for some time, I wouldn't bother separating them. I wouldn't even bother with controlled conditions, it's not like Sammy just became positive yesterday, they have been exposed for a long time and if they were going to get it they already have it. Gary -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of spertus...@aol.com Sent: Saturday, March 21, 2009 1:04 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Cc: spertus...@aol.com Subject: [Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat Household Hello everyone, My name is Steven with a long history of feline stewardship; will not say owner because who owns who is always in question! :) Sorry for a long post. I am confused and wanting to make sure I get the most efficient and best treatment possible for a recent diagnosis: I have 6 felines in my household: Rosie-12 year old female brown tabby Samauri a/k/a Sammy- 9 year old male blonde tabby Olivander- 7 year old male Maine Coon Maggie- 3 year old female blonde and white tabby Squeaky-2 year old female tuxedo Fuzzy-2 year old male long haired tuxedo and brother of Squeaky My 9 year old Samauri just diagnosed yesterday with FELV and x-rays show moderate cancer mass in his chest cavity. His comprehensive blood work shows all is normal and in range so I am confused. He eats, drinks, sleeps, plays and behaves normally as he always has, would not know he was sick at all. All other felines being tested on Monday 3/23 and Samauri is currently quarantined in 1 large bedroom and we are all not happy about this. Is the cancer which my vet says is of the lymphoma type caused by the FELV virus as a secondary disease or is it possible the cancer is in addition to the FELV positive status and the virus is not causing havoc yet? Would the blood work be normal or are we just lucky so far? Samauri has been going to the vet lately for a cronic upper respiratory infection where his eyes tear because the nasal passages were clogged. Medication clears it up as it has occurred 2-3x per year for the past several years. I am seeing a specialist on Tuesday for the cancer that shows up on the x-rays. I imagine this is what I fight and do other things to ensure his immune system stays as healthy as possible? My vet has given me liquid Immuno Support Vitamins that contains Lysine, Larch Arabinogalactan, Reishi Mushroom and Lutein. He wants the specialist to come up with a cancer fighting chemotherapy protocol. Also, I have read posts regarding separating or not separating positive and negative felines, and my vet actually is already assuming the other cats to be tested will test positive. Should he be making that assumption? I am fairly convinced right now that I could let all kitties roam the house under certain managed conditions relating to shared bowls, etc. Am I even close to being on the right track here? I have supported CRF and Cardiomyopathy felines at home in the past but this is all new to me regarding FELV status and cancer. Thank you to everyone for bearing with me God Bless all our felines! Steven New York ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat Household
Plus, the stress of suddenly being seperated from one another could trigger something. My vet and I are pretty sure that is what happened to Annie. she was most likely exposed and it had been dormant and the stress of loosing her person, being isolated for 21 days and then getting used to having other cats around lowered her immune system so she could not fight it off. dorlis gary gcru...@centurytel.net wrote: Hi Steven, Sorry to hear one of your babies is FeLV and has a lymphoma. Lymphoma is one of the things that can be caused by FeLV. I can't personally comment on the treatment for lymphoma, but I have a friend who had an FeLV kitty that had it and chemo was successful in that case. As someone else said, I don't know why your vet is assuming the others are positive, most/many adult cats are naturally immune or have been exposed and were able to clear the virus and are immune. It is possible they could all have it, but unless they were kittens when exposed, I would doubt it. Even being exposed as kittens does not necessarily mean they will have it. If these kitties have all been together for some time, I wouldn't bother separating them. I wouldn't even bother with controlled conditions, it's not like Sammy just became positive yesterday, they have been exposed for a long time and if they were going to get it they already have it. Gary -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of spertus...@aol.com Sent: Saturday, March 21, 2009 1:04 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Cc: spertus...@aol.com Subject: [Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat Household Hello everyone, My name is Steven with a long history of feline stewardship; will not say owner because who owns who is always in question! :) Sorry for a long post. I am confused and wanting to make sure I get the most efficient and best treatment possible for a recent diagnosis: I have 6 felines in my household: Rosie-12 year old female brown tabby Samauri a/k/a Sammy- 9 year old male blonde tabby Olivander- 7 year old male Maine Coon Maggie- 3 year old female blonde and white tabby Squeaky-2 year old female tuxedo Fuzzy-2 year old male long haired tuxedo and brother of Squeaky My 9 year old Samauri just diagnosed yesterday with FELV and x-rays show moderate cancer mass in his chest cavity. His comprehensive blood work shows all is normal and in range so I am confused. He eats, drinks, sleeps, plays and behaves normally as he always has, would not know he was sick at all. All other felines being tested on Monday 3/23 and Samauri is currently quarantined in 1 large bedroom and we are all not happy about this. Is the cancer which my vet says is of the lymphoma type caused by the FELV virus as a secondary disease or is it possible the cancer is in addition to the FELV positive status and the virus is not causing havoc yet? Would the blood work be normal or are we just lucky so far? Samauri has been going to the vet lately for a cronic upper respiratory infection where his eyes tear because the nasal passages were clogged. Medication clears it up as it has occurred 2-3x per year for the past several years. I am seeing a specialist on Tuesday for the cancer that shows up on the x-rays. I imagine this is what I fight and do other things to ensure his immune system stays as healthy as possible? My vet has given me liquid Immuno Support Vitamins that contains Lysine, Larch Arabinogalactan, Reishi Mushroom and Lutein. He wants the specialist to come up with a cancer fighting chemotherapy protocol. Also, I have read posts regarding separating or not separating positive and negative felines, and my vet actually is already assuming the other cats to be tested will test positive. Should he be making that assumption? I am fairly convinced right now that I could let all kitties roam the house under certain managed conditions relating to shared bowls, etc. Am I even close to being on the right track here? I have supported CRF and Cardiomyopathy felines at home in the past but this is all new to me regarding FELV status and cancer. Thank you to everyone for bearing with me God Bless all our felines! Steven New York ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat Household
who owns who , that is the question. i believe that it is our cats who own us. as to lymphoma, it can be beaten, i did it and am in remission 6 years as of this February. don't give up hope. as for treatment, it seems chemo is the only route as radiation would do far more harm than good. course, i had it all over my body, inside and outside because once in the lymphatic system, can travel all over. . if Samauri has only one nodule, that might be a different story. For sure, don't give up hope and prayer was my main healer. will keep you on my prayer list. dorlis spertus...@aol.com wrote: Hello everyone, My name is Steven with a long history of feline stewardship; will not say owner because who owns who is always in question! :) Sorry for a long post. I am confused and wanting to make sure I get the most efficient and best treatment possible for a recent diagnosis: I have 6 felines in my household: Rosie-12 year old female brown tabby Samauri a/k/a Sammy- 9 year old male blonde tabby Olivander- 7 year old male Maine Coon Maggie- 3 year old female blonde and white tabby Squeaky-2 year old female tuxedo Fuzzy-2 year old male long haired tuxedo and brother of Squeaky My 9 year old Samauri just diagnosed yesterday with FELV and x-rays show moderate cancer mass in his chest cavity. His comprehensive blood work shows all is normal and in range so I am confused. He eats, drinks, sleeps, plays and behaves normally as he always has, would not know he was sick at all. All other felines being tested on Monday 3/23 and Samauri is currently quarantined in 1 large bedroom and we are all not happy about this. Is the cancer which my vet says is of the lymphoma type caused by the FELV virus as a secondary disease or is it possible the cancer is in addition to the FELV positive status and the virus is not causing havoc yet? Would the blood work be normal or are we just lucky so far? Samauri has been going to the vet lately for a cronic upper respiratory infection where his eyes tear because the nasal passages were clogged. Medication clears it up as it has occurred 2-3x per year for the past several years. I am seeing a specialist on Tuesday for the cancer that shows up on the x-rays. I imagine this is what I fight and do other things to ensure his immune system stays as healthy as possible? My vet has given me liquid Immuno Support Vitamins that contains Lysine, Larch Arabinogalactan, Reishi Mushroom and Lutein. He wants the specialist to come up with a cancer fighting chemotherapy protocol. Also, I have read posts regarding separating or not separating positive and negative felines, and my vet actually is already assuming the other cats to be tested will test positive. Should he be making that assumption? I am fairly convinced right now that I could let all kitties roam the house under certain managed conditions relating to shared bowls, etc. Am I even close to being on the right track here? I have supported CRF and Cardiomyopathy felines at home in the past but this is all new to me regarding FELV status and cancer. Thank you to everyone for bearing with me God Bless all our felines! Steven New York **Feeling the pinch at the grocery store? Make dinner for $10 or less. (http://food.aol.com/frugal-feasts?ncid=emlcntusfood0001) ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat...
In a message dated 3/21/2009 3:45:46 PM Central Daylight Time, dlg...@windstream.net writes: i believe that it is our cats who own us I never had a cat until the General came to live with me. I named him for a cat in the John Wayne movie True Grit. Mattie Ross says to Rooster Cogburn You don't have anyone except for Chin Lee and that lazy cat. To which he replies General Price? He don't belong to me. Cats don't belong to nobody. He just rooms with me. Course I depend on him. And so it is with me and General Sterling Price, who just rooms with me and who I depend on. Sidney and the General ** Feeling the pinch at the grocery store? Make dinner for $10 or less. (http://food.aol.com/frugal-feasts?ncid=emlcntusfood0001) ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat Household
I agree with Gary. When our vet thought Teddy might have something contagious he told me not to bother to separate him from the other 6 cats since they'd already been exposed. He felt it would be less stressful for Teddy to continue living amongst his feline family, too. Laurie -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of gary Sent: Saturday, March 21, 2009 3:20 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: [Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat Household Hi Steven, Sorry to hear one of your babies is FeLV and has a lymphoma. Lymphoma is one of the things that can be caused by FeLV. I can't personally comment on the treatment for lymphoma, but I have a friend who had an FeLV kitty that had it and chemo was successful in that case. As someone else said, I don't know why your vet is assuming the others are positive, most/many adult cats are naturally immune or have been exposed and were able to clear the virus and are immune. It is possible they could all have it, but unless they were kittens when exposed, I would doubt it. Even being exposed as kittens does not necessarily mean they will have it. If these kitties have all been together for some time, I wouldn't bother separating them. I wouldn't even bother with controlled conditions, it's not like Sammy just became positive yesterday, they have been exposed for a long time and if they were going to get it they already have it. Gary -Original Message- From: felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org [mailto:felvtalk-boun...@felineleukemia.org] On Behalf Of spertus...@aol.com Sent: Saturday, March 21, 2009 1:04 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Cc: spertus...@aol.com Subject: [Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat Household Hello everyone, My name is Steven with a long history of feline stewardship; will not say owner because who owns who is always in question! :) Sorry for a long post. I am confused and wanting to make sure I get the most efficient and best treatment possible for a recent diagnosis: I have 6 felines in my household: Rosie-12 year old female brown tabby Samauri a/k/a Sammy- 9 year old male blonde tabby Olivander- 7 year old male Maine Coon Maggie- 3 year old female blonde and white tabby Squeaky-2 year old female tuxedo Fuzzy-2 year old male long haired tuxedo and brother of Squeaky My 9 year old Samauri just diagnosed yesterday with FELV and x-rays show moderate cancer mass in his chest cavity. His comprehensive blood work shows all is normal and in range so I am confused. He eats, drinks, sleeps, plays and behaves normally as he always has, would not know he was sick at all. All other felines being tested on Monday 3/23 and Samauri is currently quarantined in 1 large bedroom and we are all not happy about this. Is the cancer which my vet says is of the lymphoma type caused by the FELV virus as a secondary disease or is it possible the cancer is in addition to the FELV positive status and the virus is not causing havoc yet? Would the blood work be normal or are we just lucky so far? Samauri has been going to the vet lately for a cronic upper respiratory infection where his eyes tear because the nasal passages were clogged. Medication clears it up as it has occurred 2-3x per year for the past several years. I am seeing a specialist on Tuesday for the cancer that shows up on the x-rays. I imagine this is what I fight and do other things to ensure his immune system stays as healthy as possible? My vet has given me liquid Immuno Support Vitamins that contains Lysine, Larch Arabinogalactan, Reishi Mushroom and Lutein. He wants the specialist to come up with a cancer fighting chemotherapy protocol. Also, I have read posts regarding separating or not separating positive and negative felines, and my vet actually is already assuming the other cats to be tested will test positive. Should he be making that assumption? I am fairly convinced right now that I could let all kitties roam the house under certain managed conditions relating to shared bowls, etc. Am I even close to being on the right track here? I have supported CRF and Cardiomyopathy felines at home in the past but this is all new to me regarding FELV status and cancer. Thank you to everyone for bearing with me God Bless all our felines! Steven New York ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org ___ Felvtalk mailing list Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org http://felineleukemia.org/mailman/listinfo/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org
Re: [Felvtalk] Devastated and Ignorant-Confused-New Diagnosis in Multiple Cat Household
Steven, It is a difficult diagnosis to hear, so first, I am sorry. Second, Felv+ is not an immediate death sentence for all felines in a household. I agree with what has already been said, in that separating him may only cause stress, and this is a huge factor for felv+ cats. It can push them over the edge. There is a great fear among vets with felv+ cats and often times they recommend euthanasia or at least strict separation. I think this is unfortunate, but because of the unpredictable nature of disease transmission; development, or lack of such development, of immunity; disease carrier state; and progression of disease, this is often what vets fall back on. In any event they almost always adovcate separation, but after a long history of prolonged exposure, it may be a mute point. Some vets believe transmission can occur at any time despite having been exposed to it in the past. In other words just because a cat has been exposed to the virus and fought it off, it they are exposed again they may acquire the disease, i.e. there is no lifetime immunity. It is a great source of debate, and the knowledge simply isn't there. Ultimately, it is a decision only you can make. Certainly people in this group have had good success with intermingling. I would recommend vaccinating any negative cats if you do comingle them. Do not, however, vaccinate a positive cat Third, felv is a virus that gets inside the cells responsible for a cat's immune response - white blood cells, including lymphocyts and macrophages. The virus actually implants its DNA into your cat's cells DNA and uses your cats cells to replicate itself. Because it is living inside of and playing with the DNA of your cats cells, these cells no longer function properly and can start to multiply out of control. This is why they develop into lymphomas - uncontrolled replication of lymphocytes. Additionally, your cats immune cells work to keep other cancers from forming - they actually kill other cells that start replicating out of control. In felv+ cats the immune cells are not working properly and can't kill those other out of control cells. This can lead to increased risk of other types of cancers as well. Finally, because your cats immune cells are also responsible for fighting off infections and they are not working properly, your cat is at an increased risk of developing infections. Often it is either these infections (or their sequelae) or the cancers that act as the cause of death in felv+ cats. So armed with this knowledge, it is understandable why everyone here strongly suggests decreasing stress (as increased stress often leads to decreased immune response), giving an excellent diet, give what can be given to strengthen the immune system, treat infections as necessary and give as much supportive care as possible. Since there is currently no cure for felv, supportive care and treatment of infections and secondary cancers (including lymphomas or sarcomas - another form of cancer) are currently our only options. This is perhaps another reason why vets are so fearful of this disease. There are many here that advocate different medications that help boost the immune system. Immulan and Acemannan are two such meds that have been discussed with this groups. There are others. Fourth, with respect to the lung mass. It is likely that it is a lymphoma or lymphosarcoma, but it generally helps to get a diagnosis first. There are different types of lymphomas that respond differently to chemotherapeutic regimens. In general a sample of the mass is taken first to be evaluated by pathology for a diagnosis. Once diagnosed treatment options can be discussed. Generally, any cancer treated earlier, rather than later, has a much better chance of a good outcome. There are a lot of questions you will likely be faced with concerning this situation. I am constantly amazed at the sincerity, support, and willingness to share that this group provides. If you need any help on this journey, this group is certainly one to rely on. Good luck and God bless. Jenny spertus...@aol.com wrote: Hello everyone, My name is Steven with a long history of feline stewardship; will not say owner because who owns who is always in question! :) Sorry for a long post. I am confused and wanting to make sure I get the most efficient and best treatment possible for a recent diagnosis: I have 6 felines in my household: Rosie-12 year old female brown tabby Samauri a/k/a Sammy- 9 year old male blonde tabby Olivander- 7 year old male Maine Coon Maggie- 3 year old female blonde and white tabby Squeaky-2 year old female tuxedo Fuzzy-2 year old male long haired tuxedo and brother of Squeaky My 9 year old Samauri just diagnosed yesterday with FELV and x-rays show moderate cancer mass in his chest cavity. His comprehensive blood work shows all is normal and in range so I
Re: New Diagnosis
Michael, Good job! You are what this website is all about! The very best to you and your cats! Glenda --- [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thanks guys. I stopped on my way home from work and picked up some Lysine and Echinacea, I'm going to start putting it in their food. I also got some high protein purina naturals food to replace their cat chow indoor formula, and I'll step up to proplan or iams or something if I need to. I also plan on sanitizing all the feeding bowls and drinkwell fountain daily. After speaking with the former fosters and the state coordinator for VA SRC, I think this is the best plan for now. I'll keep you all updated once I get a real diagnosis from the tests they sent off today. Michael ** Get a sneak peek of the all-new AOL at http://discover.aol.com/memed/aolcom30tour Pinpoint customers who are looking for what you sell. http://searchmarketing.yahoo.com/
New Diagnosis
Hello Everyone, My name is Michael Roberts.? I just received word a few hours ago about one of my babies being diagnosed, so bear with me if this takes me a while to get out. First of all, a bit of background information.? I currently have three cats, all Siamese and all from rescues.? The oldest, and the one with the FeLV diagnosis, is approximately 6-7 years old, and the other two are?a little over two.? The first one came from a local rescue shelter here in Tennessee called Angel Wings, which has since been shut down. The other two came from VA Siamese Rescue, an organization that my partner and I are still somewhat active in.? We volunteer to transport on occasion and remain in the newsgroups/email lists. I took all three for their checkups today, and the vet asked if we watned them tested for FeLV, to which we agreed.? The test on Grizzabella came back positive. The test on Penelope was negative, and they ran out of tests, so Poppy hasn't been tested yet.? I did request them to retest Grizzabella (even though they charged me again), and the blood was drawn and sent out for Grizzabella's retest and Poppy's test today, and we should have results by tomorrow. Here's my issuethis is my first time dealing with FeLV, and I don't know what to do or what to expect.? All three of those cats are our children, and I can't bear the thought of seperating them or giving Grizzabella up because she's sick, but I don't know how likely it is the other two will contract the disease, or how to seperate them.? I'm not sure what to do about treatment, either.? I've heard there's no treatment, then I've heard there's meds, and diet changes.? I'm just not sure what my next step should be.? I noticed there are six stages to the disease, and four different types...I don't have any of that inforomation yet.? Can anyone give me a heads up and let me know where we should start with this?? Not sure what I need to do, guys.? I know lots of you have a lot of experience with this, and i'd be interested in any advice you can give. Thanks in advance. AOL now offers free email to everyone. Find out more about what's free from AOL at AOL.com.
Re: New Diagnosis
Hi Michael and welcome On 8/21/07, [EMAIL PROTECTED] [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hello Everyone, My name is Michael Roberts. I just received word a few hours ago about one of my babies being diagnosed, so bear with me if this takes me a while to get out. Ok, first of all, you don't have a diagnosis or anything else yet. What you have is one positive result on a test that has a 20% false positive rate. You need to get an IFA test to confirm. Recommendation is usually 3-6 months from time of first positive test. http://www.felineleukemia.org/felvhlth.html First of all, a bit of background information. I currently have three cats, all Siamese and all from rescues. The oldest, and the one with the FeLV diagnosis, is approximately 6-7 years old, and the other two are a little over two. The first one came from a local rescue shelter here in Tennessee called Angel Wings, which has since been shut down. The other two came from VA Siamese Rescue, an organization that my partner and I are still somewhat active in. We volunteer to transport on occasion and remain in the newsgroups/email lists. I took all three for their checkups today, and the vet asked if we watned them tested for FeLV, to which we agreed. The test on Grizzabella came back positive. The test on Penelope was negative, and they ran out of tests, so Poppy hasn't been tested yet. I did request them to retest Grizzabella (even though they charged me again), and the blood was drawn and sent out for Grizzabella's retest and Poppy's test today, and we should have results by tomorrow. OK, well, Angel Wings was a bad situation with lots of FELV+ cats. I used to volunteer with Siamese Rescue and at that time we combo tested *all* adult cats. I would be surprised if these 2 had not already been combo tested. Do you have their medical records from Siamese Rescue? Here's my issuethis is my first time dealing with FeLV, and I don't know what to do or what to expect. All three of those cats are our children, and I can't bear the thought of seperating them or giving Grizzabella up because she's sick, but I don't know how likely it is the other two will contract the disease, or how to seperate them. I definitely wouldn't give up a cat that was sick, anymore than I would give up a human child because they had leukemia. I personally would not separate at this point. I would vaccinate and if your other 2 have not gotten it, they probably will not. Healthy adult cats have a ~85% natural immunity to FELV. I'm not sure what to do about treatment, either. I've heard there's no treatment, then I've heard there's meds, and diet changes. There are meds, and there are diet changes, and there is treatment. If your vet is not up on these things you need ot find a new vet. http://www.felineleukemia.org/treatmnt.html I'm just not sure what my next step should be. I noticed there are six stages to the disease, and four different types...I don't have any of that inforomation yet. I've never heard of this in my life and I've been around this list a while. Where did you get this information? Can anyone give me a heads up and let me know where we should start with this? Not sure what I need to do, guys. I know lots of you have a lot of experience with this, and i'd be interested in any advice you can give. Take a deep breath and don't make any rash decisions. Love yourself, your partner and your kitties:) Kelley -- 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 Caroline! http://rescuties.chipin.com/caroline 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: New Diagnosis
Hi Michael, First, I want to tell you that I am sorry that Grizzabella has tested felv+, but I also want to tell you thanks so much for adopting a rescue kitty. Angel Wings, I believe (someone correct me if I am wrong) was originally set up as a felv+sanctuary. They were closed down about 2 yrs. ago due to animal neglect, cruelty, abuse misrepresentation. The case is still pending in court, I believe, if it hasn't been pleaded out. We took several cats from them, and they were absorbed into our headquarters in Dallas. First, I recommend beginning the process of boosting your cats (all of them) immune systems w/ the usual things that we do. I would begin w/L Lysine, (available anywhere that sells vitamins, get the capsules that you can open) and ask your vet about Missing Link supplement. If you get the professional strength (prescription item) it also has a detox properties. Mix both of the above supplements into moist food. W/the Missing Link, you will want to start small and work your way up to the recommended dosage. I also sprinkle a bit of nutrional yeast onto my cats dry food. Feed them a high quality dry food, I feed Innova Evo mixed w/Wellness Core only. This is a good start. As far as separating them now, your other younger cats have a natural immunity to this disease about 80 % or so. And lastly, talk to your vet and see what will work for you, because this is what is working for me now. Thanks, please keep in touch. Susan J. DuBose ^..^ www.PetGirlsPetsitting.com www.Tx.SiameseRescue.org www.shadowcats.net As Cleopatra lay in state, Faithful Bast at her side did wait, Purring welcomes of soft applause, Ever guarding with sharpened claws. Trajan Tennent - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, August 21, 2007 1:08 PM Subject: New Diagnosis Hello Everyone, My name is Michael Roberts. I just received word a few hours ago about one of my babies being diagnosed, so bear with me if this takes me a while to get out. First of all, a bit of background information. I currently have three cats, all Siamese and all from rescues. The oldest, and the one with the FeLV diagnosis, is approximately 6-7 years old, and the other two are a little over two. The first one came from a local rescue shelter here in Tennessee called Angel Wings, which has since been shut down. The other two came from VA Siamese Rescue, an organization that my partner and I are still somewhat active in. We volunteer to transport on occasion and remain in the newsgroups/email lists. I took all three for their checkups today, and the vet asked if we watned them tested for FeLV, to which we agreed. The test on Grizzabella came back positive. The test on Penelope was negative, and they ran out of tests, so Poppy hasn't been tested yet. I did request them to retest Grizzabella (even though they charged me again), and the blood was drawn and sent out for Grizzabella's retest and Poppy's test today, and we should have results by tomorrow. Here's my issuethis is my first time dealing with FeLV, and I don't know what to do or what to expect. All three of those cats are our children, and I can't bear the thought of seperating them or giving Grizzabella up because she's sick, but I don't know how likely it is the other two will contract the disease, or how to seperate them. I'm not sure what to do about treatment, either. I've heard there's no treatment, then I've heard there's meds, and diet changes. I'm just not sure what my next step should be. I noticed there are six stages to the disease, and four different types...I don't have any of that inforomation yet. Can anyone give me a heads up and let me know where we should start with this? Not sure what I need to do, guys. I know lots of you have a lot of experience with this, and i'd be interested in any advice you can give. Thanks in advance. -- AOL now offers free email to everyone. Find out more about what's free from AOL at AOL.com.
Re: New Diagnosis
Dear Michael, I am new to this issue too. I just lost my kitty last ngiht to FelV, which I didn't even know he had. I have two other kitties that are to be tested today at 4pm. I can't help you because you and I are in the same boat, I don't know my next steps either. I can tell you that everyone I have talked to thru this site have been very helpful to me today. My prayers are with you, please keep us in your prayers too. Ang [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hello Everyone, My name is Michael Roberts. I just received word a few hours ago about one of my babies being diagnosed, so bear with me if this takes me a while to get out. First of all, a bit of background information. I currently have three cats, all Siamese and all from rescues. The oldest, and the one with the FeLV diagnosis, is approximately 6-7 years old, and the other two are a little over two. The first one came from a local rescue shelter here in Tennessee called Angel Wings, which has since been shut down. The other two came from VA Siamese Rescue, an organization that my partner and I are still somewhat active in. We volunteer to transport on occasion and remain in the newsgroups/email lists. I took all three for their checkups today, and the vet asked if we watned them tested for FeLV, to which we agreed. The test on Grizzabella came back positive. The test on Penelope was negative, and they ran out of tests, so Poppy hasn't been tested yet. I did request them to retest Grizzabella (even though they charged me again), and the blood was drawn and sent out for Grizzabella's retest and Poppy's test today, and we should have results by tomorrow. Here's my issuethis is my first time dealing with FeLV, and I don't know what to do or what to expect. All three of those cats are our children, and I can't bear the thought of seperating them or giving Grizzabella up because she's sick, but I don't know how likely it is the other two will contract the disease, or how to seperate them. I'm not sure what to do about treatment, either. I've heard there's no treatment, then I've heard there's meds, and diet changes. I'm just not sure what my next step should be. I noticed there are six stages to the disease, and four different types...I don't have any of that inforomation yet. Can anyone give me a heads up and let me know where we should start with this? Not sure what I need to do, guys. I know lots of you have a lot of experience with this, and i'd be interested in any advice you can give. Thanks in advance. - AOL now offers free email to everyone. Find out more about what's free from AOL at AOL.com. - Boardwalk for $500? In 2007? Ha! Play Monopoly Here and Now (it's updated for today's economy) at Yahoo! Games.
Re: New Diagnosis
Hi Michael, Yes, you are correct, SR always tests their adoption cats and the Virginia Center has a very good reputation for strict protacol. I would still consider the L Lysine, it cannot hurt, only help. Good luck, and please keep us posted. Susan J. DuBose ^..^ www.PetGirlsPetsitting.com www.Tx.SiameseRescue.org www.shadowcats.net As Cleopatra lay in state, Faithful Bast at her side did wait, Purring welcomes of soft applause, Ever guarding with sharpened claws. Trajan Tennent - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, August 21, 2007 2:52 PM Subject: Re: New Diagnosis Here's the information on the stages and such, from Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feline_leukemia_virus The information on different types also came from here: http://www.animalhealthchannel.com/FeLV/ I do not have Siamese Rescue's records, but I do know they test. I also took them to my vet when I got them, and I'm pretty sure we tested then. I wasn't aware of the high false positive rate when I initially posted, so I'm breathing now. I've had a few hours to settle down, and I'm going to take things slowly and a day at a time. The IFA test was done in the office today, and I should have those results tomorrow. I'll also have her retested in 3-6 months, as recommended. As for the vet, when I took them today I was terribly disappointed that my vet had retired :( The new guy was nice enough, but I am going to look for a specialist or a vet more familiar with FeLV. One day at a time. One step at a time. The next step will be to see if someone else is positive. And if not, to verify Bella's diagnosis, and see where to go from there. Thanks for all the advice, guys. M
Re: New Diagnosis
I am no expert and some on this list have been very critical of me. However, I offer this for your information. Take what you can use and leave the rest. Dixie Louise tested positive over two years ago and she is the picture of health. She has a very good diet of Primal Raw + lots of finely chopped veggies + raw organic eggs 2-3 times a week supplemented by Colostrum/Transfer Factor/ Lysine and holistic/alternative compounds. Markwell and Wellness canned foods are subbed in when something just doesn't work out with her primary diet. I use PetzLife BrushAway on her teeth since she showed signs of stomatitis when she came into my life. She is appx 5 years old and was a throw-away so I am not sure about her history. Her future is the light of my life who currently travels between a log home we are building on a farm and a house in Louisville KY. She has regular vets in Louisville (Middletown Animal Clinic) who are very open-minded about FeLV and alternative medicines and very attentive to Dixie. She has two alternative vets Drs. Betty Boswell and Dr. Susan Maier. Both do some phone consultations. Immediately after MAC tested her I consulted Dr. Boswell who had treated other animal friends of mine and to whom I was initially referred by the vets at MAC. Dixie, as I said, is the picture of health. All of this is to say don't worry about the future. I did. You will but try to recognize that this is not a death sentence. And to do every thing you can to help the immune systems of all your cats. Even those who show up here for a snack regularly get some supplements ..what just depends on when they show up. I don't know how long you have had the cats or how long they have mixed. Others on the list can address this better than I. Dixie mixed with the Royal Princess Kitty Katt who had been diagnosed with cancer and after it was apparent that mixing them was (unfortunately) not going to endanger Kitty Katt. To be honest, I am not sure what I would do about letting her mix with another cat since the ones that come my way are either alley cats, barn cats, throw-aways or ferals--all of which have probably been exposed to FeLV and will not be endangered by Dixie. I do have concerns about what they may bring her. This is a bridge we have not crossed yet. Attempt to get your breathe. When MAC vets called me with the test results (I had taken Dixie there to be spayed) it was like a ton of bricks hit. I had no way to keep hershe was supposed to be spayed and released and taken to the farm when the house was finished as an outside cat. I found ways. I could not kill a perfectly healthy cat (much to my vets' relief). I am not sure how but things do work out. You must relax enough to think. If you have an alternative vet close please talk to him/her. I hope your regular vet is open-minded. Take deep breaths..think...ask your Creator..and ask your cats...it will work out. 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: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, August 21, 2007 1:08 PM Subject: New Diagnosis Hello Everyone, My name is Michael Roberts. I just received word a few hours ago about one of my babies being diagnosed, so bear with me if this takes me a while to get out. First of all, a bit of background information. I currently have three cats, all Siamese and all from rescues. The oldest, and the one with the FeLV diagnosis, is approximately 6-7 years old, and the other two are a little over two. The first one came from a local rescue shelter here in Tennessee called Angel Wings, which has since been shut down. The other two came from VA Siamese Rescue, an organization that my partner and I are still somewhat active in. We volunteer to transport on occasion and remain in the newsgroups/email lists. I took all three for their checkups today, and the vet asked if we watned them tested for FeLV, to which we agreed. The test on Grizzabella came back positive. The test on Penelope was negative, and they ran out of tests, so Poppy hasn't been tested yet. I did request them to retest Grizzabella (even though they charged me again), and the blood was drawn and sent out for Grizzabella's retest and Poppy's test today, and we should have results by tomorrow. Here's my issuethis is my first time dealing with FeLV, and I don't know what to do or what to expect. All three of those cats are our children, and I can't bear the thought
Re: New Diagnosis
Thanks guys. I stopped on my way home from work and picked up some Lysine and Echinacea, I'm going to start putting it in their food. I also got some high protein purina naturals food to replace their cat chow indoor formula, and I'll step up to proplan or iams or something if I need to. I also plan on sanitizing all the feeding bowls and drinkwell fountain daily. After speaking with the former fosters and the state coordinator for VA SRC, I think this is the best plan for now. I'll keep you all updated once I get a real diagnosis from the tests they sent off today. Michael ** Get a sneak peek of the all-new AOL at http://discover.aol.com/memed/aolcom30tour
Re: New Diagnosis
At 11:08 AM 8/21/2007, you wrote: If it were me I would make sure the negative cats have their FELv vaccinations,,,2 of them and then allow them each others company,,, I have an FELV cat that hangs out with other cats,,Very hard to transmit to an adult,,,so give then negative kitties their vaccinations and all of us here will hellp woth your Felv pos baby Kelly www.kellyscats#zoomshare.com Hello Everyone, My name is Michael Roberts. I just received word a few hours ago about one of my babies being diagnosed, so bear with me if this takes me a while to get out. First of all, a bit of background information. I currently have three cats, all Siamese and all from rescues. The oldest, and the one with the FeLV diagnosis, is approximately 6-7 years old, and the other two are a little over two. The first one came from a local rescue shelter here in Tennessee called Angel Wings, which has since been shut down. The other two came from VA Siamese Rescue, an organization that my partner and I are still somewhat active in. We volunteer to transport on occasion and remain in the newsgroups/email lists. I took all three for their checkups today, and the vet asked if we watned them tested for FeLV, to which we agreed. The test on Grizzabella came back positive. The test on Penelope was negative, and they ran out of tests, so Poppy hasn't been tested yet. I did request them to retest Grizzabella (even though they charged me again), and the blood was drawn and sent out for Grizzabella's retest and Poppy's test today, and we should have results by tomorrow. Here's my issuethis is my first time dealing with FeLV, and I don't know what to do or what to expect. All three of those cats are our children, and I can't bear the thought of seperating them or giving Grizzabella up because she's sick, but I don't know how likely it is the other two will contract the disease, or how to seperate them. I'm not sure what to do about treatment, either. I've heard there's no treatment, then I've heard there's meds, and diet changes. I'm just not sure what my next step should be. I noticed there are six stages to the disease, and four different types...I don't have any of that inforomation yet. Can anyone give me a heads up and let me know where we should start with this? Not sure what I need to do, guys. I know lots of you have a lot of experience with this, and i'd be interested in any advice you can give. Thanks in advance. -- AOL now offers free email to everyone. Find out more about what's free from AOL at http://www.aol.com?ncid=AOLAOF0002000437AOL.com. No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.484 / Virus Database: 269.12.1/963 - Release Date: 8/20/2007 5:44 PM
Re: new diagnosis
Hi, It sounds like you are doing all the right things. The only thing I can think that I would do right now is giver lysine. Welcome to the list. tonya Jane Lyons [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hello everyone I just joined this group as I have just had two FeLV positive test results on my year old kitten. I adopted her from a cat shelter two months ago with many health issues (upper respiratory, diarrhea giardia, stomatits). I was told that she was FeLV negative and figured I could deal with all of the above because they were not life threatening and once I got her out of the shelter 'colony' and to our vets, that she would get well. She didn't. On Friday I took her to my homeopathic vet who insisted that she be tested again for FeLV, and the test came back positive and the second test result which I got on Saturday was also positive. Needless to say I am devastated. Both of the vets that I use are being supportive and hopeful. When I adopted a positive kitten 20 years ago I was told that she had to be put down because she would infect my other cat. This is not the case now. We have two Scotties and had recently lost a 19 year old cat, and a 21 year old the year before. This cat, MeMe, is an absolute love. My homeopath put her on a probiotic that she is excited about FortiFlora, and liquid DMG as well as help in weaning her to Archetype food as she is addicted to Fancy Feast which my vet calls 'kitty crack'. I have been overwhelmed with the amount of information I am finding on the Web. Some of it seems very optimistic, some, bordering on fantasy. I joined this group hoping to share information with real people who are living and coping with this disease. I keep re-reading the Home page on this site which states that Feline Leukemia is not a death sentence. I would appreciate any information which could be helpful to MeMe. Thank you Jane
Re: new diagnosis
I raised three little foundlings--The 3 Orange Boyz--and they tested FeLV-. Then at nine months one of them, Sammy, tested not only FeLV+ but with mediastinal lymphoma. He is now in the Wisconsin/Madison chemotherapy protocol and is doing just wonderfully and after four treatments he is in apparent remission. Amazing! So little negatives can switch to positive. The shelter was not pulling your leg when they said she was negative. And the reason your vets are being so supportive is because times have changed. FeLV positive cats are no longer routinely marked for death the way they were years ago because many of them live a long time. My beloved Mamie lived for nine years after her diagnosis when she was a wee one (she was found on a golf course in Michigan in really pitiful shape: fleas, URI, tapeworm, other parasites, just a wreck--and she persevered through all--and when she was well I brought her home where she had a fabulous life until I got divorced and she lost her idyllic life when I moved to an apartment. The change really affected her negatively (and me, too) and caused her immune system to really go downhill. The most important thing is to keep little MeMe healthy and give her all the opportunities a little cat can have. Mamie was leash-trained and also, thank God, had a very safe neighborhood in which to roam and a kitty-door that was always available. (She always was inside at night.) I think the fact that she was out in the sun and the rain and was able to have fun spying on the birds and rescuing mice, voles and chipmunks. You can have your little darling girl for along time! Taylor Scobie Humphrey [EMAIL PROTECTED] On May 27, 2007, at 1:15 PM, Kelly L wrote: At 10:24 AM 5/27/2007, you wrote: Welcome..and THANK YOU No it is not a death sentence as you will see here. i just returned from Best friends where I met Many old,,,15-22 year old cats .. Unfortunately when kittens get it they seem to have a shorter life span, My guy is a year and a half, Best Friends give their leukemia cats 1/4 cc immuno regulin I.M each month,,I use that and alferon natural interferon,,, a good diet and lots of love!!! and have other cats also and do not worry about it spreading to my adult vaccinated cats, But Max my FELV cat live primarily away form the others with his own friends,,, I do not want him catching anything else. Kelly www.kellyscats.zoomshare.com Hello everyone I just joined this group as I have just had two FeLV positive test results on my year old kitten. I adopted her from a cat shelter two months ago with many health issues (upper respiratory, diarrhea giardia, stomatits). I was told that she was FeLV negative and figured I could deal with all of the above because they were not life threatening and once I got her out of the shelter 'colony' and to our vets, that she would get well. She didn't. On Friday I took her to my homeopathic vet who insisted that she be tested again for FeLV, and the test came back positive and the second test result which I got on Saturday was also positive. Needless to say I am devastated. Both of the vets that I use are being supportive and hopeful. When I adopted a positive kitten 20 years ago I was told that she had to be put down because she would infect my other cat. This is not the case now. We have two Scotties and had recently lost a 19 year old cat, and a 21 year old the year before. This cat, MeMe, is an absolute love. My homeopath put her on a probiotic that she is excited about FortiFlora, and liquid DMG as well as help in weaning her to Archetype food as she is addicted to Fancy Feast which my vet calls 'kitty crack'. I have been overwhelmed with the amount of information I am finding on the Web. Some of it seems very optimistic, some, bordering on fantasy. I joined this group hoping to share information with real people who are living and coping with this disease. I keep re-reading the Home page on this site which states that Feline Leukemia is not a death sentence. I would appreciate any information which could be helpful to MeMe. Thank you Jane -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.472 / Virus Database: 269.8.0/819 - Release Date: 5/26/2007 10:47 AM -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.472 / Virus Database: 269.8.0/819 - Release Date: 5/26/2007 10:47 AM
Re: new diagnosis
Jane, You are so right about the overwhelming amount of FeLV info. on the Internet-some of it odd. Take a deep breath. You will successfully wade through it all. Just give yourself time to ingest it all and cyphon back out what you don't need. :) Wendy --- Jane Lyons [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hello everyone I just joined this group as I have just had two FeLV positive test results on my year old kitten. I adopted her from a cat shelter two months ago with many health issues (upper respiratory, diarrhea giardia, stomatits). I was told that she was FeLV negative and figured I could deal with all of the above because they were not life threatening and once I got her out of the shelter 'colony' and to our vets, that she would get well. She didn't. On Friday I took her to my homeopathic vet who insisted that she be tested again for FeLV, and the test came back positive and the second test result which I got on Saturday was also positive. Needless to say I am devastated. Both of the vets that I use are being supportive and hopeful. When I adopted a positive kitten 20 years ago I was told that she had to be put down because she would infect my other cat. This is not the case now. We have two Scotties and had recently lost a 19 year old cat, and a 21 year old the year before. This cat, MeMe, is an absolute love. My homeopath put her on a probiotic that she is excited about FortiFlora, and liquid DMG as well as help in weaning her to Archetype food as she is addicted to Fancy Feast which my vet calls 'kitty crack'. I have been overwhelmed with the amount of information I am finding on the Web. Some of it seems very optimistic, some, bordering on fantasy. I joined this group hoping to share information with real people who are living and coping with this disease. I keep re-reading the Home page on this site which states that Feline Leukemia is not a death sentence. I would appreciate any information which could be helpful to MeMe. Thank you Jane 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 ~~~ Get the free Yahoo! toolbar and rest assured with the added security of spyware protection. http://new.toolbar.yahoo.com/toolbar/features/norton/index.php
new diagnosis
Hello everyone I just joined this group as I have just had two FeLV positive test results on my year old kitten. I adopted her from a cat shelter two months ago with many health issues (upper respiratory, diarrhea giardia, stomatits). I was told that she was FeLV negative and figured I could deal with all of the above because they were not life threatening and once I got her out of the shelter 'colony' and to our vets, that she would get well. She didn't. On Friday I took her to my homeopathic vet who insisted that she be tested again for FeLV, and the test came back positive and the second test result which I got on Saturday was also positive. Needless to say I am devastated. Both of the vets that I use are being supportive and hopeful. When I adopted a positive kitten 20 years ago I was told that she had to be put down because she would infect my other cat. This is not the case now. We have two Scotties and had recently lost a 19 year old cat, and a 21 year old the year before. This cat, MeMe, is an absolute love. My homeopath put her on a probiotic that she is excited about FortiFlora, and liquid DMG as well as help in weaning her to Archetype food as she is addicted to Fancy Feast which my vet calls 'kitty crack'. I have been overwhelmed with the amount of information I am finding on the Web. Some of it seems very optimistic, some, bordering on fantasy. I joined this group hoping to share information with real people who are living and coping with this disease. I keep re-reading the Home page on this site which states that Feline Leukemia is not a death sentence. I would appreciate any information which could be helpful to MeMe. Thank you Jane
Re: new diagnosis
At 10:24 AM 5/27/2007, you wrote: Welcome..and THANK YOU No it is not a death sentence as you will see here. i just returned from Best friends where I met Many old,,,15-22 year old cats .. Unfortunately when kittens get it they seem to have a shorter life span, My guy is a year and a half, Best Friends give their leukemia cats 1/4 cc immuno regulin I.M each month,,I use that and alferon natural interferon,,, a good diet and lots of love!!! and have other cats also and do not worry about it spreading to my adult vaccinated cats, But Max my FELV cat live primarily away form the others with his own friends,,, I do not want him catching anything else. Kelly www.kellyscats.zoomshare.com Hello everyone I just joined this group as I have just had two FeLV positive test results on my year old kitten. I adopted her from a cat shelter two months ago with many health issues (upper respiratory, diarrhea giardia, stomatits). I was told that she was FeLV negative and figured I could deal with all of the above because they were not life threatening and once I got her out of the shelter 'colony' and to our vets, that she would get well. She didn't. On Friday I took her to my homeopathic vet who insisted that she be tested again for FeLV, and the test came back positive and the second test result which I got on Saturday was also positive. Needless to say I am devastated. Both of the vets that I use are being supportive and hopeful. When I adopted a positive kitten 20 years ago I was told that she had to be put down because she would infect my other cat. This is not the case now. We have two Scotties and had recently lost a 19 year old cat, and a 21 year old the year before. This cat, MeMe, is an absolute love. My homeopath put her on a probiotic that she is excited about FortiFlora, and liquid DMG as well as help in weaning her to Archetype food as she is addicted to Fancy Feast which my vet calls 'kitty crack'. I have been overwhelmed with the amount of information I am finding on the Web. Some of it seems very optimistic, some, bordering on fantasy. I joined this group hoping to share information with real people who are living and coping with this disease. I keep re-reading the Home page on this site which states that Feline Leukemia is not a death sentence. I would appreciate any information which could be helpful to MeMe. Thank you Jane -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.472 / Virus Database: 269.8.0/819 - Release Date: 5/26/2007 10:47 AM -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.472 / Virus Database: 269.8.0/819 - Release Date: 5/26/2007 10:47 AM
Re: new diagnosis
Hello Jane and welcome. Every one of us on this list has lived through the fear and confusion you are facing. This list has been a haven for me and so many others, I'm so very glad you've found us. It sounds like you have a wonderful vet and that MeMe, (very cute name, I can just picture how she came to name herself that), is in loving and capable hands. You are both blessed to have found each other. I'm praying that she recovers from her symptoms and that you have many years together. Take a look at our archives using key words to search for advice on her symptoms. Ask as many questions on specifics as you like and feel free to vent, cry or just share how special she is. Give that little angel a head butt from me. Nina Jane Lyons wrote: Hello everyone I just joined this group as I have just had two FeLV positive test results on my year old kitten. I adopted her from a cat shelter two months ago with many health issues (upper respiratory, diarrhea giardia, stomatits). I was told that she was FeLV negative and figured I could deal with all of the above because they were not life threatening and once I got her out of the shelter 'colony' and to our vets, that she would get well. She didn't. On Friday I took her to my homeopathic vet who insisted that she be tested again for FeLV, and the test came back positive and the second test result which I got on Saturday was also positive. Needless to say I am devastated. Both of the vets that I use are being supportive and hopeful. When I adopted a positive kitten 20 years ago I was told that she had to be put down because she would infect my other cat. This is not the case now. We have two Scotties and had recently lost a 19 year old cat, and a 21 year old the year before. This cat, MeMe, is an absolute love. My homeopath put her on a probiotic that she is excited about FortiFlora, and liquid DMG as well as help in weaning her to Archetype food as she is addicted to Fancy Feast which my vet calls 'kitty crack'. I have been overwhelmed with the amount of information I am finding on the Web. Some of it seems very optimistic, some, bordering on fantasy. I joined this group hoping to share information with real people who are living and coping with this disease. I keep re-reading the Home page on this site which states that Feline Leukemia is not a death sentence. I would appreciate any information which could be helpful to MeMe. Thank you Jane
Re: new diagnosis
I'm glad you found this group! There are so many people here with a lot of knowledge, as well as it being a great support group. My kitten Pippin tested positive for FeLV (ELISA test) when she was 7 weeks old and then tested negative at six months of age on the IFA test. When I first found out she tested positive, I was thinking it was a death sentence and I might have made the wrong decision if not for this group. I will keep Asia and you in my prayers. I hope whatever she has is treatable. Gina cindy reasoner [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: It sounds like you need to find another vet. I had to find a new one when my Smokey was diagnosed with being felv+. They were recomending euthanasia and I am so glad I didn't do it. I will give him love , a home and all the medical help I can until his time comes. Really we never really know how long we will have any of our babies. I hope your kitty starts feeling better and you find a vet that understands this disease. Cindy Reasoner --- Dianne K Perry, Ph.D. wrote: Thank you so much Kelley! I was feeling very alone. My friend and I were talking this morning and she is going to go with me tomorrow (hopefully we can get into oncologist)I saw the AAFP list and there are 3 in the area so maybe if not the oncologist one of them can see us. He gave her a steroid shot of the same type they give when animal is in shock. They gave her fluids and sent her home with lasix. She just ate some white chicken (canned)...and more of the cat milk. Got a crushed up pill in her. Dianne - Original Message - From: Kelley Saveika To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Thursday, November 23, 2006 9:43 AM Subject: Re: new diagnosis Did the vet recommend euthanization based on her diagnosis alone? If so I would find another vet. No matter what I would get a second opinion. There are too many vets out there who don't understand this disease. If no one out there has a recommendation for a vet in your area, I would try one who is a member of the AAFP, they seem to be more up on things. http://www.aafponline.org/ Do you know what the shot was, or did they just give her fluids? Hugs to you and what a way to spend your Thanksgiving - sorry:( FELV is treatable and I would take the eating and drinking and litterbox using as a good sign...but there are a lot of others more knowledgeable than me on this list. I just wanted you to not feel alone. On 11/23/06, Dianne K Perry, Ph.D. wrote: Hi, I just joined this list today, Thanksgiving Day. Yesterday my kitty was diagnosed with feline leukemia, she is just barely one year old and I have had her less than a year (by a few weeks). She has not been her usual self, not getting into everything, not eating, lethargic, breathing labored. Vet said the test results were strong and came back very quickly (a blue response in a little white tester almost like a home pregnancy test instrument), they administered fluids to her for dehydration and the spot where they inserted the needle bled alot, did not coagulate very well. Vet is recommending euthanasia and soon (tomorrow), she has responded today to probably the shot he gave her, she has gone to the bathroom and this am drank a small amount of catsmilk from Wisker's, licked some cat food off my fingers but not much. I am thinking of trying to get a second opinion tomorrow. I need some guidance here so I joined this list. Thanks for any help anyone can provide. Dianne -- Vist the Rescuties store and save a kitty life! http://astore.amazon.com/rescuties-20 Yahoo! Music Unlimited Access over 1 million songs. http://music.yahoo.com/unlimited Visit my Tigger Tales site! - Want to start your own business? Learn how on Yahoo! Small Business.
Re: new diagnosis
Wendy, Thanks for all the tips. Just a note: I live in Bradenton, use to live in Ft. Myers briefly. Originally from Michigan Dianne - Original Message - From: wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Friday, November 24, 2006 12:54 AM Subject: Re: new diagnosis Hi Dianne, Welcome to the FeLV group, and although I'm sorry Asia has tested positive for FeLV, you have found the best place to be while dealing with this unpredictable disease. I was surprised to read that Asia tested negative for FeLV last December. It's possible it was a false negative; they do happen. Has Asia been exposed to other cats since this test? As others have said, FeLV is not a death sentence. I like the way Phaewryn explained that FeLV isn't what's actually making kitty sick; it's what's stemming from her weakened immune system that needs to be addressed. It could be something simple like a cold; it could be anemia, which sometimes is treatable, but other times not; it could be lymphoma. No matter what it is, it's a VERY good sign that Asia is responding to the treatment she's been given so far and eating a little, drinking, and eliminating. Make sure Asia gets bloodwork done tomorrow, especially the red blood cell count, before you make any decisions. It might be Monday before you can get a full panel back, but they can do the RBC count on the spot, so get that done asap. If Asia is found to be anemic, which causes lethargy, make sure the vet gives her a (3 week I think) course of doxycycline, which is used to treat hemobartanella, a blood parasite. Hemobartanella is extremely hard to see on a test, so often times is missed and not treated, and left untreated, kitty is terminal. A course of the doxy will not hurt your baby but might save her as it has countless others from anemia. A great diet, supplements like Vitamin C and L-lysine (without additives, one of which causes blood issues in cats), and a stress-free environment are key to keeping the FeLV from affecting Asia's immune system. I have my kitties on Innova Evo food, dry and wet. It's a great food in my opinion. A lot of people here use it. No matter what, make sure you are getting food into Asia. Cats are not like other animals or people, who can go without food for two weeks or longer and still be alive. Cats, if they don't eat, get what is called Feline Lipidosis (fatty liver disease) and it is terminal if not treated. The fatter the cat, the quicker it can set in. Make sure you are getting food into her, even if you have to fight her. The A/D is GREAT stuff. I water it down some and make it creamy before syringe feeding. It has lots of calories. Keep fighting the good fight with the A/D. I hope the rest of your week gets better Dianne. I know it can be hard, the not knowing, but Asia will pick up on your panic and/or fear, so try to stay calm until you know what you're dealing with. Please keep us posted as to what happens tomorrow with the vet you choose for the second opinion. I would not waste any more money with the one who wanted to pts. Find one who is more up to date on FeLV. I called around and spoke with different vets to figure out who would work with me before I spent money on an office visit. Michelle's suggestion of an internist is a great idea. :) Wendy Dallas, TX P.S. I saw from your email addy that you're in Florida. My dad went to Fort Myers H.S. and they currently live in Naples. Do you Yahoo!? Everyone is raving about the all-new Yahoo! Mail beta. http://new.mail.yahoo.com
new diagnosis
Hi, I just joined this list today, Thanksgiving Day. Yesterday my kitty was diagnosed with feline leukemia, she is just barely one year old and I have had her less than a year (by a few weeks). She has not been her usual self, not getting into everything, not eating, lethargic, breathing labored. Vet said the test results were strong and came back very quickly (a blue response in a little white tester almost like a home pregnancy test instrument), they administered fluids to her for dehydration and the spot where they inserted the needle bled alot, did not coagulate very well. Vet is recommending euthanasia and soon (tomorrow), she has responded today to probably the shot he gave her, she has gone to the bathroom and this am drank a small amount of catsmilk from Wisker's, licked some cat food off my fingers but not much. I am thinking of trying to get a second opinion tomorrow. I need some guidance here so I joined this list. Thanks for any help anyone can provide. Dianne
Re: new diagnosis
Did the vet recommend euthanization based on her diagnosis alone? If so I would find another vet. No matter what I would get a second opinion. There are too many vets out there who don't understand this disease. If no one out there has a recommendation for a vet in your area, I would try one who is a member of the AAFP, they seem to be more up on things. http://www.aafponline.org/ Do you know what the shot was, or did they just give her fluids? Hugs to you and what a way to spend your Thanksgiving - sorry:( FELV is treatable and I would take the eating and drinking and litterbox using as a good sign...but there are a lot of others more knowledgeable than me on this list. I just wanted you to not feel alone. On 11/23/06, Dianne K Perry, Ph.D. [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi, I just joined this list today, Thanksgiving Day. Yesterday my kitty was diagnosed with feline leukemia, she is just barely one year old and I have had her less than a year (by a few weeks). She has not been her usual self, not getting into everything, not eating, lethargic, breathing labored. Vet said the test results were strong and came back very quickly (a blue response in a little white tester almost like a home pregnancy test instrument), they administered fluids to her for dehydration and the spot where they inserted the needle bled alot, did not coagulate very well. Vet is recommending euthanasia and soon (tomorrow), she has responded today to probably the shot he gave her, she has gone to the bathroom and this am drank a small amount of catsmilk from Wisker's, licked some cat food off my fingers but not much. I am thinking of trying to get a second opinion tomorrow. I need some guidance here so I joined this list. Thanks for any help anyone can provide. Dianne -- Vist the Rescuties store and save a kitty life! http://astore.amazon.com/rescuties-20
Re: new diagnosis
Dianne, You have come to the right place. Please do not euthanize ! Feline Leukemia is not always a immediate death sentence. Get her on some strong immune system boosters excellent quality cat food and interferon and she could live a very long happy life. You find this list supportive and very informative, in fact they often know more about felv than most vets. Hang in there and we will all send strong healing prayers to your fur kid. What is her name? Karen
Re: new diagnosis
Dianne, First of all -- welcome! You won't find a nicer, smarter group of people anywhere. We're glad you are here! Second - take a deep breath. FeVL+ is not always a death sentence. Euthanasia is standard operating procedures in some vet circles. Same thing happened to me last May when I took Mama Kitty in to the vet. She had lost a lot of weight and was so scary thin. She was extremely lethargic and not eating. Vet said she tested positive for FeVL and was very anemic and recommended putting her to sleep. I got big tears in my eyes and said - well I'm just not ready to say goodbye. He put Mama Kitty on antibiotics and gave her a steroid shot and put her on pet tinic (which she despises, but that's another story) That's when I became a google fiend and found this group. I read everything I could find and I decided to try Acemannan. My vet had never heard of it but said he would be willing to try it. He found out the protocols and procedures and I supplied him with a distributor. He got it within two days. It's a bit expensive..it was $300 for 5 shots - given once a week in the tummy...but to us, it was worth every penny. Within a few days, Mama Kitty began to get her appetite back. She visibly felt better. By the time she had her second and third shots - her coat was looking better and she was beginning to gain weight. By the fifth shot - she was playing with her toys! She has continued to improve and has for all practical purposes reverted to kittenhood. My neighbors have commented on the remarkable difference. I don't want to give you false hope. FeVL is an evil disease. Most of the cats who perish from it do so not because of the feline leukemia itself, but because their immune system is so weakened, they are more prone to infection and other diseases. There ARE treatments available, however, and people on this list have tried a number of things with success. Some cats live many, many years after testing positive. Most important is to start your baby on a good healthy diet and keep her stress-free...give her lots of love and remember that every day is precious. Third, love and prayers to you and your baby. What's kitty's name? How old is he/she? elizabeth In a message dated 11/23/06 08:32:02 Central Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Hi, I just joined this list today, Thanksgiving Day. Yesterday my kitty was diagnosed with feline leukemia, she is just barely one year old and I have had her less than a year (by a few weeks). She has not been her usual self, not getting into everything, not eating, lethargic, breathing labored. Vet said the test results were strong and came back very quickly (a blue response in a little white tester almost like a home pregnancy test instrument), they administered fluids to her for dehydration and the spot where they inserted the needle bled alot, did not coagulate very well. Vet is recommending euthanasia and soon (tomorrow), she has responded today to probably the shot he gave her, she has gone to the bathroom and this am drank a small amount of catsmilk from Wisker's, licked some cat food off my fingers but not much. I am thinking of trying to get a second opinion tomorrow. I need some guidance here so I joined this list. Thanks for any help anyone can provide. Dianne
Re: new diagnosis
It sounds like she is doing a lot better then if she is able to eat so much! I like the AAFP vets because they are supposed to abide by the following guidelines, per the information on that site: All cats should be tested for infection with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). ■ Cats infected with FeLV or FIV may live for many years. A decision for euthanasia should never be made solely on the basis of whether or not a cat is infected. ■ A confirmed positive test result should be considered only an indication of retrovirus infection, not clinical disease. Diseases in cats infected with FeLV or FIV may not necessarily be a result of retrovirus infection. ■ No test is 100% accurate at all times and under all conditions. Therefore, all test results should be interpreted in light of the patient's health and prior likelihood of infection. I know it would not do any good to tell you not to worry at all, but please try to relax a little. You don't need to make a decision right away. On 11/23/06, Dianne K Perry, Ph.D. [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thank you so much Kelley! I was feeling very alone. My friend and I were talking this morning and she is going to go with me tomorrow (hopefully we can get into oncologist)I saw the AAFP list and there are 3 in the area so maybe if not the oncologist one of them can see us. He gave her a steroid shot of the same type they give when animal is in shock. They gave her fluids and sent her home with lasix. She just ate some white chicken (canned)...and more of the cat milk. Got a crushed up pill in her. Dianne - Original Message - *From:* Kelley Saveika [EMAIL PROTECTED] *To:* felvtalk@felineleukemia.org *Sent:* Thursday, November 23, 2006 9:43 AM *Subject:* Re: new diagnosis Did the vet recommend euthanization based on her diagnosis alone? If so I would find another vet. No matter what I would get a second opinion. There are too many vets out there who don't understand this disease. If no one out there has a recommendation for a vet in your area, I would try one who is a member of the AAFP, they seem to be more up on things. http://www.aafponline.org/ Do you know what the shot was, or did they just give her fluids? Hugs to you and what a way to spend your Thanksgiving - sorry:( FELV is treatable and I would take the eating and drinking and litterbox using as a good sign...but there are a lot of others more knowledgeable than me on this list. I just wanted you to not feel alone. On 11/23/06, Dianne K Perry, Ph.D. [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi, I just joined this list today, Thanksgiving Day. Yesterday my kitty was diagnosed with feline leukemia, she is just barely one year old and I have had her less than a year (by a few weeks). She has not been her usual self, not getting into everything, not eating, lethargic, breathing labored. Vet said the test results were strong and came back very quickly (a blue response in a little white tester almost like a home pregnancy test instrument), they administered fluids to her for dehydration and the spot where they inserted the needle bled alot, did not coagulate very well. Vet is recommending euthanasia and soon (tomorrow), she has responded today to probably the shot he gave her, she has gone to the bathroom and this am drank a small amount of catsmilk from Wisker's, licked some cat food off my fingers but not much. I am thinking of trying to get a second opinion tomorrow. I need some guidance here so I joined this list. Thanks for any help anyone can provide. Dianne -- Vist the Rescuties store and save a kitty life! http://astore.amazon.com/rescuties-20 -- Vist the Rescuties store and save a kitty life! http://astore.amazon.com/rescuties-20
Re: new diagnosis
Kitty with new diagnosis is Asia, she is a beautiful blue gray cat, she was adopted from a local rescue group last Dec., she was born the end of Sept or first of Oct.I selected Sept. 29 for her birthdate as that is also my son's birthday. So she is 14 months old and she has been with me a little less than a year. I also rescue Shih Tzu's and think this young puppy that has been in the house 2 1/2 weeks may have brought the stress on her for this initial episode. She loves the other dogs in the house, especially the ones that were here when she came home with me, she played with them and so forth, they show their love to each other by nose touching/sniffing and rubbing up against each other. She is not playing now. However, she just got up in her cat tree in her room for the first time in a few days. She did eat some from my hand and will try that again before I go to my mom's for dinner and again when I come homeI figure if I can get her to eat a little every hour or so that will help her build her strength up. What are some of the other treatments that have been successful, not only the stuff the vet should use but also supplements I can give her to boost her immune system? I have heard of the pet tinic. I got lots of tears yesterday, cried alot, but did not want to do anything then as I know that I have to process the information and do my research. So glad I did. A night's sleep helpedand talking with animal friends and family members. Dianne and Asia - Original Message - From: ETrent To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Thursday, November 23, 2006 10:57 AM Subject: Re: new diagnosis Dianne, First of all -- welcome! You won't find a nicer, smarter group of people anywhere. We're glad you are here! Second - take a deep breath. FeVL+ is not always a death sentence. Euthanasia is standard operating procedures in some vet circles. Same thing happened to me last May when I took Mama Kitty in to the vet. She had lost a lot of weight and was so scary thin. She was extremely lethargic and not eating. Vet said she tested positive for FeVL and was very anemic and recommended putting her to sleep. I got big tears in my eyes and said - well I'm just not ready to say goodbye. He put Mama Kitty on antibiotics and gave her a steroid shot and put her on pet tinic (which she despises, but that's another story) That's when I became a google fiend and found this group. I read everything I could find and I decided to try Acemannan. My vet had never heard of it but said he would be willing to try it. He found out the protocols and procedures and I supplied him with a distributor. He got it within two days. It's a bit expensive..it was $300 for 5 shots - given once a week in the tummy...but to us, it was worth every penny. Within a few days, Mama Kitty began to get her appetite back. She visibly felt better. By the time she had her second and third shots - her coat was looking better and she was beginning to gain weight. By the fifth shot - she was playing with her toys! She has continued to improve and has for all practical purposes reverted to kittenhood. My neighbors have commented on the remarkable difference. I don't want to give you false hope. FeVL is an evil disease. Most of the cats who perish from it do so not because of the feline leukemia itself, but because their immune system is so weakened, they are more prone to infection and other diseases. There ARE treatments available, however, and people on this list have tried a number of things with success. Some cats live many, many years after testing positive. Most important is to start your baby on a good healthy diet and keep her stress-free...give her lots of love and remember that every day is precious. Third, love and prayers to you and your baby. What's kitty's name? How old is he/she? elizabeth In a message dated 11/23/06 08:32:02 Central Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Hi, I just joined this list today, Thanksgiving Day. Yesterday my kitty was diagnosed with feline leukemia, she is just barely one year old and I have had her less than a year (by a few weeks). She has not been her usual self, not getting into everything, not eating, lethargic, breathing labored. Vet said the test results were strong and came back very quickly (a blue response in a little white tester almost like a home pregnancy test instrument), they administered fluids to her for dehydration and the spot where they inserted the needle bled alot, did not coagulate very well. Vet is recommending euthanasia and soon (tomorrow), she has responded today to probably the shot he gave her, she has gone to the bathroom and this am drank a small amount of catsmilk from Wisker's, licked some cat food off my fingers but not much. I am thinking of trying to get a second opinion tomorrow. I need some guidance
Re: new diagnosis
Diane, Definitely do not euthanize! If you can, take her to a board-certified internist, usually you can fine one at a big veterinary hospital, a vet school hospital, or a veterinary referral center. They are more skilled at diagnosis. All the feline leukemia virus means is that her immune system is compromised. It is like having HIV. FeLV, like HIV, makes someone more susceptible to other viruses, and to some cancers and blood disorders. FeLV itself is not the diagnosis of what is wrong with your cat right now, it is just the root cause of her immune system not fighting off whatever else she has. What you need to know is what is causing her symptoms right now, and treat that if it is treatable. My FeLV+ cat Lucy, who is about 5 years old at this point, got sick a few weeks ago and would not eat and was very lethargic. It turned out she had a fever, which antibiotics brought down within one day and she started eating again. The vet then gave her two Immuno-regulin shots (there are articles about this medicine on the felineleukemia.org website) and she got better from the cold. It is possible this is all that is going on for your cat. Or your cat could be anemic, from something treatable, which happens with FeLV+ cats. Someone on this list almost lost a positive to anemia several years ago and completely cured the anemia with acemannan shots. There are other treatments too. But you need to know if she is anemic in order to treat for anemia. It could be lymphoma; that would be one of the worst case scenarios, and FeLV+cats are prone to it. But they also respond well to chemo sometimes, and do not suffer from chemo the way humans do. If no chemo, steroid shots can keep them very comfortable and happy for months with lymphoma. But lymphoma is a worst case scenario. There are other, more treatable things she can have. Bottom line is that you have to find out what is causing her symptoms, and then assess treatment options. She could have something that is very treatable. To euthanize her without knowing would be insane, but unfortunately many vets react to felv this way. Michelle
Re: new diagnosis
Hi Dianne, sorry you had to find us, but I am glad you did! Yes, you do need to find a more sympathetic vet! First off, JUST doing a FELV test is NOT really good enough to make such a drastic decision on. Your vet needs to pull a CBC (that's a full blood testing panel), or at least check her hemocrit (that's the amount of iron in the blood) and see if she's anemic. Anemia is the #1 cause of FELV+ cats feeling under the weather, and VERY OFTEN, it is totally treatable. If her hemocrit comes back below 10, you should do a blood transfusion. You should also have your vet test for Hemobartonella if she is anemic, as that is a major CURABLE cause of anemia in cats. You may also want to consider a course of Immunoregulin, and start her on oral Interferon, as an immune booster. You can find the info about those treatments on our treatment webpage. On your own, you can go ahead and start her on vitamin C supplements, and feed the VERY BEST food you can afford. Wellness, Innova, Chicken Soup, and California Natural are all very good cat food brands. The Whiskers brand cat milk is OK, but they do make BETTER liquid diets for cats, try Catsure, Formula V, Clinicare, or Rebound brands: https://secure.petag.com/products_details.asp?ItemID=1666CategoryID=2SubCategoryID=13 http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/Prod_Display.cfm?pcatid=14075N=2002+113617 http://www.allivet.com/Rebound-Feline-Liquid-Diet-p/12070.htm http://www.southernagriculture.com/southag/product.asp?dept_id=3028pf_id=PABBFKMPKIBH Your vet can also prescribe easy to digest and easy to mix with liquid canned food, called Prescription A/D. You can blend this with one of the liquid cat food diets, and syringe feed it to her using an oral syringe: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=3393Ntt=feeding%20syringeNtk=AllNtx=mode+matchallpartialNp=1N=2002Nty=1 Here's a few sites on WHY and HOW to syringe feed: http://www.assistfeed.com/FelineAnorexia.htm http://www.felinecrf.org/persuading_cat_to_eat.htm Phaewryn PLEASE SAVE WHITEY: http://ucat.us/Whitey.html Please adopt a cat from Little Cheetah Cat Rescue!!! http://ucat.us/adopt.html Low cost SpayNeuter services in VT, and Emergency Financial Assistance for cat owners: http://ucat.us/VermontLowCost.html Special Needs Cat Resources: http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html
Re: new diagnosis
Some members here use both Transfer Factor AND Rescue Remedy, both of which are flower essence derived products, I believe. I know many here use L-Lysine, Vitamin C, Co-enzyme-Q-10, and Pet-tinic or another vitamin/mineral supplement. I personally swear by Nutri-Cal gel, Lixo-Tinic (the HORSE version of Pet-tinic), Vitamin C, and Interferon, and I feed Innova or California Natural foods. I am now trying Emu oil... my dad swears it can cure anything, and I'm trying it for my itchy skinned cat, but the label says it's good for all kinds of things, so I'm open to suggestions. I would try the Transfer Factor or Rescue Remedy if I had a sick cat, and I'm more and more convinced by member's experiences with both Acemannan and ImmunoRegulin, members here have seen AMAZING results with both of those treatments. I'm an old member here, my FELV+ cat died way back in 2002, so I'm now blessed with no sick kitties for the time being. If I had one get sick, I would try any and/or all of those things. Phaewryn PLEASE SAVE WHITEY: http://ucat.us/Whitey.html Please adopt a cat from Little Cheetah Cat Rescue!!! http://ucat.us/adopt.html Low cost SpayNeuter services in VT, and Emergency Financial Assistance for cat owners: http://ucat.us/VermontLowCost.html Special Needs Cat Resources: http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html
Re: new diagnosis
Dianne, I'm sorry you had to find the list in this way, but I guess that's how we all came here. Is Asia drinking enough? My Scooter (11 months old) was dehydrated when I took him to the vet, and he wasn't eating and was also lethargic. His blood work looked good but he had a tissue mass behind one molar which made it painful to eat. We treated it with antibiotics and I made the liver shake I found on this site (do a search and you'll find the recipe) and he ate it right up. But not long afterward he became even more lethargic and cried in discomfort when he was picked up so we took him back to the vet. The vet took an x-ray and discovered his kidneys were enlarged, but she suggested we take him to a specialist for an ultrasound because she thought it might be lymphoma. Scooter also had problems urinating. Sadly, he got so bad so quickly that we didn't get a chance to get the ultrasound. As someone else mentioned, this is probably the worst case, so I don't mean to panic you but it may help to know what to look for. I'm hoping it's something simpler that can be cleared up quickly. I wish you and Asia the best! -Peggy
Re: new diagnosis
Thanks Jennifer. I will get the other cat milk right away. He gave me prescription A/Dshe won't eat it...and fights the syringe. She did eat some fine pieces of chicken today. Here is a NEW DILEMMA: I just found her paperwork from when I adopted her last Dec. 14she was tested then for feline leukemia and tested negative so now what?? I am taking this paper to the vet tomorrow (even though he will not be there, his partner will be in)and see what they say. I agree about a CBC, he was going to do that but did the Feline Leukemia Combo test first and went no further. Dianne - Original Message - From: Jennifer Phaewryn O'Gwynn To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Thursday, November 23, 2006 4:29 PM Subject: Re: new diagnosis Hi Dianne, sorry you had to find us, but I am glad you did! Yes, you do need to find a more sympathetic vet! First off, JUST doing a FELV test is NOT really good enough to make such a drastic decision on. Your vet needs to pull a CBC (that's a full blood testing panel), or at least check her hemocrit (that's the amount of iron in the blood) and see if she's anemic. Anemia is the #1 cause of FELV+ cats feeling under the weather, and VERY OFTEN, it is totally treatable. If her hemocrit comes back below 10, you should do a blood transfusion. You should also have your vet test for Hemobartonella if she is anemic, as that is a major CURABLE cause of anemia in cats. You may also want to consider a course of Immunoregulin, and start her on oral Interferon, as an immune booster. You can find the info about those treatments on our treatment webpage. On your own, you can go ahead and start her on vitamin C supplements, and feed the VERY BEST food you can afford. Wellness, Innova, Chicken Soup, and California Natural are all very good cat food brands. The Whiskers brand cat milk is OK, but they do make BETTER liquid diets for cats, try Catsure, Formula V, Clinicare, or Rebound brands: https://secure.petag.com/products_details.asp?ItemID=1666CategoryID=2SubCategoryID=13 http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/Prod_Display.cfm?pcatid=14075N=2002+113617 http://www.allivet.com/Rebound-Feline-Liquid-Diet-p/12070.htm http://www.southernagriculture.com/southag/product.asp?dept_id=3028pf_id=PABBFKMPKIBH Your vet can also prescribe easy to digest and easy to mix with liquid canned food, called Prescription A/D. You can blend this with one of the liquid cat food diets, and syringe feed it to her using an oral syringe: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=3393Ntt=feeding%20syringeNtk=AllNtx=mode+matchallpartialNp=1N=2002Nty=1 Here's a few sites on WHY and HOW to syringe feed: http://www.assistfeed.com/FelineAnorexia.htm http://www.felinecrf.org/persuading_cat_to_eat.htm Phaewryn PLEASE SAVE WHITEY: http://ucat.us/Whitey.html Please adopt a cat from Little Cheetah Cat Rescue!!! http://ucat.us/adopt.html Low cost SpayNeuter services in VT, and Emergency Financial Assistance for cat owners: http://ucat.us/VermontLowCost.html Special Needs Cat Resources: http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html
Re: new diagnosis
It sounds like you need to find another vet. I had to find a new one when my Smokey was diagnosed with being felv+. They were recomending euthanasia and I am so glad I didn't do it. I will give him love , a home and all the medical help I can until his time comes. Really we never really know how long we will have any of our babies. I hope your kitty starts feeling better and you find a vet that understands this disease. Cindy Reasoner --- Dianne K Perry, Ph.D. [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thank you so much Kelley! I was feeling very alone. My friend and I were talking this morning and she is going to go with me tomorrow (hopefully we can get into oncologist)I saw the AAFP list and there are 3 in the area so maybe if not the oncologist one of them can see us. He gave her a steroid shot of the same type they give when animal is in shock. They gave her fluids and sent her home with lasix. She just ate some white chicken (canned)...and more of the cat milk. Got a crushed up pill in her. Dianne - Original Message - From: Kelley Saveika To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Thursday, November 23, 2006 9:43 AM Subject: Re: new diagnosis Did the vet recommend euthanization based on her diagnosis alone? If so I would find another vet. No matter what I would get a second opinion. There are too many vets out there who don't understand this disease. If no one out there has a recommendation for a vet in your area, I would try one who is a member of the AAFP, they seem to be more up on things. http://www.aafponline.org/ Do you know what the shot was, or did they just give her fluids? Hugs to you and what a way to spend your Thanksgiving - sorry:( FELV is treatable and I would take the eating and drinking and litterbox using as a good sign...but there are a lot of others more knowledgeable than me on this list. I just wanted you to not feel alone. On 11/23/06, Dianne K Perry, Ph.D. [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi, I just joined this list today, Thanksgiving Day. Yesterday my kitty was diagnosed with feline leukemia, she is just barely one year old and I have had her less than a year (by a few weeks). She has not been her usual self, not getting into everything, not eating, lethargic, breathing labored. Vet said the test results were strong and came back very quickly (a blue response in a little white tester almost like a home pregnancy test instrument), they administered fluids to her for dehydration and the spot where they inserted the needle bled alot, did not coagulate very well. Vet is recommending euthanasia and soon (tomorrow), she has responded today to probably the shot he gave her, she has gone to the bathroom and this am drank a small amount of catsmilk from Wisker's, licked some cat food off my fingers but not much. I am thinking of trying to get a second opinion tomorrow. I need some guidance here so I joined this list. Thanks for any help anyone can provide. Dianne -- Vist the Rescuties store and save a kitty life! http://astore.amazon.com/rescuties-20 Yahoo! Music Unlimited Access over 1 million songs. http://music.yahoo.com/unlimited
Re: new diagnosis
actually, hematocrit has to do with the concentration of the blood cells, I believe, not the iron levels per se. Michelle In a message dated 11/23/2006 4:50:26 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: hemocrit (that's the amount of iron in the blood) and see if she's anemic.
Re: new diagnosis
Hi Dianne, Welcome to the FeLV group, and although I'm sorry Asia has tested positive for FeLV, you have found the best place to be while dealing with this unpredictable disease. I was surprised to read that Asia tested negative for FeLV last December. It's possible it was a false negative; they do happen. Has Asia been exposed to other cats since this test? As others have said, FeLV is not a death sentence. I like the way Phaewryn explained that FeLV isn't what's actually making kitty sick; it's what's stemming from her weakened immune system that needs to be addressed. It could be something simple like a cold; it could be anemia, which sometimes is treatable, but other times not; it could be lymphoma. No matter what it is, it's a VERY good sign that Asia is responding to the treatment she's been given so far and eating a little, drinking, and eliminating. Make sure Asia gets bloodwork done tomorrow, especially the red blood cell count, before you make any decisions. It might be Monday before you can get a full panel back, but they can do the RBC count on the spot, so get that done asap. If Asia is found to be anemic, which causes lethargy, make sure the vet gives her a (3 week I think) course of doxycycline, which is used to treat hemobartanella, a blood parasite. Hemobartanella is extremely hard to see on a test, so often times is missed and not treated, and left untreated, kitty is terminal. A course of the doxy will not hurt your baby but might save her as it has countless others from anemia. A great diet, supplements like Vitamin C and L-lysine (without additives, one of which causes blood issues in cats), and a stress-free environment are key to keeping the FeLV from affecting Asia's immune system. I have my kitties on Innova Evo food, dry and wet. It's a great food in my opinion. A lot of people here use it. No matter what, make sure you are getting food into Asia. Cats are not like other animals or people, who can go without food for two weeks or longer and still be alive. Cats, if they don't eat, get what is called Feline Lipidosis (fatty liver disease) and it is terminal if not treated. The fatter the cat, the quicker it can set in. Make sure you are getting food into her, even if you have to fight her. The A/D is GREAT stuff. I water it down some and make it creamy before syringe feeding. It has lots of calories. Keep fighting the good fight with the A/D. I hope the rest of your week gets better Dianne. I know it can be hard, the not knowing, but Asia will pick up on your panic and/or fear, so try to stay calm until you know what you're dealing with. Please keep us posted as to what happens tomorrow with the vet you choose for the second opinion. I would not waste any more money with the one who wanted to pts. Find one who is more up to date on FeLV. I called around and spoke with different vets to figure out who would work with me before I spent money on an office visit. Michelle's suggestion of an internist is a great idea. :) Wendy Dallas, TX P.S. I saw from your email addy that you're in Florida. My dad went to Fort Myers H.S. and they currently live in Naples. Do you Yahoo!? Everyone is raving about the all-new Yahoo! Mail beta. http://new.mail.yahoo.com
Re: new diagnosis (sub-q links)
Thanks for the helpful websites. I am actually a nurse, so could probably get the supplies needed from work and this makes me more comfortable even considering doing the procedure, but our four-legged friends are very different than humans! So I appreciate seeing how easy (if Allie would stay still!) it is do for a cat. I will have to talk to my vet about doing it at home if Allie needs fluids again (the vetseems very willing to work with me an let me do things which is a big help- Allie hates going to the vet and being admitted to the hospital!)[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Sub-Q fluids. That's the user friendly terminology for subcutaneousfluids. They use a big needle attached to an IV type bag, they just give the fluidunder the skin rather than in a vein. You can use either lactated ringers solution,or saline solution, personally, I would go with saline, as it's got less in it, andis less apt to cause any reactions.http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/clientED/cat_fluids.asp (here's a webpage that shows theprocedure, the third method is the one I have always seen used, and the most commonin the USA)http://www.felinecrf.com/managh.htm (here's a DYI instructions from the chronic renalfailure website, for learning how to do it yourself at home)http://www.felinecrf.org/giving_sub-qs_giving_set.htm (more home sub-q fliudtechniques with pictures) Phaewryn (was Jenn, changed name)http://ucat.us http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html Adopt a cat from Little Cheetah (UCAT) Cat Rescue:http://ucat.us/adopt.html PLEASE DONATE TO THE TANGLE FUND:Tangle is a cat in Greece that was severely injured when someone wrapped wire around his neck to strangle him,Little Cheetah Cat Rescue is raising funds to bring Tangle to Vermont to find him a good home!http://ucat.us/tangle-fund.htmlDONATE: We could really use a power saw (for construction), a digital camera (for pictures), and more towels! No virus found in this outgoing message.Checked by AVG Free Edition.Version: 7.1.392 / Virus Database: 268.5.5/333 - Release Date: 5/5/2006 How low will we go? Check out Yahoo! Messengers low PC-to-Phone call rates.
Re: new diagnosis (Sub-Q)
I second that. And believe meif *I* can do sub-Qs anyone can. I also found it a bonding experience with my little foster Pookie. I don't know if he felt the same way about it, but he was very good about accepting the fluids and always kept pretty still. It's said that cats feel the benefits of sub-Qs immediately so that always made me feel better about having to put a needle into him. It was usually a 2-minute session--over and done with quickly. Kerry - Original Message - From: Susan Hoffman To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Saturday, May 06, 2006 6:28 PM Subject: Re: new diagnosis (Sub-Q) As someone with a needle phobia let me assure you that Sub-Q is easy. You can learn to do this yourself. Don't worry about the size of the needle (18 gauge). The purpose of the large needle is so that the fluids flow in quickly. With a small needle it is actually more stressful for the cat and for you since you have to keep the cat relatively still while the fluids go in. I am eternally grateful to the person who showed me how to do this and gave me the stuff I needed. It's saved a couple of cats' lives and saved me a lot of money in vet bills. If I can do this, anyone can. [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi Jen, you might consider having you vet show you how to give her Sub-Q fluids at home, this will save you quite a few vet visits for fever/fluids. You vet needs to show you and give you the supplies, but if you still need advise and reassurance, I have several website links on how to do it yourself. (I'll get those later tonight for you... I'll flag this message so I remember) Phaewryn (was Jenn, changed name)http://ucat.us http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html Adopt a cat from Little Cheetah (UCAT) Cat Rescue:http://ucat.us/adopt.html PLEASE DONATE TO THE TANGLE FUND:Tangle is a cat in Greece that was severely injured when someone wrapped wire around his neck to strangle him,Little Cheetah Cat Rescue is raising funds to bring Tangle to Vermont to find him a good home!http://ucat.us/tangle-fund.htmlDONATE: We could really use a power saw (for construction), a digital camera (for pictures), and more towels! No virus found in this outgoing message.Checked by AVG Free Edition.Version: 7.1.392 / Virus Database: 268.5.5/333 - Release Date: 5/5/2006
Re: new diagnosis (sub-q links)
Sub-Q fluids. That's the user friendly terminology for subcutaneousfluids. They use a big needle attached to an IV type bag, they just give the fluidunder the skin rather than in a vein. You can use either lactated ringers solution,or saline solution, personally, I would go with saline, as it's got less in it, andis less apt to cause any reactions.http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/clientED/cat_fluids.asp (here's a webpage that shows theprocedure, the third method is the one I have always seen used, and the most commonin the USA)http://www.felinecrf.com/managh.htm (here's a DYI instructions from the chronic renalfailure website, for learning how to do it yourself at home)http://www.felinecrf.org/giving_sub-qs_giving_set.htm (more home sub-q fliudtechniques with pictures) Phaewryn (was Jenn, changed name)http://ucat.us http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html Adopt a cat from Little Cheetah (UCAT) Cat Rescue:http://ucat.us/adopt.html PLEASE DONATE TO THE TANGLE FUND:Tangle is a cat in Greece that was severely injured when someone wrapped wire around his neck to strangle him,Little Cheetah Cat Rescue is raising funds to bring Tangle to Vermont to find him a good home!http://ucat.us/tangle-fund.htmlDONATE: We could really use a power saw (for construction), a digital camera (for pictures), and more towels! No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.392 / Virus Database: 268.5.5/333 - Release Date: 5/5/2006
Re: new diagnosis
Hi Jen, you might consider having you vet show you how to give her Sub-Q fluids at home, this will save you quite a few vet visits for fever/fluids. You vet needs to show you and give you the supplies, but if you still need advise and reassurance, I have several website links on how to do it yourself. (I'll get those later tonight for you... I'll flag this message so I remember) Phaewryn (was Jenn, changed name)http://ucat.us http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html Adopt a cat from Little Cheetah (UCAT) Cat Rescue:http://ucat.us/adopt.html PLEASE DONATE TO THE TANGLE FUND:Tangle is a cat in Greece that was severely injured when someone wrapped wire around his neck to strangle him,Little Cheetah Cat Rescue is raising funds to bring Tangle to Vermont to find him a good home!http://ucat.us/tangle-fund.htmlDONATE: We could really use a power saw (for construction), a digital camera (for pictures), and more towels! No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.392 / Virus Database: 268.5.5/333 - Release Date: 5/5/2006
Re: new diagnosis (Sub-Q)
As someone with a needle phobia let me assure you that Sub-Q is easy. You can learn to do this yourself. Don't worry about the size of the needle (18 gauge). The purpose of the large needle is so that the fluids flow in quickly. With a small needle it is actually more stressful for the cat and for you since you have to keep the cat relatively still while the fluids go in. I am eternally grateful to the person who showed me how to do this and gave me the stuff I needed. It's saved a couple of cats' lives and saved me a lot of money in vet bills. If I can do this, anyone can. [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi Jen, you might consider having you vet show you how to give her Sub-Q fluids at home, this will save you quite a few vet visits for fever/fluids. You vet needs to show you and give you the supplies, but if you still need advise and reassurance, I have several website links on how to do it yourself. (I'll get those later tonight for you... I'll flag this message so I remember) Phaewryn (was Jenn, changed name)http://ucat.us http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html Adopt a cat from Little Cheetah (UCAT) Cat Rescue:http://ucat.us/adopt.html PLEASE DONATE TO THE TANGLE FUND:Tangle is a cat in Greece that was severely injured when someone wrapped wire around his neck to strangle him,Little Cheetah Cat Rescue is raising funds to bring Tangle to Vermont to find him a good home!http://ucat.us/tangle-fund.htmlDONATE: We could really use a power saw (for construction), a digital camera (for pictures), and more towels! No virus found in this outgoing message.Checked by AVG Free Edition.Version: 7.1.392 / Virus Database: 268.5.5/333 - Release Date: 5/5/2006
Re: new diagnosis
Thanks for your advice and support. It's so nice not to be going through this alone! And all of you who have experienced this are the best sources of knowledge available. Hearing how many kitties are still thriving is reassuring, though my heart goes out to those that are suffering or have left us. Message: 8Date: Thu, 4 May 2006 16:21:22 EDTFrom: [EMAIL PROTECTED]Subject: Re: new diagnosisTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgMessage-ID: [EMAIL PROTECTED]Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Jen, A few members on this list have experienced the same thing. What seems to work best to get them over this round of fevers is Immuno-Regulan, also known as Equistim. There are articles about it on this group's web page (_www.felineluekemia.org_ (http://www.felineluekemia.org) ) and you can do a search of the archived messages for information on how Smokey was treated for it when he had unremitting fevers. Bandy also had this issue and was treated with steroids (dexamethasone) and some other things. He took longer to respond, I think, but eventually did, although he is having some eye problems now. I will forward some old emails from the archive about Smokey to you-- I saved them on my computer. Michelle In a message dated 5/4/2006 3:29:25 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:My 10 year old domestic short hair just got diagnosed with FIV and FELV last week. She was lethargic, not eating and drinking, etc which is why I brought her in and how we found out the diagnosis. She ended up with a 105.9 fever and was hospitalized for several days with IV fluids and antibiotics. The fever broke and she came home on Friday night. She has been an outdoor cat all her life (I adopted her 4 1/2 years ago) and she is now an indoor cat due to the diagnoses. We were just back at the vet today because she is limping and I didn't know what was wrong with her leg. Turns out the leg is fine, but her temp is 106.9!!! They gave her some subcutaneous fluid and an injection to bring down the fever and let me take her home as long as I monitor her temp hourly. The vet said it is all from the FELV virus, but I'm wondering if this is how the whole rest of her life is going to be- constant trips to the vet for high fevers, dehydration, fluids and medication. I want my cat to be happy and comfortable. Allie is truly like my child and I am completely devistated. I find myself watching her like a hawk now, and spending every waking moment with her not knowing if I have one more day, one more week or one more year. I have done a lot of research, but because I don't know how long she has had the disease it's hard to know what's going to happen-- I thought she had kicked this infection and it turns out she hadn't... Anyone else experienced these unremitting fevers and infections? Does this mean it is close to the end? I obviously want to have Allie with me as long as I can, but I am not willing to torture her becuase I would not want to be tortured if it were me. I am just so overwhelmed and so devistated right now, I can't even think straight! One vet had mentioned interferon injections to boost her immune system. I am considering looking into those, but I don't know if it would be more tortuous to put my kitty through injections or have her get sick all the time... Does anyone have any experience with interferon? Thanks for listening!Jen -- next part --An HTML attachment was scrubbed...URL: /pipermail/felvtalk_felineleukemia.org/attachments/20060504/6fc8cfeb/attachment.htm--Message: 9Date: Thu, 4 May 2006 16:26:36 EDTFrom: [EMAIL PROTECTED]Subject: Re: new diagnosisTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgMessage-ID: [EMAIL PROTECTED]Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Jen, Here are some old emails from this list: 1. I started Smokey on immuno-regulan last Wednesday. Herecieved shots for 4 days and then 2 shots per week. His problem was a recurring fever. So far he is feverfree. He has been eating good and playing. He isalso taking Baytril and Clavamox but I think theimmuno-regulan has helped him with his fevers. I amkeeping my fingers crossed. This has been the 1stweek in over a month that we haven't had to make atrip to the vet or go in as an emergency.Cindy 2. Hi all,Hope you are all doing well these days...I have been sort of out of touch the last month.Just wanted to give you all an update on my Bandy..His last vet visit was a few weeks ago and his PCV was holding at 27. He has gained another 4oz. so he is up to 7# 2oz. which is almost his top weight...He is looking good and eating well.We are on interferon alpha daily and 1/2cc baytril still...I don't know how long he will have to be on that as he has been on it for months now..I am alternating supplements too..I just want to make sure he keeps eating good so I just rotate things around for now...I give him Co Q 10, bone meal powder, bovine colostrum, Vit.E 400 weekly, omega fatty acids (missing link version), and
new diagnosis
My 10 year old domestic short hair just got diagnosed with FIV and FELV last week. She was lethargic, not eating and drinking, etc which is why I brought her in and how we found out the diagnosis. She ended up with a 105.9 fever and was hospitalized for several days with IV fluids and antibiotics. The fever broke and she came home on Friday night. She has been an outdoor cat all her life (I adopted her 4 1/2 years ago) and she is now an indoor cat due to the diagnoses. We were just back at the vet today because she is limping and I didn't know what was wrong with her leg. Turns out the leg is fine, but her temp is 106.9!!! They gave her some subcutaneous fluid and an injection to bring down the fever and let me take her home as long as I monitor her temp hourly. The vet said it is all from the FELV virus, but I'm wondering if this is how the whole rest of her life is going to be- constant trips to the vet for high fevers, dehydration, fluids and medication. I want my cat to be happy and comfortable. Allie is truly like my child and I am completely devistated. I find myself watching her like a hawk now, and spending every waking moment with her not knowing if I have one more day, one more week or one more year. I have done a lot of research, but because I don't know how long she has had the disease it's hard to know what's going to happen-- I thought she had kicked this infection and it turns out she hadn't...Anyone else experienced these unremitting fevers and infections? Does this mean it is close to the end? I obviously want to have Allie with me as long as I can, but I am not willing to torture her becuase I would not want to be tortured if it were me. I am just so overwhelmed and so devistated right now, I can't even think straight! One vet had mentioned interferon injections to boost her immune system. I am considering looking into those, but I don't know if it would be more tortuous to put my kitty through injections or have her get sick all the time... Does anyone have any experience with interferon? Thanks for listening! Jen Yahoo! Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less.
Re: new diagnosis
Jen, A few members on this list have experienced the same thing. What seems to work best to get them over this round of fevers is Immuno-Regulan, also known as Equistim. There are articles about it on this group's web page (www.felineluekemia.org) and you can do a search of the archived messages for information on how Smokey was treated for it when he had unremitting fevers. Bandy also had this issue and was treated with steroids (dexamethasone) and some other things. He took longer to respond, I think, but eventually did, although he is having some eye problems now. I will forward some old emails from the archive about Smokey to you-- I saved them on my computer. Michelle In a message dated 5/4/2006 3:29:25 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: My 10 year old domestic short hair just got diagnosed with FIV and FELV last week. She was lethargic, not eating and drinking, etc which is why I brought her in and how we found out the diagnosis. She ended up with a 105.9 fever and was hospitalized for several days with IV fluids and antibiotics. The fever broke and she came home on Friday night. She has been an outdoor cat all her life (I adopted her 4 1/2 years ago) and she is now an indoor cat due to the diagnoses. We were just back at the vet today because she is limping and I didn't know what was wrong with her leg. Turns out the leg is fine, but her temp is 106.9!!! They gave her some subcutaneous fluid and an injection to bring down the fever and let me take her home as long as I monitor her temp hourly. The vet said it is all from the FELV virus, but I'm wondering if this is how the whole rest of her life is going to be- constant trips to the vet for high fevers, dehydration, fluids and medication. I want my cat to be happy and comfortable. Allie is truly like my child and I am completely devistated. I find myself watching her like a hawk now, and spending every waking moment with her not knowing if I have one more day, one more week or one more year. I have done a lot of research, but because I don't know how long she has had the disease it's hard to know what's going to happen-- I thought she had kicked this infection and it turns out she hadn't...Anyone else experienced these unremitting fevers and infections? Does this mean it is close to the end? I obviously want to have Allie with me as long as I can, but I am not willing to torture her becuase I would not want to be tortured if it were me. I am just so overwhelmed and so devistated right now, I can't even think straight! One vet had mentioned interferon injections to boost her immune system. I am considering looking into those, but I don't know if it would be more tortuous to put my kitty through injections or have her get sick all the time... Does anyone have any experience with interferon? Thanks for listening! Jen
Re: new diagnosis
Jen, Here are some old emails from this list: 1. I started Smokey on immuno-regulan last Wednesday. Herecieved shots for 4 days and then 2 shots per week. His problem was a recurring fever. So far he is feverfree. He has been eating good and playing. He isalso taking Baytril and Clavamox but I think theimmuno-regulan has helped him with his fevers. I amkeeping my fingers crossed. This has been the 1stweek in over a month that we haven't had to make atrip to the vet or go in as an emergency.Cindy 2. Hi all, Hope you are all doing well these days...I have been sort of out of touch the last month. Just wanted to give you all an update on my Bandy.. His last vet visit wasa few weeks ago and his PCV was holding at 27. He has gained another 4oz. so he is up to 7# 2oz. which is almost his top weight...He is looking good and eating well. We are on interferon alpha daily and 1/2cc baytril still...I don't know how long he will have to be on that as he has been on it for months now.. I am alternating supplements too..I just want to make sure he keeps eating good so I just rotate things around for now...I give him Co Q 10, bone meal powder, bovine colostrum, Vit.E 400 weekly, omega fatty acids (missing link version), and astragalus. He went 2 weeks without the temp going up but then it jumped to 105.2 again so I give him .75mg of a dex pill.. then the temp will go back to normal...We still haven't figured out anything about that other than it is due to inflammation..He also gets a fill once daily for that which is for arthritis in cats...I still believe the fever is due to his previous leg injury in 2001 and has something to do with infection in the bone, but the vets don't know. I am going to try to get them to treat him as if he had a bone infection to see if that might not remedy the problem.. Any ideas on that would be appreciated... My best to you all and your kittes, Kerry and Bandy In a message dated 5/4/2006 3:29:25 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: My 10 year old domestic short hair just got diagnosed with FIV and FELV last week. She was lethargic, not eating and drinking, etc which is why I brought her in and how we found out the diagnosis. She ended up with a 105.9 fever and was hospitalized for several days with IV fluids and antibiotics. The fever broke and she came home on Friday night. She has been an outdoor cat all her life (I adopted her 4 1/2 years ago) and she is now an indoor cat due to the diagnoses. We were just back at the vet today because she is limping and I didn't know what was wrong with her leg. Turns out the leg is fine, but her temp is 106.9!!! They gave her some subcutaneous fluid and an injection to bring down the fever and let me take her home as long as I monitor her temp hourly. The vet said it is all from the FELV virus, but I'm wondering if this is how the whole rest of her life is going to be- constant trips to the vet for high fevers, dehydration, fluids and medication. I want my cat to be happy and comfortable. Allie is truly like my child and I am completely devistated. I find myself watching her like a hawk now, and spending every waking moment with her not knowing if I have one more day, one more week or one more year. I have done a lot of research, but because I don't know how long she has had the disease it's hard to know what's going to happen-- I thought she had kicked this infection and it turns out she hadn't...Anyone else experienced these unremitting fevers and infections? Does this mean it is close to the end? I obviously want to have Allie with me as long as I can, but I am not willing to torture her becuase I would not want to be tortured if it were me. I am just so overwhelmed and so devistated right now, I can't even think straight! One vet had mentioned interferon injections to boost her immune system. I am considering looking into those, but I don't know if it would be more tortuous to put my kitty through injections or have her get sick all the time... Does anyone have any experience with interferon? Thanks for listening! Jen
