date:20070717

I am so relieved to hear that you did not kill your boy, Basil -- I used the 
word kill - because if he was put him down, it's so far away from being 
euthanized -- there is no reason for him to be killed - and he is lucky to 
have you, and have your wisdom on his side as apparently your vet is not as 
wise as you are.. (I think you should be looking another vet as soon as you get 
a chance) -

The myth of whether a kitty can throw off the virus once infected/exposed seems 
to be still myth - but apparently, statistically, 2/3 of kitties who were 
exposed to the virus (not infected) throw off the virus.

It seems that later s/he is infected at their age, better the chance they have 
to throw the virus off.  The fact that hs is alrady 4 years old is a very good 
sign already as again statistically, 80% of felk kitties die within three years 
of their age.

Also, I am so glad that you are wise and care enough not to separate the boy 
kitty from girl kitty -- no matter what, sometimes, we have to balance their 
quality of their lives - and I really feel that they are lucky to have you as 
someone who care for them.

I have three year old girl, Ginger who is also felk positive and she has been 
healthy and I feel very fortunate about it.

I try not to let test result control their or my life -Whether he throw off the 
virus off or not, the most important thing is to provide stress free 
environment for him so that he can maintain the health that he has -- I use FOI 
(feline interferon -anti vira agent) and other people on the list use different 
things..

Any vitamin supplement or immune boosters are good for them ---

Hideyo
  - Original Message - 
  From: Malonemailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] 
  To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgmailto:felvtalk@felineleukemia.org 
  Sent: Monday, July 16, 2007 9:22 PM
  Subject: I need information please


  I read all the posts, so I can learn how to deal with this virus. I lost my 
kitten at 9 months, and apparently even though he was vaccinated my 4 year old 
has tested positive for felv. He was diagnosed 4 months ago and shows no sign 
of illness. My vet had recommended putting him down. I just couldn't lose both 
my boys in one day. I am so thankful I didn't because Basil is fine. My 
question is about the ability to fight off the virus-does this really happen? 
Has anyone on this list actually had a felv+ cat that kicked the virus? What 
should I expect and what should I be doing to help keep him healthy? I tried to 
separate my felv+ boy and felv- girl, but they howled and cried something 
fierce. They have been together since they were kittens. I let them mix, and 
she is still negative. I read the information about blood tests, and I get 
confused. Basil's blood work seems normal, other than the fact that he tested 
positive. Thank you.

Re: Monkee is gone

2007-07-17 Thread Gina WN

I'm so sad for you.  My thoughts and prayers are with you.  Gentle passings 
Monkee.
   
  Gina

Caroline Kaufmann [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
My beloved cat Monkee passed last night in my arms while I held him 
with my Mom standing next to my side.  At about 2:30 a.m.  
   
  We were going to take him to Dr. Maier's for euthanasia this morning at 8:00 
a.m.  I thought he could make it until then and that he wouldn't want to go to 
a strange emergency vet clinic he'd never been to before for his passing.  I 
didn't know he was that bad.  I feel so bad.  It was so horrible.  He was 
having some trouble breathing, but I was usually able to calm him down by 
holding him and giving him flower essences.  He had begun to have trouble 
walking and he would cry at me really loudly when he wasn't able to do 
something he wanted to do because his brain was not getting enough oxygen (like 
walk around).  I didn't want him to be in pain or suffer and I feel like I 
failed him.  
   
  He did go really quick, but I was hysterical as it was happening.  We were on 
my bed and I was holding him.  He took a last gasp of air and then he stopped.  
When his body when limp, I felt like I might die too.  I think the only thing 
that helped me and my mom was that she has rescue remedy with her and we both 
took it right away.  It sounds odd to say that, but immediately after it 
happened, I felt a sense of peace-- for him.  I think the rescue remedy helped 
my breathing at that time.  I just held him afterwards and talked to him  and 
pet him and kissed him for about two hours.  I told him how wonderful he was 
and that I would never be the same without him.  I walked around the house, sat 
with him on the porch he loved so much and took him outside for his last time 
to hold him while sitting on the front steps.  
   
  I have never had an animal die in my arms like that and to have it be my best 
friend-- the best companion I've ever had...my heart just feels like it's 
wrenching in half.  I feel guilty and traumatized.  I am having a hard time 
erasing the memories of his passing.  When I close my eyes, I see his face as 
he took his last breath.  I don't how to recover from that.
  I've never been lonely since I had Monkee and now that he's gone, that 
loneliness is crashing in.  
   
  I hope all of you are able to continue to care for your cats and give them 
the peace and love that they so desperately need.  I admire those of you who 
take care of multiple FelV cats and have lost some in the past and continue to 
keep doing the work that you do.  My thoughts and my prayers are now with all 
of you and your babies.  I felt like I didn't have the mental energy to devote 
many of my prayers in the past few weeks to any cat other than Monkee, but I 
will be praying for you now.
   
  I also wanted to remind everyone that you never really know the power of what 
love can do for a cat like Monkee, until you experience it.  When I found him, 
he was a crazy, dirty, little ragamuffin eating doves, baby rabbits, and 
whatever else he could catch in the courtyard of my law school apartment 
complex in Northern Ky 4 years ago.  And four years and 1 month ago, I couldn't 
take his living it up in the killing fields- as I called it- anymore.  It 
took so long to get him to be a somewhat normal cat.  Something bad must have 
happened to him because he was already neutered when I found him, so he had to 
have belong to someone.  He was deathly afraid of men and it took until 
probably about this past year for that fear to almost subside.  I don't think 
anyone else in my life (other than myself) believed that he'd ever be trusting, 
cuddling, sweet, lfunny, love-bug that he was with me.  The first time I turned 
on my radio and my tv after I had brought him into my life,
 he freaked out and hid under the bed for hours.  After lots of love and being 
spoiled rotten, and having four years to experience as many things as possible, 
he had truly become my best friend.  He would comfort me when something went 
horribly wrong in my life and the past 4 years have been pretty turbulent for 
me so he had a lot of comforting to do.  He was what always cheered me up when 
I was at my lowest low and he was what kept going.  He slept on my bed with me 
every night and even when I was just away for one night, I would miss him and 
miss having him there in the morning to wake up with.  I am going to miss him 
so much. 
   
I also wanted to say Thank You for being such an instant support group 
for Monkee and I.  We really needed help these past few weeks and you all 
really came through for us.  
   
  Thank you,
  Caroline 

   
 



  
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Re: Keisha

2007-07-17 Thread Gina WN

I'm very sorry about Keisha.  Gentle Bridge vibes to her.
   
  Gina

Rosenfeldt, Diane [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
  Laurie --
   
  I am so sorry about Keisha, how terrible and sudden.  I know you must be 
feeling devastated and traumatized.  Take comfort in knowing she knew how loved 
she was.  Hugs to you.
   
  Diane R.


-
  From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of laurieskatz
Sent: Monday, July 16, 2007 11:08 AM
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
Subject: Re: Monkee is gone ~ so is Keisha


  
  Carol, I am so sorry for your loss and pain. Prayers for safe travels for 
Monkee's soul. Monkee is free now but nothing can compensate for the hole in 
your heart and life. I know. My beloved Keisha died Saturday completely 
unexpectedly. She went into respiratory distress here at home. I rushed her to 
the ER clinic. They put her in the oxygen tank and she appeared comfortable ~ 
she was not on her side and was no longer open mouth breathing. They planned to 
keep her in the tank for 2 hours and then send her home. When she went into 
respiratory distress again, they tried to save her ~ intubated her and gave her 
CPR but could not. After she died, I held her for 2 hours and stroked her fur.I 
am in shock and it doesn't seem real. I didn't want to leave her. We are doing 
a necropsy. She was not feline leukemia positive.
  May your Higher Power hold you as mine is holding me.
  Laurie
- Original Message - 
  From: Caroline Kaufmann 
  To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org 
  Sent: Monday, July 16, 2007 9:47 AM
  Subject: Monkee is gone
  

  My beloved cat Monkee passed last night in my arms while I held him with 
my Mom standing next to my side.  At about 2:30 a.m.  
   
  We were going to take him to Dr. Maier's for euthanasia this morning at 8:00 
a.m.  I thought he could make it until then and that he wouldn't want to go to 
a strange emergency vet clinic he'd never been to before for his passing.  I 
didn't know he was that bad.  I feel so bad.  It was so horrible.  He was 
having some trouble breathing, but I was usually able to calm him down by 
holding him and giving him flower essences.  He had begun to have trouble 
walking and he would cry at me really loudly when he wasn't able to do 
something he wanted to do because his brain was not getting enough oxygen (like 
walk around).  I didn't want him to be in pain or suffer and I feel like I 
failed him.  
   
  He did go really quick, but I was hysterical as it was happening.  We were on 
my bed and I was holding him.  He took a last gasp of air and then he stopped.  
When his body when limp, I felt like I might die too.  I think the only thing 
that helped me and my mom was that she has rescue remedy with her and we both 
took it right away.  It sounds odd to say that, but immediately after it 
happened, I felt a sense of peace-- for him.  I think the rescue remedy helped 
my breathing at that time.  I just held him afterwards and talked to him  and 
pet him and kissed him for about two hours.  I told him how wonderful he was 
and that I would never be the same without him.  I walked around the house, sat 
with him on the porch he loved so much and took him outside for his last time 
to hold him while sitting on the front steps.  
   
  I have never had an animal die in my arms like that and to have it be my best 
friend-- the best companion I've ever had...my heart just feels like it's 
wrenching in half.  I feel guilty and traumatized.  I am having a hard time 
erasing the memories of his passing.  When I close my eyes, I see his face as 
he took his last breath.  I don't how to recover from that.
  I've never been lonely since I had Monkee and now that he's gone, that 
loneliness is crashing in.  
   
  I hope all of you are able to continue to care for your cats and give them 
the peace and love that they so desperately need.  I admire those of you who 
take care of multiple FelV cats and have lost some in the past and continue to 
keep doing the work that you do.  My thoughts and my prayers are now with all 
of you and your babies.  I felt like I didn't have the mental energy to devote 
many of my prayers in the past few weeks to any cat other than Monkee, but I 
will be praying for you now.
   
  I also wanted to remind everyone that you never really know the power of what 
love can do for a cat like Monkee, until you experience it.  When I found him, 
he was a crazy, dirty, little ragamuffin eating doves, baby rabbits, and 
whatever else he could catch in the courtyard of my law school apartment 
complex in Northern Ky 4 years ago.  And four years and 1 month ago, I couldn't 
take his living it up in the killing fields- as I called it- anymore.  It 
took so long to get him to be a somewhat normal cat.  Something bad must have 
happened to him because he was already neutered when I found him, so he had to 
have belong to someone.  He was deathly afraid of men and it took

Re: Celia Please add to the CLS :(

I am sorry, for your loss of Celia.

I am sure she is looking down @ you from kitty heaven, thanking you for the 
time you had together.


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: Sherry DeHaan 
  To: Felvtalk 
  Sent: Monday, July 16, 2007 10:14 PM
  Subject: Celia Please add to the CLS :(


  We lost another one of our Sids kids today.Sweet Celia was a beautiful calico 
who was very laid back and never had a mean bone in her body.She will be missed 
by us all. 
  Sherry


--
  Need a vacation? Get great deals to amazing places on Yahoo! Travel.

Re: I need information please

Hi Malone!

Hideyo is quite right, leaving the cats together is the best thing due to their 
quality of life (they love each other) and it's quite possible that the girl 
kitty will not ever get the virus.

And I would definately find another vet ASAP.

To recommend euthanizing a cat (pet)  that is testing pos. but has no symptoms 
is irresponsible, and he / she needs to get w/ the new millineum.

I have 4 cats that are felv+ (so far, I also have 12 fosters that were exposed 
from a hoarder that are waiting for retesting), and my protocal is to give them 
L-Lysine in their moist food every morning along w/ Missing Link.

I use the professional strength Missing Link that is supposed to help detox.

Instructions say to give them 3/4 of a teaspoon, but sometimes cats don't like 
it, so I am starting them off w/ a smaller amount and building them up to the 
regular dosage.

We are up to 1/2 teas. now, and so far so good.

Missing Link can cause soft stools, but I have heard that is temporary.

Princess Naughty Lola, who has long, fine, feathery cream furrage did develope 
some soft stools, but we seemed to have worked through that.

Boy, was she fun .  :(

I had to chase her around the office and clean her butt  fur several times a 
day, and even trim her.

She does not like that.

But like I said, that lasted only a few days and now things have settled down.

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: HIDEYO YAMAMOTO 
  To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org 
  Sent: Tuesday, July 17, 2007 1:17 AM
  Subject: Re: I need information please


  I am so relieved to hear that you did not kill your boy, Basil -- I used the 
word kill - because if he was put him down, it's so far away from being 
euthanized -- there is no reason for him to be killed - and he is lucky to 
have you, and have your wisdom on his side as apparently your vet is not as 
wise as you are.. (I think you should be looking another vet as soon as you get 
a chance) -

  The myth of whether a kitty can throw off the virus once infected/exposed 
seems to be still myth - but apparently, statistically, 2/3 of kitties who were 
exposed to the virus (not infected) throw off the virus.

  It seems that later s/he is infected at their age, better the chance they 
have to throw the virus off.  The fact that hs is alrady 4 years old is a very 
good sign already as again statistically, 80% of felk kitties die within three 
years of their age.

  Also, I am so glad that you are wise and care enough not to separate the boy 
kitty from girl kitty -- no matter what, sometimes, we have to balance their 
quality of their lives - and I really feel that they are lucky to have you as 
someone who care for them.

  I have three year old girl, Ginger who is also felk positive and she has been 
healthy and I feel very fortunate about it.

  I try not to let test result control their or my life -Whether he throw off 
the virus off or not, the most important thing is to provide stress free 
environment for him so that he can maintain the health that he has -- I use FOI 
(feline interferon -anti vira agent) and other people on the list use different 
things..

  Any vitamin supplement or immune boosters are good for them ---

  Hideyo
- Original Message - 
From: Malone 
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org 
Sent: Monday, July 16, 2007 9:22 PM
Subject: I need information please


I read all the posts, so I can learn how to deal with this virus. I lost my 
kitten at 9 months, and apparently even though he was vaccinated my 4 year old 
has tested positive for felv. He was diagnosed 4 months ago and shows no sign 
of illness. My vet had recommended putting him down. I just couldn't lose both 
my boys in one day. I am so thankful I didn't because Basil is fine. My 
question is about the ability to fight off the virus-does this really happen? 
Has anyone on this list actually had a felv+ cat that kicked the virus? What 
should I expect and what should I be doing to help keep him healthy? I tried to 
separate my felv+ boy and felv- girl, but they howled and cried something 
fierce. They have been together since they were kittens. I let them mix, and 
she is still negative. I read the information about blood tests, and I get 
confused. Basil's blood work seems normal, other than the fact that he tested 
positive. Thank you.

Re: Celia Please add to the CLS :(

2007-07-17 Thread catatonya

I'm sorry Sherry.  It seems like before Celia you had a down time for losses. 
 I hope everyone at Sids does well for a long time to come.
  tonya

Sherry DeHaan [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
We lost another one of our Sids kids today.Sweet Celia was a beautiful 
calico who was very laid back and never had a mean bone in her body.She will be 
missed by us all. 
  Sherry

-
  Need a vacation? Get great deals to amazing places on Yahoo! Travel.

Re: I need information please

2007-07-17 Thread catatonya

Basil has an excellent chance of throwing off the virus IF he picked it up from 
your kitten.  The problem is that if you only tested him once as a kitten he 
could have been positive all along.  Either way, the fact that he's 4 years old 
means that he has a good chance of living a long life even with the virus.  
   
  tonya

Malone [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
I read all the posts, so I can learn how to deal with this 
virus. I lost my kitten at 9 months, and apparently even though he was 
vaccinated my 4 year old has tested positive for felv. He was diagnosed 4 
months ago and shows no sign of illness. My vet had recommended putting him 
down. I just couldnt lose both my boys in one day. I am so thankful I didnt 
because Basil is fine. My question is about the ability to fight off the 
virusdoes this really happen? Has anyone on this list actually had a felv+ cat 
that kicked the virus? What should I expect and what should I be doing to help 
keep him healthy? I tried to separate my felv+ boy and felv- girl, but they 
howled and cried something fierce. They have been together since they were 
kittens. I let them mix, and she is still negative. I read the information 
about blood tests, and I get confused. Basils blood work seems normal, other 
than the fact that he tested positive. Thank you.

Re: Celia Please add to the CLS :(

2007-07-17 Thread laurieskatz

Our deepest sympathies. Safe travels, little one, to the life where kitties 
have no pain.Sherry, my beloved Keisha died unexpectely on Saturday, The only 
way I could find some comfort was to start writing down happy memories. Grief 
comes in waves.
Laurie 
  - Original Message - 
  From: Sherry DeHaan 
  To: Felvtalk 
  Sent: Monday, July 16, 2007 9:14 PM
  Subject: Celia Please add to the CLS :(


  We lost another one of our Sids kids today.Sweet Celia was a beautiful calico 
who was very laid back and never had a mean bone in her body.She will be missed 
by us all. 
  Sherry


--
  Need a vacation? Get great deals to amazing places on Yahoo! Travel.

RE: I need information please

2007-07-17 Thread Melissa Lind

Malone,

 

I'm overjoyed to hear you didn't listen to the vet. I agree-change vets! I
had the same thing happen to me. I rescued a beautiful boy, and the vet
suggested since he was FeLV + to put him down. He was so healthy, happy, and
energetic; I just couldn't imagine doing that. How horrible. That's how I
found these guys-I decided to research. Read, read, read-that's the best
thing you can do to get a variety of opinions and see what works for you. I
don't have any FeLV kitties anymore (mine went to a sanctuary), and I've
declined vaccinating my youngest against FeLV just because it isn't 100%
effective and my cats don't interact with other cats/go outside, etc. But,
then again, like someone mentioned, it takes two tests to confirm, so
possibly Basil had it before, but since he's so healthy, I think you two
have a great chance.

 

There's a lot of controversy about mixing FeLV pos and neg. I could never
introduce a FeLV kitty to my clan (the one I had was isolated); however, if
one of my babies turns up positive, and they've all been together for so
long, I'd continue to keep them together. The benefits of companionship
outweigh the risks in my opinion. 

 

Good luck with everything-you've come to the right place. The people here
are very supportive and caring in addition to being knowledgeable.

 

Melissa

 

  _  

From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Malone
Sent: Monday, July 16, 2007 10:23 PM
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
Subject: I need information please

 

I read all the posts, so I can learn how to deal with this virus. I lost my
kitten at 9 months, and apparently even though he was vaccinated my 4 year
old has tested positive for felv. He was diagnosed 4 months ago and shows no
sign of illness. My vet had recommended putting him down. I just couldn't
lose both my boys in one day. I am so thankful I didn't because Basil is
fine. My question is about the ability to fight off the virus-does this
really happen? Has anyone on this list actually had a felv+ cat that kicked
the virus? What should I expect and what should I be doing to help keep him
healthy? I tried to separate my felv+ boy and felv- girl, but they howled
and cried something fierce. They have been together since they were kittens.
I let them mix, and she is still negative. I read the information about
blood tests, and I get confused. Basil's blood work seems normal, other than
the fact that he tested positive. Thank you.

Re: I need information please (catatonya)

2007-07-17 Thread Malone

Thank you for the advice. I know he got it from the kitten. He had two tests
both negative when he came in the home. He was tested when I picked him up
from the humane society and then he was retested when Teaser was retested.
They both had two tests before 1 year of age and that was when I vaccinated
them for the first time. Basil had 2 other boosters. Teaser is a year older
and she had been vaccinated 3 times. When my baby boy died both Basil and
Teaser were retested. She is still negative but Basil was positive. My vet
then said there was no reason to wait he would be like the kitten in a
matter of weeks. He also felt if I kept him I would infect Teaser. I don't
think he is a bad vet, but hasn't really dealt with felv much. He is really
a vet for most of the ranches in the area. I have an opportunity to share
what I learn here with him. That is a blessing. But now I have to wonder if
he shouldn't be retested, something my vet said would only cause me more
heartache. If I take him to another vet and get a different result that
would prove that this virus could be fought off. I just didn't want to get
my hopes up too high. That is why I was wondering if anyone here had a cat
that was positive end up negative. 

 

Thank you to you, Hideyo, and Susan for the advice and assistance.

Re: I need information please (catatonya)

I personally have not --but my vets had told me that it happened to her clients 
often -
Is there any chance that the vaccine caused it to be positive and he is really 
not positive - I know that FIV vaccines does it to cats, and I have not heard 
that it happens with Felk vaccines -- but how could one be so sure -

Have you done IFA testing for Felk virus to see if he was tested positivce on 
bone marrow level?
  - Original Message - 
  From: Malonemailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] 
  To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgmailto:felvtalk@felineleukemia.org 
  Sent: Tuesday, July 17, 2007 8:48 AM
  Subject: Re: I need information please (catatonya)


  Thank you for the advice. I know he got it from the kitten. He had two tests 
both negative when he came in the home. He was tested when I picked him up from 
the humane society and then he was retested when Teaser was retested. They both 
had two tests before 1 year of age and that was when I vaccinated them for the 
first time. Basil had 2 other boosters. Teaser is a year older and she had been 
vaccinated 3 times. When my baby boy died both Basil and Teaser were retested. 
She is still negative but Basil was positive. My vet then said there was no 
reason to wait he would be like the kitten in a matter of weeks. He also felt 
if I kept him I would infect Teaser. I don't think he is a bad vet, but hasn't 
really dealt with felv much. He is really a vet for most of the ranches in the 
area. I have an opportunity to share what I learn here with him. That is a 
blessing. But now I have to wonder if he shouldn't be retested, something my 
vet said would only cause me more heartache. If I take him to another vet and 
get a different result that would prove that this virus could be fought off. I 
just didn't want to get my hopes up too high. That is why I was wondering if 
anyone here had a cat that was positive end up negative. 

   

  Thank you to you, Hideyo, and Susan for the advice and assistance.

Re: I need information please (catatonya)

2007-07-17 Thread catatonya

I would wait 3 months and retest.  I find it hard to believe that he would have 
'caught' felv from a kitten at 4 years old.
   
  tonya

Malone [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
Thank you for the advice. I know he got it from the kitten. He 
had two tests both negative when he came in the home. He was tested when I 
picked him up from the humane society and then he was retested when Teaser was 
retested. They both had two tests before 1 year of age and that was when I 
vaccinated them for the first time. Basil had 2 other boosters. Teaser is a 
year older and she had been vaccinated 3 times. When my baby boy died both 
Basil and Teaser were retested. She is still negative but Basil was positive. 
My vet then said there was no reason to wait he would be like the kitten in a 
matter of weeks. He also felt if I kept him I would infect Teaser. I dont 
think he is a bad vet, but hasnt really dealt with felv much. He is really a 
vet for most of the ranches in the area. I have an opportunity to share what I 
learn here with him. That is a blessing. But now I have to wonder if he 
shouldnt be retested, something my vet said would only cause me more
 heartache. If I take him to another vet and get a different result that would 
prove that this virus could be fought off. I just didnt want to get my hopes 
up too high. That is why I was wondering if anyone here had a cat that was 
positive end up negative. 
   
  Thank you to you, Hideyo, and Susan for the advice and assistance.

RE: I need information please (catatonya)

2007-07-17 Thread MacKenzie, Kerry N.

Dear Malone,
Bless you for protecting your kitties from your vet's recommendation to
euthanize. 
Yes, the virus can be thrown off. 
In 2003 I took in a colony of 5 kittens and 1 young adult, who all
continued to live together in my 2nd bedroom pending testing. The 5
kittens tested postive twice. The older cat was negative both times.
Over the subsequent 21 months or so, 4 of the 5 kittens succumbed to the
FeLV. 
I had the remaining kitten--Mickey-- and the older
cat--Momcat--retested last year, since I wanted to see if they could be
integrated with my general household (I had stopped vaccinating my other
cats against FeLV when they all became indoors cats, and didn't want to
start again.). Momcat was still negativeand now Mickey tested
negative too. (My vet, whom I trust totally, and who has been very
supportive re the FeLV, did the testing in his own office, showed me the
test device, and said the result was unambiguous. We were
high-fiving.)
Throwing off the virus is not that uncommon, according to my vet-- I've
forgotten the figure he gave me, but it was substantial--maybe
one-third, or even more. I'll ask him again, next time I see him. 
We can't control the outcome--all we can do is love and care for them as
much as possible, and hope that even if they don't throw off the virus
they will have long happy lives. Although I was heart-broken to lose my
4, I know that at least their (all too short) lives had quality. They
were warm and looked after and had each other, and when they passed I
was there to comfort them. 
There would be no point in separating your 2 babes at this stage since
Teaser has already been exposed. And as you've already witnessed, it
would upset them dreadfully and needlessly. It's wonderful they have
such a bond. 
And, it's wonderful they have you Malone. Bless you for your compassion
and refusal to accept the vet's word. 
Kerry M.
 
-Original Message-
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Malone
Sent: Tuesday, July 17, 2007 9:49 AM
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
Subject: Re: I need information please (catatonya)



Thank you for the advice. I know he got it from the kitten. He had two
tests both negative when he came in the home. He was tested when I
picked him up from the humane society and then he was retested when
Teaser was retested. They both had two tests before 1 year of age and
that was when I vaccinated them for the first time. Basil had 2 other
boosters. Teaser is a year older and she had been vaccinated 3 times.
When my baby boy died both Basil and Teaser were retested. She is still
negative but Basil was positive. My vet then said there was no reason to
wait he would be like the kitten in a matter of weeks. He also felt if I
kept him I would infect Teaser. I don't think he is a bad vet, but
hasn't really dealt with felv much. He is really a vet for most of the
ranches in the area. I have an opportunity to share what I learn here
with him. That is a blessing. But now I have to wonder if he shouldn't
be retested, something my vet said would only cause me more heartache.
If I take him to another vet and get a different result that would prove
that this virus could be fought off. I just didn't want to get my hopes
up too high. That is why I was wondering if anyone here had a cat that
was positive end up negative. 

 

Thank you to you, Hideyo, and Susan for the advice and assistance.
 
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RE: I need information please (catatonya)

2007-07-17 Thread Chris

Couple of questions.  When you sai that Basil  Teaser were vaccinated  had
boosters-do you mean that they had Feline Leukemia vaccines?  Also, if Basil
had pos on the Elissa Snap test in the office, wait a couple of months and
have them run an Elissa (blood work sent to lab).  

 

As for mixing, my Tuscon showed up pos after testing neg as a kitten  some
of those early kitten tests are not always too accurate.  None of my negs
had gotten it though they were all exposed to each other since kittenhood.
I vaccinate my negs now but I think its real hard for an adult healthy cat
to catch it.  

 

Basically, my Tucson  another pos I took, Romeo, are pretty healthy and
they're getting to be around 8 or 9.  

 

Christiane Biagi

914-632-4672

Cell:  914-720-6888

[EMAIL PROTECTED]

 

Katrina Animal Reunion Team (KART)

www.findkpets.org

 

Join Us  Help Reunite Katrina-displaced Families with their Animals

From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Malone
Sent: Tuesday, July 17, 2007 10:49 AM
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
Subject: Re: I need information please (catatonya)

 

Thank you for the advice. I know he got it from the kitten. He had two tests
both negative when he came in the home. He was tested when I picked him up
from the humane society and then he was retested when Teaser was retested.
They both had two tests before 1 year of age and that was when I vaccinated
them for the first time. Basil had 2 other boosters. Teaser is a year older
and she had been vaccinated 3 times. When my baby boy died both Basil and
Teaser were retested. She is still negative but Basil was positive. My vet
then said there was no reason to wait he would be like the kitten in a
matter of weeks. He also felt if I kept him I would infect Teaser. I don't
think he is a bad vet, but hasn't really dealt with felv much. He is really
a vet for most of the ranches in the area. I have an opportunity to share
what I learn here with him. That is a blessing. But now I have to wonder if
he shouldn't be retested, something my vet said would only cause me more
heartache. If I take him to another vet and get a different result that
would prove that this virus could be fought off. I just didn't want to get
my hopes up too high. That is why I was wondering if anyone here had a cat
that was positive end up negative. 

 

Thank you to you, Hideyo, and Susan for the advice and assistance.

RE: I need information please (catatonya)

2007-07-17 Thread Melissa Lind

How horrible that he would tell you it would only be a matter of weeks!
That's appalling. My Cassidy is happy and doing fine at his sanctuary
without symptoms (that I know of), and he tested positive in April. The vet
I went to mostly dealt with livestock, and pets weren't as important
(they're not worth as much money). I hope you are able to find a more
pet-friendly vet.

 

Melissa 

 

  _  

From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Malone
Sent: Tuesday, July 17, 2007 9:49 AM
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
Subject: Re: I need information please (catatonya)

 

Thank you for the advice. I know he got it from the kitten. He had two tests
both negative when he came in the home. He was tested when I picked him up
from the humane society and then he was retested when Teaser was retested.
They both had two tests before 1 year of age and that was when I vaccinated
them for the first time. Basil had 2 other boosters. Teaser is a year older
and she had been vaccinated 3 times. When my baby boy died both Basil and
Teaser were retested. She is still negative but Basil was positive. My vet
then said there was no reason to wait he would be like the kitten in a
matter of weeks. He also felt if I kept him I would infect Teaser. I don't
think he is a bad vet, but hasn't really dealt with felv much. He is really
a vet for most of the ranches in the area. I have an opportunity to share
what I learn here with him. That is a blessing. But now I have to wonder if
he shouldn't be retested, something my vet said would only cause me more
heartache. If I take him to another vet and get a different result that
would prove that this virus could be fought off. I just didn't want to get
my hopes up too high. That is why I was wondering if anyone here had a cat
that was positive end up negative. 

 

Thank you to you, Hideyo, and Susan for the advice and assistance.

How Basil contracted the virus

2007-07-17 Thread Malone

It is believed that Basil contracted the virus when he and Baby Boy Sox got
into a pretty horrid cat fight. Apparently the tom cat in them both broke
out. When I got home my baby boy had a gash on his head-nice teeth prints as
well. Have never seen Basil raise a whisker in violent behavior but
apparently he had to make sure the baby knew who the alpha male was. It was
3 weeks after the fight that my kitten died and that Basil had the first
positive test. He had two negative tests in his first year of life and then
I vaccinated him and Teaser as well on the advice from my vet. Now I really
believe that he might not still be positive-at least that is kind of what I
am getting from reading information here. I really was looking for something
like Kerry described-reassurance that a positive test can become negative. I
have heard the talk of it happening but I was looking for someone who had
personal knowledge of it actually happening. Thank You!

RE: How Basil contracted the virus

2007-07-17 Thread Melissa Lind

I think the best thing to do is wait and see. Retest with an IFA in 3
months-at least that's my opinion, and I'm certainly not an expert-but
that's just what I've picked up from reading the posts here. I would assume
that throwing the virus is rare, but who's to say that miracles can't
happen! They certainly seem to on this list from time to time!

 

  _  

From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Malone
Sent: Tuesday, July 17, 2007 12:16 PM
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
Subject: How Basil contracted the virus

 

It is believed that Basil contracted the virus when he and Baby Boy Sox got
into a pretty horrid cat fight. Apparently the tom cat in them both broke
out. When I got home my baby boy had a gash on his head-nice teeth prints as
well. Have never seen Basil raise a whisker in violent behavior but
apparently he had to make sure the baby knew who the alpha male was. It was
3 weeks after the fight that my kitten died and that Basil had the first
positive test. He had two negative tests in his first year of life and then
I vaccinated him and Teaser as well on the advice from my vet. Now I really
believe that he might not still be positive-at least that is kind of what I
am getting from reading information here. I really was looking for something
like Kerry described-reassurance that a positive test can become negative. I
have heard the talk of it happening but I was looking for someone who had
personal knowledge of it actually happening. Thank You!

Re: I need information please (catatonya)

It can happen.

(Catching felv. from a kitten @ 4 yrs. old).

Ursula came from a hoarder / breeder, along w/ Serenity  Lola.

Lola  Serenity came to me from the pound after being seized by AC, they were 
both a hot pos.

Ursula came form the same house, but tested neg / neg.

Ursula was a breeder, and she lived in a cage most of her life, I can tell by 
the way she walks.

She is about 5 yrears old or so.

Anyway, I isolated her in a bathroom since in my eyes, she was a limbo cat.

In otherwords, she had an exposure but tested neg. upon me getting her.

I took her in for her spay 2 months later and she tested a soft pos. for leuk.

Due to the circumstances, I did not see any reason to do anymore elaborate 
tests.

She came from a pos. house, where 65 other cats w/ the exception of a few 
kittens tested pos.

If you know the history of the situation of the cat  it's former living 
conditions, saying she is pos. after one test is a reasonable call.

She has so far not show any symptoms, and it's been almost a year.

Lola seems ok so far, she does sleep a lot.

Lillian came from a hoarder w/ 185 cats, she tested pos. for leuk., while 
others in the house tested neg. but others also tested pos.

I have 12 more that are in limbo, and we will begin retesting them in about 2 
to 3 weeks.

We are going w/ a 4 month incubation period.



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: catatonya 
  To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org 
  Sent: Tuesday, July 17, 2007 10:22 AM
  Subject: Re: I need information please (catatonya)


  I would wait 3 months and retest.  I find it hard to believe that he would 
have 'caught' felv from a kitten at 4 years old.

  tonya

  Malone [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:

Re: How Basil contracted the virus

They can contract the disease other ways, too.

Mostly through saliva or litterbox.

Preening, water  food bowls are how it usually spreads.

FIV is spread predominantly spread through fighting, w/ deep bite wounds.

If you have a cat that is FIV+, it can live w/ other non fiv cats as long as it 
is not a fighter


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: Malone 
  To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org 
  Sent: Tuesday, July 17, 2007 12:16 PM
  Subject: How Basil contracted the virus


  It is believed that Basil contracted the virus when he and Baby Boy Sox got 
into a pretty horrid cat fight. Apparently the tom cat in them both broke out. 
When I got home my baby boy had a gash on his head-nice teeth prints as well. 
Have never seen Basil raise a whisker in violent behavior but apparently he had 
to make sure the baby knew who the alpha male was. It was 3 weeks after the 
fight that my kitten died and that Basil had the first positive test. He had 
two negative tests in his first year of life and then I vaccinated him and 
Teaser as well on the advice from my vet. Now I really believe that he might 
not still be positive-at least that is kind of what I am getting from reading 
information here. I really was looking for something like Kerry 
described-reassurance that a positive test can become negative. I have heard 
the talk of it happening but I was looking for someone who had personal 
knowledge of it actually happening. Thank You!

OT: A poem to those who lost your precious soul

Lend Me A Kitten

I will lend to you for a while a kitten, God said.
For you to love while he lives, and mourn when he's dead. 
Maybe for twelve or fourteen years, or maybe two or three.
But will you, 'till I call him back, take care of him for me? 

He'll bring his charms to gladden you and should his stay be brief,
you'll always have his memories as solace for your grief. 

I cannot promise he will stay, since all from earth return.
But there are lessons taught below I want this kitten to learn. 

I've looked the whole world over in search of teachers true, 
And from the folk that crowds life's land I have chosen you. 

Now will you give him all your love, nor think the labor vain?
Nor hate me when I come to take my kitten home again? 

And my heart replied, My Lord, Thy Will Be Done.
For all the joys this kitten brings, the risk of grief I'll run. 

We'll shelter him with tenderness, we'll love him while we may.
And for the happiness that we've known, forever grateful stay. 

But should you call him back much sooner than we planned,
We'll brave the bitter grief that comes, and try to understand. 

If by our love we've managed your wishes to achieve,
in memory of his sweet sweet love, please help us while we grieve. 

When our cherished kitten departs this world of strife,
Please send yet another needing soul for us to love all his life. 

Adapted from the poem To All Parents, 
by Edgar A. Guest [1881-1959] 

http://www.flippysc atpage.com/ lendmeakitten. 
htmlhttp://www.flippyscatpage.com/lendmeakitten.html

Re: A poem to those who lost your precious soul

That was wonderful, Hideyo...  :)...

Thanks so much for sharing.

I will share it now too, for I know some kitten parents in need of this.

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: HIDEYO YAMAMOTO 
  To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] ; [EMAIL PROTECTED] ; felvtalk@felineleukemia.org 
  Sent: Tuesday, July 17, 2007 5:43 PM
  Subject: OT: A poem to those who lost your precious soul


  Lend Me A Kitten

  I will lend to you for a while a kitten, God said.
  For you to love while he lives, and mourn when he's dead. 
  Maybe for twelve or fourteen years, or maybe two or three.
  But will you, 'till I call him back, take care of him for me? 

  He'll bring his charms to gladden you and should his stay be brief,
  you'll always have his memories as solace for your grief. 

  I cannot promise he will stay, since all from earth return.
  But there are lessons taught below I want this kitten to learn. 

  I've looked the whole world over in search of teachers true, 
  And from the folk that crowds life's land I have chosen you. 

  Now will you give him all your love, nor think the labor vain?
  Nor hate me when I come to take my kitten home again? 

  And my heart replied, My Lord, Thy Will Be Done.
  For all the joys this kitten brings, the risk of grief I'll run. 

  We'll shelter him with tenderness, we'll love him while we may.
  And for the happiness that we've known, forever grateful stay. 

  But should you call him back much sooner than we planned,
  We'll brave the bitter grief that comes, and try to understand. 

  If by our love we've managed your wishes to achieve,
  in memory of his sweet sweet love, please help us while we grieve. 

  When our cherished kitten departs this world of strife,
  Please send yet another needing soul for us to love all his life. 

  Adapted from the poem To All Parents, 
  by Edgar A. Guest [1881-1959] 

  http://www.flippysc atpage.com/ lendmeakitten. html

To Malone Re: I need information please

Hi Malone,

I hope you are getting lots of good info. to help you make your decisions for 
your furbaby.  Here is a good link that talks about seroconverting (throwing 
the virus).  

http://www.alleycat.org/pdf/test.pdf

There are others out there that will give similar info on FeLV, but the numbers 
might be different.  It's a fairly newly diagnosed feline disease, so there's 
much more to learn about FeLV and research is still ongoing.  

I think the numbers are 30-40% will seroconvert after exposure/testing 
positive, but not sure.  Still, it's a good chance that your furbaby has a 
chance to throw this virus.  Love, attention. a good diet with immune-boosting 
supplements, and a stress-free environment will make the chances even greater.  

:)
Wendy


  

Luggage? GPS? Comic books? 
Check out fitting gifts for grads at Yahoo! Search
http://search.yahoo.com/search?fr=oni_on_mailp=graduation+giftscs=bz

Re: I need information please (catatonya)

2007-07-17 Thread glenda Goodman

Susan, This site is an eye-opener for me...Besides
that, some of you people have to be angels...I cannot
even comprehend the nightmare some of these kitties
have experienced. What a lovely group of people have
gathered here, hoping to help these kitties ...Bless
every one of you guys! I just felt like saying
that...Glenda
--- Susan Dubose [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:

 It can happen.
 
 (Catching felv. from a kitten @ 4 yrs. old).
 
 Ursula came from a hoarder / breeder, along w/
 Serenity  Lola.
 
 Lola  Serenity came to me from the pound after
 being seized by AC, they were both a hot pos.
 
 Ursula came form the same house, but tested neg /
 neg.
 
 Ursula was a breeder, and she lived in a cage most
 of her life, I can tell by the way she walks.
 
 She is about 5 yrears old or so.
 
 Anyway, I isolated her in a bathroom since in my
 eyes, she was a limbo cat.
 
 In otherwords, she had an exposure but tested neg.
 upon me getting her.
 
 I took her in for her spay 2 months later and she
 tested a soft pos. for leuk.
 
 Due to the circumstances, I did not see any reason
 to do anymore elaborate tests.
 
 She came from a pos. house, where 65 other cats w/
 the exception of a few kittens tested pos.
 
 If you know the history of the situation of the cat
  it's former living conditions, saying she is pos.
 after one test is a reasonable call.
 
 She has so far not show any symptoms, and it's been
 almost a year.
 
 Lola seems ok so far, she does sleep a lot.
 
 Lillian came from a hoarder w/ 185 cats, she tested
 pos. for leuk., while others in the house tested
 neg. but others also tested pos.
 
 I have 12 more that are in limbo, and we will
 begin retesting them in about 2 to 3 weeks.
 
 We are going w/ a 4 month incubation period.
 
 
 
 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: catatonya 
   To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org 
   Sent: Tuesday, July 17, 2007 10:22 AM
   Subject: Re: I need information please (catatonya)
 
 
   I would wait 3 months and retest.  I find it hard
 to believe that he would have 'caught' felv from a
 kitten at 4 years old.
 
   tonya
 
   Malone [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
 
 



   

Take the Internet to Go: Yahoo!Go puts the Internet in your pocket: mail, news, 
photos  more. 
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To Caroline: Re: Monkee is gone

Hi Caroline,

I just read your post about Monkee.  I am so, so sorry.  It's just horrible, I 
know.

What is important, even knowing how Monkee died, is that you were there for him 
and did everything in your power to help him get better, including fighting for 
his life when his vets didn't want to.  Monkee knows this.  And he loves you.  
You DID NOT fail Monkee.  Just the opposite is true.  If you need to think 
about how he died, then let yourself, but not all the time.  You might have to 
fight off the thoughts if they won't leave you alone.  Replace them with good 
memories, happy memories.  You have the power to do that.  You don't deserve to 
suffer and Monkee doesn't want you to.  

Try not to let how his death happened weigh on you too much.  My Cricket, my 
sweet baby, died the same way your Monkee did, and it was SO hard to watch.  I 
can completely relate to you, and what I can offer is this.  It will get better 
with time.  It will be really hard at first, because images keep creeping into 
your mind.  But I promise, eventually all the good memories will overshadow the 
tough ones.  

Take care of yourself Caroline.  Allow yourself to grieve.  Do relaxing things 
for yourself.  Be gentle with yourself.  You and Monkee have both been through 
a traumatic event.  You have to have time to get over it.  If you ever need to 
talk, feel free to email me.  Everyone in this group is wonderful; if you need 
anything just ask.  One of the best parts of this group for me was helping me 
grieve for Cricket.  Helping me cope with all my crazy thoughts.  They were a 
Godsend.

You're in my thoughts, 
Wendy
 


Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the 
world - indeed it is the only thing that ever has! ~~~ Margaret Meade ~~~


   
Ready
 for the edge of your seat? 
Check out tonight's top picks on Yahoo! TV. 
http://tv.yahoo.com/

RE: OT: A poem to those who lost your precious soul

2007-07-17 Thread Caroline Kaufmann

Thank you. This means more to me than you will ever know.
-Caroline 


From: "HIDEYO YAMAMOTO" [EMAIL PROTECTED]Reply-To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgTo: [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED],felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSubject: OT: A poem to those who lost your precious soulDate: Tue, 17 Jul 2007 16:43:11 -0600



Lend Me A KittenI will lend to you for a while a kitten, God said.For you to love while he lives, and mourn when he's dead. Maybe for twelve or fourteen years, or maybe two or three.But will you, 'till I call him back, take care of him for me? He'll bring his charms to gladden you and should his stay be brief,you'll always have his memories as solace for your grief. I cannot promise he will stay, since all from earth return.But there are lessons taught below I want this kitten to learn. I've looked the whole world over in search of teachers true, And from the folk that crowds life's land I have chosen you. Now will you give him all your love, nor think the labor vain?Nor hate me when I come to take my kitten home again? And my heart replied, "My Lord, Thy Will Be Done."For all the joys this kitten 
brings, the risk of grief I'll run. We'll shelter him with tenderness, we'll love him while we may.And for the happiness that we've known, forever grateful stay. But should you call him back much sooner than we planned,We'll brave the bitter grief that comes, and try to understand. If by our love we've managed your wishes to achieve,in memory of his sweet sweet love, please help us while we grieve. When our cherished kitten departs this world of strife,Please send yet another needing soul for us to love all his life. Adapted from the poem "To All Parents", by Edgar A. Guest [1881-1959] http://www.flippysc atpage.com/ lendmeakitten. html Missed the show?  Watch videos of the Live Earth Concert on MSN.

To Glenda: Re: Monkee is gone

Glenda,

You have a way with words.  What beautiful, comforting words to say to 
Caroline...and so true.

:)
Wendy
 
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the 
world - indeed it is the only thing that ever has! ~~~ Margaret Meade ~~~


- Original Message 
From: glenda Goodman [EMAIL PROTECTED]
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
Sent: Monday, July 16, 2007 9:25:19 PM
Subject: Re: Monkee is gone


Caroline,
I have been reading your emails for a few weeks now
and have gotten to know your heart and your wonderful
Monkee. I am so very sorry you are hurting so badly
and are missing your beloved Monkee. The tears are
just running out of my eyes for you. I am sure I am
not the only one out here feeling this way. People
like you give me respect for mankind. What you are
going through now is everything that is beautiful in
people. To have given your whole self over to some
hapless little cat and to be the very best friend he
ever had is just so sweet. A lady like you should
never be lonely...I do not think anyone out here would
not want to be your friend...Right now there is
another little friendless kitty feeling down, that I
know, you are destined to meet. Keep the love flowing
and make another spot in this very rough world
beautiful for another little furry friend. Your new
human friend,  Glenda Larsen
--- HIDEYO YAMAMOTO [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:

 Caroline, I am so deeply sorry about Monkee's
 crossing.  We all can emphasize your pain.  You are
 very luck to have met Monkee and Monkee is so lucky
 to have met you -- nothing can take away the bond
 between you and Monkee--it will live forever.
 
 Hideyo
   - Original Message - 
   From: Caroline
 Kaufmannmailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] 
   To:

felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgmailto:felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
 
   Sent: Monday, July 16, 2007 9:47 AM
   Subject: Monkee is gone
 
 
   My beloved cat Monkee passed last night in my arms
 while I held him with my Mom standing next to my
 side.  At about 2:30 a.m.  
 
   We were going to take him to Dr. Maier's for
 euthanasia this morning at 8:00 a.m.  I thought he
 could make it until then and that he wouldn't want
 to go to a strange emergency vet clinic he'd never
 been to before for his passing.  I didn't know he
 was that bad.  I feel so bad.  It was so horrible. 
 He was having some trouble breathing, but I was
 usually able to calm him down by holding him and
 giving him flower essences.  He had begun to have
 trouble walking and he would cry at me really loudly
 when he wasn't able to do something he wanted to do
 because his brain was not getting enough oxygen
 (like walk around).  I didn't want him to be in pain
 or suffer and I feel like I failed him.  
 
   He did go really quick, but I was hysterical as it
 was happening.  We were on my bed and I was holding
 him.  He took a last gasp of air and then he
 stopped.  When his body when limp, I felt like I
 might die too.  I think the only thing that helped
 me and my mom was that she has rescue remedy with
 her and we both took it right away.  It sounds odd
 to say that, but immediately after it happened, I
 felt a sense of peace-- for him.  I think the rescue
 remedy helped my breathing at that time.  I just
 held him afterwards and talked to him  and pet him
 and kissed him for about two hours.  I told him how
 wonderful he was and that I would never be the same
 without him.  I walked around the house, sat with
 him on the porch he loved so much and took him
 outside for his last time to hold him while sitting
 on the front steps.  
 
   I have never had an animal die in my arms like
 that and to have it be my best friend-- the best
 companion I've ever had...my heart just feels like
 it's wrenching in half.  I feel guilty and
 traumatized.  I am having a hard time erasing the
 memories of his passing.  When I close my eyes, I
 see his face as he took his last breath.  I don't
 how to recover from that.
   I've never been lonely since I had Monkee and now
 that he's gone, that loneliness is crashing in.  
 
   I hope all of you are able to continue to care for
 your cats and give them the peace and love that they
 so desperately need.  I admire those of you who take
 care of multiple FelV cats and have lost some in the
 past and continue to keep doing the work that you
 do.  My thoughts and my prayers are now with all of
 you and your babies.  I felt like I didn't have the
 mental energy to devote many of my prayers in the
 past few weeks to any cat other than Monkee, but I
 will be praying for you now.
 
   I also wanted to remind everyone that you never
 really know the power of what love can do for a cat
 like Monkee, until you experience it.  When I found
 him, he was a crazy, dirty, little ragamuffin eating
 doves, baby rabbits, and whatever else he could
 catch in the courtyard of my law school apartment
 complex in Northern Ky 4 years ago.  And four years
 and 1 month ago, I couldn't take his living it up in

To Laurie

Laurie,

I am so sorry about your sweet Keisha.  What a wonderful caregiver you were to 
her.  I'm sorry it was so sudden; that must be hard for you.  Just know she 
loved you as you loved her.  

:)
Wendy

P.S.   If you feel like it, please post the results from the necropsy.  You 
never know when info. might help another furbaby that comes along here.
 
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 ~~~


   

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Check out fun summer activities for kids.
http://search.yahoo.com/search?fr=oni_on_mailp=summer+activities+for+kidscs=bz

The emails I have received in the wake of Monkee's passinghave really comforted me and I wanted you all to know that. I have forwarded them to my mother and she said they are "treasures" that need to be printed and kept forever. I plan to make a big photo collage of Monkee pictures to frame- he really was the most beautifully marked cat I'd ever seen and I never want to forget that and I always want to have that around for people to be able to marvel at him- even if they never knew him. The emails from this group will also be something I take with me and hold onto forever. I was afraid at first that your emails would be too hard to read-- that I wouldn't be able to get through them. But it wasn't like that at all. In fact it was the opposite-- that I can't imagine not having had these comforting words sent to me. Yesterday, I
felt like all I needed was a hug, just lots of hugs. And the only person around to do that for me was my mom. But in a way, I felt like I got hugs through your words and I wanted to thank you all for that. God bless the internet...and I really mean that!

My family and friends- other than my mother of course- have been stand-offish- they are afraid I don't want to talk or that if do talk, I will cry and maybe I don't want to cry at that time,...so that means that none of them have called to talk. And honestly, that pretty much sucked. But having this group has more than made up for that and I really appreciate all you did for me and Monkee, and all you will continue to do for me and other people in the future. You people are truly blessed with a special gift.
-Caroline Local listings, incredible imagery, and driving directions - all in one place!

Re: Comforting Emails