If Lilly could speak, the first thing she’d
say is, “Please don’t be afraid of FIV.” It
breaks her heart every time someone pauses by her cage, only
to pass by when they read that she tested positive for Feline
Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). Lilly was a homeless mama cat who
came to us over a year ago with a litter of kittens. Her kittens
were quickly adopted (all were negative for FIV) but Lilly is
still waiting for a home of her own. She’s a sweet brown
tabby with a playful and affectionate personality, just waiting
for a chance to bring joy into somebody’s life.
Sadly for homeless FIV+ cats like Lilly, finding homes can be difficult,
mainly due to the lack of understanding about the virus. Despite
what many people think, cats with FIV can live perfectly long,
happy and healthy lives. There are many misconceptions about FIV,
but here are the facts, courtesy of Best Friends Animal Society:
1. FIV is a slow virus that affects a cat’s immune system
over a period of years.
2. FIV is a cat-only disease and cannot be spread to humans or
other non-felines.
3. FIV cats most often live long, healthy and relatively normal
lives with no symptoms at all.
4. FIV is not easily passed between cats. It cannot be spread casually,
such as in litter boxes, water and food bowls, or when snuggling
and playing.
5. The virus can be spread through blood transfusions, badly infected
gums or serious penetrating bite wounds. (Bite wounds of this kind
are extremely rare, except in free-roaming, non-neutered tomcats.)
6. A neutered cat, in a home, is extremely unlikely to infect other
cats, if properly introduced.
7. Many vets are not educated about FIV since the virus was discovered
fairly recently. When adopting an FIV+ cat, be sure to find a vet
who is supportive.
8. FIV positive cats should be kept indoors and free from stress.
Fed a high-quality diet and treated for any secondary problems
as they arise, these cats will do very well.
Can you help Lilly’s adoption dream come true? Meet her at
the Posh Pets adoption site, 160 Fountain Ave in Pacific Grove
or give us a call at 831-333-0722 for more information about her.
Lilly is a Compassionate Choice Cat, her adoption fee will be waived
to a qualified, loving adopter.
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