Talk Cancer

Question:

I asked one of my vets about FeLV once, less than a year ago.  He said thatsome cats are positive for the virus and yet live out their lives without itaffecting them in a tangible way, some live long lives but get sick now &again – have "down" times, and others do not survive, living short lives. Our stray cat tested positive for FeLV, but kicked it.  Subsequent tests were negative.  About 40% of cats can kicj FeLV in 16-18 weeks after they get it.

Response:

Also, Place your cat on a special diet that will charge his immune system daily. I read on the news group "chlorophyll of well chopped parsley/watercress/celery leaves can improve red blood cell formation." Include in your pet’s diet the blood building vitamins B-12. The herbs Alfalfa, Seaweed (kelp) provides resistance to disease. The herb Nettle contains natural iron that can help. These inclusions in your pet’s diet can quietly fortify your pet’s immune system. www.herbsnpets.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a stray that I have been feeding for about a year now.  As he wasn’t feeling well I took him to the vet who told me he is positive for both FIV and FeLV (although neither is the cause of his current illness.) The vet estimates his age at 3yo but seems pessimistic about him living more than a year or so.  He also said that if he fought with my other cat and "drew blood" he could transimit the FIV to the other cat. (They never do fight though.)  He didn’t mention transmission of FeLV to the other cat. My other cat has always been vaccinated against FeLV so I figured he would be safe.  However everything I read says that FeLV pos cats should be isolated.  And I just read on the web that the FeLV vaccine is only 85% protective. They have been living together for over a year now and as of yesterday my other cat still tested negative for FIV and FeLV.  Can I assume that he is one of the 85% that develops a sufficient immune response from the vaccine?  Should I worry?  As I said above, the vet went on and on about the "theoretical" chance of the other cat catching FIV but admitted that it is just not known to happen from water and food bowls, etc.  When I mentioned that my other cat was vaccinated for FeLV so that should protect him he just sort of agreed and went back to talking about FIV.  Then he that leukemia would probably kill the FeLV infected cat in a year or so. Is it possible or likely for the infected cat to live longer than a year or so? BTW,  I don’t have room to isolate the infected cat from the other one and dumping him outside and not taking care of him or having him put down is not an

option.

Response:

If you want to take care of the stray, you do need to keep your cat away from him so your cat doesn’t get infected.  Also, if you want to take on the responsibility, you can try to put the cat on interferon treatment which is used for both FIV and Felv.  I know that Cornell Veterinary College has an interferon protocol that they would work with your vet with if you and he are interested in pursuing this further.  But do keep your cat separate from the stray.  I know it is sad, but the other cat is already infected and there is nothing you can do about that.  You can, however, keep your cat from becoming infected.   Tracy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a stray that I have been feeding for about a year now.  As he wasn’t feeling well I took him to the vet who told me he is positive for both FIV and FeLV (although neither is the cause of his current illness.) The vet estimates his age at 3yo but seems pessimistic about him living more than a year or so.  He also said that if he fought with my other cat and "drew blood" he could transimit the FIV to the other cat. (They never do fight though.)  He didn’t mention transmission of FeLV to the other cat. My other cat has always been vaccinated against FeLV so I figured he would be safe.  However everything I read says that FeLV pos cats should be isolated.  And I just read on the web that the FeLV vaccine is only 85% protective. They have been living together for over a year now and as of yesterday my other cat still tested negative for FIV and FeLV.  Can I assume that he is one of the 85% that develops a sufficient immune response from the vaccine?  Should I worry?  As I said above, the vet went on and on about the "theoretical" chance of the other cat catching FIV but admitted that it is just not known to happen from water and food bowls, etc.  When I mentioned that my other cat was vaccinated for FeLV so that should protect him he just sort of agreed and went back to talking about FIV.  Then he that leukemia would probably kill the FeLV infected cat in a year or so. Is it possible or likely for the infected cat to live longer than a year or so? BTW,  I don’t have room to isolate the infected cat from the other one and dumping him outside and not taking care of him or having him put down is not an option.

Response:

I have a stray that I have been feeding for about a year now.  As he wasn’t feeling well I took him to the vet who told me he is positive for both FIV and FeLV (although neither is the cause of his current illness.) The vet estimates his age at 3yo but seems pessimistic about him living more than a year or so.  He also said that if he fought with my other cat and "drew blood" he could transimit the FIV to the other cat. (They never do fight though.)  He didn’t mention transmission of FeLV to the other cat. My other cat has always been vaccinated against FeLV so I figured he would be safe.  However everything I read says that FeLV pos cats should be isolated.  And I just read on the web that the FeLV vaccine is only 85% protective. They have been living together for over a year now and as of yesterday my other cat still tested negative for FIV and FeLV.  Can I assume that he is one of the 85% that develops a sufficient immune response from the vaccine?  Should I worry?  As I said above, the vet went on and on about the "theoretical" chance of the other cat catching FIV but admitted that it is just not known to happen from water and food bowls, etc.  When I mentioned that my other cat was vaccinated for FeLV so that should protect him he just sort of agreed and went back to talking about FIV.  Then he that leukemia would probably kill the FeLV infected cat in a year or so. Is it possible or likely for the infected cat to live longer than a year or so? BTW,  I don’t have room to isolate the infected cat from the other one and dumping him outside and not taking care of him or having him put down is not an option.

Response:

Which test was used to diagnose your cat with FeLV?  If it was ELISA, I suggest you retest your cat by IFA.  Nearly 50% of ELISA positives are not confirmed by IFA and are negative.  Also, most cats reject their initial FeLV infection and become immune.  Get your cat retested by IFA and again by ELISA; if the ELISA is still positive, but IFA is negative, it means your cat is not persistently veremic and is not shedding the virus. If both cats are otherwise healthy, core vaccines should be administered to both; vaccine intervals should be the same as for noninfected cats.  Killed-virus vaccines are preferred for immunocompromised cats because of the potential risk for vaccine-induced infections with MLV vaccines.  Core vaccines (FVRCP) are very important for protecting your cats from other viral infections.  Its also *very* important to *keep both cats indoors* and away from other cats!  There are two very good reasons for this: 1. To reduce the chances of your cats becoming infected with another disease (bacterial, fungal, viral) as their immune systems may be compromised and unable to fight off even minor infections; and 2. To reduce the chances of your cats infecting other cats. As far as lifespan, its hard to say.  I’ve know cats with FIV to live 4 – 6 – 8 years.  Unfortunately, FeLV+ cats don’t fair so well.  However, you need to have your cats tested by IFA and again by ELISA for FeLV. There is a good chance your FeLV+ cat may, in fact, be negative or at least not persistently veremic and not shedding the virus. Your dedication to these two cats is truly commendable. My very best wishes, Phil. —       "A kitten, in the animal kingdom,          is like a rosebud in a garden" Feline Healthcare:  http://maxshouse.com

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a stray that I have been feeding for about a year now.  As he wasn’t feeling well I took him to the vet who told me he is positive for both FIV and FeLV (although neither is the cause of his current illness.) The vet estimates his age at 3yo but seems pessimistic about him living more than a year or so.  He also said that if he fought with my other cat and "drew blood" he could transimit the FIV to the other cat. (They never do fight though.)  He didn’t mention transmission of FeLV to the other cat. My other cat has always been vaccinated against FeLV so I figured he would be safe.  However everything I read says that FeLV pos cats should be isolated.  And I just read on the web that the FeLV vaccine is only 85% protective. They have been living together for over a year now and as of yesterday my other cat still tested negative for FIV and FeLV.  Can I assume that he is one of the 85% that develops a sufficient immune response from the vaccine?  Should I worry?  As I said above, the vet went on and on about the "theoretical" chance of the other cat catching FIV but admitted that it is just not known to happen from water and food bowls, etc.  When I mentioned that my other cat was vaccinated for FeLV so that should protect him he just sort of agreed and went back to talking about FIV.  Then he that leukemia would probably kill the FeLV infected cat in a year or so. Is it possible or likely for the infected cat to live longer than a year or so? BTW,  I don’t have room to isolate the infected cat from the other one and dumping him outside and not taking care of him or having him put down is not

an option.

Response:

I asked one of my vets about FeLV once, less than a year ago.  He said that some cats are positive for the virus and yet live out their lives without it affecting them in a tangible way, some live long lives but get sick now & again – have "down" times, and others do not survive, living short lives. Also, if I remember correctly, that most cats who die from it were infected at a young (less than 2-ish) age.  This may have some bearing on how much worrying you do re: your vaccinated cat.  I haven’t checked to see if you posted this to alt.med.veterinary, too – you might get some more vets’ answers over there.  Cathy

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a stray that I have been feeding for about a year now.  As he wasn’t feeling well I took him to the vet who told me he is positive for both FIV and FeLV (although neither is the cause of his current illness.) The vet estimates his age at 3yo but seems pessimistic about him living more than a year or so.  He also said that if he fought with my other cat and "drew blood" he could transimit the FIV to the other cat. (They never do fight though.)  He didn’t mention transmission of FeLV to the other cat. My other cat has always been vaccinated against FeLV so I figured he would be safe.  However everything I read says that FeLV pos cats should be isolated.  And I just read on the web that the FeLV vaccine is only 85% protective. They have been living together for over a year now and as of yesterday my other cat still tested negative for FIV and FeLV.  Can I assume that he is one of the 85% that develops a sufficient immune response from the vaccine?  Should I worry?  As I said above, the vet went on and on about the "theoretical" chance of the other cat catching FIV but admitted that it is just not known to happen from water and food bowls, etc.  When I mentioned that my other cat was vaccinated for FeLV so that should protect him he just sort of agreed and went back to talking about FIV.  Then he that leukemia would probably kill the FeLV infected cat in a year or so. Is it possible or likely for the infected cat to live longer than a year or so? BTW,  I don’t have room to isolate the infected cat from the other one and dumping him outside and not taking care of him or having him put down is not an

option.

Response:

I would post this on alt.medicine.veterinary as there are vets there who respond to questions. Gail – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a stray that I have been feeding for about a year now.  As he wasn’t feeling well I took him to the vet who told me he is positive for both FIV and FeLV (although neither is the cause of his current illness.) The vet estimates his age at 3yo but seems pessimistic about him living more than a year or so.  He also said that if he fought with my other cat and "drew blood" he could transimit the FIV to the other cat. (They never do fight though.)  He didn’t mention transmission of FeLV to the other cat. My other cat has always been vaccinated against FeLV so I figured he would be safe.  However everything I read says that FeLV pos cats should be isolated.  And I just read on the web that the FeLV vaccine is only 85% protective. They have been living together for over a year now and as of yesterday my other cat still tested negative for FIV and FeLV.  Can I assume that he is one of the 85% that develops a sufficient immune response from the vaccine?  Should I worry?  As I said above, the vet went on and on about the "theoretical" chance of the other cat catching FIV but admitted that it is just not known to happen from water and food bowls, etc.  When I mentioned that my other cat was vaccinated for FeLV so that should protect him he just sort of agreed and went back to talking about FIV.  Then he that leukemia would probably kill the FeLV infected cat in a year or so. Is it possible or likely for the infected cat to live longer than a year or so? BTW,  I don’t have room to isolate the infected cat from the other one and dumping him outside and not taking care of him or having him put down is not an option.

Response:

I asked one of my vets about FeLV once, less than a year ago.  He said thatsome cats are positive for the virus and yet live out their lives without itaffecting them in a tangible way, some live long lives but get sick now &again – have "down" times, and others do not survive, living short lives. Our stray cat tested positive for FeLV, but kicked it.  Subsequent tests were negative.  About 40% of cats can kicj FeLV in 16-18 weeks after they get it.

Response:

Also, Place your cat on a special diet that will charge his immune system daily. I read on the news group "chlorophyll of well chopped parsley/watercress/celery leaves can improve red blood cell formation." Include in your pet’s diet the blood building vitamins B-12. The herbs Alfalfa, Seaweed (kelp) provides resistance to disease. The herb Nettle contains natural iron that can help. These inclusions in your pet’s diet can quietly fortify your pet’s immune system. www.herbsnpets.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a stray that I have been feeding for about a year now.  As he wasn’t feeling well I took him to the vet who told me he is positive for both FIV and FeLV (although neither is the cause of his current illness.) The vet estimates his age at 3yo but seems pessimistic about him living more than a year or so.  He also said that if he fought with my other cat and "drew blood" he could transimit the FIV to the other cat. (They never do fight though.)  He didn’t mention transmission of FeLV to the other cat. My other cat has always been vaccinated against FeLV so I figured he would be safe.  However everything I read says that FeLV pos cats should be isolated.  And I just read on the web that the FeLV vaccine is only 85% protective. They have been living together for over a year now and as of yesterday my other cat still tested negative for FIV and FeLV.  Can I assume that he is one of the 85% that develops a sufficient immune response from the vaccine?  Should I worry?  As I said above, the vet went on and on about the "theoretical" chance of the other cat catching FIV but admitted that it is just not known to happen from water and food bowls, etc.  When I mentioned that my other cat was vaccinated for FeLV so that should protect him he just sort of agreed and went back to talking about FIV.  Then he that leukemia would probably kill the FeLV infected cat in a year or so. Is it possible or likely for the infected cat to live longer than a year or so? BTW,  I don’t have room to isolate the infected cat from the other one and dumping him outside and not taking care of him or having him put down is not an

option.

Response:

If you want to take care of the stray, you do need to keep your cat away from him so your cat doesn’t get infected.  Also, if you want to take on the responsibility, you can try to put the cat on interferon treatment which is used for both FIV and Felv.  I know that Cornell Veterinary College has an interferon protocol that they would work with your vet with if you and he are interested in pursuing this further.  But do keep your cat separate from the stray.  I know it is sad, but the other cat is already infected and there is nothing you can do about that.  You can, however, keep your cat from becoming infected.   Tracy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a stray that I have been feeding for about a year now.  As he wasn’t feeling well I took him to the vet who told me he is positive for both FIV and FeLV (although neither is the cause of his current illness.) The vet estimates his age at 3yo but seems pessimistic about him living more than a year or so.  He also said that if he fought with my other cat and "drew blood" he could transimit the FIV to the other cat. (They never do fight though.)  He didn’t mention transmission of FeLV to the other cat. My other cat has always been vaccinated against FeLV so I figured he would be safe.  However everything I read says that FeLV pos cats should be isolated.  And I just read on the web that the FeLV vaccine is only 85% protective. They have been living together for over a year now and as of yesterday my other cat still tested negative for FIV and FeLV.  Can I assume that he is one of the 85% that develops a sufficient immune response from the vaccine?  Should I worry?  As I said above, the vet went on and on about the "theoretical" chance of the other cat catching FIV but admitted that it is just not known to happen from water and food bowls, etc.  When I mentioned that my other cat was vaccinated for FeLV so that should protect him he just sort of agreed and went back to talking about FIV.  Then he that leukemia would probably kill the FeLV infected cat in a year or so. Is it possible or likely for the infected cat to live longer than a year or so? BTW,  I don’t have room to isolate the infected cat from the other one and dumping him outside and not taking care of him or having him put down is not an option.

Response:

I have a stray that I have been feeding for about a year now.  As he wasn’t feeling well I took him to the vet who told me he is positive for both FIV and FeLV (although neither is the cause of his current illness.) The vet estimates his age at 3yo but seems pessimistic about him living more than a year or so.  He also said that if he fought with my other cat and "drew blood" he could transimit the FIV to the other cat. (They never do fight though.)  He didn’t mention transmission of FeLV to the other cat. My other cat has always been vaccinated against FeLV so I figured he would be safe.  However everything I read says that FeLV pos cats should be isolated.  And I just read on the web that the FeLV vaccine is only 85% protective. They have been living together for over a year now and as of yesterday my other cat still tested negative for FIV and FeLV.  Can I assume that he is one of the 85% that develops a sufficient immune response from the vaccine?  Should I worry?  As I said above, the vet went on and on about the "theoretical" chance of the other cat catching FIV but admitted that it is just not known to happen from water and food bowls, etc.  When I mentioned that my other cat was vaccinated for FeLV so that should protect him he just sort of agreed and went back to talking about FIV.  Then he that leukemia would probably kill the FeLV infected cat in a year or so. Is it possible or likely for the infected cat to live longer than a year or so? BTW,  I don’t have room to isolate the infected cat from the other one and dumping him outside and not taking care of him or having him put down is not an option.

Response:

Which test was used to diagnose your cat with FeLV?  If it was ELISA, I suggest you retest your cat by IFA.  Nearly 50% of ELISA positives are not confirmed by IFA and are negative.  Also, most cats reject their initial FeLV infection and become immune.  Get your cat retested by IFA and again by ELISA; if the ELISA is still positive, but IFA is negative, it means your cat is not persistently veremic and is not shedding the virus. If both cats are otherwise healthy, core vaccines should be administered to both; vaccine intervals should be the same as for noninfected cats.  Killed-virus vaccines are preferred for immunocompromised cats because of the potential risk for vaccine-induced infections with MLV vaccines.  Core vaccines (FVRCP) are very important for protecting your cats from other viral infections.  Its also *very* important to *keep both cats indoors* and away from other cats!  There are two very good reasons for this: 1. To reduce the chances of your cats becoming infected with another disease (bacterial, fungal, viral) as their immune systems may be compromised and unable to fight off even minor infections; and 2. To reduce the chances of your cats infecting other cats. As far as lifespan, its hard to say.  I’ve know cats with FIV to live 4 – 6 – 8 years.  Unfortunately, FeLV+ cats don’t fair so well.  However, you need to have your cats tested by IFA and again by ELISA for FeLV. There is a good chance your FeLV+ cat may, in fact, be negative or at least not persistently veremic and not shedding the virus. Your dedication to these two cats is truly commendable. My very best wishes, Phil. —       "A kitten, in the animal kingdom,          is like a rosebud in a garden" Feline Healthcare:  http://maxshouse.com

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a stray that I have been feeding for about a year now.  As he wasn’t feeling well I took him to the vet who told me he is positive for both FIV and FeLV (although neither is the cause of his current illness.) The vet estimates his age at 3yo but seems pessimistic about him living more than a year or so.  He also said that if he fought with my other cat and "drew blood" he could transimit the FIV to the other cat. (They never do fight though.)  He didn’t mention transmission of FeLV to the other cat. My other cat has always been vaccinated against FeLV so I figured he would be safe.  However everything I read says that FeLV pos cats should be isolated.  And I just read on the web that the FeLV vaccine is only 85% protective. They have been living together for over a year now and as of yesterday my other cat still tested negative for FIV and FeLV.  Can I assume that he is one of the 85% that develops a sufficient immune response from the vaccine?  Should I worry?  As I said above, the vet went on and on about the "theoretical" chance of the other cat catching FIV but admitted that it is just not known to happen from water and food bowls, etc.  When I mentioned that my other cat was vaccinated for FeLV so that should protect him he just sort of agreed and went back to talking about FIV.  Then he that leukemia would probably kill the FeLV infected cat in a year or so. Is it possible or likely for the infected cat to live longer than a year or so? BTW,  I don’t have room to isolate the infected cat from the other one and dumping him outside and not taking care of him or having him put down is not

an option.

Response:

I asked one of my vets about FeLV once, less than a year ago.  He said that some cats are positive for the virus and yet live out their lives without it affecting them in a tangible way, some live long lives but get sick now & again – have "down" times, and others do not survive, living short lives. Also, if I remember correctly, that most cats who die from it were infected at a young (less than 2-ish) age.  This may have some bearing on how much worrying you do re: your vaccinated cat.  I haven’t checked to see if you posted this to alt.med.veterinary, too – you might get some more vets’ answers over there.  Cathy

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a stray that I have been feeding for about a year now.  As he wasn’t feeling well I took him to the vet who told me he is positive for both FIV and FeLV (although neither is the cause of his current illness.) The vet estimates his age at 3yo but seems pessimistic about him living more than a year or so.  He also said that if he fought with my other cat and "drew blood" he could transimit the FIV to the other cat. (They never do fight though.)  He didn’t mention transmission of FeLV to the other cat. My other cat has always been vaccinated against FeLV so I figured he would be safe.  However everything I read says that FeLV pos cats should be isolated.  And I just read on the web that the FeLV vaccine is only 85% protective. They have been living together for over a year now and as of yesterday my other cat still tested negative for FIV and FeLV.  Can I assume that he is one of the 85% that develops a sufficient immune response from the vaccine?  Should I worry?  As I said above, the vet went on and on about the "theoretical" chance of the other cat catching FIV but admitted that it is just not known to happen from water and food bowls, etc.  When I mentioned that my other cat was vaccinated for FeLV so that should protect him he just sort of agreed and went back to talking about FIV.  Then he that leukemia would probably kill the FeLV infected cat in a year or so. Is it possible or likely for the infected cat to live longer than a year or so? BTW,  I don’t have room to isolate the infected cat from the other one and dumping him outside and not taking care of him or having him put down is not an

option.

Response:

I would post this on alt.medicine.veterinary as there are vets there who respond to questions. Gail – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a stray that I have been feeding for about a year now.  As he wasn’t feeling well I took him to the vet who told me he is positive for both FIV and FeLV (although neither is the cause of his current illness.) The vet estimates his age at 3yo but seems pessimistic about him living more than a year or so.  He also said that if he fought with my other cat and "drew blood" he could transimit the FIV to the other cat. (They never do fight though.)  He didn’t mention transmission of FeLV to the other cat. My other cat has always been vaccinated against FeLV so I figured he would be safe.  However everything I read says that FeLV pos cats should be isolated.  And I just read on the web that the FeLV vaccine is only 85% protective. They have been living together for over a year now and as of yesterday my other cat still tested negative for FIV and FeLV.  Can I assume that he is one of the 85% that develops a sufficient immune response from the vaccine?  Should I worry?  As I said above, the vet went on and on about the "theoretical" chance of the other cat catching FIV but admitted that it is just not known to happen from water and food bowls, etc.  When I mentioned that my other cat was vaccinated for FeLV so that should protect him he just sort of agreed and went back to talking about FIV.  Then he that leukemia would probably kill the FeLV infected cat in a year or so. Is it possible or likely for the infected cat to live longer than a year or so? BTW,  I don’t have room to isolate the infected cat from the other one and dumping him outside and not taking care of him or having him put down is not an option.

Response:

I asked one of my vets about FeLV once, less than a year ago.  He said thatsome cats are positive for the virus and yet live out their lives without itaffecting them in a tangible way, some live long lives but get sick now &again – have "down" times, and others do not survive, living short lives. Our stray cat tested positive for FeLV, but kicked it.  Subsequent tests were negative.  About 40% of cats can kicj FeLV in 16-18 weeks after they get it.

Response:

Also, Place your cat on a special diet that will charge his immune system daily. I read on the news group "chlorophyll of well chopped parsley/watercress/celery leaves can improve red blood cell formation." Include in your pet’s diet the blood building vitamins B-12. The herbs Alfalfa, Seaweed (kelp) provides resistance to disease. The herb Nettle contains natural iron that can help. These inclusions in your pet’s diet can quietly fortify your pet’s immune system. www.herbsnpets.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a stray that I have been feeding for about a year now.  As he wasn’t feeling well I took him to the vet who told me he is positive for both FIV and FeLV (although neither is the cause of his current illness.) The vet estimates his age at 3yo but seems pessimistic about him living more than a year or so.  He also said that if he fought with my other cat and "drew blood" he could transimit the FIV to the other cat. (They never do fight though.)  He didn’t mention transmission of FeLV to the other cat. My other cat has always been vaccinated against FeLV so I figured he would be safe.  However everything I read says that FeLV pos cats should be isolated.  And I just read on the web that the FeLV vaccine is only 85% protective. They have been living together for over a year now and as of yesterday my other cat still tested negative for FIV and FeLV.  Can I assume that he is one of the 85% that develops a sufficient immune response from the vaccine?  Should I worry?  As I said above, the vet went on and on about the "theoretical" chance of the other cat catching FIV but admitted that it is just not known to happen from water and food bowls, etc.  When I mentioned that my other cat was vaccinated for FeLV so that should protect him he just sort of agreed and went back to talking about FIV.  Then he that leukemia would probably kill the FeLV infected cat in a year or so. Is it possible or likely for the infected cat to live longer than a year or so? BTW,  I don’t have room to isolate the infected cat from the other one and dumping him outside and not taking care of him or having him put down is not an

option.

Response:

If you want to take care of the stray, you do need to keep your cat away from him so your cat doesn’t get infected.  Also, if you want to take on the responsibility, you can try to put the cat on interferon treatment which is used for both FIV and Felv.  I know that Cornell Veterinary College has an interferon protocol that they would work with your vet with if you and he are interested in pursuing this further.  But do keep your cat separate from the stray.  I know it is sad, but the other cat is already infected and there is nothing you can do about that.  You can, however, keep your cat from becoming infected.   Tracy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a stray that I have been feeding for about a year now.  As he wasn’t feeling well I took him to the vet who told me he is positive for both FIV and FeLV (although neither is the cause of his current illness.) The vet estimates his age at 3yo but seems pessimistic about him living more than a year or so.  He also said that if he fought with my other cat and "drew blood" he could transimit the FIV to the other cat. (They never do fight though.)  He didn’t mention transmission of FeLV to the other cat. My other cat has always been vaccinated against FeLV so I figured he would be safe.  However everything I read says that FeLV pos cats should be isolated.  And I just read on the web that the FeLV vaccine is only 85% protective. They have been living together for over a year now and as of yesterday my other cat still tested negative for FIV and FeLV.  Can I assume that he is one of the 85% that develops a sufficient immune response from the vaccine?  Should I worry?  As I said above, the vet went on and on about the "theoretical" chance of the other cat catching FIV but admitted that it is just not known to happen from water and food bowls, etc.  When I mentioned that my other cat was vaccinated for FeLV so that should protect him he just sort of agreed and went back to talking about FIV.  Then he that leukemia would probably kill the FeLV infected cat in a year or so. Is it possible or likely for the infected cat to live longer than a year or so? BTW,  I don’t have room to isolate the infected cat from the other one and dumping him outside and not taking care of him or having him put down is not an option.

Response:

I have a stray that I have been feeding for about a year now.  As he wasn’t feeling well I took him to the vet who told me he is positive for both FIV and FeLV (although neither is the cause of his current illness.) The vet estimates his age at 3yo but seems pessimistic about him living more than a year or so.  He also said that if he fought with my other cat and "drew blood" he could transimit the FIV to the other cat. (They never do fight though.)  He didn’t mention transmission of FeLV to the other cat. My other cat has always been vaccinated against FeLV so I figured he would be safe.  However everything I read says that FeLV pos cats should be isolated.  And I just read on the web that the FeLV vaccine is only 85% protective. They have been living together for over a year now and as of yesterday my other cat still tested negative for FIV and FeLV.  Can I assume that he is one of the 85% that develops a sufficient immune response from the vaccine?  Should I worry?  As I said above, the vet went on and on about the "theoretical" chance of the other cat catching FIV but admitted that it is just not known to happen from water and food bowls, etc.  When I mentioned that my other cat was vaccinated for FeLV so that should protect him he just sort of agreed and went back to talking about FIV.  Then he that leukemia would probably kill the FeLV infected cat in a year or so. Is it possible or likely for the infected cat to live longer than a year or so? BTW,  I don’t have room to isolate the infected cat from the other one and dumping him outside and not taking care of him or having him put down is not an option.

Response:

Which test was used to diagnose your cat with FeLV?  If it was ELISA, I suggest you retest your cat by IFA.  Nearly 50% of ELISA positives are not confirmed by IFA and are negative.  Also, most cats reject their initial FeLV infection and become immune.  Get your cat retested by IFA and again by ELISA; if the ELISA is still positive, but IFA is negative, it means your cat is not persistently veremic and is not shedding the virus. If both cats are otherwise healthy, core vaccines should be administered to both; vaccine intervals should be the same as for noninfected cats.  Killed-virus vaccines are preferred for immunocompromised cats because of the potential risk for vaccine-induced infections with MLV vaccines.  Core vaccines (FVRCP) are very important for protecting your cats from other viral infections.  Its also *very* important to *keep both cats indoors* and away from other cats!  There are two very good reasons for this: 1. To reduce the chances of your cats becoming infected with another disease (bacterial, fungal, viral) as their immune systems may be compromised and unable to fight off even minor infections; and 2. To reduce the chances of your cats infecting other cats. As far as lifespan, its hard to say.  I’ve know cats with FIV to live 4 – 6 – 8 years.  Unfortunately, FeLV+ cats don’t fair so well.  However, you need to have your cats tested by IFA and again by ELISA for FeLV. There is a good chance your FeLV+ cat may, in fact, be negative or at least not persistently veremic and not shedding the virus. Your dedication to these two cats is truly commendable. My very best wishes, Phil. —       "A kitten, in the animal kingdom,          is like a rosebud in a garden" Feline Healthcare:  http://maxshouse.com

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a stray that I have been feeding for about a year now.  As he wasn’t feeling well I took him to the vet who told me he is positive for both FIV and FeLV (although neither is the cause of his current illness.) The vet estimates his age at 3yo but seems pessimistic about him living more than a year or so.  He also said that if he fought with my other cat and "drew blood" he could transimit the FIV to the other cat. (They never do fight though.)  He didn’t mention transmission of FeLV to the other cat. My other cat has always been vaccinated against FeLV so I figured he would be safe.  However everything I read says that FeLV pos cats should be isolated.  And I just read on the web that the FeLV vaccine is only 85% protective. They have been living together for over a year now and as of yesterday my other cat still tested negative for FIV and FeLV.  Can I assume that he is one of the 85% that develops a sufficient immune response from the vaccine?  Should I worry?  As I said above, the vet went on and on about the "theoretical" chance of the other cat catching FIV but admitted that it is just not known to happen from water and food bowls, etc.  When I mentioned that my other cat was vaccinated for FeLV so that should protect him he just sort of agreed and went back to talking about FIV.  Then he that leukemia would probably kill the FeLV infected cat in a year or so. Is it possible or likely for the infected cat to live longer than a year or so? BTW,  I don’t have room to isolate the infected cat from the other one and dumping him outside and not taking care of him or having him put down is not

an option.

Response:

I asked one of my vets about FeLV once, less than a year ago.  He said that some cats are positive for the virus and yet live out their lives without it affecting them in a tangible way, some live long lives but get sick now & again – have "down" times, and others do not survive, living short lives. Also, if I remember correctly, that most cats who die from it were infected at a young (less than 2-ish) age.  This may have some bearing on how much worrying you do re: your vaccinated cat.  I haven’t checked to see if you posted this to alt.med.veterinary, too – you might get some more vets’ answers over there.  Cathy

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a stray that I have been feeding for about a year now.  As he wasn’t feeling well I took him to the vet who told me he is positive for both FIV and FeLV (although neither is the cause of his current illness.) The vet estimates his age at 3yo but seems pessimistic about him living more than a year or so.  He also said that if he fought with my other cat and "drew blood" he could transimit the FIV to the other cat. (They never do fight though.)  He didn’t mention transmission of FeLV to the other cat. My other cat has always been vaccinated against FeLV so I figured he would be safe.  However everything I read says that FeLV pos cats should be isolated.  And I just read on the web that the FeLV vaccine is only 85% protective. They have been living together for over a year now and as of yesterday my other cat still tested negative for FIV and FeLV.  Can I assume that he is one of the 85% that develops a sufficient immune response from the vaccine?  Should I worry?  As I said above, the vet went on and on about the "theoretical" chance of the other cat catching FIV but admitted that it is just not known to happen from water and food bowls, etc.  When I mentioned that my other cat was vaccinated for FeLV so that should protect him he just sort of agreed and went back to talking about FIV.  Then he that leukemia would probably kill the FeLV infected cat in a year or so. Is it possible or likely for the infected cat to live longer than a year or so? BTW,  I don’t have room to isolate the infected cat from the other one and dumping him outside and not taking care of him or having him put down is not an

option.

Response:

I would post this on alt.medicine.veterinary as there are vets there who respond to questions. Gail – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a stray that I have been feeding for about a year now.  As he wasn’t feeling well I took him to the vet who told me he is positive for both FIV and FeLV (although neither is the cause of his current illness.) The vet estimates his age at 3yo but seems pessimistic about him living more than a year or so.  He also said that if he fought with my other cat and "drew blood" he could transimit the FIV to the other cat. (They never do fight though.)  He didn’t mention transmission of FeLV to the other cat. My other cat has always been vaccinated against FeLV so I figured he would be safe.  However everything I read says that FeLV pos cats should be isolated.  And I just read on the web that the FeLV vaccine is only 85% protective. They have been living together for over a year now and as of yesterday my other cat still tested negative for FIV and FeLV.  Can I assume that he is one of the 85% that develops a sufficient immune response from the vaccine?  Should I worry?  As I said above, the vet went on and on about the "theoretical" chance of the other cat catching FIV but admitted that it is just not known to happen from water and food bowls, etc.  When I mentioned that my other cat was vaccinated for FeLV so that should protect him he just sort of agreed and went back to talking about FIV.  Then he that leukemia would probably kill the FeLV infected cat in a year or so. Is it possible or likely for the infected cat to live longer than a year or so? BTW,  I don’t have room to isolate the infected cat from the other one and dumping him outside and not taking care of him or having him put down is not an option.

Response: