felv

I was just wondering if I can keep a 1 yr. old FELV positive kitty in the company of my other cats, who are negative, if I get my other cats vaccinated. How safe is this? RUTH

I have heard both ends of the scale. I tend to agree with vaccinating and letting them live together. There have been very few reports that once vaccinated and updated anually that it spreads. I would just make sure the if they have never been vaccinated for FELV that they get their 2 boosters first and then they can be together.

Dear Sandy;

I appreciate your reply. But meanwhile, at girl at work offered to take my kitty, and me, being apprehensive of my others getting the virus, allowed her to do so. Now I am having second thoughts. This girl goes out alot, but has a nice big apartment, not like the small bedroom I was keeping her in for the past 6-8 weeks. I am a little worried about the kitty being left alone. Should I worry, or will she do fine? I really fell in love with this kitty, partly because she is sweet and beautiful (a calico), and now can't stop thinking about her. Please help. RUTH

Sounds like you miss her a lot. It's a tough one. I guess the first thing you would need to think about is if the she is well taken care of regardless of being left alone. If she is loved and you know she will be taken care of medically and such. If she really does enjoy cats and has the money to take care of her, then I might suggest contacting a rescue in the area and see about another FELV positive kitty to adopt. This is under the assumption the kitty likes other cats. We wouldnt want to stress anyone out. Some cats do better off by themselves. That would be good if it would work. If none of the above are an option, then you can always go with your heart,vaccinate and bring her back home and give her run of the house. I really feel for you, It had to be tough. Please keep me updated.

do you still believe in vaccinating the negatives and allowing the positive and negative to live together?

there is much conflicting information on the web. i'd not be able to separate in my my apartment. if my 4 month old kitten has had her boosters, is that enough protection [should they be together] if the stray tests positive for FeLV?

even if he tests positive, i've read he could be fighting off the virus, then later test negative; conversely, i've read if he tests negative, he could later test positive.

oh, boy....

Maybe you could ask the girl you work with if you could come and visit, or even petsit sometime. You could also suggest that she could adopt another FIV positive cat at some point and then they'd keep eachother company.

I tend to think animals and people are overvaccinated, so I avoid them where I can.