My pet's name
Murphy
My pet's age
10
How long we have been together
9 years!
My pet is special needs because...
He is living with FIV. He was a stray that followed my other cat home in the winter of 2001. He was terrified of people, but starving and cold and willing to come into my garage for warmth and food (just not me). He became very ill and I had to trap him to take him to the vet. My plan was to neuter him and put him back outside until I received the news that he was FIV+. I took him home to heal and he learned to trust me and became my friend. Everyone I knew said to euthanize him. I refused. I researched the disease and here he is 9 years later thriving (living with my other cats too who are negative).
What I have learned from having a special needs pet
It isn't always easy having a special needs pet. It was hard. I did not know what to do. I kept him separate from my other cat for about 2 years out of fear. I had quite the system of door openings and closings going on. I soon realized they were already sharing food bowls, litter boxes and I worked slowly on acclimating the 2 of them together. It is only transferred thru deep puncture wounds so even a little scuffle is not going to transfer the disease. They eventually learned to tolerate one another and I soon learned to calm my fears. I do worry about his disease and do take him to the vet yearly and if any reason for concern comes up. One incident a few years ago came up that she believed could be just feline acne, but b/c of his FIV wanted to see him instead to make sure nothing more serious. He also is more prone to gingivitis so he has had 2 teeth cleanings. I believe that the fiv may shorten is life, but he is doing great at 10 and I would have never thought that possible when I adopted him (or he adopted me) in 2001. I have learned so much about FIV. The key is to keep them healthy and living a indoor life. I do rescue work and there is still a belief that they should be euthanized. I do not believe they are for every household, but a FIV cat deserves a chance at a great home also. An educated owner is the key.
Tips and Tricks
- I would totally do it all over again. This shy cat has now become my big guy that is the neediest of all my animals. He loves attention and to lay on my bed under all the blankets (still memories of being very cold). Research is the key. FIV cats can live long healthy lives. Vet care is key. A good educated veterinarian that is on board with your views. They can live with other cats once properly introduced and with the right temperament. There is so many more resources available now then in 2001. My hope that it continues and FIV cats will be more adoptable instead of euthanized without thought.
