What are we in for?

Question

I have a 16 year old neutered Russian blue cat. He seems very healthy, but he recently went into the vet for a check up and some blood tests, and it looks like he has some type of infection. His white blood cell count is high, as is his lymphocyte count. We are trying antibiotics, per the vet's reccomendation, but if those dont work my vet says my cat may have leukemia.

I have a few questions about feline leukemia. First of all, my cat has always had his shots and I thought that FIP was to prevent feline leukemia. Are there different types or am I wrong about what FIP is for? Why would my cat get a disease he is supposed to be protected from?

Secondly, if my cat does have leukemia, what can I expect? I have no clue what the treatments would be, if it is possible to treat. And like I said, my cat is an old man, so I dont want to put him through something that may be too much for him.

Has anyone else been through this?

Answer 1

There are some excellent FeLV Feline Leukemia lists on Yahoogroups, I'd honestly just point you over in their direction. You can talk to owners completely up on the new research and who are living with FeLV cats.

FIP is a different disease, getting a vaccination for that wouldn't stop the leukemia.

Answer 2

FIP is a viral disease of cats that can affect many systems of the body. It is a progressive disease and almost always fatal. It is found worldwide and affects not only domestic cats, but many wild ones as well. Cat-to-cat contact and exposure to feces in litter boxes are the most common modes of infection.

There is no cure for FIP. A survivor of FIP is very rare.

Feline leukemia is a cancerous disease caused by feline leukemia virus (FeLV). FeLV causes diseases other than leukemia including immunodeficiency and additional cancers. Cats may not start to show signs of disease for months or years after being infected with FeLV. Infection with FeLV is a major cause of illness and death in domestic cats.

I wish the best outcome for your cat.

Answer 3

FIP is not the same as feline leukemia. FIP is feline infectious peritonitis. I have posted a link on feline leukemia. This link should answer most of your questions, and perhaps others will add to the responses with personal experiences.

Answer 4

I haven't had a cat with leukemia. FIP is a different virus entirely. Joining this Yahoo Group may provide you with the support and information you need:

http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/FeLVPositiveCats/

Answer 5

hunni i cant say i have but i wish ur cat good luck but wateveru do putting an animal dawn is crule unlss its practicly ded