More on Health Issues..Just FYI

     Good morning.  And a busy morning it has been already at Cherished Siberians.  I have fed all the cats and cooked my own breakfast.  Sent a daughter off to work (well, ok, she does that on her own)  and run out to do an errand.  It will soon be 9 a.m.
     Last blog I started telling you about diseases that we test for in our cats before we breed them.  Another one is Feline acquired immune deficiency syndrome (FAIDS)  a condition that seems to be induced by FeLV. The immune system doesn't work right. Then the cats tend to get every concievable infection.  And can lead to cases of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP).  And can cause respiratory infections, recurrent abscesses, and many other infections.  It is not passed on to other species.
   Feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) is an upper respiratory disease.  Sneezing, discharge from eyes and nose, redness around the eyes.  They dehydrate quickly, and frequently have no appetite. Then may come pneumonia, which can kill.  Especially bad in the young.
     Ok, earlier we mentioned FeLV  that is particularly nasty, it can cause immune system suppression, which we've already discussed can cause so many illnesses,  it can cause severe anemia, and cancer of the lymph glands, bones, nerves, lungs, gastrointestinal tracts, and kidneys.  (nice, huh?)   It can be contracted through a wound or other physical contact with infected cats.  It can even be given to kittens from the mother.  Blood tests can detect FeLV, but it can be hard to diagnose, it is unpredictable so its good to talk to your vet to get more understanding of this one.
     So....enough of the gross, (smile).  We do vaccinate our cats and kittens before you take one home with you and send you home with a schedule to take to your vet to continue their health regime.  I can't wait to get another set of kittens to play with and watch.  I am hoping one of my girls goes into heat soon.  I'll keep you posted.
     Enjoy the weather today.  It has started off cool and pleasant today in Culpeper, Va. and I for one am enjoying the slight coolness.   So good health to you and to felines everywhere.  Good Day.