Dorothy, a beautiful 3-year-old cat, was found accompanied by her three kittens in Spring 2023. It was clear that Dorothy had been living outside for a long time, and she was very wary of humans. Upon arriving at Lollypop Farm, Dorothy’s kittens were quickly adopted!
Dorothy needed more care than her kittens, and after running a routine blood test, our Klingenstein Veterinary Clinic found that Dorothy tested positive for Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV). When a cat tests positive for FeLV, we do not place the cat back outside, as we do not want the virus to spread to other cats in the community. Cats like Dorothy can live with other FeLV+ cats or should be the only cat in the home.
FeLV is an infection found only in cats that results in the suppression of the immune system. As a result of their weakened immune system, FeLV+ cats have a harder time fighting off infections or other health problems. FeLV is spread through prolonged contact with bodily fluids such as saliva and urine. The virus has no cure; however, a cat who tests positive for FeLV can live for many happy years!
Dorothy is slowly but surely beginning to accept love from humans as our staff and volunteers take the time to visit with her. Dorothy has come a long way from when she first arrived, and we know she will thrive when she finds a home to call her own.
