George is a big gorgeous orange, brown and white tortoiseshell tabby (or torbie) who was found on the streets of Philadelphia with his feline friend Rusty. When they were rescued, both cats were tested and found to be FIV+. As a result, they weren’t the best candidates for adoption, and the shelter was not able to keep them. Luckily they were taken to a rescuer’s home to be fostered until Tabby’s Place was able to accommodate them. Both were added to our waiting list and now we are glad to have them here in our FIV+ suite.FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) disables or destroys white blood cells and leaves a cat susceptible to infections. Once a cat is infected with FIV, he is infected for life and can give the virus to other cats via saliva transmitted through biting. Thus, the majority of cats who contract FIV are street cats, who, in fending for themselves, often end up in skirmishes.

Overall, a very small percentage of cats are found to be FIV+, and many of those diagnosed with this virus will live long and healthy lives so long as they receive treatment for any secondary infections they might have.The cats in George’s suite are monitored very carefully for any signs of sickness, and the staff is extra-careful about disease control procedures in this suite. The cats get frequent examinations from our veterinarians.

For now, George is happy in the sanctuary of the FIV+ suite and seems to enjoy life with his mates. He likes to give people head butts, and he won’t turn down a good petting. A volunteer pointed out that George likes to make a funny face when he’s eating, something between a scowl and a snarl, which is directed towards his food, as if to say “I’ll get you, food!” And then he chomps on it happily.As you can probably tell, George is quite a character and a very handsome fellow. Please sponsor George and help us to give him the care he deserves.