Before we met him, Caleb lived as most un-neutered feline males do--on the streets fighting for territory, food and a place in the world. Yet a basic trust was evident in those sweet orange eyes. Was it just his nature or did he once have a home?

This was the question one woman asked when she found him in her neighborhood. Seeing the potential, she rescued the handsome stray, eventually taking him to the vet for a check-up. Oh, it was the beginning of a wonderful story... until the woman learned he was FIV+.

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus is essentially the feline equivalent of HIV. It is species-specific, so can't be transmitted to humans, dogs or anyone other than felines. The primary method of transmission is bite wounds, which puts unaltered outdoor cats most at risk. FIV typically progresses slowly and can take years to become full-blown feline AIDS.

Well, once Caleb's rescuer heard FIV, she wanted him euthanized. Thankfully, the vet refused. Caleb wasn't aggressive, so he wasn't a threat to anyone else. Still in good health, he wasn't a threat to himself either.

And this is how Caleb came to our sanctuary, since we're one of the few area rescues who welcomes FIV+ cats. Yet though we saved his life, we think WE'RE the lucky ones. Because to know this gentle, quiet boy--who waits until all others have had their fill of petting before making his move, whose former life flashes across his face only momentarily before the soft purring begins--is to be in love.

For all that he's been through, from life on the streets to almost-euthanasia, won't you please sponsor Caleb today? Show him that his message of peace is one that touches you.

Sponsor Me Now!