The adoption process can be tough for animals with differences. Corbin, suffering from a little-known disease in cats, encountered difficulties when he was put up for adoption. The determination of the volunteers in favor of this adorable cat finally paid off.
Corbin is a cat with countless qualities. He is gentle, calm, close to humans and very playful. Aged 4, he was rescued by a shelter in Illinois (United States). After several analyses, the association’s veterinarians delivered their verdict: the cat was suffering from FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus infection), in other words: “ cat AIDS ”. Little known, this disease was, according to Cole & Marmelade , a real obstacle to the adoption of the feline.
A disease with many prejudices
IVF often has a very bad reputation, if it is not ignored by adopters. In shelters, it’s a word that scares you, puts you off and often prevents adoption. Corbin , this 4-year-old cat, has suffered all the prejudices related to his illness.
This disease is indeed serious and incurable, but it does not cause death. A cat can live a long life carrying this infection. Today, many effective treatments exist to relieve immunocompromised cats.
This disease is only transmitted between cats and does not communicate with other species. The risk within a household is therefore limited.
Special reception conditions to be expected
The volunteers who took care of Corbin had prepared the ground to avoid disappointments with adoptive families. Several conditions had to be met for Corbin to live in perfect harmony with his future humans. A home with a cat already sick with FIV could be a good option, as could a home without another cat.
Throughout his care, the volunteers at the McHenry County Adoption Center did everything they could to show the feline’s many qualities. On Facebook , we could read: “This very handsome 4 year old boy, very cuddly, loves attention and will jump on your lap to get it.” Despite these words, each more sincere and tender than the last, the road was still long to convince a family of adopters.
“FIV+ cats deserve the same as other cats”
Corbin ‘s luck finally changed when a family supported his adoption. Very touched by the story of the feline, a couple immediately projected themselves with Corbin , in their daily life.
In this warm home, Corbin was not going to be alone and was going to be able to join Booker , a cat affected by the same illness. Unsurprisingly, the understanding was immediate between these two who were just waiting to share moments of play and naps. The shelter published, shortly after the adoption, a photo of the adopting couple delighted to integrate the courageous feline into their family.