FIV Cat Rescue

I am an disabled veteran who is going through a tough cat explosion crisis at my wife and kids home. She took in a stray or I should say our daughter took her in and she became pregnant and gave birth to two litters of kitten's and that litter produced more all during covid pandemic. This organization is a the (only one) I say again only one that has shown us campassiion and has offered more help and resources in our area than our local ones who have been the complete opposite just condescending and dismissive. Our situation has only become worse and I still share my situation with them knowing they will listen and care! Sometimes having a person that will listen without judgement is more help than any can provide. I am grateful for these people and hope the ratings reflect how they truly are. More organizations should follow there model. I wish the most success for them and pray they are blessed in the multitudes.
Sincerely,
Veteran w/ cat crisis

FIV Cat Rescue worked to provide me with resources in my area to help two FIV positive cats find a new forever home. Their previous owner had just passed away from cancer, and I didn't know who to turn to for help. I greatly appreciated their assistance and we were able to find safe, loving homes for those wonderful cats.

My own vet had no idea that FIV negative cats can live safely with FIV + cats. With the information I found from the https://www.fivcatrescue.org/ I have now brought the FIV positive stray, Tommy, into my home and am slowly introducing him to the five FIV negative cats in my family. Tommy had a lot of problems with his skin and ears living outside. He is now very healthy and happy inside. I did install a catio in a window so he still gets safe time outside. Thank you https://www.fivcatrescue.org/ for all of the helpful information on your site and the prompt email from Frankie Kansas, Founder and Executive Director. I have shared your site with my veterinarian. You can see Tommy’s photos below.

Our no-kill shelter began testing for FeLV and FIV in January. Unfortunately, one of our oldest residents, Mickey, tested positive for FIV. We searched for months to find a rescue or home where he would be an only cat or with other FIV cats. I did my research on FIV, but none of it gave me peace of mind about allowing Mickey to share space with other cats. Then I found FIV Cat Rescue on the internet. As a sort of last ditch effort, I asked for their advice about rehoming him. Frankie Kangas was quick to respond, and sent information on FIV cats that I had not read before. Turns out, if Mickey has been with other cats for 5 years and they have not contracted FIV, it is highly unlikely that they ever will. What a relief! Mickey is so happy to be reunited with his friends. FIV Cat Rescue gave Mickey his life back.

Frankie went above and beyond to help me find transport and rescue options for a kitty that needed assistance. She emailed me a list of resources right away.

I had/have a sweet outside cat that I had been taking care of for three years and was able to finally trap and bring him inside and got him to the vet the same day. Unfortunately, he tested positive for FIV antibodies, which was devastating to me. I found FIV Cat Rescue and Frankie through online searching about FIV cats and what options were available to me.

Frankie was so prompt in responding to my email and so encouraging that I'd still be able to make it work with having a FIV positive cat in the house with my two inside cats who are normal (well, except for their feline shenanigans). I still have my sweet outside, now inside, kitty and we're getting there as far as getting all three cats to get along.

I thank Frankie for her encouragement and support in this process! (And, luckily, my rescue kitty has tested negative for the actual FIV disease after further testing.)

Thank you, Frankie, and FIV Cat Rescue!!

Loretta

I’ve worked in rescue a long time. When the Camp Fire (Paradise, Magalia, Concow-CA) happened in 11/08/2018 I was helping on the human side. I needed something to feel better then marking the deceased so I started matching cats. I noticed cats were disappearing so myself and 2 other rescues decided to investigate. We came up with absolute proof that Paradise Animal Control Shelter (PACS) was sending all cats to be tested for FIV/FeLV/Heart worm. Any positive test was automatic euthanasia. They claimed that they were all feral which was an outright lie. I started an animal justice league and we worked to bring the euthanasia and other abuse going on at the shelter, to attention. While trying to figure out how to stop the euthanasia we came across FIV Cat Rescue. They jumped in and helped us to rescue many cats from PACS. The two included were being called “Blade” and Captain Morgan. At one point Blade was thrown in with a bunch of sick cats (URI) in a dog kennel with a lot of dogs all around him. We got him moved and they threw him out in a trailer out front. Alone. Very sick. We were able to get him out of there and into foster. Not a good situation either. I felt we had completely lost Blade. We then were told about Captain Morgan being FIV and needing amputation. It was a tough game with PACS but FIV Cat Rescue stayed strong and we finally could get him out of their grip. My group took both cats to FIV CAt Rescue. They were in horrible shape. Blade was so sick/needed dental and suffering extreme PTSD. Captain Morgan had many medical issues from worms in his eyes to a hole in the roof of his mouth. FIV Cat Rescue took excellent care with getting the vet stuff done and with working to get Blade out of his shell. Captain Morgan assisted FIV Cat Rescue with this and slowly Blade came around. Captain Morgan is his companion animal.
I guess there aren’t the words to say how much I appreciate all the time and effort put into helping my group with so many FIV cats. There’s definitely no words to say how thankful we are for the love, compassion and vet care given to Blade and Captain Morgan. They have new names but I can’t think of them right now.
Thank you FIV Cat Rescue! You are beautiful souls! ♥️������♥️

This is a wonderful place!! FIV kitties also deserve a happy live and this rescue makes it possible! ❤️

Frankie’s organization is a wonderful resource to support people wanting to help FIV+ cats. I am a veterinary assistant with a fondness for FIV+ cats, and am often asked questions by friends and coworkers who want to learn more about FIV or help find a home for a positive cat. I have directed people to the online resources for her organization, and have also spoken to her personally on multiple occasions. She is dedicated, helpful, organized, and efficient. I do not currently volunteer with any feline or veterinary organizations, but I’ve volunteered with several in the past and am well aware what a massive undertaking volunteer rescue is, especially as the organization’s leader.

When I was helping a friend re-home an FIV+ cat she had rescued from a shelter, Frankie was a terrific ally, giving me lists of potential Sanctuaries and FIV info. She doesn't take in FIV+ cats anymore but the services she does provide are helpful and definitely given with passion for her work.

Frankie was very quick to to respond and wonderful sharing information so that I could help get the facts out about FIV & FIP . Wonderful group and highly recommend them.

Very helpful and knowledgeable. Staff was very friendly and responsive.

I am a senior in high school in Columbus, Ohio and for my senior project I am doing a project about cats with FIV. I contacted FIV Cat Rescue and emailed them a couple questions to answer. Frankie responded quickly with above and beyond answers! She provided me with resources and other things that I could use for my project and I can't thank her enough! This rescue's vast knowledge really helped me succeed! Thank you so much!

FIV Cat Rescue--Very good experience. I sent an email discussing a very sad, difficult FIV situation we had and Frankie was so kind and wonderful. She wrote back a detailed email which was helpful in emotionally processing the loss of my sweet boy. I now am much better informed about FIV and if ever I am faced with this problem again in caring for my cats in my small colony I will do things differently.

While looking for a new senior companion for my senior cat I saw some FIV cats up for adoption and was very reluctant to consider them. FIV Cat Rescue responded almost immediately to my inquiries and provided excellent information and reference material. I no longer fear adopting an FIV cat thanks to the efforts of this organization. They were effective, helpful and fulfilled their educational goal admirably.

FIV Cat Rescue serves a much needed service in the rescue community. So many people are unaware of this disease in cats. FIV Cat Rescue assists in educating the public and assisting people who are interested in adopting an FIV cat or already have one who was just diagnosed. I would highly recommend them as a knowledgable and compassionate source of information regarding FIV cats.

. ..just thought you might to hear from someone who had a sweet Siamese baby named "Sumari" that I adopted 13 years ago...she passed away at 14 years old in September of a brain tumor. It's not that I'm wasn't a good parent that she only went to the vet a few times--I think she was part tiger because I become her prey if I tried to put her carrier. I even succumbed to her a couple of years ago and brought in a mobile vet in to give her her shots. She's been sick only once in all her 14years and a dose of an antibiotic cleared that up in a couple of days. She did develop a cataract in one eye but I'm 67 and I'm getting them so we were in the same league--"Seniors."

Back 13 years ago when I adopted her I had to give everything but my footprints to adopt her because she had FIV. I had lost my Siamese boy I'd had 6 years a few weeks earlier and I was dying for another meezer. There she was and she sat right on my lap when I went to see her. She knew where she belonged. Right up until she died I had to figure out where to sleep because she still knew where she belonged--on the bed--like any other cat--right where she chose. It was time well-spent when I when I looked up a vet here at NC State's vet school (one of the best in the country). I looked through their directory and located Dr. Thompson whose research was in cats and people and why cats do better with FIV than humans do with HIV. She actually called me back after leaving a voicemail. I asked her about the issues I may have and if she would adopt a cat who was FIV-positive. She answered "yes, I wouldn't hesitate. I once had FIV cat who lived to be 14!" She and I reconnected about 4 years ago and she was delighted her advice had found Sumari had found a good home. To this day I am grateful for her input.

I have since adopted another cat (ill-advised back in the day). Leo was 10 weeks old, a little orange supposed-tabby. He had hair growing out of his ears and looked like he had a mane like a lion, hence his name "Leo." He's now a 3 1/2 year-old Maine Coon that weighs 20 pounds! He and Sumari fought--she was the Alpha Cat...he slept on the bed with us if she'd let him.

Frankie and her group have been very supportive of FIV fur babies--for good reason. Over time it has been proven that FIV cats can live a long healthy life as did my Sumari. I can't imagine not having my 13 years with her. She and Leo were the joy of my life. He still misses her although we recently adopted another Siamese from Siamesecatrescue.org in Virginia. Pearl is 9, a beautiful Siamese that has a heart murmur and had lived at the center since May. Had it not been such a wonderful experience having Sumari, an FIV cat who was loving, healthy, and beautiful I may never considered giving another senior cat of 9 years old with health issues a chance. Frankie, here's wishing you and your team and all your furry friends who need great homes, the very best. As one can tell from the photos attached Sumari was special, hence a granite marker for her grave!

I have 5 kitties and I take care of 2 feral kitties on my property. Two of my Kitties have "feline aids" and FIV cat rescue gave me so much information and hope for them both. We also talked about a Catio I am building for my little guys and they also gave me good feedback. I love this organization!

What an amazing organization! Even though, I'm 3,000 miles away from them, they still offered me plenty of advice when I unknowingly adopted a FIV + cat. Mittens thanks them too. :)

Franki and FIV cat rescue do wonderful work helping cats in their community. I thin khighly of them and wish them well in their future efforts to save the kitties!

FIV Cat Rescue serves a small segment of the population, owners of FIV+ cats, but man are they needed! They dispel cruel myths about FIV such as how it's transmitted and it being a death sentence, offer advice and support to cat owners and are an invaluable referral resource. Much like HIV was misunderstood in the 1980s and HIV+ people were discriminated against, FIV has an unfair stigma because of ignorance. FIV cats can live as long and healthily as non-FIV cats. Franke and FIV Cat Rescue helped me after I adopted this sweet one eyed black cat with FIV. She had been passed over by others for 8 months in the shelter! FIV Cat Rescue saves lives!

I had been feeding and gaining trust of a cat here in NW Indiana. He made it thru the winter under a shed and in a converted doghouse in my yard. He's a loving and appreciative kitty. But mine is a typical FIV pos cat- couldn't tell Huey has a problem. My vet gave me the "bad news" of his FIV condition (also has leukemia) and I panicked! "Don't let him by the other cats, don't let them eat or drink out of shared bowls, it's contagious" etc. etc. etc. So I went online and found FIV Cat Rescue and Frankie... she's a life saver- literally. Gave me all kinds of information on FIV Huey is not totally incorporated into the home yet, but we will get it right eventually. Thanks to Frankie and the FIV Cat Rescue. (And my vet is now more aware.)

I rescued a stray cat who tested positive for FIV, and reached out to FIV Cat Rescue for information. Frankie responded very quickly and shared many helpful links. She is a great resource for anyone caring for an FIV+ cat.

I reached out to Frankie back in Jan. 2018 asking for guidance to help my Uncle with a couple of cats that needed re-homeing and some were FIV positive. My Uncle lives in AZ and I am in CA and he was diagnosed with ALS and was unable to care for his kitties any more. Frankie was able to give me excellent information and I thankfully was able to be guided in a manner that helped me find wonderful homes for my Uncles Cats. I will be forever grateful for all the help and guidance

They were so helpful in providing me information regarding the adoption of my FIV kitty.
Fast and efficient and very knowledgeable.

I am from a non profit animal shelter and county pound located in VA. When we were faced with multiple FIV cats, FIV Cat Rescue was always extremely helpful with any questions or concerns we had. They took time out of their day to send us any information that we needed. They seem to be extremely caring and loving to their fur babies and even to the ones they have yet to meet. Thank you for what you do. So many kitties are euthanized just because people get false information on FIV. FIV Cat Rescue is helping to change that.

They were very helpful in giving me info to add to our adoption/shelter group's profiles for cats with FIV.

I contacted FIV Cat Rescue for help with trying to find an FIV kitty having a tough life adopted. I am very thankful for Frankie to have offered her help and support through this stressful time. The sense of a community is a tremendous help. FIV kitties need loving homes!!!

Very compassionate ppl :) Frankie was very helpful and kind when I was looking to rehome a FIV cat I rescued from a mentally disabled owner..Thanks

I volunteer at an L.A. County shelter who's long-standing policy is to not adopt FIV positive felines, and instead euthanizes them. I intervened with a mother cat and her kitten that were scheduled to be put down. The shelter agreed to allow me to adopt them and try to find a rescue that took in FIV cats. I didn't really know much about FIV so set out to find information on the internet, along with searching for rescues. It wasn't long before I stumbled on the FIV Cat Rescue site, which not only provided me with everything I needed to know about FIV, but also provided a list of rescues in various States. I was able to find a rescue that would take mom and baby. This is a fantastic site!

We were desperate to find a solution to our cat problem. My sister had moved across the country from Utah to Florida and was unable to take her cat because he had FIV and she was about to have a baby. She left him with us, but we were also about to have a baby and already have 2 other cats and couldn't take on a 3rd, especially with a newborn on the way. I contacted FIV Cat Rescue and got a lot of great information and helpful advise. Angles with Paws in Colorado ultimately was able to take the cat. He's since been adopted by a great family and is enjoying his new lease on life.

I received a lot of help with a cat I found that had the FIV and the calicivirus. They responded back via mail immediately. They gave me a lot of info on both issues and said cat can live fine with FIV. They gave me a rescue support list for my area. It was so nice to have someone's support in getting answers I needed. This is a wonderful group doing their best to help animals.

Frankie was a great help and gave me lots of information and help when I found a pregnant cat that was FIV positive. Such a great support!

Just wanted to say again..THANK YOU! Due to the amazing help coming from this organization and from Frankie.. the little Oscar found a great home...for now it might be only foster home..but potentially a permanent home! He found warming "parents" and siblings that also share the stereotype of having FIV....The network power this organization brought us was impressive...from caring people that just wanted Oscar to find a loving home! Thank you so much! Im happy to have organizations like this!

I have taken care of an FIV cat for over 8 years. He was feral and lived most of his life on our outside porch and in our garden. He got along with our other animals and adored our dogs. I could tell over the years when he wasn't feeling well and I would bring him to the vet for an antibiotic shot . I researched how to take of him but there was very little information available.

He got stomatitis and stopped eating and was in obvious pain. He became an inside cat and I brought him to the vet who recommended his teeth be pulled, I was later told by another vet that that was not the recommended treatment and indeed it was not a cure because for another year his stomatitis would flare up every month or so and it was back and forth to the vet for an antibiotic and steroid shot . The sores were all the way down his throat and I believed he suffered with it.

I found my way to this group and it was the most knowledgable people I have spoken to about this disease. It was as if they knew my cat and gave me information that I believed increased the quality of his life. I wish I has known about them sooner. I work with rescues so this book will be a valuable resource to help dispel the myth that FIV cats cannot live long happy lives.

FIV Cat Rescue is one of the most comprehensive resources about FIV positive cats that I've ever seen. I am Executive Director and Founder of Carol's Ferals and we use FIV Cat Rescue's information often as we are working toward dispelling the myth that FIV cats can't live good lives. They're changing the landscape for these cats and we're very grateful to have found them. Kudos to FIV Cat Rescue for all your work to bring attention to these cats that were previously vilified. You're PAWsome! Some of our FIV+ boys would like to thank you all. With love from Bismark, Gums and Muskegon.

Im from Australia and when I found myself with my first FIV foster cat after losing the female cat he was found with to FELV and then having him tested to see if he had FELV to find he didnt but did have FIV. I was lost as what to do with this cat and his dietary issues. I got alot of information that didnt work here on Australia. I reached out to this rescue in a moment of desperation wanting to help this cat that people told me to put down because everything made him sick. Frankie was a huge support for me. I was provided with spot on information as well as emotional support and understanding that was ongoing. Every piece of advice worked. Ive since adopted the cat and he has finally gained weight and is so much happier and very healthy. I love this rescue and would have been so lost without their help. ❤

FIV Cat Rescue is a valuable resource. They are my "go to" people for questions pertaining to the FIV cats at the rescue I work with. It is alarming how many vets and other animal specialists that have misconceptions about FIV cats and this organization works hard to dispel those beliefs. They are always quick to respond to any query.

After we adopted a kitten who tested positive for FIV, I panicked about the safety our 10 year old cat. Much as I am very happy with our vet, they were not at all informed about FIV. I searched everywhere for information and resources about FIV. The first place I called multiple times, with no response. Then I found FIV cat rescue. I live in PA, but this nonprofit in CA was a lifesaver (literally)! The organization answered all of my emails in detail, and they were so helpful and relevant. We are going to retest our kitten in a few months, but having the information about how to proceed even if she's positive puts my mind at ease - our kitten is already one of the family!

This FIV Cat Rescue gave me great information about FIV. I recently rescued a cat who was positive for FIV. They were very professional and courteous. Also, very prompt in returning emails.

FIV cat rescue helped my foster kitty while I found him a forever home. When I found Slate outside my apartment he was the only approachable cat of the feral colony that resided there. I took him to the vet to have him looked over where we found he was FIV+. The doctor told me that although not as common, FIV can be transmitted through casual contact so I must strictly quarantine him from my two healthy cats. For several weeks Slate stayed confined in a small spare bedroom, with a few daily interactions from my husband and I and our dog.m, while we searched for him a new home. I knew he must be miserable living life in a small, secluded room, with little attention. I searched for more information on FIV while we fostered him and came across this site. It was here that I learned it is outdated information that FIV can be spread through casual contact and that it must be through bite wounds. At that point I began to allow more freedom for Slate and some interaction with my girls, although he preferred not to be with them and either curl up in a lap or find a good sin spot. After about 3 months we found Slate a forever home where he is thriving with his new mommy and daddy and 3 doggie brothers and sisters! 6 weeks later I brought my girls in to be retested and they are still negative and healthy. If it were not for the information and the help I received through this site, Slates stay with us, although we were trying to help, would have been miserable and cruel. Thank you FIV cat rescue for helping Slate to have a better life, both with us and his new home!

FIV cat rescue helped me to understand the disease my rescued cat has. They provided quick and accurate information. I also asked them to find me an FIV positive cat to be a companion for mine. They came through with several sites near me with an FIV cat. They are compassionate and caring.

My experience with this rescue has been through Facebook and networking cats at the shelter I work at. FIV Cat Rescue are tremendous advocates for FIV positive cats to help dispel the outdated and many times downright incorrect myths and assumptions about these cats which causes them to still be euthanized in most shelters. Their advocacy is helping to educate the public, as well as people in the animal sheltering field, to give these cats the chances they deserve to find homes and stop making FIV a death sentence for cats!

Having an unexpected situation where my FIV+ foster cat was having multiple nosebleeds every day, it was suggested I contact Frankie Kangas, Founder of FIV Cat Rescue. I was provided supportive and helpful feedback with suggestions. FIV Cat Rescue is a wonderful resource for those caring for FIV+ felines and the love the staff has for these special felines is obvious. Thank you!

Fiv cat rescue is great! They gave me many information about FIV and suggestions on how to talk about FIV with potential adopters. In fact I used their FAQ flyer and got my FIV + cat adopted.! I love the positive image of FIV cats that they promote on their website and Facebook page.

The FIV Cat Rescue by Frankie Kangas has helped me understand about a misunderstood cat disease. These cats are not harmful to humans and can lead a normal life. What's not to like about that?

I was pleased to find another FIV+ cat rescuer in FIV Cat Rescue. They have been informative and supportive in my own efforts to save FIV+ cats who always get a bad rap because the public is so ignorant about them. Even some vets just want to put them down when it is so unnecessary. I applaud their work and hope they keep on going strong. Thank you for saving lives which would otherwise have been ended prematurely and needlessly.
Cheryl Zellmer, Centreville, VA

Thank you Frankie Kangas for establishing this site and non-profit organization. I was in extreme dire straits when suddenly my FIV cat "Grandpa Kitty" had to go. My landlord said it was us or him because he wasn't on the lease. Frankie made my emergency hers and took on Grampa until she could place him somewhere. We were hours of putting him down as we had NO options. Two old people with one income don't have many places to live.
If you are looking for information or placement help for FIV kitties, this is the site for you. Frankie doesn't let go until she helps you resolve your worries.

I found a stray in my neighborhood and after getting him fixed, I found out he had FIV. I wasn't sure where to go and I was worried about what kind of life he would have. I reached out to FIV Cat Rescue and was in touch with caring and compassionate people who were able to erase my worries. FIV is misunderstood and the perception around it needs to change. Through FIV Cat Rescue, I am able to spread the message and able to speak to others about the misconception about FIV.

All the information that Fiv Cat Rescue offers is very important for an owner of a Fiv positive cat. I rescue cats and I met a few Fiv positive cats during time. They are all perfectly healthy now and live happy with their new families. I used the information given by Fiv Cat Rescue and gave it further to the persons who need it.

A couple of years ago, we had a young male cat show up on our doorstep. We took him to the vet and found he was FIV positive. We had other outdoor cats we cared for and weren't sure what to do with him. FIV Cat Rescue recommended fixing him and leaving him with his outdoor family. We have had no problems with him fighting with the others (he is a very gentle cat) and he is healthy. FIV Cat Rescue was very supportive during our decision about his future and I'm glad we followed their advice!

A few months ago, one of our volunteers found an FIV-FELV-positive cat and was at loggerheads about what to do with him. I went online to do some research and wound up carrying on a steady correspondence with Frankie Kangas, the founder of FIV Cat Rescue. She educated me about the difference between FIV and FELV cats, which helped me a lot in the work that I do as a pet columnist. She also suggested a couple of places to take Mr. Big, for that was the name my friend gave him.

My friend couldn't bear to part with Mr. Big, of course, and wound up keeping him isolated in his "own room." He didn't have a long time with her, but he gained end-of-life care that he wouldn't otherwise have had, and my friend and I wound up a whole heck of a lot smarter about FIV and FELV. Thanks, Frankie!

Great organization advocating for cats who have FIV and helping to clear up misinformation about FIV.

A year ago I took in the neighborhood stray cat who tested positive for FIV. I was very scared and confused until I reached out to FIV cat rescue. They responded to my "help" email within minutes and reassured me that my new Kitty would live a perfectly normal life without having to turn out lives upside down. They are amazing and we need more resources out there like them. Thank you!

As a fellow cat rescuer I know how hard it is to place special kitties. Frankie does a wonderful job on educating the public on FIV+ cats as well as assisting the public with placing and adopting these special kitties. FIV+ cats are one of the greatest kitties in the world and are very lucky to have FIV Cat Rescue and Frankie on their side. This world needs more people like her.

We rescued an FIV kitty Rusty. With the help of FIV Cat Rescue, they have helped us understand FIV, how to help Rusty and how to get our 2 girls Wilma Mae and Tiger Lily to accept Rusty.

Terrific organization with such helpful and nice people!

Very nice people. They provide you with information in regards to fostering and adopting special needs cats.

Wonderful place! Was very responsive and helpful when we picked up a homeless stray, and after taking him to the vet, learned her was FIV positive.

They provided gudance and information to help us decide this young cat would be fine to stay in the home with another cat, and it has been wonderful for both cats!

My vet tested a homeless cat I had been taking care of and recommended that I have him euthanized because he tested positive for FIV. I was not prepared for this. How could we kill a perfectly healthy cat? Was FIV so terrible? I didn’t want my decision to be based on ignorance so I researched FIV and found FIV Cat Rescue. They gave me more facts and information about FIV and confirmed what I knew in my heart: FIV is no reason to kill. That FIV cats can live long and healthy lives and usually die of the same old-age diseases as other cats. I was able to make a decision that I was comfortable with; to save this cat. The cat is still heathy, happy and alive. I’m hoping the views of vets don’t deter people from spaying/neutering strays out of fear that they may be asked to kill that animal if they have FIV. Or, if they do have a vet tell them to kill a cat for testing positive for FIV, that they call FIV Cat Rescue for facts about FIV and find ways to save these cats, not destroy them. Lauren Nowicki

They provided great advice when I needed help determining the best course of action for a rescued FIV positive cat as the Vets office advised to have mom and all kittens put down. Thank Goodness they are all alive and well. maryjane Fox

I needed information regarding FIV virus in order to make the right desicion regarding placing a cat, and Frankie was very kind and provided me with the info I needed so much.
Frankie, thank you for your help!!!

They provided great advice when I needed help determining the best course of action for a rescued FIV positive cat.

I didn't have a clue about FIV. In the course of a week I lost one cat to illness and was told that I needed to rehome another all because of FIV. FIV Cat Rescue was there with answers when I was completely lost and not even my vet could provide answers. Thanks to them and the information they provided, I feel confident that I can provide for my FIV+ kitty safely and will have several happy, healthy years with her.

Wonderful organization that was extremely helpful with providing me information to place FiV cats.

FIV Cat Rescue came to "my" rescue with excellent advice in introducing my new FIV cat (Henry) into my home with 4 negative boys. Frankie answered my email right away and put my fears at ease with full detailed information and intro advice. And so far it's worked! They are living harmoniously! Thank you so much for helping me! All my best to your wonderful rescue!

They gave me helpful information on fiv when I found a kitten who was tested positive. We ended up keeping the kitten and he is doing great.
Thank you.

This is a great resource with a wealth of easy to understand information. I am involved in cat rescue and link to this site often to help people with the ins and outs of FIV.

I got great information and encouragement in dealing with my own FIV cat. I run a "normal" cat rescue, and gained confidence in keeping my old boy Winston from knowledge here.

Helped me out when I thought no one else would; very thorough and provided all the info I needed to help a senior FIV ➕ kitty in my area. Thanks again!

We adopted a little kitten and had no idea where to turn when we got a possible positive result on a Felv test. Frankie was very prompt in responding to my questions and did a great job helping me to understand what all this meant. Thus is an excellent organization for information and support when dealing with such sad and scary news!

Frankie's FIV Cat Rescue is a gift to our community and the world! I was originally introduced to the rescue through community work. While accompanying my client to volunteer and help socialize cats, I was immediately impressed by the cleanliness of the environment. These cats are free to roam and socialize with each other in a large open home with plenty of windows and sunshine. Frankie and her husband live side by side with these lucky kitties, pampering and grooming them daily. They are clearly dedicated to what they do. This rescue truly loves and respects these often disregarded animals. After spending some time at the rescue I introduced my mother to a cat named Princess. They fell in love with each other. Once the adoption was approved, Princess had one last medical exam. She then arrived with plenty of supplies to help smooth the transition (including a bed, litter & litter box, toys & plenty of food). In addition to all the extras, the rescue has a 30-day trial period to ensure a good match. Fortunately for my mother and Princess, they're a match made in heaven. It is truly overwhelming how thoughtful and loving this rescue is. In addition to having cats available for adoption, the rescue is a wonderful resource for anyone interested in FIV education. In my opinion it is absolutely purrrr-fect!

This organization has very caring people who go above and beyond in helping cats find their forever home. Easy to work with and highly recommended.

Robert Hudson
Petradioshow dot com

FIV Cat Rescue's website is my go to site when people ask me to take their FIV+ cats because of lack of education. Their site helps teach people that FIV is really not a big deal and there is no reason for cats to be euthanized because they test positive for the virus.

I can't praise Frankie and her team enough! They have given me such good advice for my FIV+cat who has had such trouble with stomatitis.I have learnt so much from them about FIV ,not knowing anything about it before! Thank goodness we have Frankie and her team to give advice and take care of our feline friends! Thank you so much!

I didn't know much about cats with FIV. Until I took a stray into our local no kill shelter and was later told he was FIV+. They made it sound very grave and that he would not likely find a home. I had promised him that he would be ok and I wouldn't let anything happen to him and I meant to keep my word! I began to research FIV and in doing so came across Frankie and FIV Cat Rescue. I learned FIV is not a death sentence, or at least should not be one.
Thanks to Frankie, I was able to pull Moz from the shelter and take him back home. About a week later we got a call from the Humane Society that the initial test they gave him was a false positive and he is NOT FIV+. I was pleased that he is healthy but either way, he is a wonderful cat that deserves to live out his life regardless of his FIV status. Thank you Frankie for helping me save Moz and for educating me on FIV+ cats!!

I have the utmost respect and admiration for Frankie Kangas and all those who help and support her efforts with FIV Cat Rescue. Having been a proud guardian and pet parent of a rescue (feral) FIV cat myself, I know first-hand there is nothing to fear and only much love to give and receive in return when one of these felines come into your life. Thanks FIV Cat Rescue for offering the world education and truth about FIV cats and helping to save and encourage adoption into forever homes of these wonderful deserving cats.

Frankie eduacting about FIV is a major contribution to everyone working and living with cats! Her knowledge is impressive. If you consider to adopt a cat, please read her page and then re-consider, i.e. adopt a FIV kitty.
I've been involved in cat rescue for 17 years now here in Germany. We do take FIV cats and we also place them on a regular basis. 99% of these cats lived to old aged and died of age or whatever old cats get: renal failure, cancer etc., but __not__ of FIV. So - keep up the good work, Frankie!!

I think what Frankie is doing to educate people on FIV cats/kitties is wonderful and sooooo important especially since even many of the professionals we look to for advise are undereducated in the area of FIV. I am caretaker of a baby-boy feral cat for quite a few yrs who is FIV. I found this out when I TNR him and had him tested. At that time I was given good advise and bad advise,,I didn't know which was which,,all I knew was I already loved the lil guy after having had taken care of him for several yrs. I did a lot of online reading and decided to go with life. My lil guy has far outlived his "feral" cat life expectancy already and I expect him to go on living many more yrs. He's been a gift from God and I have learned so much about feral cats, TNR, FIV, rescue cats and just feline life in general outside this warm, cozy little two cat home of mine. I'd love to have my lil guy come inside and live with my other two but he will only come inside the doorway, eat and run,,hes free spirit and wants no part of closed doors between him and the rest of the world. Bless you Frankie,,,these lil ones are soooo special!!!

I have a facebook page, Motton for Mayor, that is about my FIV cat. I was searching to connect with other pages about FIV. I opened the FIV rescue page. I was extremely impressed with the information. Then on the page was a picture of a cat named Salsa. I fell in love. I contacted Frankie and asked about adopting her. I wanted another FIV+ kitty. She did a through investigation into my background and cat care. My references were called and my vet. Salsa then traveled from FT. Bragg CA to Houston. We both have a mission: educate the public that FIV is not a death sentence. This is an amazing shelter that adopts out cats to only loving homes.

I am a foster mommy to FIV positive kittens. Frankie was very helpful in educating me on my options for these kittens. She was also very quick with her responses! I appreciate all she does to help these poor misunderstood babies!

We were going to adopt a fiv kitty named cowboy but we have 3 other cats one of which is not very accepting of other cats since we are over 3000 miles away in North Carolina and had no other home for him if it didn't work out we had to put his best interest first and not adopt him. Frankie was super helpful through the whole process. In the future we hope to adopt from her rescue. Please check them out if your planning on getting a cat or kitten, they are incredible people and will go above and beyond to help you get the perfect new family member.

My Mom recently rescued an FIV+ kitten and we were very weary about having him with her other FIV- furbabies. Frankie Kangas was a wealth of information and helped us to understand the entire situation. My Mom was able to make an educated decision to keep the kitten. >^..^< I wish this non profit was on the CFC at my place of work. Someone should work on that... :)

Frankie Kangas and FIV+ Cat Rescue are simply awesome!
Frankie went way above and beyond helping me find the purrfect FIV+ young cat to be companion to my existing FIV+ cat spanning the whole country. I even had offers from other countries. There is so much ignorance on this subject and SO many wonderful FIV+ cats out there desperately needing loving forever homes. I strongly urge everyone to support her and her efforts to educate others that FIV+ cats are not carriers of death and most live the same long, healthy, loving lives as any other cat. Her organization is deserving of far more praise and accolades than I can express! My Sinbad and Mattea are profoundly grateful!

Thank you, Frankie Kangas, and all of your board members and volunteers who are working hard to not only help FIV-positive cats but also to educate the public as to the facts about FIV as opposed to what Frankie calls "myth-information" on the Internet and everywhere else! I encountered Frankie when our Fix Long Beach volunteers came upon a scraggly Siamese-mix tomcat in horrible condition and found out that he was FIV positive. I contacted a number of FIV cat help organizations, and Frankie was the one who involved herself entirely, not only recommending sanctuaries but also links to her website and other sites that offer information about FIV-positive cats. I gained so much enlightement that I decided to write an article about FIV cats; I quoted Frankie so much that her cyber-ears must have been burning. (Here's a link to the article: http://lbpost.com/life/2000004533-fiv-and-felv-affected-cats-positives-and-negatives .)

Vanilla, which is what we named our protege, is now living in a temporary home while waiting transportation to a sanctuary. Thank you, FIV Cat Rescue and Frankie Kangas, for helping spread the word.

Thank you FIV Cat Rescue for educating, changing minds and saving FIV cats! All of the work and time makes a differnece for each cat you help and all of the future cats. Keep up the great work!!!! Thanks for being a fantastic rescue!

Wonderful rescue that helps so many FIV kitties - without great places like this, these cats would have such a smaller chance of finding a home! By helping to educate the public and adopters about FIV - they help FIV+ cats find new loving owners every day! Thank God for places like this!

Thank goodness for them! They have given great advice regarding my own three FIV+ cats and with those I foster. I adore Frankie and everyone!!!! Invaluble!

I discovered FIV cat rescue when i adopted a cat and found out that he is FIV positive. I'm living on the other side of the world, in Estonia, and they still found time to give me advice and their support when i needed it the most.
I really appreciate their work and i'm really grateful for all that they are doing.
Big hugs, you are wonderful!

I originally was introduced to FIV Cat Rescue through a friend who previously had told me about the organization and how helpful the Founder, Frankie Kangas was. I had adopted a FIV cat some time ago, and needed some information. Frankie, was extremely helpful, provided me with ALL kinds of information and websites that answered a lot of my questions. She helped to educate me about her efforts and about FIV in general. I originally thought FIV for cats was pretty much a “death sentence.” It's not and it also is very different from HIV in Humans – most cats with FIV + just die of old age & seldom die as a direct result of FIV. I also learned about how much FIV Cat Rescue does for the FIV cat population: It educates people about FIV, works with rescuers to find homes through networking, provide a database of rescues taking FIV cats, and works with shelter volunteers to stop the killing of FIV cats in their shelters.
Because she was so helpful with my FIV cat and I was fortunate enough to learn so much more about the epidemic with FIV cats and what can be done to help, I wanted to give back. I am lucky enough to work for a wonderful company that allowed me to volunteer for FIV Cat Rescue and then donate a $1,500 Grant to FIV Cat Rescue to help them in their work. Donations are so important, because they are primarily funded by them. So much of the success depends on how much others care. If you want a rewarding experience, I recommend you donating your time, money or resources to help in this worthy endeavor. HELP make a difference and save lives!

I originally discovered FIV Cat Rescue through the internet. I had found a FIV Cat, and I had no idea of what to do with him. All I know, is that the vet that checked him over told me, if you take this animal to a shelter, he will immediately be put down. FIV cats quickly are euthanized. I could NOT and would NOT do that, as his life literally depended on it.
I contacted Frankie Kargas an original founder of the organization, who generously gave her time, advice and helpful suggestions on what/how to take care of him. Because no one else or no other organization could take him in, we decided to adopt him, despite having 3 cats already. She coached me on how to bring him into our home, with 3 other cats (non FIV)! Without her help, it wouldn't have been possible.
I started getting to know Frankie little by little, and decided to help her in any way I could. I learned more about how much she does, her painstaking and often heartbreaking efforts to help Trap, Neuter & Return these beautiful animals. I am learning more and more all the time, and any and all of my efforts to help her to save lives and educate people, is probably the most worthwhile venture I have ever embarked on! God Bless FIV Cat Rescue.

I learned that the beautiful Siamese stray that I had taken in was FeLV-positive, and was in a panic to find a rescue that could take him. While FIV Cat Rescue was not able to help, they did give me some helpful information. I did learn later that another stray was FIV-positive, but I was able to keep him at home. Had I not be able to keep him, I know that FIV Cat Rescue would have accepted him, and I could have taken him to Ft. Bragg, just a few hours from Sacramento. So many strays in my neighborhood; it's good to know there is a welcoming place for sick kitties.

This is an organization that is truly making a difference in our community, and via the internet, across the country. I have learned about FIV and the 'myth-information' that is out there, and am really impressed with the dedicated efforts of Frankie and Oran to stop this, and save FIV kitties from the death sentence that often results when ignorance prevails.

Now that I am fostering FIV kitties and seeing how unique each one is, and seeing the difference they make in someone's life when they are adopted, I feel sure that this is a non-profit that must continue it's work. I encourage anyone who cares about animals to support FIV Cat Rescue any way they can.

FIV Cat Rescue began its very important work by hands on rescue of cats testing positive for FIV antibodies. Recognizing they could not take in every FIV+ cat, they soon began their greater work. That work is to help folks recognize that FiV is not a death sentence. That these cats can live long and healthy lives.

FIV Cat Rescue's website is unparalleled. This site shares the most up to date FIV research, helping to inform and educate other rescues, shelters and individuals, thus saving countless lives. It also serves as a network to help find homes for FIV+ cats.

Kudos for FIV Cat Rescue!

I became an advocate for FIV+ cats about 4 years ago after a devastating personal experience with a sweet stray. I began searching for like-minded folks who passionately wanted to change the way FIV+ cats are perceived and treated. A fellow animal advocate connected me with Frankie at FIV Cat Rescue. We quickly discovered that we had a shared experience of loss through MYTHinformation about FIV+ cats and eventually I began volunteering on projects. Frankie's depth of caring, compassion, and dedication to the mission of helping FIV+ cats and those who are their guardians, shows in everything she does for the organization. I'm confident that the world is a much safer and better place for FIV+ cats today because of the work that FIV Cat Rescue has done, and will continue to do, until the stigma no longer surrounds these very special and greatly misunderstood cats.

FIV cats can live long and healthy lives if you stay on top of their medical needs, specifically getting them regular dental exams. One of my FIV guys will be 19 years old in April. Don't let exposure to the virus--which is all FIV status means--keep you from adopting a great cat.

FIV Cat Rescue is a registered nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization of dedicated volunteers located in Northern California. Frankie and Oran Kangas began saving FIV+ cats in 2006. On January 5, 2010 FIV Cat Rescue officially became a nonprofit corporation. Their primary mission is to stop the killing of healthy FIV+ cats and kittens that test positive for the FIV antibodies and educate people about Feline immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). There are so many myths out there about FIV+ cats, so I'm thankful to see that FIV Cat Rescue has an abundance of material about this subject that they share with the public.e

As a person who takes in unwanted cats, I didn't know that FIV positive cats could live long, healthy lives until I found out about FIV Cat Rescue. The people who volunteer their time are educating shelters, lawmakers, and the public about the long lives these animals can lead are saving the lives of some wonderful pets. They not only educate people about FIV but help individuals with FIV positive cat KEEP their animals, and help find homes for animals in need. Because of what I've learned from them, my next cat will be one the these wonderful animals.

I have had contact with FIV Cat Rescue for a couple of years now. Frankie is truly dedicated to the FIV cats, and all cats in general. She has taken in a number of these cats into her own home. I see her on a daily basis. They could not receive more love, care, and protection. I can tell Frankie loves this work.

I contacted FIV Cat Rescue this past summer when I was trying to find a home for an FIV+ kitty. Frankie went out of her way to provide options for us and even arranged for transport for our kitty to get to his new home if we needed it. I can't praise Frankie and FIV Cat Rescue enough! It's a great group doing wonderful, much needed work! Thank you FIV and Frankie for caring so much about our kitty friends!

This group is wonderful. They tried to assist me in every way possible and kept in constant contact with me by email and phone. I highly recommend them and will pass on their info to other rescues here in Sacramento.

Frankie takes a personal interest in all her cats up for adoption and educates the owners about FIV which is very very helpful.

There is nothing like it here in Sacramento or nearby.

Sammy was adopted today 2/15./13.

Anytime there is a group like this one, FIV Cat Rescue, it is always a good group to support and adopt a cat from because there are hardly other cat rescues that will take a FIV positive cat into their rescue and adopt them out like this group. This is a good rescue we have in California because there is NO other cat rescue group like this one!

My husband and I oversee a shelter for feral and abandoned cats. Since 2004 we have taken in many cats and have saved many lives. A few years ago I rescued an adult Siamese cat that was diagnosed with Feline Leukemia and Feline immunodeficiency virus. The attending veterinarian told us the cat needed to be put down. I waited 30 days and had the cat retested and the results were NO Feline Leukemia and positive FIV. Since the cat appeared healthy I thought there was no reason to follow the veterinarian’s advice to euthanize the cat. However I had limited information on FIV and I began searching for answers for my list questions. I was referred to Frankie Kangas, Founder and Executive Director of FIV Cat Rescue.

Frankie answered all of my questions quickly and professionally. The FIV cat rescue educated me on the cause, treatment and taught me how to save cat lives. I receive monthly newsletters that keep me up-to-date with information concerning this cat disease. Because of the help that I received from Frankie I was able to educate others as well as adopt FIV positive cats into loving homes.