El Cid is FIV+, meaning he is carrying the AIDS virus, but he has no symptoms whatsoever. He is a healthy and happy boy. He was rescued from the West Los Angeles Animal Shelter, where he was going to be euthanized – just because he is FIV+! FIV is a "species-specific" disease, which means that cats cannot transmit it to humans or to dogs.

An AIDS+ person also cannot transmit that disease to cats. There is no special treatment needed for El Cid – he may NEVER develop any symptoms. However, if he should get sick, he must see a veterinarian, as he has an impaired immune system. El Cid is the most wonderful guy – he loves other cats (maybe you have an FIV+ cat that needs a friend?), he gets along fine with dogs and he just adores people. It takes him about a week to realize he is in a safe environment (don’t forget – he spent weeks and weeks at the Shelter!), and once he does, he sticks to you like glue! He wants to be in your lap whenever you sit down and when you wake – you will find him watching you from the adjoining pillow! He is so incredibly sweet and we are so grateful that Felines & Friends received a call from the Shelter – or El Cid would not be with us today!