"Strader has been pure delight for our family.

Of our 4 other cats, 3 live in one "zone" of the house, and our 4th, an FIV+ guy named Loki, has lived in his own suite for a little over 3 years. Though Loki has the run of two rooms and gets a good amount of attention, we've long wondered whether he was lonely and whether adding a new friend would be something positive for him.

Some people -- and even some vets -- are not aware of the fact that cats with FIV can lives that are about as long, happy, and healthy as cats without the immune disorder. They are more susceptable to certain health issues, to be sure, but kept in a clean and happy environment, they live lives as rich as any "healthy" cat can. When we first adopted Loki from off the street and learned he was FIV+, our vet actually asked whether we wanted to put him to sleep! He was in fine health then and is robust today, and we took offense at the time that he would offer such a "solution" when we know FIV to be a manageable condition!

Since Loki is a young cat, we wanted for him to have a friend to hang with for the next 10 to 15 years. We thought, to minimize territoriality issues, we should be looking for an FIV+ female kitten companion, so we were a little hesitant when it was proposed that we take on Strader, a male who's well beyond his kitten stage.

Well, our worry was totally unfounded because Strader has the most magnanimous, accommodating, and sweet personality. He was glad to let Loki be "top cat," and he's been a wonderful playmate for him as well as being an adoring, affectionate "fe-leaner," as we like to call him. He loves to lean in to your leg for a little rub or lean onto your lap for some scratching and chatting. One of our favorite things about him is his very loud, happy "Yow-yow!" meow.

Strader is a wonderful boy who could not be nicer, more easy-going, or more adaptable. We think he could get along with just about anybody and anything and make an instant friend! We have enjoyed fostering him so much that we've made the decision to be his forever family."

Charlie

"Charlie (white) loves his foster family. Has turned into the boss of the house.He has gotten so used to his foster mom playing with him every morning. When she had to change play time because of her new job, Charlie decided that wasn't working for him. He tries to walk in front of the computer to get her attention, attacks her feet from under the chair!It is hard to believe that two months ago he was afraid to be petted. He has just started sitting on laps and receiving kisses. He is clearly addicted to being petted and can be very demanding when he is in the mood."

Todd

"Todd (orange) has a tipped ear because it was thought that he would need to be released back outside to resume his life style away from humans. However, those yummy meals and fun toys have gotten the best of him! Although he hasn't been petted yet, he lets his foster mom hold his bowl while he eats and allows her to play feather on a stick. He has come along way. Although he may never be a lap cat, with more love and patience, he may be petted soon."

Frankie

"Frankie is a male orange tabby lover boy around 8 months old. When he first came to me he was a little reserved, but now he follows me everywhere I go. He loves to play with all of his toys but he especially loves to play with people and his best friend Butterfly. I enjoy watching him just before he pounces on a toy. He'll rise up on his back legs and tilt his head to one side with excitement and then attack! One of his favorite things is be cradled in my arms like a baby and have his head rubbed, all the while he looks up at me with so much love. Frankie has a few medical problems like poor vision out of his right eye from a viral infection and still suffers from upper respiratory issues, but he always takes his medicine like a trooper. Please consider bringing Frankie into your home, and if you're thinking about adding another kitty to your family, please consider Frankie's best friend Butterfly."

Butterfly

"Butterfly is a small short haired tortoiseshell ball of fire! Butterfly has a spring in her step at every turn despite having nerve damage to her left rear leg. I like to call her my little explorer because she's a fearless adventurer and endlessly curious. But when her adventures are over she loves to curl up in my lap for love and attention. When Butterfly's not off on a great adventure she loves to play with her best friend Frankie. Those two will play for hours and then snuggle up together for a long afternoon nap. Butterfly's about 6 months old and has had a ruff start, due to an upper respiratory infection and a viral infection which caused her to lose her vision in one eye, but she's full of energy and love! The vet even thinks she'll do fine on her damaged left leg. Butterfly needs a good loving home. Please consider bringing here into your home and if you're thinking about adding another kitty to your family please consider her best friend Frankie."