When this sweet kitty first came to us, he was already in great distress. Even before he stepped out of the carrier, you could hear his heavy, wheezing breathing—like the whistle of a boiling tea kettle. Once out, we noticed bloody nasal discharge and even bleeding from his ears. And yet, despite feeling so miserable, he purred the moment we touched him, kneading gently with the softest, most trusting eyes. 💔
His dad had already taken him to several veterinary hospitals, desperately searching for answers, but his condition only worsened. To avoid further delay, we immediately performed a biopsy.
Dr. Luo suspected Cryptococcus (cryptococcosis)—a rare but serious fungal infection in cats. Cancer was also a possibility. What made his case even more complicated is that he is FIV-positive (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, similar to HIV in humans). Cats with FIV have weaker immune systems, which means infections can progress much faster.
💡 After days of anxious waiting, the lab results came back: not cancer—but cryptococcus fungal infection. His dad then remembered that years ago, the cat had a similar lump and took antifungal medication, but stopped early once he “seemed better.” This infection may have been hiding in his body for years, resurfacing again.
For most healthy cats, cryptococcosis treatment requires on average 4 months of daily antifungal medication, and in severe cases, up to 30 months. For an FIV cat, recovery will likely take even longer. His samples have now been sent to a specialized mycology lab to measure antigen levels. He will need continuous medication and re-checks until the antigen level drops down to a certain level. Only then can treatment safely stop.
This will be a long battle—but with a loving and dedicated dad by his side, we are full of hope. 💙
One day, when he purrs again, it will be free of congestion, filled only with happiness.
✨ A gentle reminder to all pet parents:
Always share your pet’s full medical history and current medications with your vet.
When transferring hospitals, bringing all prior medical records can make a life-saving difference.