A cat has found the perfect forever home with a Tampa Bay family, thanks to a bond that goes beyond the ordinary.

Tonka is 1-year-old and has Feline Leukemia Virus, a common and potentially fatal infectious disease that affects cats. FeLV can lead to various health issues, including anemia, suppression of the immune system, and an increased risk of infections and cancer.

"Tonka came to HSTB (the Humane Society of Tampa Bay) as a stray, where it was discovered that he was faintly positive for FeLV," Regan Blessinger, the marketing and content manager at the HSTB, told . "During his time at the shelter, he exhibited no obvious symptoms, maintained a healthy appetite, stayed hydrated, and remained active.

However, FeLV is a serious diagnosis."

Patiently waiting for a new home at the HSTB in Florida, Tonka captured the hearts of Kathleen and her daughter. But nobody could predict how perfect the match would be.

Kathleen's daughter, who battled leukemia at the age of 7, has triumphed over the disease after years of medical care. When Kathleen and her daughter came across Tonka, they felt an immediate connection due to the feline's feline leukemia positive (FeLV+) status. Despite Tonka's uncertain future, the family was drawn to his story and saw him as the perfect companion.

The family bonded immediately with Tonka due to his FeLV+ status, and they felt they were kindred spirits.

The that detect a protein component of the virus called FeLV P27. Unfortunately, there is no definitive cure for FeLV, and affected cats are managed medically by treating any secondary infections that may result from the virus.

Cats can be protected from FeLV, though. Vaccines and reliable tests have contributed to a decrease in the prevalence of the virus over the last 25 years, and keeping your pet vaccinated and away from cats with FeLV can prevent illness.

The virus is estimated to affect about 2 to 3 percent of all cats in the United States and is the second leading cause of death in them, killing 85 percent of persistently infected felines within three years of diagnosis.

"The future for Tonka is uncertain," said Blessinger. "We remain hopeful that, with regular veterinary care and the love from his new family, ."

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