Sal is the kind of cat who makes you wonder how anyone could ever leave him behind. This handsome black cat, distinguished by the small white patch tucked beneath his chin, has been through more than his fair share. Originally transferred to ECHS from animal control, Sal arrived with a positive FIV test and severe, ongoing respiratory issues that needed further investigation. What followed was months of diagnostics, treatments, medications, specialist consultations, radiographs, and even a procedure to thoroughly examine and clean his nasal passages. Time and time again, we hoped we'd find a simple answer. Instead, we found an aggressive pneumonia that has proven incredibly stubborn to fully resolve. Even now, Sal continues to struggle with recurring congestion and excess phlegm, and we are still working to determine the best long-term management for his condition. Through all of it, Sal has remained remarkably... Sal. He greets people with enthusiasm. He seeks out affection. He wants attention, companionship, and all the love he can get. While his medical journey has been complicated, his personality couldn't be simpler. He is an absolute sweetheart. Sadly, his ongoing medical needs have meant spending far too much time in quarantine and isolation. While he recently graduated to his own private room, and seems quite pleased with his temporary "studio apartment," what Sal really wants is a home. A place where he can be part of a family instead of watching life happen from behind a door. We won't pretend Sal is the easiest adoption. He is FIV positive, and his long-term medical prognosis remains uncertain. We know that is a lot to ask of an adopter. But here's the remarkable part: despite everything, Sal doesn't seem interested in feeling sorry for himself. He eats well, enjoys attention, and goes about his day much like any other cat. He still has plenty of life, love, and companionship to offer the person willing to give him a chance. Sal is believed to be middle-aged, though as a former stray, his exact age is unknown. What we do know is that he has spent far too long waiting. We're hoping someone out there sees beyond the diagnosis, beyond the congestion, beyond the uncertainty, and sees what we see: a wonderful cat who deserves a home just as much as any other. Sal is neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, dewormed, flea/tick treated, and FIV positive.