From all indications - he ended up at the animal control center with a nice leather collar and was already neutered - Marcus appeared to be a cat that had known a home that cared about him and took care of him.  However, Marcus intitally tested positive for FIV.   Cats that have been vaccinated for FIV will show positive results on the first level FIV testing, but the only way to tell for sure was via DNA testing.  We kept our fingers crossed that this was the case with Marcus.

Unfortunately, the DNA results confirmed that Marcus was truly positive for FIV.

There is a common misconception that the feline FIV is the same virus, and will cause the human HIV/AIDS virus, or that humans will "catch" the virus from the cat.  THESE NOTIONS ARE NOT TRUE! This is an very good educational link that answers questions about FIV in very plain English.
http://www.blackgiraffe.com/jmight/fiv/fiv.html

Most FIV  cats can live normal, long lives as long as they are kept inside and are given extra special attention and care of if they get a common cold or any infection. What ultimately kills them is not the FIV, but the breakdown of their immune systems so they are not able to fight off very simple colds, infections, etc.

It's hard to find homes for such a lovable and sweet cat like Marcus if they have something so different from other cats  If you are looking for a wonderful companion please consider adopting a 'special needs' pet like Marcus.  He deserves to live out his life in a loving home just like any other cat. 
 

UPDATE:  JULY 17, 2006
Marcus was adopted on 7/15/06!

We are so happy that this family decided to adopt Marcus!  We know they will give him the perfect home where he will be loved and cared for!