Skinky update. New Thread

Discussion in 'Feline Health - (Welcome & Main Forum)' started by skinky44, Jan 17, 2015.

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  1. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

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    Dec 19, 2014
    ok. I got it! i've been working on this since about 2 pm. post office SUCKS. while I was dealing with the umpteenth PO worker, in tears making a scene mind you, i got a call from my building saying that it arrived. I gave her the dosage...i had to put it in water and syringe it...she's back to making foaming noises when I syringe food or water into her. She had been doing that maybe a week ago, but then she got better, as someone suggested, perhaps because she was getting some food into her...I hope I got enough of the pill into her..hard to tell.

    Thank you Rhiannon for sending! The vet mobile owner called and said they cldn't fulfill my order, that the vet recommends either she come in again for another full blood panel or that I put her down, and he's leaning on the latter. They will not anesthetize her for *anything* even the feeding tube. They doubt very much that it's a fungus issue.

    We ran out of fluids last night. I do have a script for one more ringers solution. I doubt we will be able to go through all of it, but am on my way uptown to get that...
     
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  2. phlika29

    phlika29 Well-Known Member

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    Sep 14, 2014
    A while ago I posted about the food I fed my remi when he was very ill. It is a food designed for feeding tubes and so is a powder that you make up with warm water and is very easy to syringe. I would say that without it he wouldn't be here now. I don't know if you could get it from a localvet but it might be worth a try as it is high calories, low taste (more like milk)

    Royal canin convalescence sachets (or ready made in a tin)
    http://www.vetuk.co.uk/royal-canin-...n-convalescence-support-instant-sachets-p-254
     
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  3. phlika29

    phlika29 Well-Known Member

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    Wait twenty minutes after giving the ondansteron before trying to feed skinky so it has time to take effect.
     
  4. Jill & Alex (GA)

    Jill & Alex (GA) Senior Member Moderator

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    Dec 28, 2009
    (((Laura and Skinky)))

    I'm hoping for the best. We all are. My thoughts and prayers are with both of you, but I also wanted to give you a quality of life assessment tool I've used when I've been in some tough situations with pets. Maybe you'll find it useful...

    Deciding When & How To Humanely Euthanize a Companion Animal by Eric L. Nelson, MS, MA and Sharon Zito, DVM

    :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  5. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

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    the tracking number says delivered.
    Do you have the medication?

    I'm hoping... I'm hoping....
     
  6. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Jun 16, 2014
    Prayers still coming for Skinky.

    ((((Laura and Skinky))))
     
  7. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

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    nevermind... I see you do....
    I wasn't on the second page of this condo.....

    Paws crossed it will help.
     
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  8. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

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    Dec 19, 2014
    hi!
    ok - sorry if I sound utterly inept with this... In fact right now, I'm so scattered...she's being SUPER uncooperative w/ the pills, and because what I'm trying to give her is so small...well, I'll think I got it into her and and then I'll find several minutes later that she's spat it out. on her last poor hind legs and still a clever little girl. as I recall, I believe I "thought" I was able to get the fraction of the O drug into her at 630 pm. I also crumbled up another tiny portion and placed in her water bowl (which today, she is not drinking water). I had to run uptown to get ringers solution filled before pharmacy closed. when I got back I gave her the app stim, small amt. tried to syringe some food/cat sure, but she is smacking lips again. waited. tried to dissolve another tiny portion of the O drug in a syringe and syringed into her.

    but honestly i can't be certain how much of what she has in her. i'm erring on the side of supreme caution with dosing. but my syringes often explode or get stuck; i think she got the dose of O into her this time from my syringe. she's just lying down. i have a water bowl and catsure bowl, she's not paying attention to either. I will say she is not crying, which is what happened last time when I gave her the app stim w/o the anti nausea drug.

    I really hate to sound so inept. I keep thinking she's gotten a dose in and then either find a fraction of a pill on the bed and i don't know how long it's been there, or she'll magically produce a pill MINUTES later and spit it out.

    I have doctors appt in morning, am hoping so much to get her app working so she can try to eat a little food or drink some catsure on her own...

    i don't want to overdose her w/ anything...

    suggestions on these please??
     
  9. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

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    I would say that to know you got it in....

    I would butter the pill a little.... or if there is anything, anything at all that you could hide the pill in.... she might even like the butter , some cats do.....
    and push it as far back in her throat as possible....

    then follow it with water in a syringe....


    that's what I have to do.... but mine is not as fragile.
    But I always get the pill down....
     
  10. Squeaky and KT (GA)

    Squeaky and KT (GA) Well-Known Member

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    BREATHE Laura....you're doing everything you can the absolute best you can....and BREATHE again....remember, you're exhausted too.

    MORE BIG HUGS.
     
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  11. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    How much of the ondansetron have you used so far, Laura? (i.e. how much of the tablet is left). Also how much of a cyproheptadine tablet did you give?

    What strength are the tablets? (e.g. 4mg ondansetron? 4mg cyproheptadine? or other strength(s)?)
     
  12. BJM

    BJM Well-Known Member

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    Oct 6, 2010
    I dissolve tablets in the oral syringe and give as a liquid, sometimes mix in a bit of food to cover the taste. It seems easier to get it in sometimes.
     
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  13. Squeaky and KT (GA)

    Squeaky and KT (GA) Well-Known Member

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    I do the same as BJ - mix whatever with water and/or food and syringe. Even if it tastes bad, she'll get over the taste when the meds work.
     
  14. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

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    Dec 19, 2014
    The O drug is 4 mg and I believe Rhiannon cut them into 1/4 pieces? so if she got it in she should have 1 mg...

    the Cypro pill was 4 mg, and i tried to cut it into 4 pieces..but you know it turns into like 5 pieces...i gave her probably less than a 1/4 of it... i have water bowl and cat sure, etc. she's not really interested in any of it. when i bring out a new can of something, she perks up, smells it, then turns her face away..

    been giving very small syringes to her and then waiting, as she is back to making the gurgling sounds after i give her food. this had stopped for several days, am disheartened that these sounds are back. she's had so little today to eat because i wasn't home much between PO stuff and then pharmacy run...and then tomorrow leaving at 8 for doc appt...just trying to get more food into her..

    also, vet mobile mgr said that if she isn't getting a whole can of food into her daily she risks lipidosis. Really? a whole can daily??


     
  15. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

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    did you ever try an egg ? Sometimes mine will eat that.... and lick it off my finger.....
     
  16. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    I think someone suggested earlier that the gurgling might be because her tum was empty?
     
  17. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Laura, What dose did the vet recommend for the cypro, and do you roughly know Skinky's weight?
     
  18. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

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    hi, nope...never tried the egg...
    vet said half pill for the app stim. 2 mg. i think that might have been too much.

    i think this might be it. and i still go back and forth. here she is curled up in my lap. looking peaceful. but just moments prior she seemed so sad and really seemed like she just wanted to be left alone.
     
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  19. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

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    that's so hard to watch...
    poor sweet baby .....
     
  20. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Sorry for not getting back sooner, Laura.

    I've seen that amount prescribed before. Someone I know whose cat got 2mg and became drowsy and a bit mopey at first - cyproheptadine is a drowsy-making antihistamine but it wore off. My vet recommended 1/4 tablet cypro every 8-12 hours - Saoirse's bodyweight is 4.5kg. Her dosage for ondansetron was 4mg / day but I gave her 2 x 2mg every twelve hours after double-checking with the vet that it would be OK (Saoirse's med sensitive). That's information, not advice, Laura. I honestly don't know what would be right for Skinky.

    I've just seen your video. I can see how very much you love each other. Skinky's so lovely ...

    Praying for you both ...

    ((((Laura and Skinky))))


    And Skinky couldn't have a more loving mom.
    .
     
  21. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

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    Jul 9, 2012
    in my thoughts and prayers as well.......


    sending hugs.
    it's been a sad night tonight on fdmb
     
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  22. Deborah & Shasta

    Deborah & Shasta Well-Known Member

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    Oh goodness...she loves you so much. You can see it in her sweet little face all cuddle up on you. ((hugs)) to you, Laura and scritches for that sweet girl, Skinky. Keeping you both in my prayers.
     
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  23. Ella & Rusty & Stu(GA)

    Ella & Rusty & Stu(GA) Well-Known Member

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    Jan 11, 2010
    Laura, your kitty adores you. You are such a good mama. We are thinking of you and Skinky tonight and praying that all will be well.

    Many hugs and many scritches,

    Ella & Rusty
     
  24. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    You're both in my thoughts and prayers, Laura. I hope that you and your beautiful, brave girl are snuggled up in the warmth of each others' love.

    ((((Laura and Skinky))))
     
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  25. phlika29

    phlika29 Well-Known Member

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    Sep 14, 2014
    I sit my cat in front of me on a chair. Get the syringe and tablet ready and with my thumb I apply gentle pressure to the corner of his mouth and it pops open. I then sort of gently throw /place the tablet to the back of his throat with my other hand and then remove the pressure of my thumb and close his mouth. I then follow with the water in the syringe.

    I know you are struggling with what to do for the best at the moment and you may have missed something that was posted by Jill. I will repost as it may help your decision

    My thoughts are with you and skinky

     
  26. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Checking in to see how things are going, Laura, and sending more prayers.

    ((((Laura and Skinky))))
     
  27. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

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    Dec 19, 2014
    nothing is working. :(
     
  28. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

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    I'm so sorry. :(

    Will the mobile vet come to your house when you are ready to let her go?
     
  29. phlika29

    phlika29 Well-Known Member

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    Sep 14, 2014
    I am so very sorry.

    When you say nothing is working do you mean you can't get the tablets into her or the tablets aren't working. I would be concerned that by trying to dissolve the tablet in water it might not work/get where it is needed.

    Have you tried just syringing water into her. If she is very dehydrated she won't feel up to anything. You could try doing this carefully every 30 minutes for the next couple of hours.

    Do you feel the quality of her life has deteriorated in the last day or so?
     
  30. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    My heart is aching for you, Laura. :(

    Keeping you both in my thoughts and prayers.

    ((((((((((((Laura and Skinky))))))))))))
     
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  31. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

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    Dec 19, 2014
    I would have to take her to the humane society. crowds, trains, barking dogs. the vets that come to your home are ridiculously expensive.

    I crumbled the tablets and stuck the powder on her tongue and then syringed water into her..
    last night i bought ringers solution or her for hydration...
     
  32. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

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    Dec 19, 2014
    i videotaped her responses after syringing... when video starts, this is JUST after I gave her a small amount of syringe food. then i put the phone down, gave her another squirt and immediately got her reaction. you can see she's agitated. then she wants to leave my lap. this is a girl who could stay on my lap FOREVER. and doncha know, she circled around, and jumped back on the loveseat and is next to me now.

    but what is this reaction and these noises? not the lip smacking, but the gurgling...???

     
  33. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

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    I'm half deaf so I can't hear much and I have the volume as high as it will go.

    Remind me, did she ever have a x-ray of her lungs?
     
  34. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

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    Dec 19, 2014
    no...no xray. we were going to but then vet thought she was too weak for the anesthesia. it did at one point sound like there was congestion in her lungs. that was another symptom of the crypto fungus. and sometimes when she breathes - mostly after i feed her or put her down after carrying her, she has a very labored breathing pattern...i think it's from exertion or excitement...her heart maybe?
     
  35. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    The lip licking and the 'yawny' faces are like what Saoirse does when she's nauseated.

    ((((Skinky))))
     
  36. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

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    Dec 19, 2014
    the vet called. brief conversation but he said the noises were because it was difficult for her to eat. i said - because of the 'tumor', he said yes. he still thinks it's cancer..but w/o diagnostics it's just an educated guess...perhaps he is right..
     
  37. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

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    ok.
    I guess I'm lucky that mine will sit still long enough for an xray.... I only have to use anesthesia for teeth x -rays.
     
  38. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Has Skinky had any ondansetron today, Laura?
     
  39. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

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    Dec 19, 2014
    Hi Aine, she has. I gave a dosage to her this morning around 7 am...and then i gave her a dosage around 1230/1...

    I'm taking the dosage that Rhiannon cut for me and actually making it a little smaller and crumbling it into a powder and placing it on her tongue and then a quick syringe of water...
     
  40. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

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    next time just give her the full 1/4 of the pill. that is 1 mg.
     
  41. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

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    have you been to Reade Street animal hospital... says she makes house calls.... Dr. Mary Xanthos
     
  42. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    I wish it would kick in...

    ((((Laura and Skinky))))
     
  43. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

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    Dec 19, 2014
    $90 for office visit. doctors use their discretion for home visits, no set price. doctors not available on saturday for home visits. euthanasia is 150, plus 105 for cremation WITHOUT getting ashes back, PLUS office visit of $90.00. $345 to supposedly humanely put your animal to sleep. just wondering how that fares with the rest of the states out there? it ticks me the heck off. But that isn't why i'm holding on. I would bring her to the humane society, not my ideal place, but they charge $71.00.

    Lower east side animal hospital is 250 for an xray alone, w/o anesthesia. And people wonder why there are so many abandoned animals in new york. but maybe these are prices and situation everywhere.
     
  44. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

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    Dec 19, 2014
    me too!!

    but she's had it in her system for almost 24 hours w/ at least three doses...perhaps as Rhiannon suggested, I should not "hold back" and give her the full dose... I guess i'm nervous because she is less than 6 lbs and I read that the dosage is something like .11 mg per pound...

    next dosage i'll give her the full 1 mg...
     
  45. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

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    I just called The Reade vet.

    I see what you mean.... $250 for euthanasia ... about that for cremation too.
    The vet doesn't feel comfortable coming to your house ( which would cost more) since she hasn't seen your cat already.


    I paid $200 two years ago for a mobile vet to come to the house to put my son's cat to sleep.
     
  46. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

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    I think it may be time for you to try that liver shake.
     
  47. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

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    Dec 19, 2014
    she said that they charge the office visit on top of that! I guess because I haven't been there before. Because we don't have backyards here, most of us new yorkers have to get the cremation done...we can do group cremation cheaper and not get the ashes back or individual cremation which is more expensive and get the ashes back. I did read positive yelp reviews about them though. Apart from the Humane Society, 200 - 300 is the going rate here, for euthanasia at the office. At the Humane Society, the other nice thing, other than the low price, is that for the most part I can just come in without an appointment...just has to be during certain hours, like 10 - 12 and 130 - 3...something like that.

    i hate even talking about this. :(
     
  48. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

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    Dec 19, 2014
    True...I was just thinking that. main issue is pureeing the meat. i don't have a food processor. kinda grosses me out doing it in a blender, but maybe that would work..?
     
  49. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    My heart goes out to you, Laura... :(

    Have you given Skinky any other medicine today?
     
  50. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

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    Jul 9, 2012
    probably would work better with chicken livers.... in a blender.

    if you can't find an ingredient.... just skip it.... better something than nothing.
     
  51. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

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    i hate even talking about this. :(


    Yes I agree.
    She just looks so miserable.
     
  52. crazycatlady

    crazycatlady New Member

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    Sep 11, 2013
    All of my prayers are with you Laura and Skinky....you are the BEST mom.

    Susan and Manche
     
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  53. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

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    Dec 19, 2014
    ONLY when I'm feeding her/treating her/pilling her. she does a 180 at other times. she'll sit on the bed facing me or sticking her paw down for me to touch. if however I overdid it with the syringe (you know, maybe 2 teaspoons instead of 1) she will turn around on the bed wtih her butt facing me. she is MISERABLE when I try to do the things to make her better....and so darn loving apart from that.
     
  54. Ella & Rusty & Stu(GA)

    Ella & Rusty & Stu(GA) Well-Known Member

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    Jan 11, 2010
    Dear Laura,
    In the event that Skinky tells you that she wants to be set free, perhaps you could call the Humane Society and make an appointment. You should find out how they proceed and let them know that you want to be present so that you can say farewell. It is such a difficult thing to contemplate, but when Skinky is ready, she will let you know. And to have a plan in place will be a blessing during what will certainly be an emotionally draining time. Do you have a friend who can go to the Humane Society with you? I will be in NYC for a few days next week. If I can be of help, please send me your phone number or e-mail address in a FDMB "communication" and I will get in touch with you.

    Thinking of you and Skinky,

    Ella & Rusty
     
  55. Dusty Bones

    Dusty Bones Member

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    Oct 20, 2013
    Poor baby is probably in pain. I pray you make the right decision and that you're both at peace.
     
  56. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Keeping you both in my thoughts and prayers.

    ((((Laura and Skinky))))
     
  57. jt and trouble (GA)

    jt and trouble (GA) Well-Known Member

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    Dec 28, 2009
    Dearest Laura that is exactly how my Waldo was when he was so sick. I finallly realized that nothing I did was going to make him feel better. Once I made that decision Waldo seemed to just know and relaxed. I gave him one more day no pills no forcing...he went out and laid in the tall grass and just looked happy. I'm in tears typing this because I wasnt ready...but he was...I guess what I'm trying to say is somehow they know what we are going through. Some way they have the intelligence we lack. My heart breaks for you but you know what? At this point it isnt about us.
    I hope no one takes offense to this post. I'm speaking from the heart. YOU know Skinky best. I just feel my feet in your shoes...
    Praying God sends guidance and strength...HE knows you have the love.
    jeanne
     
  58. Jill & Alex (GA)

    Jill & Alex (GA) Senior Member Moderator

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    Dec 28, 2009
    Jeanne, I was typing when I saw your post. I, too, hope no one takes offense to this post. My words come from my heart...

    Dearest Laura,

    You're such a loving and caring person. Skinky is one lucky kitty to be the recipient of all your love and care. It's obvious how much she loves and relies on you in the videos you've posted. We all want our kitties to remain with us forever... and they will... forever in our hearts. When our kitties get as sick as Skinky appears to be... it's time. It's ok to let them go. Letting them go is offering them peace... a kindness... simply showing them the same love and care we've always given them... possibly more. It's setting them free from the pain and suffering they're experiencing... the ultimate sacrifice... an act of unconditional and eternal love... because we no longer want to see them suffering and in pain... because we can do no more for them.

    My thoughts, prayers, and heart go out to you, Laura.
    Sending you strength and many hugs...

    Wishing you and Skinky peace,
    Jill
     
  59. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Jun 16, 2014
    Just a note to let you know that I'm thinking of you both, and praying for ye.

    ((((Laura and Skinky))))
     
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  60. Blamethecats and Hannah

    Blamethecats and Hannah Member

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    Jul 12, 2014
    Laura, I've just read through all of the above posts, tearfully watched your videos, and my heart goes out to you and Skinky. I don't quite know what to say that hasn't already been said. What a wonderful, devoted, and caring mother you have been to your fur baby. You have blessed each other's lives, that is so very obvious. I am sending hugs and prayers your way, hoping God will hold you and help you through this.
     
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  61. Marje and Gracie

    Marje and Gracie Senior Member Moderator

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    May 30, 2010
    Laura

    As hard as it is to hear, I have to agree with Jill. I have been in your shoes, and when I looked back later, I wondered why I waited so long but the answer was because I just couldn't bear to let go. I couldn't bear what life would be without them. But I did and I made myself promise all my cats afterwards, that I would never let them go to the point of suffering or pain when it was apparent it was not going to get better. It's so hard and you've done everything you can for her. A vet once told me that letting them go when we know in our hearts that they will not get better and they are not having a good QOL is the greatest act of love we can ever show them.

    Many prayers and thoughts for you and your very beloved Skinky.
     
  62. tiffmaxee

    tiffmaxee Well-Known Member

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    Nov 15, 2013
    You have tried everything to help Skinky. I sadly agree with Marje and Jill. When the time came for my soul kitty, Tiffany, a vet told me that she was so attached to me that I would have to make the decision for her as she wouldn't make it easy. I gave her that one last gift when she wouldn't eat anything on her own, even with cypro and ondansetron for several days. She did have intestinal lymphoma. I do think it is likely that Skinky has cancer. She would be too sick to treat even if you could afford it. It's a nasty disease. It was the hardest thing to do but the right thing to do. Vines of strength for you.:bighug::bighug:
     
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  63. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

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    Dec 19, 2014
    Thanks Ella. Very kind of you. I'll PM you...
     
  64. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

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    Dec 19, 2014
    Thank you all so much for your concern, thoughtfulness and kindness. Truly.
    A little overwhelmed. I'll see what transpires over the next few days. I had previously called various places to find out prices and protocols. The Humane Society was most affordable and easiest - no appointment necessary. Honestly, I had anticipated that today was going to be the day.... but that came and went for the umpteenth time, more due to my reluctance than anything else. Although I could bring her in over the weekend, I risk getting this ice queen doctor there, the one who wouldn't even give me a bag of fluids a couple of weeks back (sans needles mind you - just the bag) even though I begged and told her how dehydrated my cat was. That was the day that the vet mobile left early...they were the ones who I was supposed to be picking the fluids up from..what a couple of months it's been.

    But anyhow. Monday thru Friday the doctor from the HS who has seen Skinky on three occasions will be there, and although not the warmest and fuzziest, I certainly would feel more comfortable with him than the ice queen. They do use two injections, I had already spoken to my doctor about it. The first is to make sure that she doesn't feel any pain. I can be with her in a room and take as much time as I need. Although they might regret saying that to me...

    Oy. Someone PM'd me and asked about Skink's current nutrition/food. It's Hill's AD...AND I DID make the liver shake for her today, with chicken livers and spirulina no less. She got 3/4 a can of the Hill's AD, little bit of cat sure and the 60 ccs of the liver shake. But still syringe, not on her own.

    I still haven't given up entirely, and as you can see, in the background I have been making calls and inquiring about how procedures are done. i just really didn't want to discuss it too much on here.

    I KNOW everyone's input here is coming from a caring place. I really do, truly. And I appreciate it. But please, please, no more talk about "release", etc. I DO understand. The vet mobile owner, who has had the extreme pleasure of hearing me burst into tears a few times, spoke to me for about 15 minutes about "release" and how we should all be so lucky to die a peaceful death in the arms of someone who loves us. Truer words have probably never been spoken...but somehow they're also like a searing stab in my heart, throat and stomach all at the same time.

    I strongly suspect that even in the BEST of circumstances, my little girl isn't long for this place. At least physically that is, as another kind FDMB'er pointed out. But I made a mistake previously when I decided to bring her in for sleep last time....she so hates being syringed and pryed and poked and I just let her alone that day, "knowing" I was bringing her in the next morning...letting her "relax"....because the next morning she was better...and she could've used the sustenance that she missed the day before. I just want her as strong as she can be. Whether it's to baffle me and torture me, to one day start playing with her tail again and slurping down copious amounts of food on her own, or to hiss loudly at the doctor who sticks that final needle in her.

    I just want to focus on her being strong - liver shake, L-lysine, B12. Strong as she can be for whatever the next day brings.
    Skinky Strong. Forever.
     

    Attached Files:

  65. Awesome. One day at a time. If we could spend every day with them like it's the last, and were able to do that from the day we first met them, how much more incredible would our lives be? And their lives.

    Liver shake.....yum. I made a batch for Bob. Including the spirulina. Turns it an interesting shade of green, doesn't it? If she gives you any grief, tell her "eat it, it's good for you!"

    Hang in there, Laura. :bighug:
    Feel strong, Skinky :bighug:
     
  66. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

    Joined:
    Dec 19, 2014
    So true Carl. And I NEVER would've given her kibble....!
    My liver shake was more brown than green for some reason, although i did go a little easy on the spirulina. that stuff is nasty and i wanted to make sure she consumed it. i've ruined many a fruit smoothie with a little too much spirulina. She doesn't *dislike* the liver shake, which probably means under different circumstances she'd be gouging on it. I wish I made it sooner..! but she'll get more of that strength building shake tomorrow... :)
     
  67. phlika29

    phlika29 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 14, 2014
    Personally I wouldn't hold back with the anti nausea. Give her the full 1/4 tab. I actually needs up giving my cat 2mg twice a day at one point. We need skinky to eat and not to feel sick as you are giving it to her.

    If you can don't crush it up as it might taste bitter to her. Can you not get it in her mouth and then give the water. If you give the water straight after that usually makes sure it gets swallowed.
     
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  68. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

    Joined:
    Dec 19, 2014
    Thank you Philka! I did give her...3 doses today, each of 1/4 pill of the anti nausea pills. she's less nauseous, i think it's a combo of her finally getting some food in her tummy and the pills. but if a few hours go by without a syringe, her tummy rumbles. today, it was the cypro that i don't know if she got it in. sometimes she is great with pills and sometimes...she's a little witch. it's because of everything else that's going on and she clamps down her mouth and then she gets upset and starts drooling and panicking. so it depends on her mood and how fed up she is...but today went better on all fronts than yesterday...!! :)
     
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  69. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Hi Laura,

    In Saoirse's case the combination of cyproheptadine AND ondansetron seemed to reinforce the anti-nausea effect. (Cyproheptadine is used in humans as a treatment for cyclic vomiting syndrome.)

    I was stressed out of my mind at the height of Saoirse's pancreatitis flare, but at the time as best I could judge it did take a little while on ondansetron before she seemed less nauseated.

    Keeping you both in my prayers.

    ((((Laura and Skinky))))
    .
     
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  70. jt and trouble (GA)

    jt and trouble (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    I have to admit Waldo would have nothing to do with the "Liver Shake" so it sounds like Skinky strong, has her own agenda. God bless you for taking such good care of her.
    jeanne
     
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  71. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

    Joined:
    Dec 19, 2014
    I see that the liver shake advises only 6 cc per day. Anyone know what happens if you use more? It being raw meat, I can see why it might not be great to give a pitcher at one setting...but she does take to it..

    Aine and Philka: getting the pills down whole using the liver shake afterwards to slide it back. I think my next few rounds I might give her a squirt of the liver shake first and then the pill, and then a squirt.

    SOMETIMES I don't give the app stim 30 minutes after the O drug, but an hour or two...any issues with that?
     
  72. phlika29

    phlika29 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 14, 2014
    You ideally would give the ondansetron 20 minutes before feeding. So I guess the only issue with giving the liver shake with that tablet is if the previous ondansetron dose has worn off the shake might make her feel a little nauseous.

    How about you give the anti nausea tablet with 5 ml syringe of water( I always wet the mouth with a little water before giving the tablet). Then wait and give the liver shake when you give the appetite stimulant. I doubt giving the appetite stimulant a little later sometimes won't hurt at all. I understand that ondansetron peaks about 2 hours after the dose and so I guess giving the stimulant about 1hr after that would be about ideal as your kitty will start to want to eat and will be getting the full effects of the anti nausea.
     
  73. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    I'd agree with Sarah's comments, Laura. I used to give Saoirse ondansetron and wait about 30 minutes before giving the cyproheptadine. That way the anti-nausea effect of the ondansetron would have time to build up before the appetite stimulant kicked in she felt compelled to eat. The cypro took about 60-90 minutes to kick in for Saoirse. With the two meds active in her system, she was able to eat OK for several hours. I gave her very small, frequent meals - (about once an hour initially so as not to overwhelm her pancreas) with a good bit of water or the broth from poaching her chicken breasts added.

    I think that as the treatment progressed it had a little bit of a cumulative benefit. I was conservative about Saoirse's doses. I watched for signs of lip licking or reluctance to eat a meal to gauge when the next dose was due. I never gave her doses before the minimum amount of time specified by my vet (every 8-12 hours for cypro, once every 12 hours for ondansetron 2mg dose - doses supervised by our vet and applicable to Saoirse at c.10lbs weight).

    Keeping you both in my thoughts and prayers.

    ((((Laura and Skinky))))
    .
     
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  74. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Thinking of you both, and keeping ye in my prayers.

    ((((Laura and Skinky))))
     
  75. Nancy and Scotty

    Nancy and Scotty Member

    Joined:
    Jul 13, 2014
    Hope you and Skinky are doing well today.
     
  76. RobinCot

    RobinCot Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 5, 2013
    You have a lot of prayer circles going on for you and Skinky. We are here for you.
     
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  77. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Prayers still coming to you from here.

    ((((Laura and Skinky))))
    .
     
  78. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 9, 2012
    ((((Laura))))))

    You know we want an update....
    How is it going?
     
  79. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

    Joined:
    Dec 19, 2014
    Hi Everyone. I contacted a diabetic nonprofit org hoping that perhaps they could re-home skinky with someone who is either more financially able to get the diagnostics that she needs or has more experience caring for very ill kitties. It actually broke my heart into a million pieces that I am inadequate to give her what she needs now. But I felt it was either that or putting her to sleep. She is still not eating on her own and absolutely HATES getting syringe fed. I spoke to a lovely woman a couple of hours ago who asked if I would be willing to keep Skinky if I could get a little assistance with vet bills. Absolutely! She is going to reach out to some vets in the NYC area to see if they would work with us on reasonable fees.

    Once again, my timing seems to be off, as we are on the brink of a major snow storm here in NYC, and I expect many places to be closed tomorrow. And, everyday that goes by, I feel like we are further away. But, even a better "diagnosis" would help me on my many levels.

    The specifics with Skinky....well, she just really doesn't want to eat. She gets VERY stressed out when I approach her with a syringe. She now pees on the kitchen floor, I think because I do most of the feeding in the bathroom. So I back off from feeding her...and she tortures me...by acting a little "better". THEN she is more likely to hop into the tub to pee. Today, she took a lick or two of water. It's something.

    I've given her peptic AC. I'm actually back to trying to feed her NOT that much (as if that's possible), or let me re-pharase that...I'm trying to feed her the amount that does not make her hyperventilate/get all stressed out. which is essentially half a syringe, spaced a lot apart. When she's less miserable, she is a little more spry and seems to approach the water bowl more often.

    I stopped by my local vet place where I have been buying the Hills AC and asked if they knew what the LEAST amount of food I can give a cat to keep her going. I didn't get any concrete info, just SOMETHING into her every day. She's probably gotten two syringes of liver shake and a half syringe of cat sure today.

    Anyone have any ideas of what the LEAST amount of food is? Also, how long will this liver shake last in the fridge???

    So...this is where we are at. PLEASE keep the positive vibes/karma going. We really do appreciate it..
     
  80. phlika29

    phlika29 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 14, 2014
    I am afraid I don't know about the minimum amount.

    I wonder if the food is still making her feel nauseous? I ended up giving remi 1/2 tablet of ondansteron twice a day when he was very poorly (after discussion with my vet) but that is above the recommended dose. I know I have mentioned it a couple of times but that royal canin instant convalescence sachets were great they didn't have the usual meaty smell and were in fact more like milk. Remi would happily accept this when he got very stressed with any other type of syringed food. They are very high in calories. I will link the food again just in case you might consider it an option. Not sure if it's the sort of thing you can buy from your pet store.
    http://www.vetuk.co.uk/royal-canin-...n-convalescence-support-instant-sachets-p-254

    Best wishes

    Sarah
     
  81. Nancy and Scotty

    Nancy and Scotty Member

    Joined:
    Jul 13, 2014
    I cannot imagine having to do what you are doing every day, I am so glad that you got a little hope today and I hope that the storm is gone quickly and maybe you can get some help in the next couple days, you and Skinky both are so brave and strong and must love each other so much, I am sending every good vibe I can your way.
     
  82. MommaOfMuse

    MommaOfMuse Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 26, 2010
    Prayers still coming in from here, hopefully if nothing else you will at least finally get a solid diagnoses. But regardless of the outcome, Skinky is one very lucky little lady to have a momma bean that loves her so dearly. Now if only every kitten could land so softly and be so loved, shelters would be gathering cobwebs.

    Mel and The Fur Gang
     
  83. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

    Joined:
    Dec 19, 2014
    Thank you Sarah. I just went to my local pet store, but they didn't have it. They are fairly limited, the only royal canin food they have is for kittens. I don't really want to order anything online because it might not get here in time. I keep hoping she will make some remarkable recovery. I don't know when the call will be made on my behalf to the animal center (I suggested that place...I emailed some vets there too...turns out they are doing some clinical studies on various feline ailments, and if kitty qualified, some treatment would be free...I wish I had looked at "clinical studies" on their page before...!) But we are in , I think a state of emergency in NYC. I mean we must be, they're closing the subway down at 11 pm. Everything in life is timing and the kindness of strangers, I do declare.

    IN the meantime, I'm feeding her just small squirts of food, 1/3 of a syringe here, 1/3 of a syringe there. Just trying to keep some food in her, without freaking her out...
     
  84. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

    Joined:
    Dec 19, 2014
    Thank you Mel. Fingers crossed. Timing, timing, timing...
    She means the world to me...but I know I might have to let her go a lot sooner than I would care to.

    Keep those prayers coming from the Fur Gang. :)
     
  85. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

    Joined:
    Dec 19, 2014
    Thank you Nancy. Definitely hope this storm isn't as bad as they are predicting. We REALLY appreciate those positive vibes... :) :) :)
     
  86. Deborah & Shasta

    Deborah & Shasta Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 12, 2012
    Extra prayers and healing vines to both of you. Stay safe and stay warm!!
     
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  87. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Extra prayers for you both coming from here as well, Laura.

    ((((Laura and Skinky))))
     
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  88. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Thinking of you and Skinky, Laura. Sending prayers for warmth and strength.

    ((((Laura and Skinky))))
    .
     
  89. Blamethecats and Hannah

    Blamethecats and Hannah Member

    Joined:
    Jul 12, 2014
    Hi, Laura and Skinky. Can't help but be concerned for you in that snowstorm. Here's hoping you will be able to stay warm and safe during the worst of it and that you'll be able to get some affordable help for Skinky as soon as the storm passes. You are doing a wonderful job with your fur baby. Hope this goes well for you both. Hugs! :bighug:
     
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  90. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Hope you're both bearing up OK, Laura, and that the storm hasn't affected you badly.

    Sending more prayers.

    ((((Laura and Skinky))))
     
  91. Ella & Rusty & Stu(GA)

    Ella & Rusty & Stu(GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 11, 2010
    Hi Laura,
    I guess the subway is running again and that the city is getting back to normal. Edward and I regret that we didn't just decide to ride it out. But the computer storm models looked dire! Anyway, I hope we can get together in early March and that in the meantime you will be able to get Skinky the vet care she needs.
    Fingers and paws crossed that she will rally, eat better, and continue to be her loving self.

    Many healing vines on the way,

    Hugs and scritches,

    Ella & Rusty
     
  92. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Worried about you both.

    Sending more prayers.

    ((((Laura and Skinky))))
     
  93. skinky44

    skinky44 Member

    Joined:
    Dec 19, 2014
  94. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Following you on the new thread now, Laura. :)
     
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