911 Saoirse - PRAYERS PLEASE: UPDATED MONDAY GMT 21:00 - Steady Progress

Discussion in 'Feline Health - (Welcome & Main Forum)' started by Critter Mom, Feb 8, 2016.

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  1. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    I like that one because it has some bit of height to it.

    Newsflash:

    Saoirse's not interested in her normal food at the moment but ...

    ... I did manage to get 4 teaspoons of Liquivite recovery food into her. I think the appy stimulant is helping but I do wonder whether she's still feeling queasy despite the Cerenia. She's got that appy stimulant 'must eat' air about her, not the preferred 'want to eat' vibe. :( Still, it's some food; just hope she can hold it down OK - a major food switch isn't a good plan. I might try drizzling a little Liquivite onto her regular food for the next mini meal. Going to let her settle for a little while then try to get her BG.

    So tired. Right now I feel hopelessly inadequate to the task ahead of me. :( :(

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  2. Suzi_S

    Suzi_S Well-Known Member

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    Jun 2, 2015
    I totally would have done the same thing. We love camping and were worried about Snick when she became diabetic because I didn't want to try and camp with her in a tent so we bought a pop-up tent trailer for her (ok, and for the fact I am TERRIFIED of bears). I made DH buy a fan and a heater so she was always comfortable.
     
  3. Dawn and Peek-a-Boo (GA)

    Dawn and Peek-a-Boo (GA) Member

    Joined:
    Dec 27, 2015
    I think you will be surprised how quickly she will heal. It's been so long since Peek-a-Boo had his eyes done, but I think he was to wear his cone 7-10 days. He really struggled to eat with it on, so after a couple of days I would remove it and sit right next to him while he ate in case he attempted to paw near his face, then put it back on. It gets pretty nasty too, so you will want to wash it from time to time....he was pretty good about letting me put it back on.

    Mogs, you are so good to Saoirse, I wish every cat could be so lucky. You really know your cat inside and out and I find that so admirable.

    Time for bed....I will check back in tomorrow...lots of hugs and well wishes to you both! :cat::bighug::cat::bighug:
     
  4. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

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    Feb 18, 2015
    Mogs you are more than adequate for the task ahead but you really do need a good battery recharge especially now that you are battling a bug! Keep your chin up and in a few hours you can get a good long rest in while Saoirse is tended to by the hospital staff. All you have to do is get through the next few hours. I'm guessing it's around 5:30am in your neck of the woods?
     
  5. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    @Squalliesmom -

    Hi Lucy,

    Good to hear from you and thank you for the hugs.

    Hope all goes OK at the hospital. Be sure to let us know how you get on.

    Now here are some :bighug::bighug::bighug: for you.


    Mogs
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  6. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Jun 16, 2014
    Just had an idea. Wonder whether I could hire a locum veterinary nurse for a few days?
     
  7. granadilla

    granadilla Well-Known Member

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    Jun 13, 2015
    Just got home and caught up. I used to crush Cypro and syringe it in with water for my GA Cinnamon. I couldn't pill her ever (she was a feisty little bugger) so everything had to be liquified. I'm so glad the Cypro helped Saoirse eat a few bites! You must be feeling relieved.

    You are not at all inadequate!! You have been an amazing advocate for her, both since this eye thing started and for the past few years as she's had various things come up. It's hard juggling when our darling kitties have multiple issues and it takes a really dedicated and caring person to be able to handle it and figure it all out.

    Just remember what I used to tell Marshmallow: one step at a time, one paw at a time. And please get some rest if possible. It's hard to keep up at the pace you've been going, on top of being sick. :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  8. suki & crystal (GA)

    suki & crystal (GA) Well-Known Member

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    (((Mogs))) I'm sorry I seemed to have missed your posts but have just read your story. Just wanted to send you some extra hugs and moral support, to say you have a huge amount to cope with at the moment is a bit of an understatement. I hope you can get some rest yourself so that you are able to care for Saoirse, but having her go back to the hospital for some day care sounds an excellent idea and hopefully will give you time to recharge your batteries, which you so badly need. Prayers and hugs that her recovery goes well and you both start to feel better soon. Take care :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  9. granadilla

    granadilla Well-Known Member

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    Great idea. Worth a call to some vet offices. I know our techs will hire out for pet sitting when people go out of town. Good luck and let us know what happens. Or, how is she with traveling? Could she go to the vet for overnight care while you sleep? If traveling and vet offices stress her out, then maybe better to have the nurse come to you.
     
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  10. manxcat419

    manxcat419 Well-Known Member

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    I hope tomorrow goes well for you Lucy. :bighug:

    Mogs, I'm still here - splitting my time between the computer and cooking dinner for the next few minutes, but I'm not going to leave you on your own for long. :bighug:
     
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  11. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Hi Shane,

    It's good to hear from you. :bighug:

    What other meds did you give by that method?

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  12. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Jun 16, 2014
    The latter. :(

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  13. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

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    Feb 18, 2015
    A vet nurse for a few days sounds like a brilliant idea. Keeps the sweety at home, let's you monitor but also lets you get much needed rest and shake that cold. :D
     
  14. Meya14

    Meya14 Well-Known Member

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    Jan 2, 2015
    Anesthesia, bupe, and cypro all can cause urinary retention issues (and constipation) which can cause bladder irritation, and also make UTI more likely. Likely, they gave her some sort of broad spectrum antibiotic with the surgery, so that'll take care of the immediate risk for UTI. As long as you ween her off the bupe when she is feeling better, and she is getting enough fluids, hopefully you won't have to worry about UTI.

    Glad to hear she's eating! Hang in there, both of you.
     
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  15. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    @suki & crystal -

    Thank you for checking in to see how we're doing, and also for the hugs and moral support: it really, really helps.

    I really do need some assistance with Saoirse's nursing at the moment. Having her as a day patient tomorrow will be a start, but I really do need to find someone to monitor and 'semi-assist feed' Saoirse while I get sleep. Don't know what I'm running on at the moment. Certainly not fumes; they ran out several days ago. Must be fear ...


    Mogs
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  16. manxcat419

    manxcat419 Well-Known Member

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    Jan 14, 2015
    Maybe if you could speak with someone at the hospital tomorrow to see if they could recommend someone - or even if they've got someone who could help you themselves. They will be aware that Saoirse being with them may make her stressed and I'm sure they'll do whatever they can to help you. :bighug:
     
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  17. suki & crystal (GA)

    suki & crystal (GA) Well-Known Member

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    May 4, 2014
    I agree with April, I think your first port of call is the hospital, they are in the best position to recommend a vet nurse for home visits or to point you in the right direction. Things will get so much easier for you if you can get this sorted. Paws crossed you get the info you need.
    Whereabouts are you in the UK? I'm a Brit too but now residing in France.
    Suki
     
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  18. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Hi Meya,

    Thanks for checking on us. :) Bupe definitely constipates Saoirse at the 0.1ml dose. Saoirse hasn't pooped at all at the hospital (she did have diarrhoea from about 3pm on Monday (day before admission). I normally give her a little bit of pumpkin with each meal but I'm too paranoid to restart it at the moment.

    Very good information about the bladder side of things. BTW would not having her phosphorus binder for the last few days also be contributing to the UTI issue? I brought in the phosphorus binder to them but I don' think they gave it to her. The opthalmologist has her on Clavisept (sp?) now but I failed to administer it to her successfully tonight. Is there any injectable antibiotic you could suggest, Meya, that might be better for her? Should there be something suitable, even if it needs to be given every few days I could ask our own vets if they'd come over and administer the injections at home given that Saoirse's recovering from an operation.

    She did eat a bit just now but I forgot to post above that the only way she'd eat it was by licking it off my fingers. Still, it's food - and that's the main thing.


    Mogs
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  19. granadilla

    granadilla Well-Known Member

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    Jun 13, 2015
    Pepcid, Cypro, Epakitin and prednisolone. It required 4 hands to give Cinnamon a pill, plus an extra hand to catch the flying spit-out pill. How I loved that cat! She was a docile sweet lap cat but have mercy on your soul if you tried to pill her. :rolleyes:

    You're running on adrenaline and yes, fear. You may remember that last summer I was having stomach problems. After Marshmallow crossed the bridge in September I found out I needed to have my gallbladder removed. When I met with the surgeon he asked why I hadn't gone to the emergency room when I first started having such bad pain. My response: "I had a sick cat and I live alone. I couldn't leave her." (I had the surgery in December and I'm okay now.)

    The point is, we get it. I wouldn't leave Marsh when she needed me and you'll run yourself ragged for Saoirse. It's what we do. But if at all possible, find someone to help you so you don't make yourself worse. :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  20. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Jun 16, 2014
    Southern England.

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    Last edited: May 13, 2016
  21. manxcat419

    manxcat419 Well-Known Member

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    Jan 14, 2015
    Mogs, if I still lived on the Isle of Man, I'd be there like a shot to help you take care of your girl. But this time, I think you need help faster than I could possibly get there (not to mention I'd be useless from jetlag for the first 3 days). :bighug: :bighug: :bighug:
     
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  22. granadilla

    granadilla Well-Known Member

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    Jun 13, 2015
    In the US there's a human over-the-counter product called Miralax that I gave Marsh for constipation. 1/8 of a teaspoon mixed with water or pumpkin or food, and I syringed it twice a day. Worked well for constipation for her AND for me when I was recovering from gallbladder surgery and was taking pain killers. Is there an equivalent in the UK? (1/8 teaspoon is the kitty dose; human dose is 1 tablespoon)
     
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  23. manxcat419

    manxcat419 Well-Known Member

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    Jan 14, 2015
    I believe it's sold as Movicol in the UK. :)
     
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  24. suki & crystal (GA)

    suki & crystal (GA) Well-Known Member

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    May 4, 2014
    Nice part of the world. I'm from London but lived out in commuter land in rural Essex.

    Don't suppose there are any other UK members living close by that could help you out? I'm not sure how you would find out, maybe a separate post asking just that question? Just a thought.
     
  25. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

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    Feb 18, 2015
    Mogs, antibiotic injectables are intramuscular injections, a totally different animal than giving insulin and a lot harder to do on your own. I tried when Menace had her dental because I figured I never be able to pill her. I managed 2 injections and then resorted to the pills. Intramuscular injections can be much more uncomfortable than subQ, take longer to do because of the amount being injected and you have to be very careful about where you give them so as not to hit a nerve or bone depending on the site used. In short I think if you could get a liquid suspension you'd have a much easier time or stick with the pill.
     
  26. Jeanne & Dottie

    Jeanne & Dottie Member

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    Jan 9, 2016
    Hiya Mogs. I'm sorry I haven't been in sooner. I've had a Crash and Burn night.

    So you have a chest infection? Remember to do some deep breathing excercises, to expand those lungs. Stand up, lift your arms over your head and breathe in deeply. You might find yourself coughing but this is good. It will help to clear out the mucus, even if it's an uncomfortable process. Hot, spicy soup is good if you have any. Got any spicy Indian food around? That's usually good to get rid of chest congestion. The heat will warm your innards and help you to rest. Cough out loud, and TALK out loud, to clear your vocal cords of mucus too. It'll also make sure your eustacian tubes clear out..so you won't get an ear infection.

    Saoirse has had her head shaved? :smuggrin: Don't think of it as being ugly or sad. Her appearance is now quite exotic. Like a Sphinx kitty. :cool: Add the eyepatch and she'll look like someone from a superhero movie.

    Speaking of superheros, you and Saoirse are both in that catagory. :bighug::bighug::bighug: You're an amazing CatMom, proving that motherhood can even cross species boundaries. Saoirse must adore you or she would have never made it this far. And most owners would have thrown in the towel by now. Not you. You're the ultimate mother.:kiss: :bighug::bighug::bighug:

    Right now I hope you are asleep, even if it's FDotKB, preferably with a mars bar in your hand, because I'll know you were sucking in energy from any food you have handy. You've eaten, right? Had enough fluids that your own body isn't going to quit at the worst possible time? Take a shower to help you wake up. The steam will help your lungs, too, and get the blood flowing so you can get her to the vet for her day care. Then you come home, don't get distracted by dishes, or dust or anything. GO LIE DOWN and sleep while Saoirse is at daycare.

    If you are awake.... How's your your baby doing, right now? Is she sleeping? Did she sleep? I just caught up with the thread, and I see the soft edge playpen. It's a VERY GOOD idea. Cats can freak out and bang themselves suddenly, and that eye will be a target, even if she has a collar on.

    Saoirse's eye might benefit from a cold compress inside a sterile baggie . Something cool and clean, to help the swelling. Poor little baby, she's a real fighter, just like her adopted mommy.
     
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  27. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Jun 16, 2014
    Ooh, I hoped that would be on your list. Any tips on how to give it to minimize the unpleasantness for Saoirse.

    BTW, I'm sorry to hear about the gall bladder, Shane, but it's good to know that you're better now. :bighug::bighug::bighug:

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    Last edited: Feb 13, 2016
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  28. granadilla

    granadilla Well-Known Member

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    Jun 13, 2015
    Well, she didn't love it but I crushed a quarter of a 10 mg Pepcid, mixed it with a little water and pumpkin or baby food to disguise the flavor, and syringed it in. Baby food might be too fatty for her pancreatitis but you could probably use the Liquivite. Or if she's used to getting pumpkin, that might help her constipation too.
     
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  29. Meya14

    Meya14 Well-Known Member

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    Jan 2, 2015
    There 2 main issues with not giving the phosphate binders. 1. hyperphosphetemia/relative hypocalcemia which can cause cardiac issues and muscle spasms. 2. GI changes (constipation or diarrhea), because phosphate binders act in the GI system, and discontinuing them can lead to changes. I'm unaware of any significant bladder changes that can happen. Blood in urine is -usually- a bladder issue, but could also be a kidney issue, so there's a possibility.

    Clavaseptin/clavamox - This should be able to knock out some common forms of UTI. I don't really know what all is available in injectable form for cats unfortunately. As well, any injectable antibiotic can be tricky if there is an allergic reaction, and antibiotic allergies are very common. Still worth talking to the vet about if you can't get the med in her.

    As for the constipation, keep an eye on it, as it could be a barrier for eating.
     
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  30. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    That's why I want to know if our own vets would pop into us at home to administer them for Saoirse should such a treatment option be available.

    Great idea. Will ask.

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  31. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Jun 16, 2014
    Historically, that has been very much the case with Saoirse.

    After all that has happened over the past week I am scared of giving Saoirse anything apart from her basic food at the moment, even the stuff she's used to. :(

    I'm finding this all very scary.
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  32. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Jun 16, 2014
    Managed to get Saoirse to take a little more Liquivite off my fingers. She seems to have developed an aversion to her normal food. I sincerely hope and pray that this is only going to be temporary. :(

    I'm only giving her small amounts at a time. The abrupt change is not the way I want to fly in this situation. :(

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  33. Diana&Tom

    Diana&Tom Well-Known Member

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    Dec 29, 2009
    Mogs, if the vet can't suggest anyone or a way to get vet nursing care at home, it could be worth investigating pet sitting agencies...there are some very good ones out there, some will visit x times a day or x overnights etc as you wish... Obviously mainly meant for people going on holiday but useful at other times. Of course not all pet sitters are trained vet nurses but some are; some do this sort of thing to supplement their income. You might just strike lucky and find someone who would fit the bill.... Just a thought.

    Diana
     
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  34. manxcat419

    manxcat419 Well-Known Member

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    Jan 14, 2015
    Anything she'll eat for now is a good thing. If Liquivite is all she'll have, at least it's calories. It's time-consuming when she'll only lick it off your fingers, but there's time enough to get her back onto her usual food as she starts to feel better. I do think the last week has probably left her feeling a little confused, and I have heard it said that it takes weeks for anesthesia to be fully out of a human's system, so I'd guess it's the same for cats though every day brings big improvements. And she's had all the upheaval of being in hospital too. I think her food aversion will be temporary - she just needs a few days to get back to her usual self. :bighug:
     
  35. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Jun 16, 2014
    Morning, Diana.

    Thank you for the suggestion. I'd never have thought that any pet sitters might be trained nurses so I'd never have explored such an avenue.

    :bighug:

    Mogs
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  36. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Jun 16, 2014
    I don't mind it, actually: It's easier to feed Saoirse that way with the collar in place, April. Plus it's a way to do some small little thing to try to comfort and reassure her a tiny bit. I think it makes both of us feel a little better.

    Saoirse just managed to eat another tablespoonful of Liquivite. I think because it's a soupy consistency it's easier for her to eat; with her little face all swollen it must be very sore to chew. :(

    Praying very, very hard that she keeps it down and it doesn't upset her tum. It's a good bit lower in phosphorus than her regular food so it might keep her in a good range without the need for a binder (and leave me with one less variable to fret over).

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    Last edited: Feb 12, 2016
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  37. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Could someone please do me a favour? Sara (@phlika29) used to give Remi a recovery food but I can't remember the name of it. It would be a great help if someone could search her post history for me to find out the name, please. I'm just not able to do it myself right now. :(

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  38. manxcat419

    manxcat419 Well-Known Member

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    Jan 14, 2015
    Looking right now for you. :)
     
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  39. Diana&Tom

    Diana&Tom Well-Known Member

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    Dec 29, 2009
    Some definitely are. I know two vet nurses who do this myself and a friend of mine runs a hugely successful company which matches clients' very specific needs to the 'sitter'. If you Google 'vet nurse pet sitter/sitting' specifying your area should show some up. You can interview them or otherwise check out their credentials. Might be worth a look for future requirements even if not this time....
     
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  40. Bama

    Bama Member

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    Mar 12, 2014
    Could you try pureeing her food with water to get a similar consistency to food for syringe feeding? Maybe if she could just lap up the food she would have an easier time eating. The last time Bama was nauseous she would barely touch her pate style food but gobbled it up when I turned it into kitty soup.
     
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  41. manxcat419

    manxcat419 Well-Known Member

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    It looks like it was Royal Canin Convalescence Support, Mogs. It might be higher carb than is ideal - I can see I talked to Sarah about it at one point and it looks as though we worked out that it's somewhere around 18% carbs, but as we discussed at the time, for a few days while a cat is healing the higher carb numbers can be handled where not eating enough calories can cause a real problem.
     
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  42. Jeanne & Dottie

    Jeanne & Dottie Member

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    Jan 9, 2016
    Mogs, if you were to puree the Royal Canin Convalescense Support, and add some of the dried chicken to raise the protein content, and perhaps a tiny bit of pumpkin to raise the fiber you could balance out the higher carbs..and Saoirse might eat it. The flavor would be enough different from her regular food, that she might accept it.

    Catsoup works for Dottie. She started out lapping it up, but I got her in a habit of licking it from my fingers, or using a plastic spoon, and letting her lick it from the spoon. (Catsoup doesn't stick as much to a plastic spoon).
     
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  43. Rachel

    Rachel Well-Known Member

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    Aug 25, 2013
    Oh Mogs, I'm sorry it's so difficult right now. I do think part of the problem is you're sick and exhausted. That tends to make things seem 20 times worse than they are. Trust me, I've been there (I think we all have at some point). I'm glad the hospital can take her during the day. Please use this day to get as much rest as you can. Comfort yourself knowing that she is where she will be well taken care of. Plus know that you get her back at night so you'll be able to care for her yourself tonight.

    Please take care of yourself Mogs. I know everything is kind of coming down on you right now, which is why it is all the more important that you get some rest, lots of liquids, and some food.

    Continuing to send hugs to you, chin scritches to Saoirse, and general healing and appetite vines to both of you!!
     
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  44. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Jun 16, 2014
    The duty vet at the hospital would not readmit Saoirse for the day.

    Saoirse's BG average being in the low teens (Alphatrak) is apparently absolutely fine and I shouldn't be the least bit worried about not giving her any insulin (despite the fact she hasn't had any for over 30 hours!). The fact that she's had difficulty eating for days and has had frell-all nutrition in that time is apparently just tickety-boo because she ate something during the night. It seems there is "no need to stay up all night trying to feed [Saoirse]"; better to leave her to her own devices because, as we all know, cats suit themselves when it comes to eating and will do so when they're ready. I wasn't even given the opportunity to explain that the only reason she managed to get some food down was that I spent the night offering the food up to her on my fingers.

    Saoirse's BG being in the teens (mmol/L, Alphatrak) along with her inappetence and post-operative increased level of infection risk is no worry at all from a DKA perspective, and neither apparently is the fact that Saoirse wouldn't take the antibiotic for me in her food last night. I was asked why I didn't give it to her by pilling.[!!!!] I don't think she liked it when I advised her, quite truthfully, that I was given specific instructions by the opthalmologist herself not to administer any medications to Saoirse by the pilling route.

    Apparently what I need to do now is go back to our own vets because "they are treating [Saoirse's] diabetes" and that is "not what she was referred [to the hospital] for." Excuse me???? Saoirse is recovering from a procedure that she most certainly was referred to them for and her diabetic status has direct bearing on the appropriate aftercare for said procedure. Also, because I can't pill her I cannot reinstate Saoirse's pancreatitis support regimen. What in all that is holy has that got to do with our own vets?

    I went on to ask about Cerenia when Saoirse received her most recent dose and I asked whether it was possible to continue giving it at home. The answer I got back was along the lines of it can be given once a day IF deemed necessary. (The 'if' was almost spat out.) Got no answer about whether or not it has to be administered by a vet; just referred back to our own vets because "they're treating for that."

    I then proceeded to enquire about the eye drops that were in Saoirse's medication bag from the hospital. I advised that there were no instructions in the discharge notes about it and was seeking advice on how to proceed. Have you ever been in a situation where you say something perfectly rational and reasonable to someone and for some unknown reason they start behaving towards you as though you've suddenly grown a second head? That's how I felt after the part of the conversation that went pretty much like this:

    Me: Saoirse was sent home with some eye drops in her medication bag but they're not mentioned in the medication list on her Post-operative Care plan. I don't know what to do with them. Could you please clarify this for me? They're Azopt and the pack label says to apply 1 drop 4 times a day to the right eye (the eye that Saoirse has lost). What are they for and do I need to give them to her?

    Vet: They're for swelling. of the eye.

    Me: I'm not sure I understand properly: is it for swelling of the eye itself, or the eye area?

    Vet: Why are you asking that?

    Me: Because the instructions on the pack says to apply them to the right eye.

    Vet: And?

    Me: Erm, Saoirse no longer has her right eye?

    Vet: Is it on the care plan?

    Me: No, it's not. But when I found the drops in the prescription bag I didn't know whether or not I should be giving them. I want to make sure I give Saoirse the right treatments and it was confusing.

    Vet: [in a very don't-be-stupid tone]But it wasn't on the care plan.

    Me: Yes. But the medicine was in the bag. I didn't want to make a mistake.

    Vet: If you were meant to give it then it would be on the plan. [Delivered in a very impatient, ennui-laden, 'don't be so stupid' tone.]


    Guess not everyone would think to check in such circumstances. Bad Moglet. How very dare you not be a mindreader and then have the temerity to look out for the safety and well-being of your cat! Tsk, Tsk.

    Right now I really did not need to be talked down to and dismissed by a veterinary jobsworth. That woman was the veritable antithesis of everything I rated so highly about the hospital and all the other staff I dealt with, and is egregiously representative of much that both infuriates and disappoints me about some members of the veterinary profession.

    One foot. One paw ...



    Mogs
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    Last edited: Feb 12, 2016
  45. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Plan A now out the window.

    <... sigh ...>

    .
     
  46. Tuxedo Mom

    Tuxedo Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 2, 2014
    :bighug: :bighug: :bighug: :bighug: Mogs!!!

    How awful for you to end up connecting with a cold-hearted vet with no understanding about the big picture.


    Is there any way you can get in touch with the vet/staff that said you could bring her back for the day and who seemed to have a better understanding of the big picture?? Would your vet refer you back to the hospital?? Can you contact the surgeon and get some support from him?

    The duty vet seems to be washing her hands of it all, since Saoirse was released she seems to feel that they are no longer involved. You had a confirmation of further care from the hospital..someone should be able to provide the service they said they would.
     
  47. Olive & Paula

    Olive & Paula Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 6, 2015
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  48. Larry and Kitties

    Larry and Kitties Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    This
    http://www.drugs.com/vet/polyflex.html
    can be injected subQ or intermusular
     
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  49. Bobbie And Bubba

    Bobbie And Bubba Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 15, 2015
    Mogs, I took off the cone when Bubba wanted to eat and then just put it right back on. He was required to wear it for 7-10 days. I went with 10. At first, I was scared he wouldn't let me put it back on but I was steadfast with knowing that it WAS GOING BACK ON so he let me. Also, he wanted to hide the first day and a half . I kept my closed door opened and he went into it to sleep.
     
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  50. Jeanne & Dottie

    Jeanne & Dottie Member

    Joined:
    Jan 9, 2016
    Oh dear, you had to deal with a gatekeeper. Iwould file a complaint with the vet who did the surgery, Mogs. This woman obviously loved discounting the instructions you were given by the surgeon. Doggone power freak :banghead:Perhaps she has a beef with her colleagues and chose to kick you instead. The hospital needs to know how shabbily you have been treated. She''s a detriment to the hospital.
     
    Last edited: Feb 12, 2016
  51. Bobbie And Bubba

    Bobbie And Bubba Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 15, 2015
    Oh Gosh, I am so sorry you got that kind of response when questioning the eye drop. ;) We did not get anything like that post op. About getting the AB into her while she is not interested in eating, could you crush the AB with a spoon and put it is a small amount of water and syringe it into her mouth?
     
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  52. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 18, 2015
    Mogs, The problem with some of these "medical" folks is that they think they are above and beyond making a mistake. When I switched Menace over to the pill antibiotics from the shots, they put double the number of doses I needed in the bottle and I too ran into the issue of being treated like the panicky pet parent who just didn't have a clue when I called to inquire if there was some reason for the extra doses. I had to repeat the problem several times before I finally got the receptionist and vet nurse to listen and the vet who did the script (not Menace's surgeon) finally called me back all apologetic. I'd call again and ask to speak to the surgeon directly and don't take no for an answer. You are entitled to an explanation of why the eye drops were in the bag and why they now cannot take Saoirse for the day. That duty vet's job is overstepping her bounds and not listening or registering that your question is totally valid!
     
  53. Blamethecats and Hannah

    Blamethecats and Hannah Member

    Joined:
    Jul 12, 2014
    I've been out of touch since last evening, so first and foremost, "Welcome home, Mogs and Saoirse." Have been reading through the very numerous posts subsequent to your return, and it looks like you and your FDMB family have been on top of this, never missing a beat. I cannot possibly say enough about all the wonderful folks who have taken the time to be there for you and Saoirse. They are the cream of the crop, the best of the best. I'm sorry about all the concerns that have arisen for you, but I'm so glad some of them are getting resolved... especially glad to know that Saoirse is now eating at least something. I agree with the finger feeding, Mogs. That's good for both of you, so keep doing that until Saoirse is able to eat on her own. She'll get there. She's just not feeling her best as of right now, but as time passes, you'll see improvement. Yep, definitely one foot, one paw at a time. I can't seem to come up with any better suggestions for at-home help, as others have offered up some really good thoughts on that. But I can keep praying that God will send more of his angels to be there when you need them. Your taxi fellow is a wonderful example of what I'm praying for. So here are more hugs and prayers toward that purpose. Be blessed.

    images (8).jpg
     
  54. Sue484

    Sue484 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Apr 25, 2015
    Sorry, not been on for a few days and firstly, I'm glad that Saoise is through the operation and home. You must look after yourself too though. Do you have to keep the cone on and keep her caged? My previous cat had his eye removed at 18 years old, and when he came home the day after the operation, he had no cone and could come and go as he pleased. That may be part of why she is cranky and not eating. Maybe things have changed in the 10 years since Sammy lost his eye and he has now been gone for 8 years and he wasn't diabetic though he did have an over active thyroid.
     
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  55. Blamethecats and Hannah

    Blamethecats and Hannah Member

    Joined:
    Jul 12, 2014
    I think carefully removing Saoirse's cone for eating might be worth a try. If it worked for Bubba, it could work for her, as well. Something else I find helpful when trying to get my own fussy eater interested in food is to offer up a couple of different flavors, on different plates. Sometimes we even have 3 flavor choices going at once. I'd say about 90% of the time, this works. In her case, she'll pick the one she dislikes the least and start nibbling. Then I notice she moves on to the next and does the same. We can waste a lot of food this way, but I figure just getting her to eat something is worth the cost of what the garbage can gets to digest.
     
  56. Lisa and Witn (GA)

    Lisa and Witn (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    Or I will show them where the vacuum and cleaners are. ;)
     
  57. Sue and Oliver (GA)

    Sue and Oliver (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    How great to hear that you two are adjusting and making things work.

    I have the mesh "cage" for my civie, Niko. He goes outside in it to watch the birds and lay in the sun. (We got him from the humane society and he had been declawed so he has never been able to be outside otherwise.) We like the cage. It stores easily and the mesh has lasted. We have used it for 5 years. Course, he doesn't have a cone. It is good sized - I think 3 feet across.
     
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  58. Shiloh & Rhonda (GA)

    Shiloh & Rhonda (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 9, 2015
    Mogs, I'm so sorry that I wasn't around to offer support during this time, but looks like you got plenty of support and then some! I'm glad that Saoirse's home with you. And take care of yourself as much as you are taking care of her. :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  59. manxcat419

    manxcat419 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 14, 2015
    Mogs, I am horrified to read this! Especially when everyone else at the hospital was so understanding and did so much for Saoirse. How dare she talk down to you like that! All you were trying to do was make sure that Saoirse gets the care she needs so you can rest a little, and make sure you are giving her the right medications at the right times. All of the concerns you have for Saoirse are valid ones. And your questions about the eye drops are perfectly logical - if she is sent home with a medication then you expect it to be something you need to give her. I can completely see why the opthalmologist didn't want you to pill Saoirse - the whole area around the right side of her face is probably going to be feeling pretty delicate to her right now and you certainly don't want to risk causing any damage while she heals. I have several words I would like to use for that duty vet, but I think all of them would get my post deleted! Don't EVER doubt that you are doing the very best for Saoirse - you are an extremely dedicated and caring cat-mom. It's just so unfortunate that you had to run into someone like that today when you so needed someone to give you some instant and practical help so that you can keep on doing what you're doing for your girl. :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  60. Paula

    Paula Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Apr 19, 2014
    Sending tons of healing vines & prayers for Saoirse and you from Riverside, California.
    Please know that Michael and I are thinking of you both.:bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  61. tibbs5

    tibbs5 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 15, 2014
    (((((((((((((((((((MOGGY)))))))))))))))))))))
    ((((((((((((((((((SAOIRSE)))))))))))))))))))))
    moggy, i'm SO HAPPY you got her to the opthalmologist so quickly. it sounds like she is in great hands. Mogs, you are amazing. you would be a fantastic vet yourself !!! I know in my heart, that you will get her through this. please, please try to sleep. i will check back here for update. Please, please Skype me if you need me.
    Love you, Nadine
    and i'm so sorry you had to deal with an uncaring person from that hospital. i would def try to speak with the surgeon about your questions. my dear friend, i wish for you and your baby a peaceful day. i am sending tons of prayers across the pond to you. xoxoxi
     
    Last edited: Feb 12, 2016
    Reason for edit: adding
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  62. Squeaky and KT (GA)

    Squeaky and KT (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 19, 2011
    Mogs - you asked this in Tigger's condo but I'm answering you here. It's up to the individual cat as to how fast it's absorbed. KT started digesting within 15-20 minutes raising numbers. Dakota takes 30-45 minutes for anything to start raising his numbers, even Karo.
     
  63. Nancy and Scotty

    Nancy and Scotty Member

    Joined:
    Jul 13, 2014
    You have so many people offering advice and support that I will just say that I am praying and sending good vibes your way.
     
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  64. granadilla

    granadilla Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 13, 2015
    Mogs, just wanted to let you know I was thinking about you and Saoirse. I hope you've been able to rest a bit today. When you're up to it, please let us know how your darling is doing. :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  65. Marje and Gracie

    Marje and Gracie Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    May 30, 2010
    Mogs, I'm so very sorry for all the issues you've been having with the hospital and vet. And your sweet girl not wanting to eat. You are doing fantastic for her; we all know you are exhausted but you are amazing.

    Sending you both prayers for strength,
     
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  66. Jeanne & Dottie

    Jeanne & Dottie Member

    Joined:
    Jan 9, 2016

    Thanks for the comment on the mesh cage, Sue. I think I will have to get one and keep it around. Tying Dottie to my leg with a leash was the only solution I came up with after her surgery...it would have been nice to have had something like the cage to put her in. I certainly would have gotten more sleep!
     
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  67. Elizabeth and Bertie

    Elizabeth and Bertie Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 6, 2010
    Mogs, I don't know what foods have been tried with Saoirse, but recently I've found Gourmet Gold pates to be very useful for inappetent cats.

    I had to get food into 5 poorly kitties over Christmas and New Year (they all had a URI), and now my old tortie girl is ill and off her food. Of all the foods I tried the GG pates have been the most popular. They appear to be very palatable. They're also very soft and easy to eat (no chewing needed). I've known some people use them for syringe feeding because of their texture and the fact that they're quite high calorie.

    For my tortie girl I'm mixing the pate with a little hot water to make it soupy and even easier to eat. She's able to lap the food up. The fact that it's warm also increases the smell of the food and makes it even more appealing.
    If she doesn't eat as much as I'd like then a little sprinkle of Fortiflora or nutritional yeast flakes usually stimulates her appetite again.

    The GG pates are around 30% calories from fat (dry matter), I think. Is that OK for Saoirse?

    The only downside I've found is that all the flavours spike Bertie's blood glucose. (And I know of someone else's cat for whom they also cause BG spikes). I countered this by adjusting his insulin requirements a bit (it wasn't ideal, but we muddled through...).

    Really hoping that Saoirse will recover her appetite very soon.

    Hugs and prayers,

    Eliz
     
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  68. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Update: Saturday GMT 09:00: Baby eats. Mama sleeps.
    ------------------------------------------------------------------

    My girl ate a whole pouch - a whole pouch! - of her regular grub on Friday afternoon. :cat:

    Thank you everyone for being here for us (and for the validation about the ignorant behaviour of that vet). I am so grateful to all of you. Thank you all for helping me to keep going.

    :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:


    Had to skip insulin again today. BG 13-ish (Alphatrak) but thankfully ketones 0.7 (human meter). Need more sleep; between the exhaustion and the rotten lurgy I've picked up, I'm completely banjaxed. Full update later.



    Mogs
    .
     
    Last edited: Feb 13, 2016
  69. manxcat419

    manxcat419 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 14, 2015
    Awesome update, Mogs! I'm so, so happy to hear that Saoirse has managed to eat a full meal for you. :)

    Just update as and when you feel up to it - that good news is what we've all been hoping for today. Anything longer can wait until you're feeling more up to it. :bighug: :bighug: :bighug:
     
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  70. Jeanne & Dottie

    Jeanne & Dottie Member

    Joined:
    Jan 9, 2016
    Whew! We're glad you checked in.. Iwas worried just:bighug: a teeny bit. YES! Get rested up! We're We're not going anywhere. Hooray that Saoirse is doing well! Now eat something, go check on her, and go back to bed.
     
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  71. Bobbie And Bubba

    Bobbie And Bubba Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 15, 2015
    Wonderful news!!! Did you end up taking the collar off while she ate? Hope you feel better ASAP. :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  72. Sharon14

    Sharon14 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Aug 16, 2015
    Great news! So glad she ate and you got a bit of rest. More healing vines for you both:bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  73. Squalliesmom

    Squalliesmom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 26, 2015
    Mogs, sorry I didn't get a chance to check in yesterday, l-o-n-g day at hospital. So glad to hear Saoirse ate a whole pouch of food!!! I am hoping that you also were able to get some decent rest? I hate to keep beating the same horse here, but I am just so worried about you.

    As far as the veterinary hospital goes, when you are better rested and not feeling so brittle, I would suggest you definitely call them and let them know what transpired, and how awful that woman made you feel. I doubt very much that that is the face the hospital wants to present to patients/clients. In my personal opinion, her behavior to you was beyond appalling; I hope you never have to deal with that woman again!

    Please update us after you've had a chance to get some rest. Fingers and paws crossed that Saoirse is over the worst of the hump and thing will keep looking up, now! Sending prayers and healing vines, and love to you both! :bighug::bighug::bighug: and more :bighug::bighug::bighug:!!!
     
  74. Sue and Oliver (GA)

    Sue and Oliver (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    Hurray, hurray, hurray! Hope this is the start of a wonderful recovery for you both. You have lots of good wishes and prayers supporting that from your family here. :bighug::bighug:
     
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  75. Olive & Paula

    Olive & Paula Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 6, 2015
    So glad she finally ate for you, and a whole pouch! She was ready and is ready to have this all behind her now. Great job Dr. Mogs. Now heal thyself! BTW I like that enclosure you posted. Have to look into one so my babes can go out on the deck (once its put back together) during the summer.
     
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  76. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Hi ladies,

    So lovely to hear from you today after having some good news to share. :bighug:

    And there's more: Saoirse has eaten another two pouchfuls of food for me since yesterday afternoon. :D (@Bobby and Bubba - followed your suggestion: I take the collar off and watch over her while she's eating so that she doesn't stick the sore side of her face into the food.) She is also getting some restful sleep, too.

    I'm still poleaxed but I have managed to eat something and I'm going to try to get more sleep now. Will report back later.

    My heartfelt thanks to you all for your continuing prayers and healing wishes for my beautiful baby girl. And again, thank you whoever is hearing and answering them.

    :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:



    Mogs
    .
     
  77. Bobbie And Bubba

    Bobbie And Bubba Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 15, 2015
    You and Saoirse just made my day!!!!!!
     
  78. Rachel

    Rachel Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Aug 25, 2013
    So glad to hear that Saoirse is getting some good food and rest! Sounds like she must be feeling better. Please make sure you get some rest and eat when you can too!
     
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  79. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    That's very much the strong vibe she's giving off now. She is eating with great gusto! She is still sore, and a bit cranky at times, but I know from her that she's definitely starting to feel better. Superfluous to say so but that automatically makes her mama bean feel better. By several orders of magnitude. :)


    Mogs
    .
     
  80. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    :)

    .
     
  81. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 18, 2015
    Ok now I can get my day started knowing things are going better in the Mogs &.Saoirse homestead! Great news! So happy that you are both feeling better! :D:bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  82. Squalliesmom

    Squalliesmom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 26, 2015
    Best news ever! Woot woot! :woot: 7e6403e3803e56770e82f4fd6f5b1687[1].gif We're celebrating with you, Mogs! (((HUGS)))

    (Click image to see the happy cat dance, lol)
     
  83. Bobbie And Bubba

    Bobbie And Bubba Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 15, 2015
    Those dancing cats are adorable!!
     
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  84. Squalliesmom

    Squalliesmom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 26, 2015
    @Bobbie And Bubba I like to think they bring some cheer and light, maybe a momentary relief, to a stressful situation! :)
     
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  85. Ferndoc

    Ferndoc Member

    Joined:
    Dec 20, 2015
    Good kitten Saoirse.
     
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  86. Squalliesmom

    Squalliesmom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 26, 2015
    I had to use one of these plus an e-collar on my Bengal when he hurt his eye, because he kept getting the e-collar off. They are great collars when you need to keep kitty from licking or chewing at a wound, but provide no protection to the face and head in terms of bumps and bangs from outside influences, if you know what I mean.
     
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  87. manxcat419

    manxcat419 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 14, 2015
    How lovely to hear that Saoirse has her appetite back - pretty much fully I'm guessing if she's eaten another 2 pouches of food. :) She's clearly feeling better and letting you know she is too. Onwards and upwards to a full recovery...for both of you. :bighug: :bighug: :bighug: :bighug: :bighug:
     
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  88. Nancy and Scotty

    Nancy and Scotty Member

    Joined:
    Jul 13, 2014
    Great news!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
     
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  89. Larry and Kitties

    Larry and Kitties Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    Purr'n and praying for Saoirse's continued recovery
     
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  90. Marje and Gracie

    Marje and Gracie Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    May 30, 2010
  91. Suzi_S

    Suzi_S Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 2, 2015
    So happy see Saoirse eating! And that she is feeling better! I know when I or my kitty doesn't feel good we are cranky to everyone, lol!!
     
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  92. Nancy & Cootie (GA)

    Nancy & Cootie (GA) Member

    Joined:
    Oct 16, 2014
    Such wonderful news! Not letting up on good thoughts & prayers for you two!
     
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  93. Blamethecats and Hannah

    Blamethecats and Hannah Member

    Joined:
    Jul 12, 2014
    This is wonderful, wonderful news. Isn't it great that just a few days can make such a difference?! Kitties can do amazing things... but it's usually on THEIR terms and in THEIR own time, not ours. Sometimes we forget that. Thank you, Saoirse, for reminding us! We've all had so much hope that she'd perk up, feel better, start eating, and put a song in Mogs' heart once again. Hope is a beautiful gift. I have a saying pinned to my bulletin board that I'd like to share: "Hope is like a road in the country; there was never a road, but when many people walk on it, the road comes into existence." With all the hope that's been going on here for Mogs and Saoirse, I think we've managed to pave a four-lane highway!
     
  94. Maggies Mom Debby

    Maggies Mom Debby Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    How absolutely wonderful! Now YOU need to get some rest and feel better, too.
     
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  95. tibbs5

    tibbs5 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 15, 2014
    A whole pouch ??? that is FANTASTIC. get some rest !!
    love you.
     
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  96. Andy & Pimp

    Andy & Pimp Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Oct 18, 2015
    So happy for a positive update!!! We were super worried after hearing about the hospital fail. Hopefully you are getting some rest today:)

    Continuing to send prayers & mega vines

    :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  97. Squeaky and KT (GA)

    Squeaky and KT (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 19, 2011
    Another YARD DANCE!!! WOOT WOOT!
     
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  98. Liz & IttyBit

    Liz & IttyBit Member

    Joined:
    Dec 16, 2015
  99. Cathie and Shaak Ti (GA)

    Cathie and Shaak Ti (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 2, 2016
    So glad to hear things are going better after the awful problems with the hospital. That vet should be reported.
     
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  100. Carol & Murphy (GA)

    Carol & Murphy (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Aug 9, 2015
    Mogs - I am so happy she is eating and everything is looking bright!
    Positive thoughts and hugs for you and Saoirse - I know how joyful it is when our kitties eat!!
    Keep it up, Saoirse!!
     
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