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. suki & crystal (GA)

    suki & crystal (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 4, 2014
    Wonderful news that Saoirse is making a good recovery, continued vines and prayers for you both:):bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  2. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Update: Sunday 10:44 GMT
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    Saoirse started getting itchy yesterday morning. It's on her unaffected side so I don't know whether or not it is a sign of healing. Her posh Cone of Shame is doing a good job of protecting her little face. Saoirse is actually quite OK with the collar and also being in the resting cage. Normally she would get fretty if she was cooped up so I'm relieved that she's quite calm about being in there.

    Subsequent to the wonderful conversation with that vet on Friday morning I put a call in to our own vets to ask for help with Saoirse's meds. I also managed to drag myself (no hyperbole) to the local chemist to speak with the pharmacist about whether I could get liquid suspensions of any of Saoirse's other meds. Struck out on the famotidine front, but there is a liquid suspension of ondansetron available (for UK readers - Teva do one). Also you can get a liquid formulation of cyproheptadine from a compounding pharmacy (not cheap) so I'm ordering some of that as well. The pharmacist was really helpful. (Thanks for giving me the idea, @Andy & Pimp!) He worked out the doses ready for me to give to the vet for the written prescription (which they did a speedy turnaround on for me today). All going well, I may get the ondansetron early next week (the cornerstone of Saoirse's maintenance regimen: under normal circumstances if her nausea is controlled she doesn't need appy stimulus) and the cypro suspension the week after.

    On Friday afternoon, Saoirse's right eye area looked very sore and swollen. :( Also, she was really queasy; she looked like she was hovering between hiccuping and dry heaving. I couldn't get her to touch either her regular food or the Liquivite, but I finally managed to get her eat a little bit of gravy from a pouch of Hill's i/d off my fingers. (Any port in a storm; I had to get something into my little Munchkin's tummy to help counter the tummy acid build-up.) Our own main vet very kindly agreed to squeeze us in for a house call to give her a 3-day duration amoxicillin antibiotic jab and some Cerenia. (I could've hugged him for sparing Saoirse the trip to the surgery.) Unfortunately he forgot the Cerenia. Thankfully, the little bit of i/d gravy I managed to get down her settled her stomach a little and she ate the whole pouch of food for me. :) I wonder whether the carbs in the gravy might have settled her tum a bit, similar to a human eating saltines? It's definitely going in my bag of tricks for the future.

    Our own main vet thinks the inflammation and swelling round the eye is well within expectations and that Saoirse's progress is on track for a normal recovery from enucleation surgery. He was really happy Saoirse made it through the op and that her post-operative progress is going well. I thanked him profusely for his work to get the opthalmologist to see Saoirse as an emergency case.

    I tested Saoirse's BG Friday night (13.3 / 239 Alphatrak) and blood ketones (0.7mmol/L on human meter). Saturday night, she was at BG 12.3/221 and ketones 0.4 mmol/L. I'm not comfortable with Saoirse at her current BG levels but because I can't monitor her properly I've had to hold off on giving insulin again. :( The reason I'm so wary is that she threw a very unexpected 4.6/83 (Alphatrak) at the hospital on the morning prior to her procedure and it was fairly far on in the cycle. Also, I can't leave food available for her to graze while I sleep. The other variable is that she is recovering and if she gets more comfortable that might drop BG levels, too. I don't want to risk her dipping low while I am asleep and she has no access to food. On the positive side, Saoirse is eating fairly well again (anti-jinx, anti-jinx) and I know her blood ketone status. I am so glad I got the ketone meter and strips; it was a smart investment in both Saoirse's care and my sanity. I really had hoped to restart Saoirse on insulin yesterday but I have to get more sleep in order to be able to monitor and keep her safe. Hopefully today I'll have caught up a bit and will able to restart her Lantus, even if it's at only one dose a day for the time being.

    Saoirse ate nearly a whole pouch for me again yesterday evening. I blended it to a purée and put it on a side plate. It was easier for her to get into her mouth and she didn't lean the sore side of her face into it but she didn't eat quite as much as when I just blended it to a finely minced texture. Eating is a bit of a messy affair at the moment, so I'm using an updside down puppy pad as a tablecloth; works really well and cleans with a wipe of a damp cloth. Saoirse grumbled a bit just before she finished eating so I think she's sore on the right side of her mouth when trying to eat. For previous pouches I gave the bupe a little bit before the food. I had tested her BG and ketones just before feeding and she was so hungry I fed her straight after. I think she missed having the bupe prior to eating. She was a bit lip-licky afterwards but I don't know whether this was due to soreness or her losing the effects of the Cerenia. Overnight I gave Saoirse another pouchful but this time I just blitzed it to a fine minced texture. I think she better likes the taste when it's prepared like this. I put it on the side plate and used a spatula to keep moving the food back to the centre of the plate as she ate. No messy face and she finished the whole pouchful. This is great because she is almost back to eating her normal daily amount of food (anti-jinx, anti-jinx). Saoirse got cranky again after this meal, so I think eating must be quite hard work for her at the moment with her little face and part of her mouth being sore and the larger meals must be tiring for her. I can't wait to get the legs legs back under myself so that I can get her back to smaller, more frequent feeds. I want to do everything I can to help Saoirse through her convalescence and to help her get better as soon as possible. I wish she had never had to go through this; and I wish I could take all of the pain and soreness onto myself so that nothing might hurt my beloved girl.

    I managed to eat a bit, but Greggs' steak slices and Star Bars'll only do a partial job of nourishing a body. I could do serious damage to a proper, nutritious meal right now, but any prospect of that is some way off into the future. :( I'm keeping horizontal as much as possible (no choice; chest and head are full of the cold, body feels like lead and legs are like putty). I slept for 12 hours straight on Friday night. Since then I'm back in PTSD land and having difficulty drifting off in spite of being absolutely shattered. I took a sleeping tablet after Saoirse's early morning feed and that knocked me out for a good few hours. Saoirse is getting more relaxed as her recovery progresses and she is now getting restful sleep. I can hear her snoring gently when she's snoozing. She gets quite perky when she knows her grub is about to be served. :)

    I managed to get some of the Royal Canin recovery food from Amazon (thank you for digging up the info for me!) and Saoirse's playpen is on order. I hope she will like it. I love my girl. She's so brave. I'm very relieved to see her improving.

    My heartfelt thanks to all of you for staying with me and my girl throughout all of this, and for continuing to pray and send healing thoughts. It is making such a difference to both of us and it is helping so much. If you're looking for specifics to focus on today for Saoirse, some pooping type activity would be welcome. (Hasn't gone for days ... :nailbiting:)


    Mogs
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    Last edited: Feb 14, 2016
  3. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    PS ... Sorry about the 911 still being up. It's a big anti-jinx thing for me right now.

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  4. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Thank you very, very much for sharing this, Carol: it is absolutely beautiful, incredibly inspiring, and wonderfully uplifting.

    :bighug::bighug::bighug:


    Mogs
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  5. Jeanne & Dottie

    Jeanne & Dottie Member

    Joined:
    Jan 9, 2016
    Hang in there, Mogs, it will get better. We're fairly certain Saoirse is on the mend, so while she's holding up, we're primarily concerned about you now. If you take a nose-dive, so does Saoirse. So don't be stingy with your own care.

    Obviously this isn't a mere cold. You are exhausted and a nasty bug has snuck in below your defenses. Sleep is the best thing for you. Don't miss a chance to catch some Z's. Also... Please remember to take some really deep breaths now and then: lift your arms and make sure you expand your chest... it will open up the lung sacs and help to break up any mucus. If you can, get into your bathroom and let the hot water run, let the room fill up with steam. A little hydrogen peroxide in your ears will help keep them from getting infected. Salt water gargles will make sure your throat doesn't become infected, too.

    Don't worry about jinxing yourself, either. There's enough of us out there working to counteract that. Prayer and intent go a long way to building up a protective wall against Mr. Murphy and his so-called Law. :bighug: One day at a time, my friend. ;)One day at a time.
     
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  6. Sharon14

    Sharon14 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Aug 16, 2015
    Mogs, glad things are looking up! Sending poopy vines for sweet Saoirse, along with lots of scritches and hugs:bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  7. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    My Bonnie just ate another 2/3 pouch for me. :)

    I'm so relieved for her that she's managing to eat OK under her own steam. In my weakened state I am petrified of failing her on the nursing front. (Feel awful that I haven't been able to safely give her her insulin yet. :oops:) Also, after all my precious little girl has been through and with her face all sore it would have been awful to have also had to try to assist feed her. I'm so, so, so glad she doesn't have that additional stress to contend with.

    I really do think it makes her sore when she eats. She's quite enthusiastic and excited when I bring in her grub and she is eager for me to lift her out of the resting cage and over onto the sofa to give her her meal, but she gets a bit cranky once she has finished eating. Still, she's such a good little patient. She puts this stoic expression on while I gently clean around her mouth after she has eaten. You couldn't but love her. :)


    Mogs
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    Last edited: Feb 14, 2016
  8. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Scritches just delivered and they went down a storm, Sharon! :D She was r-e-a-l-l-y leaning into them and purring like a mad thing. :cat: (And mama found the hugs just as comforting. ;) )

    Thank you! :)


    Mogs
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  9. Diana&Tom

    Diana&Tom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 29, 2009
    Mogs, i'm sure every day will bring an improvement now and the fact that Saiorse is eating well is such a good sign... She will be feeling slightly off still whilst the anaesthetic is in her system and she adjusts to her different state, but overall both you and she have done a tremendous job over the past week.

    Sending love to ALL our FDMB kitties on Valentine's Day... I wonder if they know how truly, madly, deeply they are loved...

    Diana
     
  10. Carol & Murphy (GA)

    Carol & Murphy (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Aug 9, 2015
    Hi Mogs - So glad that there continues to be such wonderful news from your end. Continuing to send positive vibes
     
    Last edited: Feb 14, 2016
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  11. Mogmom and Goofus

    Mogmom and Goofus Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 9, 2014
    Mogs, I'm so glad things are looking up for you! I hope you start feeling better yourself! I've had a lot going on so I haven't been able to read much on the board the last few days, but I wanted to let you know that you and Saoirse have been in my thoughts and prayers. Please take care of yourself! :bighug:
     
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  12. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Hear, hear!

    Happy Valentine's Day to all FDMB kitties and their wonderful beans.
    :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:


    Mogs
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  13. Squalliesmom

    Squalliesmom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 26, 2015
    Mogs, I was so happy to read your update on Saoirse! Thrilled that she is recovering so well, and eating and pooping, now! :joyful: I'm also pleased to hear you are getting a bit of rest, yourself. Now we just need to get you to eat, too. :)

    Still sending all prayers and healing thoughts to both of you! (((HUGS)))
    :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  14. Olive & Paula

    Olive & Paula Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 6, 2015
    Glad everyone is starting to mend. Sending chicken noodle soup to you. It's the only thing that I can eat when sick. It really works. So if you got some it might help you.
     
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  15. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 18, 2015
    So elated to hear Saoirse is now eating well and improving with each day!:D There really are no words to describe the relief I am feeling for you Mogs and of course your sweetie! It's been a very trying time for you both but you both have weathered the storm and the skies are clearing. Just make sure you remember that sometimes Momma Bean has to put herself first, if only for a short time, so she stays strong for her little one! Could you order in some food to get a full meal into you? A good meal would help you heal better too! Sending hugs for you and scritches for Saoirse and wishing you both a wonderful Valentine's Day! :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  16. Jan Radar (GA)

    Jan Radar (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 27, 2015
    No Mogs. I think you are running on pure love. I think the visiting nurse/vet tech idea is marvelous so you can get the rest you need to feel better yourself. :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug: These will hopefully help too. :)
     
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  17. Andy & Pimp

    Andy & Pimp Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Oct 18, 2015
    Some fantastic updates Mogs! So glad to see some good news:)

    Prayers and:bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  18. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Asked my trusty cabbies to get a kebab for me tonight. There are two kebab joints in town. One's really, really good; the other one's the pits. Guess which one he went to? Yep. :banghead: Still, it's eaten. I will tell him the street name as well as the shop name next time. :rolleyes:

    Wishing you and all your furbabies a happy Valentine's Day, too, Linda. :bighug:


    Mogs
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    Last edited: Feb 14, 2016
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  19. manxcat419

    manxcat419 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 14, 2015
    I'm loving the updates from the last couple of days, Mogs. It's so wonderful to hear that Saoirse is doing better - and that you can now take some time to rest yourself too. I think it's quite possible that Saoirse is finding eating a little uncomfortable at the moment - there's certain to be bruising to the whole side of her face from the operation, so it's not really surprising that she's still a little cranky after she has to use that side of her mouth to eat. But she's clearly hungry enough to take the discomfort and eat anyway which is great to hear.

    I'm glad to hear that your cabbies are taking care of you too - even if they did pick the wrong shop to go to. You need someone to do some of the running around for you, so I'm really glad you have them to call on for help. :bighug: :bighug: :bighug: :bighug: :bighug:
     
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  20. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 18, 2015
    OYEEE! You'd think the cabbie would have the scoop on the best kebabs in town wouldn't you? :confused:Oh well, at least you got some food and telling him about the better shop will be a bonus for his business in the future! :p
     
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  21. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Poopy vines successful! Thank you, Sharon. :)

    The last time Saoirse had general anaesthesia it constipated her quite badly. Also, she normally has a little pumpkin added to her food but she hasn't had any since the beginning of last week. She had bad diarrhoea from the different meds just before she went into the hospital and as at time of today's morning update she hadn't had a bowel motion since. Granted, she didn't eat very much after the op and after the anaesthesia I expected things to be slow but I have been really worried. She has been through so much and I really didn't want to see her needing an enema on top of everything else.

    Saoirse tried to go this afternoon and all she could manage to pass were a few diamond-hard raisins. One got stuck and I had to help her clear it. (Mama wasn't exactly flavour of the month for that. :( ) However, I'm both pleased and very relieved to say she's just passed a proper poop fairly easily. Woot! :D

    Managed to get a dose of ondansetron into Saoirse's pre-insulin meal this evening, too.

    Saoirse's BG tonight was 13.9/250 (Alphatrak - ack! :( ) and blood ketones were 0.3 (human meter). I summoned up the courage and gave her a 'fat zero' drop of insulin. With the exception of the time I had to dose her blind on our old vet's say so I've never been so nervous about giving Saoirse her insulin. It's so difficult when one is in the position where one cannot monitor and also cannot leave food available. Granted I can set an alarm but with the sleep disorder and the additional exhaustion due to recent events it's not likely to wake me. It's doubly tough because at the moment I can't guarantee a single 12-hour period where I won't pass out. :(

    I must away: there's a bottom that needs cleaning.


    Mogs
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    Last edited: Feb 14, 2016
  22. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Or perhaps there's a kickback somewhere? (I am so cynical! ;) )

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  23. jayla-n-Drevon

    jayla-n-Drevon Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Oct 11, 2015
    welcome home Saoirse!!! your the best mommy ever Mogs :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  24. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    The owner of the firm has been taking Saoirse to her vet appointments for some time (plus the run back from the veterinary school last year). He collects her prescriptions from the vets and drops them in to me, too. He knows about my anxiety disorders and how very difficult it is for me with the agoraphobia. He always tries to reassure me and to calm me down me on the rare occasions I leave the house. When he brought us up to the hospital last week he said to me that they would do anything they could to help us. And, boy, didn't he deliver! I appreciate both himself and his staff so much. :)


    Mogs
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  25. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 18, 2015
    Sign of a really excellent kitty MOM....excited over poop! Only the crew here can appreciate it's significance and go "YEAH" with you! :D
     
  26. Squalliesmom

    Squalliesmom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 26, 2015
    It's wonderful to find there are still people like that around, even if they are few and far betweensddddddddp
    ;
    EDIT: Lol, that was Candy walking on my keyboard, sorry!
     
  27. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    I'd buy and sell her, Lucy. After Saoirse finally ate a meal for me the evening before last and I was finally able to try to sleep I started to post an update before putting my head down. When I woke up 12 hours later I was greeted by a very large screenload of Ks ...

    Yep. The Mogster passed out on the keyboard again. :oops::oops::oops: (No Mars Bar this time.)


    Mogs
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  28. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    'Twas not always thus. I've come on over the years. ;)


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    Last edited: Feb 15, 2016
  29. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    PS:

    PMPS - 13.9 (Alphatrak) - Dose: 'Fat Zero'
    PM+6.25 - 8.4

    @Squalliesmom -

    FYI, this is a prime example of what drives my conservatism when it comes to my dosing decisions for Saoirse.

    Saoirse hasn't had any insulin since 2am Thursday morning so there's nothing in the Lantus depot. This is significant lowering just on a droplet of insulin. I based the dose decision on Saoirse's BG unexpectedly dropping to 4.6 on Wednesday morning - in the hospital and prior to her op (high stress situation) - after a dose of 0.25IU Lantus*; and also on the fact that, even with the soreness after the op, she is feeling better now and at home.


    Mogs


    * Note: Dosing accuracy achieved by veterinary professional administering the injection is an unknown quantity.
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  30. Squalliesmom

    Squalliesmom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 26, 2015
    I'm with you, Mogs, I will always err on the side of caution! (I'll be checking Squallie again in about 15 minutes to see where his reduced dose is taking him tonight.)
     
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  31. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Went over to Saoirse in her resting cage to give her some fusses before I try to get some more sleep (all hail, the mighty Ambien). I was stroking her back and she was purring quietly. Then she rolled over on her side to ask me for a tummy rub! :woot:

    Right now I'm so happy I could spit. :cat:


    Mogs
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  32. Paula

    Paula Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Apr 19, 2014
    Mogs,
    That's wonderful that she is eating! A whole pouch, that's terrific!
     
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  33. Jeanne & Dottie

    Jeanne & Dottie Member

    Joined:
    Jan 9, 2016
    *Holds out spitoon* KA-PING! Nice shot, Mogs. ;) Look at it this way...no mars bars this week, but at least you don't have to pick nougat out of your ear.

    Now you really know Saoirse is on the mend.:D A TUMMY RUB! WOOT! And she gets a clean bottom out of it, to boot! Now that is love, from one end to the other:bighug:I had a doberman pinscher who swallowed a sock. Yup, a whole sock. It passed through, too..dunno what the odds on that were. But I noticed something emerging from Chopper's nether end, and pulled. He whooped, and I found out where my missing sock was. SURPRISE! :facepalm: I made sure all socks were picked up off the floor pronto after that. Yup, Saoirse is probably sore when she eats..all those muscles are so close to cheek and jowels. But she sounds like she's accelerating in healing. Each day she should feel better expotentially. But I know you'll be relieved when she can get her usual dose of insulin.

    I'm glad to hear you are finally getting some shut-eye, too Mogs. Sleep will heal you both. Good to know that the drop of Lantus helped Saoirse, too. Poor baby..she's a real trooper.

    That taxicab company owner is a living doll. I agree with Lucy. People like that are in short supply, these days. :woot: Oops! Happy belated Valentine's day, everyone!:kiss::bighug::bighug:
     
  34. manxcat419

    manxcat419 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 14, 2015
    YAY for tummy rubs! Now you KNOW Saoirse's feeling better! Great, great news...and when you know she's feeling good it makes it much easier for you to sleep. :) :bighug: :bighug: :bighug: :bighug: :bighug:
     
  35. Nancy and Scotty

    Nancy and Scotty Member

    Joined:
    Jul 13, 2014
    Sounds like she is on a fast train to recovery, so glad for good news.
     
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  36. Mogmom and Goofus

    Mogmom and Goofus Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 9, 2014
    Mogs, you're starting to sound more like your old self. So happy for you! :)
     
  37. Bobbie And Bubba

    Bobbie And Bubba Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 15, 2015
    Hi Mogs~ thinking of you and Saoirse and wondering how she is doing.
     
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  38. Elizabeth and Bertie

    Elizabeth and Bertie Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 6, 2010
    Am so very pleased for you and your Saoirse, Mogs! :D
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  39. Lisa and Witn (GA)

    Lisa and Witn (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    This is great news for you and Saoirse. Now, you take care of yourself and get healthy and rested again.
     
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  40. Jeanne

    Jeanne Member

    Joined:
    Jan 18, 2015
    Such wonderful news to read. Now you can start to take care of you. I am so happy for you both. Sending hugs and belly rubs.
     
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  41. Mum of two felines

    Mum of two felines Member

    Joined:
    Dec 7, 2015
    Yay! I am so glad things are getting so much better!
     
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  42. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Update: Monday 21:00 GMT
    ----------------------------------

    Hi people!

    Thank you for checking in on us; it always gives me such a boost to read your messages. I appreciate you all so very much.

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

    I had hoped to start a new thread today but I'm awful tired so I'll keep today's update here and start a new condo on the morrow.

    I'm relieved that Saoirse is getting a little insulin again but I can't get back to BID dosing yet; I'm just not in a fit state to monitor her reliably. That said, even with the tiny dose it's helping to get her into better numbers for part of the day and her ketone levels are OK (anti-jinx, anti-jinx). I'm glad to see her moving a good bit below renal threshold.

    +14 after previous Lantus dose of 'fat zero':

    AMPS - 11.9 (Alphatrak) - Dose: Midline Zero Lantus.
    AM+6.75 - 8.0
    Ketones: 0.4mmol/L (human meter)

    I did get some sleep last night but I'm still wiped out. I've spent most of the day resting. No choice really: standing up is a struggle. I'm skipping insulin tonight in the hope that what sleep I may get might be a bit more restorative if my subconscious mind isn't worrying about Saoirse's BG levels.

    Saoirse's appetite is holding well (anti-jinx, anti-jinx). She gets all excited when her grub is due - and she is 'speaking' to me again! When I see her little face eagerly anticipating her next meal my heart is so joyful it does somersaults. :cat: Saoirse had her ondansetron this morning mixed in with her food. So far today she has eaten two meals of just under a pouchful each. :) I will set the alarm and feed her again during the night. The minced food, small plate and spatula assistance is working well for us; Saoirse is able to eat more tidily now. It's a relief to be able to keep the food away from her healing wound. She gives out to me afterwards, though, when I gently wipe her mouth to keep her face clean. I don't mind. :)

    One of our vets did a house call again today to give Saoirse her antibiotic injection and she says that Saoirse's healing is progressing well. (Thank you for all the prayers and vines!) I am so pleased that they could do the home visits: I am grateful that I could spare Saoirse the vet stress. I donated the second ketone meter to the vets so they might use it in their diabetes clinics or perhaps loan it out to caregivers who may be finding it difficult to monitor urine ketones. I hope it will be a help to other kitties (and maybe droolers, too).

    Apart from the feeding and some fuss sessions (and another tummy rub!) Saoirse has been sleeping really comfortably for much of the day. And ...


    :cat: :cat: :cat: :cat: Saoirse's fur is growing back! :cat: :cat: :cat: :cat:


    I'm thrilled for her! I love her so. :)

    My friendly neighbourhood cabbie got me another kebab tonight - from the right shop this time; much nicer! I'm going to try to get some more sleep now. Hoping that you and all your furbabies are having a grand day.

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



    Mogs
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    Last edited: Feb 16, 2016
  43. Squalliesmom

    Squalliesmom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 26, 2015
    I was so happy to read your update, Mogs, all such great news! Sleep well, and pleasant dreams. :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  44. Bobbie And Bubba

    Bobbie And Bubba Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 15, 2015
    So glad for the update and it sounds like things are progressing nicely for Saoirse. Sure hope you feel better really soon and I am glad that you taking care of yourself by not worrying about Saoirse through the night. That is a good call. Beans have to take care of themselves too. ;)

    You know, the vet who did Bubba's enucleation did not shave his fur. All the photos I saw online prior showed the animal shaved. I was quite surprised when I went to pick him up.

    Sending lots of healing vines from across the pond. :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  45. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    ... especially when one thinks about the desperate state my poor girl was in this night last week. [shudder]

    :bighug::bighug::bighug:


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  46. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Hi Bobby,

    Very good to hear from you. I hope that you and Pirate Bubba are doing well today. :) :bighug:

    Saoirse's opthalmologist said to me that it may not be necessary to shave the area but she prefers to do so as an extra safety precaution.

    Thank you for the continued healing vines. The redness has gone down a little around the wound but I think Saoirse's still sore when she eats. She has a way to go yet. How long did you keep Bubba's Cone of Shame in place?


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  47. Bobbie And Bubba

    Bobbie And Bubba Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 15, 2015
    The cone stayed pretty secure. The only issue I had was that he was a very bad "driver" with it on, bumping into everything. At first I took it off because he was ramming into the walls trying to get it off but a friend insisted that I was playing Russian Roulette with him by not making him wear it and I put it back on. We had a few days where he was aggravated by it and then he just settled it. Is Saoirse getting hers off?
     
  48. jayla-n-Drevon

    jayla-n-Drevon Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Oct 11, 2015
    best news today!!
    the nasty vet--there is always 1:confused:
    Focusing on the positive.... she had a great surgery and is home and improving by the minute (you can punch the nasty vet another day:blackeye:)
     
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  49. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Saoirse's being really good with her collar. It's one like this:

    [​IMG]

    I think the cushioning helps a lot. Normally Saoirse is like that Simon's Cat cartoon you posted for me earlier and perpetually trying to reverse out of the collar. The collar's snug enough to stay in place without needing to secure it on a collar and it's pretty much see-through. I think that could be why it's not making Saoirse as anxious as other collars have in the past. The snap fastenings make it much easier for her when I'm taking it off and putting it back on again.

    I'm keeping Saoirse in her resting cage and, unusually for her, she's quite content being in there at the moment. She can see me all the time (except when I have to leave the room for bits and pieces. I'm glad she's getting a good rest and that her temporary confinement isn't causing her to fret. I hope her new playpen comes soon. We've both got a lot to learn and I want to know she will be safe any time I'm sleeping. The playpen will give her room for manouevre and me peace of mind. Well, that's the plan.


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    Last edited: Feb 16, 2016
  50. Bobbie And Bubba

    Bobbie And Bubba Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 15, 2015
    That looks like Bubba' cone. So glad she is being good with it. The play pen sounds like a good plan!
     
  51. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    @jayla-n-Drevon -

    The opthalmologist could not have been nicer. Most of the other vets were really nice, too. It was just that 'gatekeeper' type on the phone the other day who was the only disappointing/rude one.

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    Last edited: Feb 16, 2016
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  52. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    I'm glad for Saoirse's sake. She has been through so much; I'm very grateful for anything that makes her convalescence easier on her. :)

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  53. jayla-n-Drevon

    jayla-n-Drevon Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Oct 11, 2015
    I am pretty sure they make "soft" cones now??
     
  54. jayla-n-Drevon

    jayla-n-Drevon Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Oct 11, 2015
  55. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    If it was just to stop her from getting at something on her body the soft cone might be more comfy, but because I need to stop her from brushing her face up against things the rigid cone is the best thing for this particular job. I think she kinda knows she needs to have it on at the moment; that it's there to protect her. They are smart, our kittehs. :)

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  56. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 9, 2012
    so glad the healing process is improving as time passes.....
    adding more healing vines and even more scritches....
     
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  57. Blamethecats and Hannah

    Blamethecats and Hannah Member

    Joined:
    Jul 12, 2014
    Now that looks like a really well-designed collar. They're making them so much better and more comfortable than they did when Hannah needed one 14 years ago. Her collar was made of rigid, opaque plastic. It was held on by something that resembled a shoestring, plus it was huge on her and she kept slipping out of it. I ended up cutting it down to accommodate my tiny kitty. I can see why Saoirse is doing so well with this one. Keep up the good work, both of you!
     
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  58. granadilla

    granadilla Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 13, 2015
    Mogs, I'm so glad to hear Saoirse is eating well, purring, and even asking for tummy rubs!!! I was also glad to hear you've got the Ondansetron back on board. I know what a difference it makes.

    And I'm pleased you're eating and that the cabbie has been trained to procure the correct kebabs. Paws crossed for a speedy recovery for both of you. :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  59. Jeanne & Dottie

    Jeanne & Dottie Member

    Joined:
    Jan 9, 2016
    Ohhh a soft collar! :joyful:I want one of those for emergencies... But yes, the rigid one is best for Saoirse right now. And her fur is growing back! Bless her, she's really had a rough go of it. The sooner she starts looking like her old self, the better.

    You ARE sounding more like yourself, Mogs:cat: A little sleep and some food work wonders. Is your chest clearing up? I do hope you get that soft cage soon, I know Saoirse will be much more comfortable and snug in it. How's her weight holding up? Do you have a scale at home? And has Saoirse adapted to the blood pressure cuff?

    The name of the drug...Ondansetron...sounds like a Transformer robot, ;)yes?

    Hang in there, and keep on slugging. You are both doing splendid! Our Heroes!:bighug: Slow and steady wins the race!
     
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  60. Gill & George

    Gill & George Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Oct 27, 2015
    Great update on Saroise, so glad she is doing well, vines for continued improvement:bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  61. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    I think that's one of the main reasons kitties have such a problem with collars. It's really remarkable the difference in Saoirse's attitude to the collar at the moment. I really do think it helps that it's see-through.

    I can visualise poor little Hannah being swamped by her collar. Bless ... :cat:



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  62. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Thank you, Rhiannon. Your scritches were enjoyed with great gusto. :)


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  63. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Hi Shane,

    Thank you for checking in on us and for your good wishes for Saoirse's recovery (and mine!). :)

    I am very relieved that I'm able to give Saoirse's ondansetron successfully. Things might well not be going so well thus far without the support from the drug. I grind up the dose and mix it through a small amount of food from the meal. Once she has eaten all of that I give her the rest, secure in the knowledge that if she doesn't eat it all she has definitely eaten the portion with the anti-nausea med. She's eating really steadily for me thus far (anti-jinx, anti-jinx). It will get better when I can wake up and get vertical a little more because then I'll be able to feed her more frequent meals.

    Thank you again for being there for us, Shane.

    :bighug:


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  64. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Hi Jeanne,

    Thank you for asking after me. My main problem when I get a chest infection is a really dry, ticklish cough. There have been times when I've come close to sustaining a cough fracture the irritation was so bad. Thankfully I managed to get hold of some Hall's Mentholyptus blackcurrant-flavoured cough sweets. I've tried umpty-'leven lozenges and cough syrups down the years and they are the only ones that help. They've helped me to get past the tickle stage without spending the whole night choking. I'm very weak but I don't know how much of that is coming from the exhaustion rather than the lurgy.

    Saoirse's playpen arrived today. I opened it out quickly to see what it's like but I won't be setting it up for her for another day or so 'cause I just don't have the energy to sort that and also take down and store away her existing digs. It's a good size. I'll post a pic when I get it set up.

    Saoirse's weight is OK. I do have a digital baby scales for her but I haven't weighed her since a few days before the awfulness kicked off. I know from lifting her that her weight's alright and visually she seems to be maintaining muscle mass OK. I know from my secondary monitoring that she's eating enough to just about maintain her weight. I'll wait till she's a bit further along in her recovery before popping her onto the scales for a check. I'm trying to keep things as simple as possible for her at the moment.

    WRT the Doppler unit, again I'm waiting till Saoirse has had a bit more time to recouperate before trying the desensitization training. I'll let you know how we get on in due course.

    Thank you, Jeanne, for all the kindness and caring you have shown to me and my girl at such a difficult and distressing time. If ever there is anything I can do to help you and Dottie just let me know.

    :bighug:


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  65. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Hi Gill,

    Thank you for your message - and thank you for the improvement vines for my little one.

    I am so grateful to you for all the medical information you posted for me. It really helped so much. In particular, it helped me to derive a lot more benefit from the consult with the opthalmologist than would have been the case had I not read your posts. I wasn't in the greatest of shape at the time but I was better able to follow her armed with the information you gave me. It also helped me when I was required to make such a heavyweight decision about the best thing to do for Saoirse. I can't thank you enough. Please let me know if ever there is anything I might do to help you.

    :bighug:


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  66. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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