? Prayers Please: Saoirse Not Well at All | UPDATE Wed 6th: Recovering from Severe Pancreatitis Flare

Discussion in 'Feline Health - (Welcome & Main Forum)' started by Critter Mom, Jul 3, 2016.

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  1. Marlena

    Marlena Well-Known Member

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    Oh my darling, really sorry to hear that.
    If only I could help with anything ...
    Sending lots of healing vines for you and Saoirse.
    Marlena & Rocky
    :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  2. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    @Marlena - I appreciate you being there for us. I would hate to be all alone with this; I'm worried sick.

    :bighug:

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  3. Sharon14

    Sharon14 Well-Known Member

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    Sending more prayers and healing vines for sweet Saoirse:bighug:
     
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  4. Carol & Murphy (GA)

    Carol & Murphy (GA) Well-Known Member

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    What does she need pain meds for, Mogs? Pancreatitis still?
     
  5. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Thank you, Sharon. :bighug:

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  6. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    I think the pancreas and also some arthritis or possible other inflammation.

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  7. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    I am worried that we may be in palliative territory ... and my heart is in shreds.
     
  8. Carol & Murphy (GA)

    Carol & Murphy (GA) Well-Known Member

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    Why specifically do you think that, Mogs? If it is pancreatitis, could she be dehydrated and may be some SQ fluids would make her feel better?
     
  9. Rachel

    Rachel Well-Known Member

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    Mogs, you know we are all here thinking about you. I really wish I could be there next to you to help you out with all this! Since I can't, know that I am sending healing vines for you BOTH. Many hugs to you and chin scritches to Saoirse!
     
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  10. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Gut feel. She's well-hydrated, btw.

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  11. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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  12. Tuxedo Mom

    Tuxedo Mom Well-Known Member

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    If you feel that the pancreatitis is having a major affect on Saoirse's QOL , one option...that definitely messes with the glucose levels is to have prednisolone (steroids) added in. I would have done the same with my Tuxie with his chronic pancreatitis, except with the diagnosis of early Cushing's the treatment is worse than the disease.

    Senidng lots of prayer and hugs for you both :bighug: :bighug: :bighug:
     
  13. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    @Tuxedo Mom - Would the prednisolone also be any help with the arthritis, Mary Ann? I've been thinking about steroids myself today. I had no joy trying to get the vets to prescribe prednisolone before when she had the hot spot problem. :(

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  14. Tuxedo Mom

    Tuxedo Mom Well-Known Member

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    From what I know..which may not be all the information...the steroids are not intended to help with arthritis, but it may help marginally. The only problem with steroids is that they are not intended for long term use..without causing other problems. I had tendonitis and was given 3 separate shots of steroids over a 3 month period into the affected joint. I was told that that was all they would give since more would start to deteriorate the muscles, ligaments and tendons. Luckily with me the shots gave a good improvement.
     
  15. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Thanks for that info, Mary Ann.
     
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  16. Maggies Mom Debby

    Maggies Mom Debby Well-Known Member

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    Mogs, my Emme had came to us with feline herpes. My vet suggested L-Lysine to boost her immune system. I would buy the pure powder from Amazon (NOW brand). I would sprinkle the powder on her food twice a day. The container suggests a serving size of 1/4 level teaspoon, and it contains 435 mg of L-Lysine. You can also get capsules, but I have arthritis in my hands and had trouble opening them. Plus the power was cheaper. There is l-lysine marketed specifically for cats, but it was also more expensive. I've never heard of any side effects, but to be sure, maybe start with a half dose and see how she does.
     
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  17. Tuxedo Mom

    Tuxedo Mom Well-Known Member

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    Steroids from my experiences are intended to help with tissues inflammation, such as pancreatitis , etc, It may actually hep with arthritis if there is tissue inflammation as well as joint inflammation. Whether this could be used long term, I can't advise you on.
     
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  18. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    I have some pure lysine powder, Debby. Thanks for the tips on dose and administration. I have a little jeweller's balance so I'll be able to work out the dose measurement with that.

    :bighug:
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  19. Sharon14

    Sharon14 Well-Known Member

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  20. Alexi

    Alexi Member

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    Even with non-inflammtory types of arthritis there is often some associated inflammation so I think steroids will help the pain as they are strongly anti-inflammatory. They do mess with the blood glucose but you know how to handle that. :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  21. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Never heard of MSM before, Sharon. Thanks for the link; will have a look.
     
  22. Sharon14

    Sharon14 Well-Known Member

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    I use it for me and my horses, but haven't had the need to try it in a cat.
     
  23. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Thanks for this info, Alexi. :bighug:

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  24. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    @Sue and Oliver (GA) -

    Hi Sue,

    If you're around could you help me with something? Saoirse's not responding to her Lantus at the moment and my attempts to raise the dose in line with TRP didn't work; she got really dopey and lethargic. Her numbers aren't much worse for the dose reduction but her clinical signs have been better on the lower dose (currently on fat 0.25 BID). She's running in the low teens (Alphatrak). I am thinking of asking the vet whether Prozinc might help her (especially as it can be used on a sliding scale). Do you know of any cats that did better after switching from Lantus to Prozinc?


    Mogs
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  25. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

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    Mogs, I'm so sorry to hear that things are still rocky. Know that I am thinking of you and Saoirse daily and sending heaps of hugs and healing vines to you both.

    On the subject of steroids, they are commonly used in human arthritic treatment so I see no reason why they wouldn't be helpful for Saoirse too.
    hug1.jpg hug1.jpg black-cat-smiley-emoticon.gif black-cat-smiley-emoticon.gif
     
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  26. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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  27. Red & Rover (GA)

    Red & Rover (GA) Well-Known Member

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    Hope your Ceann Beag feels better soon, and you too.
     
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  28. jayla-n-Drevon

    jayla-n-Drevon Well-Known Member

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    I just wanted to add that you may be able to get the equine adequan which is what we use and we also inject SQ 1x a week-I know we can go up to 4 weeks but my boys are seniors and doing so well I hate to mess with progress. The only difference with the equine is there are no preservatives which is better in my opinion--they go thru it faster so no need for them. We also go thru it fast (I think you have a year regardless)--maybe your vet can order the equine one? I get 3 at a time.:bighug:
     
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  29. Diana&Tom

    Diana&Tom Well-Known Member

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    (((((Mogs))))) I'm so sorry to hear things aren't great. I think of you often and wonder how you and Saiorse are doing. Stay strong - Saiorse is a little fighter and she will respond to all your efforts as best she can. It may be that this warmer spell of weather isn't helping much at the moment... Sounds daft I know but it's possible.
    Sending lots of hugs and positive get better thoughts to both of you..
    Diana
     
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  30. Larry and Kitties

    Larry and Kitties Well-Known Member

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    Just use the 1/2 teaspoon ato give 425 mg. The power likely has some inert additives so the weight of the power may be greater than the weight of L-Lysine
    I was just looking for Adequan for my civi Moxie. All I could ind in the 5 ml multi-dose vials were ones that expired in Oct of this year. You can find 5 ml single-dose Equine Adequan but that does not have a preservative so stuff can grow in it after initial puncture. The multiple dose vials have a preservative. You can get multi-dose Equine Adequan but that only comes in 50 ml vial that cost about $300-400
     
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  31. DreMeister

    DreMeister Member

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    Apr 3, 2016
    Sure hope your kitty is doing better!
     
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  32. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Thanks, @DreMeister. I hope that Snickers is doing a bit better today, too.

    Upped Saoirse's Lantus again today; got a little bit of a budge on PM+2 tonight. She was a bit more comfortable this evening (anti-jinx).


    Mogs
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  33. DreMeister

    DreMeister Member

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    Apr 3, 2016
    Thanx for thinking of Snicky. She seems to be better, anyways. Hope it stays that way. Only thing is she's hiding now when it's shot time and is becoming a wild animal when trying to inject her. Hope yours keeps getting better!
     
  34. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Be sure to post this information on Snickers' own thread; it might be an insulin dose issue causing her problems with digestion (or possibly taking her low mid-cycle/high & flat - impossible to tell without BG test data or even 2ndry monitoring data). If more members see this info they might be able to advise you better.


    Mogs
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  35. DreMeister

    DreMeister Member

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    I have mentioned her aversion to shots lately but haven't gotten a response yet.
     
  36. Louellen

    Louellen Member

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    I haven't been on here very much for awhile but, Mogs, I am sending strength, good wishes and prayers for both of you! :bighug::bighug::bighug:

    Her demeanour may be due to pain/discomfort. I agree with Mr.WorfMensMom on the pain meds as a possibility.
     
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  37. Callie & Patches

    Callie & Patches Well-Known Member

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    Iam so sorry that you and Saorise are going through all this. I have you both on my prayer list.
     
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  38. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Thank you, Louellen and Donnalea. :bighug:

    Managed to get a urine test done today and it was positive for blood. Got vet to do a housecall to give Saoirse an antibiotic for a UTI. I'm quite frustrated that the vet I spoke to on Saturday didn't offer this because I told him that her BG levels were completely abnormal and that I suspected she might have some form of inflammation or infection. I've also started her on Nutracys (glucosamine, quercitin and l-tryptophan).

    Her appetite is good but I don't think she's digesting her food properly; her abdomen was distended and tender when the vet examined her today - and she seems to be producing too much poop (stools OK in colour, yielding to firm, healthy odour). Yet again her tum is very gassy and I think this may be causing much of her discomfort at the moment as she seems much, much comfier and happier after she has a poop. The vets haven't once offered any suggestions for how to treat this problem despite it being an issue on and off for quite some time now (although not as bad as it is at the moment). @tiffmaxee - Has Max ever had problems with bloating? If yes, could you recommend anything that might help Saoirse? For info, I give her pumpkin in her food and I've reduced that over the last few days. Also one of the vets at the practice gave her a Convenia injection just over 2 weeks ago (despite it being on her records that she is not to be treated with Convenia ... :mad:). She had a 3-day amoxycillin dose today. She gets ondansetron twice a day as standard and she has been getting a small dose of bupe 2-3 times a day for the last few weeks.

    This is so frustrating; so much of the time she's grand ... I'm desperate to help her.


    Mogs
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  39. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

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    Poor Saoirse! Sending more healing vines for both of you! Keeping you in our prayers! :bighug::bighug::bighug: black-cat-smiley-emoticon.gif black-cat-smiley-emoticon.gif black-cat-smiley-emoticon.gif
     
  40. tiffmaxee

    tiffmaxee Well-Known Member

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    Hi. I've been consumed with my mom's health, Max's high BP and I just had a root canal this afternoon so I'm just reading this now. With her stool normal I'd be surprised if she wasn't absorbing her food. The bloating could be from pancreatitis. The blood in the urine sounds like a UTI and that might very well be the problem. She's eating which is a very good time so I don't think she is any where near ready to give up. I think you need to see if the antibiotic shot helps her to feel better. It should work within 72 hours. How much pumpkin were you giving? I never have given more than a teaspoon twice a day.
     
  41. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    @tiffmaxee -

    Hi Elise,

    I'm sorry to hear about all that is going on with you. :bighug: I doubly appreciate your taking time to respond to my tag. I feel for you over Max's high BP problems; Saoirse also has BP issues but she can't tolerate the meds (and the benazapril seems to be at the root of this, her worst ever pancreatitis flare). Like you, I don't think she's anywhere near wanting to give up but it is wrecking my head and tearing at my heart that I can't get things in place to keep her more comfortable. I'm thinking of trialling her on pancreatic enzymes; they're supposed to be a help with bloating and associated discomfort. Have you ever tried similar with Max?

    Re pumpkin I had been giving her a maximum of 2tsps canned pumpkin spread across all of her meals for the day (approx 1/4 tsp per meal). I've reduced that amount down to about half of that or less.

    Sending positive vibes for you and your loved ones. :bighug:


    Mogs
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  42. tiffmaxee

    tiffmaxee Well-Known Member

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    I've never used digestive enzymes because Max doesn't have EPI. did the labs show that Saoirse has it? I'd wait a few days to see if this latest issue is due to a UTI.
     
  43. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    She doesn't have EPI per the tests, but this trapped gas has been an issue for her for quite some time. It has got a lot worse over the last few weeks since the benazepril triggered the flare.
     
  44. tiffmaxee

    tiffmaxee Well-Known Member

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    Is she getting amlodipine for the BP?
     
  45. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    I can't give Saoirse anything to lower her BP, Elise; amlodipine made her very, very sick and the benazapril caused the inflammation that triggered this pancreatitis flare. :( She's running at about 170-175 systolic. The vets think the pain/digestive discomfort may be what is elevating her BP values. It's so hard knowing that there are treatments available but that she can't tolerate them. :( :(


    Mogs
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  46. Tuxedo Mom

    Tuxedo Mom Well-Known Member

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    Dec 2, 2014
    Mogs

    You could look into using Coenzyme Q10 for Saoirse's high blood pressure. I have been using it for Tuxie's heart murmur which they were calling grade 2+. The last check they said they could not hear a heart murmur. Here is some information on it, but I am sure you will do more research before making a decision

    http://www.vcahospitals.com/main/pet-health-information/article/animal-health/coenzyme-q-10/261

    From Tanya's site:

    http://www.felinecrf.org/treatments_waste_products_regulation.htm#coq10
     
    Last edited: Jul 19, 2016
  47. tiffmaxee

    tiffmaxee Well-Known Member

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    How long did she get amlodipine? It bothered Max at first but he got used to it. Of course now he's on it and his BP is a little higher than Saoirse's. But he's been on it for a few years.

    How is she now?
     
  48. Larry and Kitties

    Larry and Kitties Well-Known Member

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    Dec 28, 2009
    Was that determined by use a urine dipstick similar that used for measuring ketones and glucose in urine?
    I ask since for cats the dipstick give a false positive 99% of the time for white blood cells in the urine.
     
  49. Tuxedo Mom

    Tuxedo Mom Well-Known Member

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    Larry

    My vet uses the Chemstrips for urinalysis. If there is any blood showing then they will centrifuge the sample and view under a microcope to look for WB cells. I use the Chemstrip 10 at home and have never had a positive, with having done about 15 tests in the last few months. Some of the other readings on the Chemstrip 10 are not reliable such as the Leukocytes.


    ETA http://vetbook.org/wiki/cat/index.php?title=Urine_dip-stick_analysis
     
  50. Larry and Kitties

    Larry and Kitties Well-Known Member

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    Leukocytes are white blood cells.
     
  51. Tuxedo Mom

    Tuxedo Mom Well-Known Member

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    Yes, but the chemsticks are used to detect any blood in the urine, then the centrifuging and microscopic observation is done. So rather than using the leukocyte patch as an indicator the Chemsticks are useful for detecting blood ( in general) and then further testing if indicated.
     
    Last edited: Jul 19, 2016
  52. Larry and Kitties

    Larry and Kitties Well-Known Member

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    The strips I have used in the past have had a pad for leukocytes and another pad for red blood cells
     
  53. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    The strips I use are Bayer Multistix 10SG and they, too, have separate test panels for red cells and leukocytes. I always ignore the LEU test. Saoirse's urine test the other day was unequivocally positive for red blood cells. I gave the vet part of the sample so that he can do further analysis.


    Mogs
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  54. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Will have a look at that, Linda; thanks for the suggestion.


    Mogs
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  55. mooncats

    mooncats New Member

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  56. Elizabeth and Bertie

    Elizabeth and Bertie Well-Known Member

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    Haven't been around here much lately, Mogs, but just catching up now...
    Don't have any helpful advice (sorry...) but please know that you are much loved, and are receiving cyber hugs by the truckload (or whatever the cyber equivalent of a truck is...)

    :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
    :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
    :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
    :bighug::bighug::bighug:
    :bighug::bighug:
    :bighug:!!!

    Eliz
     
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  57. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    She was on a small dose of amlodipine for eight days (less than the dose for her weight - she's very, very med sensitive in general so things are introduced very slowly). I had to stop it because I couldn't get her to eat and she spent a lot of time trying to hide. It made her absolutely wretched.

    I gave Saoirse the Nutracys supplement earlier today and she has been somewhat subdued since getting it; don't know whether it's the supplement or the warm weather (not excessively hot in the house, just warmer than normal). She hasn't peed all day since she received it. She's bloated again and I think she may have had some GI tract spasms earlier (twitching in the abdominal area after one meal after the supplement was given).

    Have you ever found anything to help with the bloating, Elise? I think this is part of what's making Saoirse uncomfortable. How I wish she could speak to me to tell me what helps and what doesn't. <sigh>

    I hope your mouth is feeling a bit better today. :bighug:


    Mogs

    EDITED TO ADD:

    Saoirse's appetite is good and she is eating well and steadily for me. BG was 13.7 (Alphatrak) at AMPS. I got a new Lantus cartridge from the vets today so as to determine whether or not viability of Saoirse's insulin is part of the problem. I don't think the high numbers are helping matters one iota. :(

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    Last edited: Jul 19, 2016
  58. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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  59. tiffmaxee

    tiffmaxee Well-Known Member

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    I know what you mean about wishing they could talk. I'm really scared about Max's uncontrolled BP. I still wonder if it's really that high or its elevated due to vet stress. I'm so scared he will go blind.

    Max doesn't have the bloating problem so I can't help you with that. Sorry.:bighug:
     
  60. Diana&Tom

    Diana&Tom Well-Known Member

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    [QUOTE="Critter Mom, post: 1728976, member: 10789". How I wish she could speak to me to tell me what helps and what doesn't. <sigh>
    .[/QUOTE]

    I don't know if this is your thing, Mogs, but have you ever considered consulting an animal communicator? I know opinion is divided on such matters. I think if I was desperate for some clues I might give one a try... there are some well regarded ones out there.

    Just a thought.
    Hugs
    Diana
     
  61. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    PMPS 14.8 (Alphatrak). I've got bricks in my stomach.

    :(

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  62. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    My heart well and truly goes out to you, Elise, especially after what happened to Saoirse. :bighug:

    Have you ever tried getting the vet to measure Max's BP at home? Is your vet using a Doppler unit or an oscillometric unit to measure BP?


    Mogs
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  63. tiffmaxee

    tiffmaxee Well-Known Member

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    Nov 15, 2013
    He uses an oscilometer which given that Max weighs nearly 16 pounds is okay. I thought about getting a reading with a Doppler but since it would be a one time thing have decided not to do it. It makes more sense to me to be consistent and my vet likes his way. In order to check him at home I would need to find a traveling vet and pay for a vet visit plus test each time. I just can't do that. Thanks for the suggestion.
     
  64. Rachel

    Rachel Well-Known Member

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    Aug 25, 2013
    Mogs, I still don't have any advice, but I wanted to stop and give you some more hugs. Know that we're always thinking of you....
     
  65. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    @tiffmaxee -

    I got an oscillometric monitor for Saoirse - just wish I was near you so that you could use it to get a better handle on Max's BP. It's at times like this I really wish we all lived round the corner from each other.


    Mogs
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  66. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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  67. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    PMPS 14.8
    PM+3.5 13.4

    (Alphatrak)

    That's with the new vial of Lantus. Saoirse normally nadirs early. She's never not responded to insulin before. I am so worried ... can't seem to do anything to help my girl.

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  68. tiffmaxee

    tiffmaxee Well-Known Member

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    Do you have a spreadsheet? I'm not familiar with world numbers and don't use an AT. Is this a one say issue or a trend?
     
  69. Tuxedo Mom

    Tuxedo Mom Well-Known Member

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    If Saoirse does have a UTI that can certainly keep her numbers higher. Did the vet get a report back yet on the urine sample?
     
  70. tiffmaxee

    tiffmaxee Well-Known Member

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    The UTI could be causing the new symptoms. This is day two of the antibiotic right? It should start to help by tomorrow.
     
  71. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    She's had a UTI before but she still showed a response to her insulin at that time. @Tuxedo Mom - not got anything back from the vet about the urine sample yet. @tiffmaxee - The 72-hr mark from time of antibiotic dose admin will be tomorrow afternoon.

    US BG Values in this tab of Saoirse's spreadsheet (Alphatrak meter). Her numbers have been going pear-shaped for the last couple of weeks. (ETA - custom colour coding - see key at top of spreadsheet.)

    https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet...khkFFt-aTWdJxS6Di7H4/edit?pref=2&pli=1#gid=16

    She's very bloated. She is still eating OK and she's a bit cranky tonight. I am wondering whether the bupe is feeding into the bloating.

    I'm getting really panicky.


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    Last edited: Jul 19, 2016
  72. BJM

    BJM Well-Known Member

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    The bupe may slow the GI tract which may back stuff up.
     
  73. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    That's what I'm worrying about, BJ. (Thanks for your reply.) Would it be an idea to give her a one-off dose of metoclopramide tomorrow? She seems really uncomfortable tonight (nearly 24 hrs since she had a poop).


    Mogs
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  74. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Jun 16, 2014
    AMPS - 10.7 then food plus skinny 0.5 of new vial of Lantus
    AM+2.5 - 14.3
    AM+3.5 - 17.2 - ate a bit then had a poop - one part tan, a bit gooey/marshmallowy and a bit whiffy. Previous poop was between 4am and 6:30am and was normal. I think she's pooping too much.

    Saoirse's lethargic again today. Room is quite warm and that's not helping.

    Tears and panic here.


    Mogs
    .
     
  75. Diana&Tom

    Diana&Tom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 29, 2009
    Breathe, Mogs...it IS very warm indeed and even the healthiest kitty finds that hard-going. I'm sure BGs can rise when it's this hot. Is it worth putting in a quick call to the vet to ask for their comments...?

    (((Mogs)))

    Diana

    ETA: a good tip to cool a room down is to place a bowl of ice cubes in front of a fan. Really quite effective and worth trying if it helps to make Saoirse more comfortable.
     
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  76. Tuxedo Mom

    Tuxedo Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 2, 2014

    Mogs

    Just as Diana suggested the heat could certainly be playing into Saoirse's numbers. It has been very hot and muggy here the last few days ( 40C with the humidex) and both my kitties are much more lethargic and their numbers are wonky as well. Tuxie, as usual is eating fine, but Maxie is very peckish about her food..unless I add some tuna to it :rolleyes:. The heat can play a big factor in how Saoirse is feeling.
     
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  77. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 18, 2015
    Mogs, I too can attest to the BG levels going up when the weather gets hot. I have A/C but hate it so I don't set it too low and I've noticed Menace's BG seems to rise with higher temps and all my furkids get sluggish/lethargic. If there is a removable cushion in the bottom of Saoirse's favourite bed, putting a soft icepack or two under the cushion might keep her a little more comfy. Sending more hugs and healing vines! :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  78. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Nope. I've come to the inescapable conclusion that, with very rare exceptions, asking vets about anything but the basics when it comes to insulin dosing is an exercise in utter futility - at best. :banghead: As I've said before, I don't think I'd have been able to do anything like as much for Saoirse were it not for FDMB members and all I've learned here.

    Numbers thus far today (Alphatrak):

    AMPS - 10.7 then food plus skinny 0.5 of new vial of Lantus
    AM+2.5 - 14.3
    AM+3.5 - 17.2 - ate a bit then had a poop (one part tan, a bit gooey/marshmallowy and a bit whiffy.)
    AM+5.5 - 17.8 - +1.5 postprandial. Mini-meal after this test.
    AM+7.0 - 13.3 - +1.5 postprandial. Keen appetite and a good bit perkier. Fed after test.

    I am wondering whether the new vial plus the possibility of the antibiotics starting to kick in might have resulted in Saoirse now getting too much insulin? Her curve is completely upside down. At times like this I wonder whether it may be better to have a cat on an in-out insulin so that one might respond more dynamically to rapidly shifting insulin needs; dealing with a depot in these circumstances is highly problematic.

    Saoirse perked up a fair bit just after the AM+5.5 test. She was really hungry and ate well for me after this test. She's still stressy. Sitting on the sofa beside me but her tail is swishing like crazy. :(


    Mogs

    EDITED TO ADD:

    @tiffmaxee, @Chris & China,@Marje and Gracie - if any of you are around is there any chance you'd have a look at Saoirse's numbers for me over the last few days, please? I'm at a loss for what to do about her insulin. For info, when I tried to take her up to 0.75 recently she became really lethargic and dysphoric; much like she was when she was being treated with Caninsulin. I'm thinking of asking the vet about switching Saoirse to ProZinc; I've got do something to sort this situation out for Saoirse. [ETA - further numbers below.]

    .
     
    Last edited: Jul 20, 2016
  79. Connie & Max

    Connie & Max Member

    Joined:
    Jun 15, 2016
    Mogs - I am new and have very little clue about any of this, but I just wanted to send you my support and prayers.
     
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  80. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    @Connie & Max -

    Thank you so much, Connie; I am very grateful. :bighug:


    Mogs
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  81. Callie & Patches

    Callie & Patches Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 18, 2016
    I am also fairly new, but I have noticed that since Callie's UTI has responded to the antibiotic, her numbers have dropped a lot. Now I have to worry about herj going Hypo. Any infection can mess with their numbers.

    I hope things get better at your home.
     
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  82. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    @donnalea -

    Thank you for sharing your experience with Callie's UTI and also for your good wishes; goodness knows we need them. :bighug:


    Mogs
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  83. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Curve latest (Alphatrak):

    AMPS - 10.7 - food plus skinny 0.5 from new vial of Lantus.
    AM+2.5 - 14.3
    AM+3.5 - 17.2 - ate a bit then had a poop (one part tan, a bit gooey/marshmallowy and a bit whiffy.)
    AM+5.5 - 17.8 - +1.5 postprandial. Mini-meal after this test.
    AM+7.0 - 13.3 - +1.5 postprandial. Keen appetite and a good bit perkier. Fed after test.
    AM+9.25 - 10.7 - +2 postprandial. Fed after test. Perkier, giving me nuzzles and speaking to me while I got her food ready.

    Completely upside-down curve.


    Mogs
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    Last edited: Jul 20, 2016
  84. Capoo

    Capoo Member

    Joined:
    Jan 15, 2016
    Courage! :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  85. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Completed curve data (Alphatrak):

    AMPS - 10.7 - food plus skinny 0.5 from new vial of Lantus.
    AM+2.5 - 14.3
    AM+3.5 - 17.2 - ate a bit then had a poop (one part tan, a bit gooey/marshmallowy and a bit whiffy.)
    AM+5.5 - 17.8 - +1.5 postprandial. Mini-meal after this test.
    AM+7.0 - 13.3 - +1.5 postprandial. Keen appetite and a good bit perkier. Fed after test.
    AM+9.25 - 10.7 - +2 postprandial. Fed after test. Perkier, giving me nuzzles and speaking to me while I got her food ready.

    Very hungry at around AM+10.75 - +11 (not fed at this time).

    PMPS - 11.8 - c. +2.5 postprandial.

    As stated earlier, curve is pretty much the perfect inverse of how Saoirse normally responds to a good dose of insulin (she tends to have quite early onset and nadir). For right or wrong, I've reduced the dose tonight to skinny 0.25 Lantus.


    Mogs
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  86. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Bonjour, Sophie! Si bon de vous entendre, mon amie. :) Comment allez vous? Et Capoo, aussi? (Très bien, j'espère.)

    :bighug::bighug::bighug:


    Mogs
    .
     
  87. Dyana

    Dyana Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    Mogs, I'm sorry you're going through all this stress, and sending feel better vines to Saoirse :bighug: and to you.
    J.D. used to get bloated and gassy with pancreatitis, and I would get all worried and take him to the vet and they always said it was just gas and that I could try an infant gas X formula (Simethicone). I don't know if it helped J.D. He was also on Ondansetron, Bupe, and got pumpkin, etc.
    I wish you luck and think positive thoughts for Saoirse.
     
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  88. Sharon14

    Sharon14 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Aug 16, 2015
    Wish I knew something that would help. :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  89. DebG

    DebG Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Mar 30, 2016
     :bighug::bighug::bighug:hopefully Saoirse will be feeling better real soon!
    Im sorry that you both have to experience all the other issues that arise. It' s hard enough with FD!
    Prayers for healing!
     
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  90. BJM

    BJM Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Oct 6, 2010
    The odor and lighter color to the feces suggests that the enzyme producing cells in the pancreas may not be working optimally. That is called exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, or EPI. A blood test taken when fasting may diagnose it. Or, you might check with the vet about doing a trial of enzyme supplementation to see if it helps.
     
  91. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Thursday morning:

    AMPS: - 9.8 - Two goes at brekkie (after AMPS and finished it at onset +1). Quite perky and alert after AMPS feed. Not as warm this morning.
    AM+2 - 10.9 - +50 mins postprandial. Fed after test. (NB: test just before +2 - done early because Saoirse was hungry.)
    AM+3 - 12.2 - +1 postprandial. Fed. Quite sleepy-lethargic after this meal (room warmer so that might be an additional factor).

    Fingers and paws crossed for a better day today. Due a vet visit for next amoxycillin and B12 jabs.


    Mogs
    .
     
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  92. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    @BJM - Already on it; ordered some Pancrezym for Saoirse earlier in the week. Will be speaking to the vet about them today.


    Mogs
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  93. Diana&Tom

    Diana&Tom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 29, 2009
    Looking better today, Mogs :) I do think the heat is making life difficult for all of us. I am sleepy and can barely move myself so dread to think what it must be like with a thick fur coat on...
    Paws crossed for an upturn...

    Diana
     
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  94. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    @Dyana -

    Thanks for the tip about the simethicone and, even more valuable, for telling me about J.D's regimen and bloating issues, especially as the regimen is so similar to Saoirse's. Will ask the vet about the simethicone today. I really do think it would help Saoirse feel so much more comfortable if I could find something to reduce the bloating. I have IBS myself, and I know how very uncomfortable - and sometimes how painful - abdominal bloating and trapped wind can be.

    Thank you also for sending healing thoughts to my darling girl. I'm very grateful for them.

    :bighug:


    Mogs
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    Last edited: Jul 21, 2016
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  95. Callie & Patches

    Callie & Patches Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 18, 2016
    I'm. praying that Saoise and you has a good day today.
     
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  96. tiffmaxee

    tiffmaxee Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Nov 15, 2013
    Sorry I wasn't around much yesterday. Amoxicillin is not sitting well with me. I'm having the opposite problem that Saoirse is having. How is she this morning or night for you?
     
  97. Capoo

    Capoo Member

    Joined:
    Jan 15, 2016
    Bonjour @Critter Mom , je vais très bien, et c'est bientôt les vacances, donc tout va pour le mieux.

    And great news, Capoo is OTJ for nearly two months now!!!!

    I just can't thank you enough for your great advises about home testing, insulin, food, management of pancreatitis....:kiss::kiss::kiss:

    My fingers are crossed for you and your beloved kitty :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  98. Connie & Max

    Connie & Max Member

    Joined:
    Jun 15, 2016
    I don't know if this would be okay for a cat or not, but for myself peppermint has helped. Perhaps some peppermint tea may giver her relief?

    Update: It seems that tea would be okay, just not peppermint oil. A couple of links in case this is useful:
    http://www.petmd.com/dog/wellness/evr_multi_herb_n_living
    http://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/how-build-homeopathic-and-herbal-first-aid-kit-pets
     
    Last edited: Jul 21, 2016
    Reason for edit: Found a couple of helfpul links
  99. stacia

    stacia Member

    Joined:
    Aug 12, 2014
    Sending love to you both. I wish I had any answers or suggestions, but just hoping for some relief and purrs.
     
  100. DebG

    DebG Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Mar 30, 2016
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