Diabetic cat hasn't eaten since breakfast yesterday - Help??

Discussion in 'Feline Health - (Welcome & Main Forum)' started by Justyn, Oct 3, 2016.

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  1. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    My 5yr old Socks was Diagnosed this past June, but has been fairly regulated these last few weeks in comparison to the first few months..

    Sock's ate his breakfast per usual yesterday (1 can Merrick Chicken Pate) and received his normal 1.5u shot all at 645am - but at 645 pm when I went to get his food ready, he was nowhere to be found, which is extremely unsual because he's normally bugging me by then.. He ended up taking a few licks/bites VERY slowly and gave up, which he's always a plate-licker.. I wasn't able to get him to eat more than 1/6 can last night, and even after offering another flavor - he actually gagged - so I didn't give him insulin due to the possibility of puking

    He ended up puking about 1 hour after dinner (1/6 can) and puked quite a bit so am not sure if breakfast was still in his tummy..

    So I'm of course hoping it may just be an upset stomach, as his numbers lately haven't been too bad (though I haven't been able to get NADIRs due to work schedule). He is peeing small, normal amounts (almost the exact same as my other non-DM cat) BUT is very lethargic, drinking lots of water, and hasn't done much but lay around..

    This morning I tried offering some food, and he gagged again (no puke, just made the face), so I tried boiling some rice and ground beef but he only ate a few nibbles of the ground beef. So I tested his sugar and it was 430, so I gave him .5u to keep him down during the day while im at work. He's stable, hasn't puked since the one time last night - and have read to maybe try some Pepcid ac for nausea for an upset stomach or pancreatitis flare (which he's never had but the symptoms seem possible..)

    I don't think it's Ketoacidosis as his numbers had been crazy high for the last few months and haven't had any issues lately - just happened out of the blue last night. He's been doing great, gaining weight, and being totally normal - until last night! So I don't know if this is just an upset stomach or an emergency... I truly don't have an extra $100 until Friday for blood work/vet visit- so I'm hoping to try some home remedies and get some feedback if anyone has a suggestion... I also don't know what to do about the insulin amounts - but just gave him a tiny bit to keep him from going up too high..

    Thanks,
    J
     
  2. Larry and Kitties

    Larry and Kitties Well-Known Member

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    Could be pancreatitis. If it is treatment is pain meds, sub-Q fluids, anti nausea like Cerenia, and syringe feeding if not eating.
    I would test urine with a human dipstick that measure ketones. You can ones that have two pads, one for ketones and nne for glucose
     
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  3. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    Yes, definitely concerned it's pancreatits but is it treatable at home- as he doesn't look dehydrated (by the skin snap-back test) and I can get him on some pain meds he has from last vet trip, and antinausea medicine - especially because he's drinking lots of water... But are ketones related to pancreatits? or would that more so indicated Ketoacidosis? thanks for the reply..
     
  4. JohnZ

    JohnZ Member

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    The couple of times Derek lost his appetite and started to gag up I gave him 1/2 of a regular strength (10mg) Pepcid AC (famotidine) tablet and it worked wonders... after about 5-10 hours he was back to normal. My vet actually told me to do this... for what it's worth...
     
    Last edited: Oct 3, 2016
  5. JohnZ

    JohnZ Member

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    So... you would actually be giving him 5mg...
     
  6. Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA)

    Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA) Well-Known Member

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    Ketones would be related to ketoacidosis (DKA), not pancreatitis.

    I don't have enough knowledge of your cat to give insulin recommendations, but would like to ask about the gagging. Does it look like a hairball gag, or an upset stomach gag, or could it possibly be more like something stuck in his throat? Is there any possibility that he swallowed something and he shouldn't? A string/ribbon/plastic?

    But in general, you don't want him to go very much longer without getting something to eat or you have to worry about fatty liver disease (hepatic lipidosis).

    You might want to start with a quarter of a regular Pepcid, but then I would personally start pulling out all of the usual tricks like baby food without onions, anything that he would normally eat, something stinky (tuna), etc. And if he doesn't go for it I think you probably need to try to start syringe feeding when you get home from work if he is still not eating.
     
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  7. Larry and Kitties

    Larry and Kitties Well-Known Member

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    Ketone and pancreatitis are not directly related but not eating together with high BGs along with a health problem like pancreatitis can lead to ketones.
    I you an get Sock to keep food down and give insulin to get BG down and if there are no ketones in urine you can try treating at home.
     
  8. Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA)

    Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA) Well-Known Member

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    That is higher than what my vet recommends. Mine suggested one quarter of a 10 mg tablet which would only be 2.5 mg. Others can please chime in.

    ETA: This is a "regular" Pepcid - 10mg, not maximum strength, and not any of the other Pepcid variations for humans. The only active ingredient should be famotidine.
     
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  9. JohnZ

    JohnZ Member

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    My vet also recommends 1/4 tablet if it's needed on a regular basis... but 1/2 tablet twice a day for up to 2 days for the times Derek was gagging up with little or no appetite...
     
  10. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    Thanks for the reply, and yes that's what I'm going to try right after work - and if he doesn't get his appetite back - I will have to take him into the vet tomorrow morning. I wish I could have gotten some this morning - as my other vet told me the same thing..
     
  11. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    I understand - as I just didn't want to give him too much to crash as I wont be home until 6pm tonight - and didn't want him to go any higher as he's just been around that 430 since last night around 9pm.. But he's actually ONLY gagged when he's gone up and smelled his food - SO seems like nausea to me. But he's definitely had hairballs in the past, but nothing in the last 2 months at all. I keep things like strings and plastic far away from his reach but he surely likes to lick things so I wouldn't but it out of the question... Thanks. And I will need to take him to the vet if he doesn't get appetite back by tomorrow morning
     
  12. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    gotcha just making sure as that's what I thought. But definitely understand and that's my game plan - I just truly cannot afford another few days of hospitalization for ketoacidosis so am hoping that's not the case..
     
  13. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    I was also advised 1/4 tab so may start with that - and thanks for that tip I will make sure when I buy some to look for that..
     
  14. Olive & Paula

    Olive & Paula Well-Known Member

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    I think a vet visit is in order. A test for pancreatitis should be done. Depending on severity it can be treated at home. You treat the symptoms. Nausea, pain fluid hydration, appetite. Smokey was treated at home. He received cerenia, Buprenorphine and antibiotic until infection was ruled out. He needed the meds for many many weeks but now on small maintenance dose. Luckily he continued to eat throughout treatment. You want to catch it early and treat asap to prevent lipidosis.
     
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  15. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    I'm concerned as I've read a flare of pancreatits can settle on its own - as long as they're still drinking/eating and I also have pain meds for him from last vet visit. More so, I'm concerned about what tests are needed to rule pancreatits - as I've heard xrays but I would not have the $200 for that anytime soon..
     
  16. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    Just called ONLY vet I can even afford (local humane society) and next appointment is Thursday.... they can only do blood work tomorrow with a tech but I wont get any meds prescribed so unsure if worth it to take him in for blood work... if he's not eating by tomorrow morning, I understand it's an emergency, and my only emergent option is no-where near affordable... about $300 for bloodwork vs $65... but I will check back in later after trying the Pepcid- but he has an appetite and wanted to eat throughout the morning feeding attempt so im hoping to get him confortable and eating asap...
     
  17. Olive & Paula

    Olive & Paula Well-Known Member

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    If the vet has a SNAP test in house it will be a yes or no result, like a pregnancy test. It will not show severity. There is a blood test run by Texas U for pancr that will have severity and takes a while to get results. Your vet would draw the blood and send it out. The test is only done certain day of week. Then there is ultrasound. Smokey was dx by ultrasound and the blood test confirmed it. Either way it will cost.
     
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  18. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    Wow, so a standard blood test wouldn't be able to tell/give indication for pancreatitis?
     
  19. Larry and Kitties

    Larry and Kitties Well-Known Member

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    The best test for pancreatitis is an ultrasound but those are expensive. IDEXX, a testing firm used by many vets (Antech is the other popular one) do a pancreatis test like that use by TAMU (Texas A&M University). TAMU helped develop the IDEXX test.
    Regardihg regular blood tests, high liver values is can be consistent with pancreatitis. Also, pain when palpating the abdominal area is also consistent.
     
  20. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    Gotcha, well I guess we'd have to just go for a basic blood test and look for those higher liver values to give us an idea - as we are so in a bind with income right now that this is just bad timing... if it happened in two more weeks, we'd be in much better shape to get him whatever care he needs - but this is all so out of the blue and am hoping he starts feeling better soon... his poops have been totally normal.. just nothing lately because he hasn't been eating...
     
  21. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Nope. The SNAP fPL in-house test will give a yes/no for pancreatitis.

    I also recommend that you test ASAP for ketones as they can also cause nausea. Should it prove that your kitty's throwing ketones then that is a veterinary emergency.

    To rule out another possible cause of the nausea is there any chance your kitty might be constipated (can cause nausea and vomiting)? If yes, then that needs to be addressed in conjunction with any anti-nausea treatment otherwise the latter is very unlikely to be effective.

    As you already know cats can't go very long at all without eating before hepatic lipidosis becomes a significant risk. You need to address the nausea rapid fashion so as to ensure Socks is able to eat. If you can't get the pancreatitis blood work done immediately (and assuming it's not ketosis you're dealing with) would your vet be willing to treat on an 'as if' basis? If yes then an injection of Cerenia may help fairly quickly with the nausea and vomiting. Ondansetron is another highly effective medicine for nausea but it may take a day or two to reach full clinical effect but normally the ondansetron treatment can be started at the same time as the Cerenia dose is given. (Typical dose is 1/4 of a 4mg every 12 hours for a 10lb cat but your vet may be able to advise on whether a 2mg q12 dose might be more appropriate if the nausea's really severe. Ondansetron is a human med - you may need to get a written Rx from your vet and have it filled at a regular pharmacy.)

    Feeding very small, very frequent meals can be easier on a cat with pancreatitis. (Timed feeders help enormously with this.) Adding a little water to each meal can help with hydration levels.

    Useful links:

    Nausea and appetite problems - symptoms and treatments

    IDEXX pancreatitis treatment guidelines

    FDMB Sticky - Ketones and DKA

    Feline Constipation and Gut Health

    Hope Socks feels better very, very soon.

    :bighug:


    Mogs
    .
     
  22. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Following on from Larry's post about markers in standard blood tests, high cholesterol levels may also hint at issues with the pancreas.


    Mogs
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  23. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    Yes, I will try to pick up strips for ketones after work... Really doesn't seem as if he'd be constipated as he just went normally yesterday hours before refusing to eat but I have some pumpkin at home to give him if I can even get him to eat...

    As of tonight at 6pm it will be the 24 hours without food, and from what I've read, that's ok - but after is when it's an emergency more so. My issue is I cant see the vet until Thursday but I'd hope they'd be willing to treat as an 'as-is' but I should be able to afford their bloodwork, but he'd have to wait til Thursday for results/treatment or even just treatment as bloodwork tomorrow wouldn't only be with technician (cant prescribe).

    Is there any home treatment to pancreatitis - as is it possible to clear up on his own if he starts eating again? Im praying its not ketoacidosis because I may have to put him down to due finances at this time of the month (just paid rent)
     
  24. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    GOTCHA, perfect I will keep that in mind if we need to go with standard blood work first! Thank you all for your suggestions and kind words... still hoping he just has an upset stomach
     
  25. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Until you know what's going on with him, Justyn, I'd suggest not adding anything new into the mix. Also, be sure to always discuss food changes, supplements, etc. with your vet before giving them.


    Mogs
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  26. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    Of course as standard, but as I can't get to see a vet until Thursday, my only option of keeping him alive (vs taking him to ER clinic) is home remedies for anti nausea to get him to keep something down.
     
  27. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Proper anti-nausea treatment is key to home management of pancreatitis. Generic ondansetron costs less than ÂŁ7.00 over here for 30 tablets. (Zofran, the branded version is nearly ÂŁ100 for 30 tablets.) Maybe your vet could give you an Rx for, say, 14 tablets to help Socks straight away?

    Sending prayers that ketones are not the issue here but please try contacting Diabetic Cats in Need to see if they might be able to help you should ketones be the issue. Also post here for advice. There are members here with extensive knowledge of ketone treatment who might be able to help. Also members may be able to suggest other avenues to financial help.


    Mogs
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  28. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Maybe try phoning your vet to see if they'd be willing to prescribe something to tide you over based on a telephone consult?

    @Marje and Gracie -

    Is there anything you can suggest which might help Socks?


    Mogs
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  29. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    An afterthought:

    If you have any of the batch of food that may have upset Socks' GI system don't feed any more of it.


    Mogs
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  30. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    Yes I will absolutely do that.. and that could be the culprit as I JUST purchased new batch of food on Saturday, started feeding it to him Sunday morning, and he stopped eating sunday night. Im planning on boiling some chicken and ground beef to see if he'll eat it after some anti nausea meds later..

    Good point on the food... I haven't began feeding the new case to my other cat so am curious now....
     
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  31. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    I will be giving my vet a call to see if they'd be willing to prescribe that asap... and will do about the Diabetic Cats in need...
     
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  32. Larry and Kitties

    Larry and Kitties Well-Known Member

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    Just be aware that the cholesterol level in most of my healthy diabetic cats are higher than the normal range.
     
  33. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Useful to know, Larry; thanks for the info. It was my vet that told me raised cholesterol was associated with the pancreatitis.


    Mogs
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  34. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    Gotcha gotcha...
     
  35. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    So i'll be getting the ketone strips after work, but does anyone know how to interpret the numbers? would it be the same as human levels?
     
  36. Olive & Paula

    Olive & Paula Well-Known Member

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    Here is where every cat is different. Smokey's Antech labs were normal. Liver tests normal, though the pancreatitis test was normal but high end of range. He's always had high cholesterol. Therefore the vet said nothing was wrong.

    But because he vomited and ate less than normal I demanded further tests, I knew he was sick. We were sent to ER for ultrasound which was confirmed pancreatitis. Within 48 hrs of the meds he was feeling better.
     
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  37. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    Wow... gotcha... so frustrating as an ultrasound at my vet is $300 and I don't have even $100 until Friday.. Bad timing as always with our furballs.. just odd that my bub just wasn't hungry out of the blue - rather than eating less and less... he's seemed so normal, actually better than ever, up until this..

    But another symptom I forgot to mention was his faster breathing rate... hoping its just due to naseau/pain... as I had given him a tiny bit of pain meds last night it slowed down a bit but he wasn't hungry still. so very worried about this little guy
     
  38. Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA)

    Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA) Well-Known Member

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    I don't know which brand I have, and maybe all are the same I don't know, but there is a color coded strip on the side of the bottle that you compare the strip to (pay attention to exactly how many seconds you are supposed to wait before comparing the strip to the bottle for your brand). It will probably have a "negative" reading, then a "trace" reading, and then a variety of ranges.

    I will have to rely on others with DKA experience, but at this point i think that I would be concerned even if it showed "trace"? Ladies and gentlemen?
     
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  39. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    awwwww perfect... exactly what I was looking to confirm. but yes I've also heard the same as if it advises 'trace' that's still not good... I've also read elsewhere that if its only trace, and he's hydrated, it may be possible to treat at home if not so severe (so if he takes well to the Pepcid) and starts eating ...

    it's just odd because last time he went into DKA - it was about a week of decline in his heath, appearance, food intake, etc - but this time, it was just out of nowhere with no warning. Really hoping for mild pancreatitis if not just an upset tummy.
     
  40. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    If there is other illness in the picture then more weight needs to be given to trace ketone readings. Inappetence makes testing even more vital in a non-ketone-prone cat but ESPECIALLY in a cat with a history of DKA a close watch for emergence of ketones is critical (ketone-prone kitties need to be regularly tested for ketones as a matter of course).

    I've been in a similar predicament myself with worries over treatment costs so I really do understand and fully empathise with your plight ( :bighug: ) but the more information you post the more worried I'm becoming, Justyn, and I really think that Socks needs to be examined by a vet as soon as possible. The panting is very concerning. Is there any way that you might be able to negotiate a payment plan with your vet so that you might be able to get Socks seen faster? Even if scans aren't an affordable option at the moment the vet should be able to do something to help.

    Sending prayers and healing thoughts for little Socks (and fingers and paws crossed for an understanding and accommodating vet to help you).


    Mogs
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    Last edited: Oct 4, 2016
  41. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    Absolutely makes sense, and understandable and still planning on bringing him to vet on Thursday if he makes it until then - hopefully we could get by with just some blood work and fluids so no hospitalization. Unfortunately my vet is a Humane Society and they will not do anything without the entire cost up front - along with ANY other vet around me (as I truly checked last time I almost had to put him down - but got approved for care credit). My only hope is a credit increase through care credit - and my vet is calling me today to go over what the next step is as they know we cant get in until Thursday... no other vet is half as affordable so I cant even think about going anywhere else... just a bad time of the month as rent was just paid...
     
  42. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    Be sure to let the vet know about the panting when he calls.

    Sending prayers for you to get the help you need and for everything to be OK. I really and truly feel for you.

    :bighug:


    Mogs
    .
     
  43. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    Yes definitely will do - and rather than panting exactly, I can just see his stomach rise and fall a bit faster than my other healthy cat. Faster breathing, but definitely still not normal.
     
  44. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

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    Justyn, I don't know if this will help at all and I have no personal experience with this vet other than TV viewing but have you heard of Dr. Jeff Young at Planned Pethood Inc.? From what I have seen on his TV show (and I realize that is not much of an endorsement), this man and his associates are about the animals and much less about the money so he keeps his costs as reasonable as is possible and has set up payment plans for some clients and treated some gratis. They recently moved to a larger facility to add emergency and other services and are now located in Wheat Ridge, Co at 4595 Harlan Street. Telephone: 303-433-3291.
     
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  45. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    Yes I've actually seen their clinic and have looked into it... I know they normally only require a small deposit down so that may be an option for blood work but they are over an hour south of me, and with a kitty that hates the car especially, it's a rough hour drive... But I will have to look into but normally they are booked for a little while - looked into getting his teeth removed there and it was the BEST deal around. Thank you so much!
     
  46. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

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    It might be a good idea to call them as soon as possible. If they think Socks needs to be seen quickly they just might treat him as an emergency case and slot him into their schedule. Doesn't hurt to ask.


    Mogs
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  47. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

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    Justyn, I agree with Mogs., I am the ultimate disbeliever with anything on TV and the Internet but something about this man and his staff just strike me like they are the "real deal" and would fit you in. I also can appreciate the travel time as I had to take my girl to an emergency clinic quite a distance away shortly after her diagnosis because she was not eating. My girl literally screams to the point where folks stare at my car at stop lights and I fear one day I am going to be pulled over by the police. Sometimes you just have to bite the bullet to get them the best care you can. :)
     
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  48. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    I've really looked into them and you guys are way in the clear for thinking what you do! That clinic is great and they actually offer affordable services, such as blood work for lets say, $75, but only require a $25 deposit. So much more practical.. and oh my goodness that is just too funny!!! And of course I will look into the Planned Pethood Clinic, but am more in a bind with how to get there without reliable transportation (as my car is needing a few repairs and this next paycheck WAS going to take care of them) but IF i can't get him to eat tonight, I will need to look into care asap tomorrow morning. But i talked to my vet - and was advised to give 5mg of Pepcid, and as I was on my way home, my roommate told me he puked again - but this time, it was all just water (as he's drinking a lot) - so am starting to think maybe he's blocked? If he puked that much water, not sure if any was getting down... it was a LOT... But i just gave him the half of a Pepcid, and letting it kick in.

    The only issue is I have no idea how much Insulin, if any, to give him...
     
  49. TurkeyCat

    TurkeyCat Member

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    @Justyn my cat Turkey had very similar symptoms and he turned out to have pancreatitis. This was confirmed via the spec FPLI test in bloodwork. Was no need to do an ultrasound. I tried the pepcid before getting scripts from my vet and unless the vomiting is caused by acid reflux it won't do much. Turkey didn't feel better and start eating until he had Cerenia (anti-nausea meds) and a long acting buprenorphine injection for pain. He's now on supplements to help support pancreatic health and has been doing well since.
     
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  50. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    Oh wow... and yes my vet advised blood work can help give us an idea at least... and agreed now, unfortunately the pepcid seems to have done nothing for him... Just boiled some chicken, and he almost gagged still at it... Earlier he puked today quite a bit up water up while i was on my home - MUCH more in one eerp than i've ever seen come up in a single time.. He is very lethargic, eyes are barely open - and i just can't understand how he's been feeling so much worse so rapidly, as he even looked good all day for the most part.
     
  51. TurkeyCat

    TurkeyCat Member

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    @Justyn oh, I know. I seriously thought Turkey was dying when he was in the middle of the pancreatitis attack (episode? not sure what they're called). If it is indeed pancreatitis and you can get him on the anti-nausea/pain meds hopefully he'll make a quick recovery. It was literally within 24-48 hours for Turkey. He started eating the same day - didn't even need the appetite stimulant scrip I got for him since the Cerenia took care of the nausea and he was no longer in pain.
     
  52. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    Just went to walmart for ketone strips.... and now in absolute shock and disbelief as the test came out VERY HIGH... the color was as dark (meaning high levels) as it gets while following the instructions on the back... No way I can afford an ER vet tonight - having the hubby take him in for blood work tomorrow morning but it's only with the vet tech as vet didn't have appt's - so i don't know if they'll be able to do anything else such as give us fluids,meds, etc as i will not be able to afford to have him hospitalized and don't think he'll even make it till Thursday (let alone tomorrow at the rate he's looking like every hour more)... and i just don't understand now especially how it got so bad so quick.. granted, i'd never checked his urine for ketones (even though its so damn easy and cheap, lesson learned much too late) but his BG readings have been normal for the first time in so long... and he's been so amazingly doing great and i've been checking him less and less because he'd been acting great and gaining tons of weight/muscle mass, and is still nice and chunky - but no warning period... In the AM he ate like a lion, peeing normal amounts, grooming and playing a lot! but the PM same day is when he stopped eating since and the lethargy arose....

    I know my vet last time recommended a hospital stay for iv drip of fluids, but i truly can't afford that so would see if they'd be able to just give fluids under the skin and let me take fluids home to do at home, as i can tell he is definitely dehydrated. thank you all for your help, but I am truly in shock about his ketone results and not sure if the vet would agree to let me do the home-remedy, as he may need a really good flush...
     
  53. Justyn

    Justyn Member

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    Now I'm wishing it was just pancreatitis.... who knows, with my luck - it could be a double whammy...
     
  54. Kris & Teasel

    Kris & Teasel Well-Known Member

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    Aug 17, 2016
    I've been reading your description of Socks' condition and alarm bells are going off for me. You say he hasn't eaten much since yesterday, his breathing is laboured, he's dehydrated and you're getting a "very high" reading on the ketone test strip. He could well be diving down into ketoacidosis and this is a true medical emergency! You've mentioned several times above that you can't afford any vet expenses until the end of the week and that Socks won't be seen until Thursday. If there's ANY way you can get him seen immediately, please do it. Do you have friends or family that can help?
     
    Critter Mom likes this.
  55. BJM

    BJM Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Oct 6, 2010
    @Meya14

    High urine ketones in this cat - Can you help?


    Justyn - read over stuff Meya14 has posted for other cat with ketones. (you can search in the upper right corner search box for her user name and it will bring up a lot of posts).

    Hydration is key, plus getting some insulin in, and testing a lot.
     
    Last edited: Oct 3, 2016
    Critter Mom likes this.
  56. Justyn

    Justyn Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2016
    Yes, with the ketone strip confirming, it definitely seems as DKA... there's no way we can get him to an ER vet tonight, and are looking into resources for him to get seen tomorrow but i only have an appointment with a vet tech -so I'm not even sure how they're going to be able to help as the appointment is just for a blood draw.. His condition has been getting worse through the day, was at his water bowl drinking lots but hasn't been at it for an hour or two now... to say the least, i wasn't prepared for anything like this and have family that are struggling more than i do... the only thing i can hope for is for him to make it through the night so i can try to get a care credit limit raise, as my vet won't help with financing.. i gave him 1u at 715 after his PMPS reading was 430 (although he didn't eat of course) but trying to get his numbers down further... he was so consistently in these numbers before but nothing like this had happened with the worse regulation... don't have any resources at this time of the night
     
  57. Sharon14

    Sharon14 Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Aug 16, 2015
    Please contact Diabetic Cats In Need (DCIN) now. They have helped many DKA cats.
    Have you tried syringe feeding him?
     
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  58. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    All,

    I have posted a 911 alert on L&L to see if we can get more eyes over here to help Justyn and Socks.


    Mogs
    .
     
  59. Red & Rover (GA)

    Red & Rover (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 18, 2016
  60. Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey

    Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 18, 2011
    Justyn, have you tried giving him chicken baby food (just chicken and gravy)? Many cats love it. You really do need to get him seen. This is highly critical. Please contact DCIN. You have no time to lose.

    If he is that nauseated, I'm afraid syringe feeding would just cause him to vomit, losing even more fluid. If he's not drinking water, that's a really bad sign. You might try syringing water into him. All this is assuming you even have a syringe to do this with (it's different from an insulin syringe).

    I'll be praying for you and your baby. I hope you can get in touch with DCIN and get him seen. Please keep us posted!
     
    Sharon14 likes this.
  61. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    If you attempt syringing water do it SIDEWAYS across the mouth and in very small amounts to allow time for swallowing.

    Make sure any baby food you try does not contain garlic or onions. If in any doubt post for advice here.

    .
     
    Last edited: Oct 4, 2016
  62. Justyn

    Justyn Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2016
    I did try chicken and hes absolutely not hungry... He was drinking tons of water himself up until about 3am and hasnt moved from a spot since... Trying right now to get him in hospitalized with vet...
     
  63. Justyn

    Justyn Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2016
    Yes and he was puking quite a bit last nght so couldnt try force feeding as he was gaging every time at the smell... So unbelievably shocked its gotten so much worse so quickly
     
  64. Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA)

    Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Oct 2, 2015
    Oh no,I just caught up. Praying for you both...

    I hope you are able to get him hospitalized ASAP.

    Sandi.
     
  65. Justyn

    Justyn Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2016
    Yes I'm hoping the vet can get him in... i doubt just sub-con fluids will even hold him over... i've moved finances around and I'm going to surely hurt for it later this month but the issue is just getting him care asap... Hoping my vet will agree to start treatment (hospitalization) asap while waiting for blood work to come in tomorrow.. He tested very high for ketones so am hoping they'll take my word for it in the mean time.. he's very clearly dehyrdated and lethargic - so hoping they see that he needs help asap - but we truly will not be able to take him to an ER for care, i just applied for a credit line increase of $500 on my care credit that i've paid down most of my original $500 - and of course, denied. Vet doesnt open until 9am - left a message and waiting so hopelessly for their call. His stomach area felt pretty large despite not eating for now 2 days, and im wondering if it could also be pancreatits as it was just bigger in one part of his tummy... don't know what we're gunna do if the vet can't get us a normal appointment and just stuck with a tech... not sure what their level of ability is for treatment..
     
  66. Olive & Paula

    Olive & Paula Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 6, 2015
    He will need a 24 hr vet. Not vet who isn't there over night. Contact DCIN as mentioned today. He needs to be in hospital now.
     
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  67. Tuxedo Mom

    Tuxedo Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 2, 2014
    Please email DCIN at Jenna@DCIN.info to help out with the financials. This is what they do...it is not credit or a loan it is financial help.

    Your kitty needs to get into am ER vet immediately.

    If you have FB send a PM to https://www.facebook.com/jmw513?fref=ufi

    I have send Jenna a FB PM with a link to this posting
     
  68. Justyn

    Justyn Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2016
    If my vet is able to, we would keep him there during the day and pick him up at 5pm, and bring him back for another day of hosp - but there's no way I could afford an ER vet and we'd have to look into EUTH before being able to keep him in an intensive care..
     
  69. Tuxedo Mom

    Tuxedo Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 2, 2014
    Please see my post right above yours. You can e-mail Jenna at DCIN. I sent a FB PM to her with the link for this posting. This organization helps people with diabetic kitties in emergency situations. Once you are in contact with her and it is approved the financing can be done very quickly. An ER vet with 24 hour monitoring is the best place for your kitty, as they need to treat DKA very aggressively.
     
  70. Olive & Paula

    Olive & Paula Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 6, 2015
    Treating DKA is not something that can be done at home. It's very serious and quick moving condition. Please contact DCIN.
     
  71. Justyn

    Justyn Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2016
    I will email DCIN... thanks.. and vet agreed to get him started on iv fluids for the day... but when we bring him in we will find out if it's even worth to try stabilizing as his condition has just been getting worse this morning..
     
  72. Tuxedo Mom

    Tuxedo Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 2, 2014
    DKA must be treated with IV fluids to balance the electrolytes, fast acting insulin and a dextrose drip if the numbers drop too low, and food..if the kitty will not eat they may have to put a nasogastric tube in to feed until he is eating on his own. This treatment cannot be done at home and must be done by a vet who knows how to properly treat DKA. This can save his life and DCIN will help with most of the cost if you get a hold of Jenna
     
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  73. Justyn

    Justyn Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2016
    no no definitely not trying to treat DKA at home - vet will get him in in a few minutes - if he's strong enough..
     
    Tuxedo Mom likes this.
  74. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Sending many, many prayers for Socks.

    :bighug:


    Mogs
    .
     
  75. Olive & Paula

    Olive & Paula Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 6, 2015
    Without treatment he will get worse every minute. It is a very fast moving condition, like minute by minute.
     
  76. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Socks has youth on his side ...

    :bighug:

    .
     
  77. Justyn

    Justyn Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2016
    Thank you all, emailing DCIN now
     
  78. Tuxedo Mom

    Tuxedo Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 2, 2014

    If your vet can get the proper treatment started then please contact Jenna at DCIN. If you can get Socks stabilized at the vet he will still need more care and taking him home until the next day is not a good approach.

    ETA Prayers and healing energy sent for you and Socks :bighug: :bighug:
     
  79. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Put your phone number into the email.

    .
     
  80. Justyn

    Justyn Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2016
    They got socks hooked up with an iv for now until the vet can take a look at him to see if blood work/treatment is even worth it... On top of this, my fiance may have actually lost his job due to calling off to take him in today as I needed to be at work for Overtime... It's unbelievable how family emergencies are excused, but as pets are part of anyone's family, his job couldn't care less.. So now, especially if vet thinks he needs 24 hour care, that just won't be possible..
     
  81. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 18, 2015
    That is horrible that your fiancé may have lost his job over this. While I hate lying above all else, I'd do it in a heartbeat with an unsympathetic employer if I were in your position. Please don't give up on Socks. He's a very young cat and if you get him through this you can enjoy many more years of kitty bliss with him. Sending healing prayers and thoughts that Socks rallies and you can get him the care he needs ASAP. :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  82. Justyn

    Justyn Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2016
    Appreciate the kind words, as I completely agree and my employer couldn't care less - but his is just awful as this is only his SECOND time calling off. Thank you again
     
  83. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Utterly heartless if his employers carry through on this threat. (I despair of people who have allowed their value systems to become that screwed up.) I pray that the employers will show some compassion.

    Sending more prayers for Socks.

    :bighug:


    Mogs
    .
     
  84. Justyn

    Justyn Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2016
    will do... thank you.
     
  85. Justyn

    Justyn Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2016
    Truly agreed, would just be very bad timing..
     
  86. Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey

    Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 18, 2011
    I'm sure DCIN will help. Don't give up yet. Was your fiance able to go to work after taking Socks to the vet? What if he offered to work late? I hope his employer will get over it and he can keep his job. I think you have a wonderful fiance, by the way.

    Sending tons of prayers for Socks, and :bighug:s for you and your fiance.
     
  87. Olive & Paula

    Olive & Paula Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 6, 2015
    Absolutely horrible employer. However, this where DCIN makes a difference. Make sure you contact them.
     
    Critter Mom likes this.
  88. Justyn

    Justyn Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2016
    I have emailed DCIN and am waiting for a reply.. but unfortunately his work couldn't care less about being there - it's more about the point (occurrence) and i swear, if he were even 1 minute late on a normal day- it's an occurrence so the same as him staying home. He would have gone in if he didn't get such a nasty email from his manager... But I know vet office closes at 6 so they may be able to give me sub con fluids to take home to get him through the night - but we're still waiting on the vets call to let us know what they think - if they think he'll make it through and what treatment options we have.. and he is wonderful, i am very lucky to have him...
     
  89. Alexi

    Alexi Member

    Joined:
    Apr 10, 2016
    DCIN are a wonderful organisation and have helped cats on this board through similar emergencies. :bighug::bighug::bighug: to you and Socks.
     
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  90. Critter Mom

    Critter Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 16, 2014
    Me, too.

    :bighug:

    .
     
    Justyn likes this.
  91. Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey

    Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 18, 2011
    Justyn, could I ask you to please take down the 911? You have a bunch of us following you now, and Socks in getting care. Seeing that on a subject line causes hearts to stop around here! ;)
     
  92. Justyn

    Justyn Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2016
    Thank you all, I am hoping they'll let me know of any resources... In the mean time socks is just getting fluids until the vet can determine if he will be able to be treated... i just hope they are honest rather than just trying to get money out of us - as if they honestly say he needs 24 hour care, we'll have to look into EUTH, but have a feeling they'll say he should be ok with just the day hospitalizations as he was last time - but with how bad of condition he's in, i agree with you guys about 24hr care being his best option. but i was just quoted from the only one in my town a $1000 deposit for the NIGHT
     
  93. Justyn

    Justyn Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2016
    updated -- didn't know i could update that!
     
  94. Kris & Teasel

    Kris & Teasel Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Aug 17, 2016
    FYI: I see a "GA" label beside your thread title and people will think that you've lost Socks already. GA means "gone ahead" or "guardian angel" for kitties that have passed.
     
    Justyn likes this.
  95. Diana&Tom

    Diana&Tom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 29, 2009
    Yes I feared that was the case too - hopefully not...?
     
  96. Justyn

    Justyn Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2016
    OH NO!!! I THOUGHT IT MEAN GENERAL LOL
     
  97. Justyn

    Justyn Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2016
    Sock's is still with us as far as I know! I've updated- sorry and thanks peoples!
     
  98. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 18, 2015
    Justyn, if DCIN gets involved they will take care of the deposit etc. for emerg. care so please don't make a hasty irreversible decision till you hear back from them.
     
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  99. Justyn

    Justyn Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2016
    I will definitely wait to hear back from them before making any decision like that....
     
  100. Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA)

    Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Oct 2, 2015
    Phew...I had a minor stroke for a minute... ;)
     
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