Hospitalized and Needing Prayers

Discussion in 'Feline Health - (Welcome & Main Forum)' started by Chester’s Dad, Jun 28, 2019.

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  1. Chester’s Dad

    Chester’s Dad New Member

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    Chester has been diabetic officially since January. For the past six months he was on Vetsulin, steadily increased to curb high BG. It eventually just didn’t make a dent, so we switched last week to ProZinc. His numbers came down almost immediately to the 200-300 range. He was looking great for a few days, and then everything changed. He went into the vet yesterday afternoon after about a day of looking very run-down. The vet saw how dehydrated he was, ran a full battery of tests, and determined he had a UTI, probably brought on by not drinking enough once his BG was regulated by the ProZinc.

    Chester has been hospitalized with full IV and antibiotics since yesterday afternoon. This morning seemed to be going better—he was alert, meowing, and eventually eating pretty heartily. His dehydration has been slowly getting better. Then the vet told me they found ketones in his urine, and that has really changed the whole dynamic. She has had a wait-and-see approach, and we agreed to keep him hospitalized with full care as long as necessary. I visited him today and showed him some love.

    I get a strong sense the vet has been trying to prepare me for the very real possibility—if not likelihood—that he will not be pulling out this. I could have a hard decision to make.
     
  2. Myrtlesmum

    Myrtlesmum Member

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    I hope Chester starts to feel better. It's amazing what a couple of days of IV fluids can do - don't start to get ahead of yourself and start worrying about what MAY happen. One day at a time - today Chester is feeling better so hopefully he's on the right path. Sending healing vibes.
     
  3. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

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    Sending more prayers and healing thoughts to Chester. Hugs to you, Dad! When you visit tell Chester all his friends here are anxious for him to get better!
     
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  4. CandyH & Catcat

    CandyH & Catcat Well-Known Member

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    Apr 23, 2019
    prayers, good thoughts, I'll tell our neighbor's prayer circle about your concerns too, so many times good things have come from that

    :bighug::bighug::bighug: .. and think good thoughts yourself, amazing how strongly our cats identify with us, pick up our emotions and reactions

    I can remember lying on the floor, holding Katya's paw as she huddled under the bed, all night deal but she decided to respond, was better next morning
     
  5. Diane Tyler's Mom

    Diane Tyler's Mom Well-Known Member

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    I'm praying that when you visit Chester again he's feeling much much better, Try not to think the worst, When Chester comes home, you really should try and set up the spreadsheet for him. I am sort of new to this myself but I have learned so much here , especially from Linda, You need the spreadsheet so you can test Chester to see how the Insulin is working for him, how low he is dropping and when . My vet never told me to do this, so how in the world would we know if our kitties are in danger. If possible you should be testing him a few times after his am shot and also after his pm shot. Where it says information on your page you could put Chester's age, when he was diagnosed, type of Insulin and what you are feeding him. If it wasn't for this caring group I don't know what I would do. Please keep us posted ok
     
  6. katiesmom

    katiesmom Member

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    Prayers for Chester. Try not to think the worst (I know, it's hard).

    When Katie was first diagnosed in 2012, she had a terrible time for months. Periods of intense vomiting, pancreatitis. Just sick. We went to our normal vet, who referred us to a specialist. No help, no solutions. Tried another vet who was concerned because Katie's blood was so "fatty". Hyperlipidemia. She was already on a raw diet, her food was not fatty, we don't know why it was like like that. When spun out at lab for analysis, the blood looked like a strawberry milkshake, always registered as a +3 on the labwork. They thought that may be contributing to the diabetes and other problems. Off to another specialist. No help and that trip was one of the worst experiences in both my and Katie's life.
    That summer Katie got especially sick. My vet was out of town and we had to see a different, very young vet. She had some ketones in her urine, and wouldnt eat. They hospitalized her for a day with fluids and this stupid vet messed up everything she could, I think. Long story. Anyway this was a Friday, they suggested keeping her over the weekend, but there would be no one there with her. At this point I did not trust this vet at all and was not going to leave Katie alone in there. Vet didnt think she would last the weekend without hospitalization. We seriously considered euthanasia. She seemed so very sick. We did not want her to suffer. My last kitty, in hindsight, I should have been let go sooner, and I didnt want to make that mistake again. It still haunts me.
    Anyway, we decided to give it the weekend. We brought her home with the crappy food bland food they insisted we give her. We got it down her and she immediately threw it up. We got a little of her normal food in her and just let her be. I spent the rest of the day crying and tending to her. She was SO sick and weak.
    The next morning, she was much better. And continued to get better. That was 7 years ago. She is great. She is doing great (knock on wood). I shudder to think we almost lost her and made the wrong decision.
    I guess I am just saying, just hang in there...you never know. Hugs.
     
  7. Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA)

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

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    Visit as much as you can, eating is very important for Chester right now, and he might eat better for you than he will for them. If the vet will allow it, take an unwashed shirt of yours, or a blankie that smells like "home" to make him less stressed and more comfortable.

    Prayers being sent -- let us know how he is doing. Fingers and paws crossed for you both!
     
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  8. JanetNJ

    JanetNJ Well-Known Member

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    Many people have had cats bounce back from ketones. He's in the best place to get better. Give the antibiotics and fluids a chance to work. In the meantime you might want to pick up some keosticks or a ketone blood meter to keep tabs on him when he gets home.
     
  9. Lisa and Witn (GA)

    Lisa and Witn (GA) Well-Known Member

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    Prayers for both of you. If he is going to be hospitalized for a few days, visit him often. Take something that has your scent on it, such as a shirt or pillow case, that will help comfort him when you are not around.
     
  10. Chester’s Dad

    Chester’s Dad New Member

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    Jun 10, 2019
    The vet called, and they’re discouraged because he’s not eating his tuna and he seems lethargic. I’m just not ready to give up on him yet.
     
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  11. JanetNJ

    JanetNJ Well-Known Member

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    They may need to assist feed until his appetite is back
     
  12. Chester’s Dad

    Chester’s Dad New Member

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    His BG really seems to be under control. He’s still fighting the infection, and no word yet on ketones, but I’m visiting him this afternoon with some food he likes better than tuna. I know the vet is going to want to know how much I’m willing to put into this, because she is discouraged.
     
  13. JanetNJ

    JanetNJ Well-Known Member

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    Once the infection improves the fluids will do their thing to flush ketones. Infection + not enough insulin + not eating are the recipe for ketoacidosis
     
  14. Chester’s Dad

    Chester’s Dad New Member

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    Just very upsetting when the vet tech calls with bad news that he’s not improving. What I saw after a day of fluids yesterday was the difference between night and day to me, though.
     
  15. Diane Tyler's Mom

    Diane Tyler's Mom Well-Known Member

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    Like Janet said maybe they have to assist feed him, ask them that, when you say tuna what kind of tuna were they trying to feed him? Yes bring your own food you feed him to them, what do you feed him? Do you add any water to the food you feed him?
    Please let us know after you visit him today on how he's doing
     
  16. Lisa and Witn (GA)

    Lisa and Witn (GA) Well-Known Member

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    I agree they need to be syringe feeding if he is not eating on his own. Have they given anything for nausea or an appetite stimulant?

    I also recommend that you visit him and see if he will eat for you. Not sure why they are trying to feed him tuna. Have they tried either prescription A/D or CN? Both of these have more nutrients and are for sick animals.
     
  17. Diane Tyler's Mom

    Diane Tyler's Mom Well-Known Member

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    I so agree with you, , he said he was going to see Chester this afternoon, and bring food that he likes much better. I thought the same thing Tuna? This is only me, but I would be visiting my cat as much as possible and try to syringe feed him, I'm sure the techs are checking in on him but there is no one like yourself that will constantly be trying to feed him or syringe him even a little water. Yrs back when I had another cat, he had to stay over night and no one would be there to watch him, I asked if I could sleep there and I would watch him, I know it's not allowed but that's how crazy I am when it comes to my cats.
     
  18. Myrtlesmum

    Myrtlesmum Member

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    I know when I’ve had cats hospitalised, even though they won’t eat for the vet I’ve gone in and hand fed them something they really like (like raw chicken or raw tender beef). The combination of something he likes and the fact that it’s you feeding him may make a difference- it’s worth trying anyway.
     
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  19. Chester’s Dad

    Chester’s Dad New Member

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    Chester is now hospitalized with the ER vet. His latest CBC with the regular vet showed pancreatitis and very low potassium, as well as the continued presence of ketones. She felt more comfortable, being the weekend, if I took him to a full-service overnight care facility. I’m devastated.
     
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  20. Diane Tyler's Mom

    Diane Tyler's Mom Well-Known Member

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    So Chester is in a different facility? Ok sorry didn't understand , he's in a full service overnight care facility, so someone will be there with him all night? I'm saying a prayer for Chester that he seems better in the am.You said you were going to see him this afternoon , did he eat any of the food you brought
     
  21. tiffmaxee

    tiffmaxee Well-Known Member

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    Nov 15, 2013
    I’d go there and syringe feed if he won’t eat on his s own. I had to do that when my cats were hospitalized. Prayers and vines.
     
  22. Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA)

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

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    If you are saying that he now has 24/7 care where he didn't before (I didn't realize that), that should be really good news. I know it must still be disappointing that you aren't seeing better results yet, but it sounds like he really is in the best place for him right now. As others have said, eating is really critical so help as much as you can. A feeding tube might be advisable at some point, don't be afraid of that if they ever suggest it.

    Continued prayers... :bighug:
     
  23. AliceMeowliss (GA)

    AliceMeowliss (GA) Well-Known Member

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    I hope Chester gets all the help he needs!
    My Alice was an emaciated sad story in April and was hospitalized with DKA three days and nights, and now she is doing amazingly well. You may have some serious nursing ahead of you after the hospital, but it doesn’t necessarily mean this is the end. Also, I saw what major improvement getting the IV fluids alone did for Alice during DKA, plus the emergency vet had R insulin, could manage all her levels much better.... this might be what Chester needs to get him ready to keep fighting, is all! Keep visiting!!! I know the time I spent with Alice in hospital helped her a lot, too.
    Best wishes for your both. :bighug:
     
  24. Krystina & Nelli

    Krystina & Nelli Well-Known Member

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    YES we are! :bighug:
     
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  25. Krystina & Nelli

    Krystina & Nelli Well-Known Member

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    Please stay strong and believe Chester is COMING HOME sOoN!
    Oh gosh, if only all Vets knew, understood... UTI, dehydration and, ketones preset are manageable in a diabetic cat.
    If fewer vets would stop believing diabetes is (eventually) a death certificate. No, no, NO its not!

    Please stay positive. With what you’ve described it seems to me, it sounds to me like Chester has just had a (Health) set back will be back home and feeling better before you know it!
     
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  26. Krystina & Nelli

    Krystina & Nelli Well-Known Member

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    ???!
     
  27. Chester’s Dad

    Chester’s Dad New Member

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    Thank you, all. Chester is at the ER vet through tomorrow morning. After that he’ll have to return to his regular vet because the ER vets in this area are only open weeknights and weekends. His potassium, which was critically low, is doing a little bit better. He nibbled some overnight. Unfortunately, the insulin CRI can’t seem to get his BG in the right window to start flushing out ketones.

    The ER vet has been sending me updates and even pictures, but I’m absolutely frightened.
     
  28. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

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    Feb 18, 2015
    Getting his potassium up is good news. It will help with hydration and that will help flush out the ketones. The ER hospital is well equipped to monitor and adjust the insulin to get BG into more acceptable range. The fact that he nibbled some food on his own is encouraging but if you can visit, he might eat more from you and getting enough calories into him in very important too.
    Positive thoughts and prayers being sent to you and Chester. :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  29. Sarah&Soph

    Sarah&Soph Member

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    If you have a Facebook, there is a group called Cats With Multiple Medical Conditions that might be helpful to join as well if you’re interested. The admins on there are very experienced in dealing with stuff like this and will likely have some good suggestions and insight for you. I’ve gotten tons of help for my Sophie they. Sending positive thoughts for Chester!
     
  30. Chester’s Dad

    Chester’s Dad New Member

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    Jun 10, 2019
    Not much progress on Chester. They’re having a hard time regulating his BG to flush out the ketones. The ER vet said he might be “insulin resistant,” which she differentiated from diabetic.
     
  31. nslade001

    nslade001 Well-Known Member

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    Nov 12, 2018
    Hello, I don't have as much experience as many on this group, or personal experience with ketones, but would like to offer that, with the initial positive response in BG levels dropping after the switch to prozinc, I'd be very surprised if Chester is insulin resistant. Infections drive up BG levels. Also, I believe you said he has pancreatitis, which can also drive them up. Do you know if they are giving Chester antinausea meds or appy stimulants, or pain meds? It's quite ok to question your vet, even an emergency vet, and also to request that something be given if it's not currently...
    Have you been able to see him, as some have already said it can make a real difference in attitude. Also, as a retired vet tech, I can say that some cats do eat better when the owner is present...
    I'm sorry you are both going through this, but please try to stay positive. Many people are thinking and praying for you both.
    Thinking of you with love, Nikki
     
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  32. Chester’s Dad

    Chester’s Dad New Member

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    That was my assessment regarding the ProZinc as well. His numbers were in the high 200s pre-shot at 1 unit. The Catch-22 here is that his numbers are often incredibly lower at home than at the vet. But he has to be at the vet for this to get the treatment he needs. :(

    I spent about an hour with him yesterday and today, singing to him, talking to him, and brushing his coat which he likes. I also syringe-fed him yesterday.

    I have sent a text asking the ER vet about an appetite stimulant and the response to antibiotics. I’ve talked to at least one vet colloquially (not mine, but a friend of a friend in another state) who believes we need to get an ultrasound to rule out masses and growths on the pancreas. Is this something that could wait till tomorrow with the regular vet where it would be significantly less expensive?
     
  33. nslade001

    nslade001 Well-Known Member

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    Nov 12, 2018
    I'm glad you're getting to spend some time with Chester, it's good for both of you...Also definitely good that he's getting some food.

    Personally, as it's not a life-or-death type of situation to get the ultrasound (ie/ if there is a tumor etc it would not change what happens tonight) I'd think you could wait until your regular vet, but that's a choice only you can make.

    Thinking of you both with love, nikki
     
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  34. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

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    Pancreatitis will make it harder to get BG regulated. That does not mean Chester is insulin resistant although it can look that way. The vet should be able to bring his BG down with regular insulin and lots of monitoring. The ultrasound can certainly wait until you are back to your regular vet.
    Are they giving Chester an anti nausea medication like cerenia or odansetron? Appetite stimulants are fine but you don't want to be giving them if kitty is nauseated so generally speaking it's common for both meds to be needed with pancreatitis.
    Sending more healing vines to Chester and hugs for you! :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  35. AliceMeowliss (GA)

    AliceMeowliss (GA) Well-Known Member

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    Thinking of you both!

    Are you able to do fluids at home?

    What brought my Alice out of DKA was getting all those fluids and vet support for a few days then coming home and me barely sleeping and feeding her by hand sometimes, I was more aggressive with her insulin dosing and fed her a LOT. I do wish that I had fluids I could have done at home because I noticed how much it helped her from the hospital.
    He doesn’t have to be perfectly regulated when he comes home, he just has to be better than he was so you can nurse him more in his own home. It took me a couple of hard months to get Alice feeling better..... but it’s been very worth it.

    I had to transfer Alice from the emergency vet that was only weekends and nights and holidays like your area, too, and that was a bit nerve-wracking for me but it turned out to also go just fine. Cats are so resilient. They often just need some help to get by.
     
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  36. Chester’s Dad

    Chester’s Dad New Member

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    Jun 10, 2019
    That’s very good advice. Thank you. When you say fluids at home, do you mean just with a syringe and some determination, or more medical apparatus?
     
  37. Lisa and Witn (GA)

    Lisa and Witn (GA) Well-Known Member

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    They are subq fluids. Similar to how you give insulin they are administered under the skin. It takes a few minutes longer to give them but can help a cat immensely. The needles are considerably larger than insulin needles, but none of my cats seemed to be bothered by them. It is cheaper and less stressful for cats if they can be given at home instead of at the vet. This will help him stay hydrated more than just drinking water.
     
  38. Chester’s Dad

    Chester’s Dad New Member

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    As an update—Chester’s ketones are coming down now that the ER vet cracked the code on the right insulin combination to keep his BG low. The ketones were at 3 yesterday, and this morning they were at 1. He had eaten two cans of food and is somewhat more engaged. His coat also looks a lot better. I transferred him earlier to our regular vet for his daytime hospitalization. I may be taking him back to the emergency vet tonight for more monitoring.
     
  39. nslade001

    nslade001 Well-Known Member

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    Thanks so much for the update, I've been thinking of him this morning :) and so wonderful to hear of his improvements!

    With love, nikki
     
  40. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

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    Great news! Give your little guy some scritches when you see him and tell him to keep eating his fuds and get better soon! :D
     
  41. Jerry dutchboy

    Jerry dutchboy Well-Known Member

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    Mar 27, 2019
    So happy to hear Chester is feeling a bit better. Must be such a relief for you too.

    Keep getting stronger little Chester.:bighug:
     
  42. Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA)

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

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    Oct 2, 2015
    Hallelujah! Chester has been on my mind today, and I am thrilled to see a glimmer of progress! It's a tough road, so any improvement is a victory :bighug:

    Here's a link if you want to read up on fluids but There are also plenty of YouTube videos available: http://www.felinecrf.org/subcutaneous_fluids_tips.htm

    You can likely get what my vet calls an "at home fluid therapy set", which includes one 1000mL bag of lactated ringers solution, a line set (the tube that goes into the fluid bag that you attach a needle to), and 10 needles. I usually give 100mL in one day for our cat (with renal failure, not DO A) your vet would decide because other conditions like heart issues can alter the amount hands frequency, so one bag would give you ten 100mL "doses" of fluids.

    Keep it up, Chester, and keep the faith, Chester's dad!
     
  43. Chester’s Dad

    Chester’s Dad New Member

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    Jun 10, 2019
    The regular vet reported that his BG was 600 this morning after he arrived. No word yet on ketones. :(
     
  44. Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA)

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

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    Oh shoot. Fingers crossed that ketones are still lower when you get your next report. :bighug:
     
  45. AliceMeowliss (GA)

    AliceMeowliss (GA) Well-Known Member

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    Jan 8, 2019
    How is he doing now? I would imagine his blood glucose could have increased from the stress of being moved, but it is not necessarily an alarm on its own.
    I remember feeling like every “bad” number and “weird sign” was a catastrophe around the corner waiting if I didn’t do something.... because her DKA was confusing and new to me and I didn’t know what to think. For awhile I personally felt like every number meant I had to react. It turned out I didn’t really have to react so much though as find a course and stay it.
    I hope Chester is feeling better tonight. I hope you’ve gotten some rest as well, dad.
     
  46. Bron and Sheba (GA)

    Bron and Sheba (GA) Well-Known Member

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    Feb 21, 2015
    I'm so glad to read that Chester's ketones are coming down and he is eating food. That is progress!
    Sending a plane load of vines for continued improvement.
     
  47. Lisa and Witn (GA)

    Lisa and Witn (GA) Well-Known Member

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    Dec 28, 2009
    It may be the stress from moving from vet to get that caused the higher readings. If he is going to continue to be moved between vets, you may want to ask the vet if there is anything they can give him that would help calm him.
     
  48. nslade001

    nslade001 Well-Known Member

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    I hope both Chester and you are doing okay... Thinking of you with love, nikki
     
  49. Chester’s Dad

    Chester’s Dad New Member

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    Jun 10, 2019
    We’re going to try bringing him home today and see how he does. I may take him back later this afternoon for a chemistry workup and urinalysis.
     
  50. Jerry dutchboy

    Jerry dutchboy Well-Known Member

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    Mar 27, 2019
    Oh so happy to hear this. I'm sure he will be so much more relaxed and comfortable in his home with Dad. Sending healing vines to Chester.:bighug:
     
  51. Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA)

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

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    Oct 2, 2015
    Totally agree, being in a comfortable environment could be really good for Chester. I'll defer to folks like Cassandra with post-DKA experience to recommend a specific list of things you should have ready at home if you want, like ketone test strips, probably Cerenia (for nausea), maybe an appetite stimulant, Hill's A/D canned food with a feeding syringe (it is high calorie and smooth so easy to water down and syringe feed), subq fluids, etc. Let us know if you need that.

    It's been a while since this journey started for you, and I don't remember if you actually ever got started testing Chester's BG at home, do you have all of that? If you need shopping lists for the regular store too, let us know.

    And many of us have experienced syringe feeding, BG testing of course, giving subcutaneous fluids, and almost anything else you'll need in your "toolbox" for helping Chester at home, so just ask and I am sure someone will chime in.

    Hugs from me and Whispy!

    Best,
    Sandi.
    :bighug: :bighug:
     
  52. Chester’s Dad

    Chester’s Dad New Member

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    Jun 10, 2019
    Yes, I am very open to ideas and suggestions as we make sure he doesn’t have a relapse or complications. I’m still very nervous about that.
     
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  53. AliceMeowliss (GA)

    AliceMeowliss (GA) Well-Known Member

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    Jan 8, 2019
    Cerenia for nausea, ondansetron (Zofran, human med) also good to have, ketone test strips, lots of clean towels are helpful, a long spoon to help you catch pee or a small clean Tupperware or whatever works for you, cotton balls, a good stock of test strips, supplies for subcutaneous fluids someone else would need to expand on**, mirtazapine for appetite just in case, hand sanitizer!, enough syringes, a really varied collection of types of carbs percentages is super nice.... -a high carb with gravy in case of low blood sugar, a little bit of mid-carb to make life easy but you can always mix high and low to math out mid-carb so not as important, a magical super tempting treat for loss of appetite times, lots of low carb wet food in stock especially if your cat has an increased appetite at any point in their diabetes, if they have weakness using the box then a covered box, or making your own safe set up, or smaller area to nurse them in rather than run of the whole house until they have more strength..... Alice haas had a bathroom “hospital” which is also helpful because the sink is easily accessible. You may be staying up more for more testing and feeding so make a comfy spot to take naps in and get them as often as you can, simply as a matter of pure basic functional need as caregiver.
    Ways of organizing supplies, also helpful. Little baskets, drawers, cubbies. Making some things easily accessible, like having spoon/cup and ketone strips stored near litter box. Increased urine output may mean a bucket with a lid lined with a bag, like a diaper pail basically, could make your life easier. Alice went through a LOT of litter for awhile.

    I was really scared to bring her back home after the hospital and everything and take it all back over on my own again, but I did it, we did it, and she kept showing me she could fight and improve and I just needed to give her a little support.

    I went through more dishes so I had to keep up with dishes faster.... also went through towels and blankets more. I started doing towels in layers and putting a towel under her food bowl because when I mush the pate with water she tends to make a sloppy mess of it.
    Lysol wipes make some cleanup easier. Convenience as much as you can afford it will help you a lot of you are not getting much sleep. Plan your meals ahead or get easy stuff if needed.

    These are just some random different things from what I went through. They may not all apply but maybe something in there will help, and I know others will add.

    It’s really confusing and scary at first but you’re the parent and you’re going to be able to handle this!!!
    Insulin, food, lots of fluids, and eradication of any infection, that’s basically what you do, with lots of home testing when you’re able. :)
     
  54. Marianne M

    Marianne M Member

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    May 27, 2019
    Hope Chester got to come home. I too am dealing with high BG and ketones. Waiting for our vet to call. Been feeding him pate with lots of water with it and whenever he wants to eat, he eats. He first had high ketones two weeks ago and now once again. I am hoping he doesn't have pancreatitis. Was given an antibiotic, SQ fluids and change in insulin from Vetsulin to Prozinc two weeks ago. He was diagnosed with diabetes May 17 2019 and we are still searching for the correct dose. I am ready to cry with the stress of all of this as I am sure you were. Gotta try to stay strong. It's hard. :(
     
  55. AliceMeowliss (GA)

    AliceMeowliss (GA) Well-Known Member

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    Jan 8, 2019
    You must be so tired, too!!!
    Hang in there, you will see the light at the end!
    Vetsulin often does not regulate well enough. I used NPH with Alice and she did not improve until I switched to Lantus. Hopefully the Prozinc will do the trick for you.

    :bighug::bighug::bighug:

    So many of us have been where each of you are now and come out okay on the other side. But it is stressful and exhausting at times.
     
  56. Krystina & Nelli

    Krystina & Nelli Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 4, 2018
    You have soooo much support here :bighug:
     
    AliceMeowliss (GA) likes this.
  57. Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA)

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

    Joined:
    Oct 2, 2015
    I'll recycle some recent threads that are good. This is one of Cassandra and Alice's threads, so even though she responded above (thanks!) it covers some things not addressed here: http://www.felinediabetes.com/FDMB/threads/home-care-after-dka.212964/

    And this one is fairly recent and a good read too:
    http://www.felinediabetes.com/FDMB/threads/any-experience-with-aftercare-for-dka.211903/

    Is Chester back at the vet tonight, or home with you? And we can keep calling you Chester's Dad, but let us know if you want to share your first name or nickname.

    Best,
    Sandi..
     
  58. AliceMeowliss (GA)

    AliceMeowliss (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 8, 2019
    @Sandi & Whisper great searching! I forgot how full that old thread was! Both are great and @Kris & Teasel had a good bulletin point list I remember helped me organize my brain much better! Now I am bookmarking them for later to re-read. :)
     
  59. Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA)

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

    Joined:
    Oct 2, 2015
    I am going into my ninth year caring for a diabetic cat (Whispy is our second one), but I learn things (or RELEARN them, thanks to my old brain forgetting them) all the time by reading and rereading posts even if I wasn't participating in them.

    So glad your Alice is doing well!
     
    AliceMeowliss (GA) likes this.
  60. AliceMeowliss (GA)

    AliceMeowliss (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 8, 2019
    @Sandi & Whisper you said it right, “relearn” & I’m always trying to re-sort the info in my brain too. It was really good to have some back stuff dug up!! :)
     
  61. Chester’s Dad

    Chester’s Dad New Member

    Joined:
    Jun 10, 2019
    His BG was in the 290s most of the day yesterday. Last night after dinner and his shot it started creeping up, until hour six it was 371. This morning pre-shot was 461! Very worried.
     
    Last edited: Jul 3, 2019
  62. AliceMeowliss (GA)

    AliceMeowliss (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 8, 2019
    Take a deep breath! Regulation takes time.

    Alice was diagnosed diabetic about 9 months ago, I tried to treat her with something shorter acting like you did too, they just didn’t work right for us! A longer-acting insulin will start regulating him as long as you can keep fluids and food and insulin in him. :)
    My cat is like a brand new cat, now. But I remember all the panic every time I saw red and black readings. (400+). Turns out she made it through those moments okay. Feed low carb food and just keep getting food and water and insulin to him.
    :bighug:
     
  63. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 18, 2015
    Can we get you to set up a spreadsheet for Chester? It would be much easier for us to help you if we can see "the big picture" of what Chester's BG is doing.
    HERE are the instructions for setting up the spreadsheet and THIS document explains how to use the spreadsheet. If you need assistance setting this up, just holler.
    Is Chester eating of his own accord? Is he eating normal amount or less than normal? Is he getting lots of fluid? Have you checked his ketones again since his return home?
     
  64. Marianne M

    Marianne M Member

    Joined:
    May 27, 2019
    Talked to our vet and he doesn't believe the ketone meter which I had just received. Actually he didn't know there was a blood meter to test for ketones. The meter said High which meant according to the booklet over 600! I did a urine pee test Saturday night (he's an inside outside cat) and he was normal. The next am he had high sugar but started coming down. Next morning I used the ketone meter I had just received and he tested high. I freaked out and called our vet. Mango is eating well and not acting differently.
    Mango and I had a bad day yesterday and our vet assured me that we will have those wild days now and them and it's expected. I have to take a deep breath and since Mango isn't showing any signs of distress I shouldn't either! Hard to do.
     
  65. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 18, 2015
    @Marianne M Just noticed the ketone test result today and I certainly don't want to increase your concern but any reading over 2.4 on the ketone meter is cause for concern with kitties. I'm not sure how high ketones have to get on the meter for symptoms to show up but I would keep checking frequently and get Mango to the vet immediately if his appetite dwindles even a tiny bit. I would suggest you post in Health with a ? about ketone meter readings and symptoms presenting to get more information. Ketones can turn into DKA very quickly so this isn't anything you want to be slow to deal with.
     
    AliceMeowliss (GA) likes this.
  66. Marianne M

    Marianne M Member

    Joined:
    May 27, 2019
    Thanks Linda I spoke with our vet yesterday (i freaked out with the reading I got) after using our new blood ketone meter and he was didn't believe the meter reading. Told him last Saturday night I got a pee sample and tested with a ketone stick and it was negative then two days later a high reading with the blood ketone meter. He felt since it is a human meter, it hasn't been tested for use with a cat so he would disregard the results. He feels that Mango is just fine since he is eating fine and not acting ill. I did start feeding him more often with watered down pate. Vet told he to go back to 2.75 Units of Prozinc for seven days and do a curve for him to see. He is more concerned about his blood sugar getting to low! He also said that since Mango having high BG reading it doesn't go alone with high ketones levels? Ever hear that before? The more I get into this the more confused I seem to get!:confused:
     
  67. Chester’s Dad

    Chester’s Dad New Member

    Joined:
    Jun 10, 2019
    Chester’s bloodwork is okay, but he becoming more anemic. The vet discovered an enlarged kidney, and she thinks it might be cancer.
     
  68. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 18, 2015
    @Chester’s Dad Glad to hear bloodwork is Ok. Are you referring to ketones/BG? While an enlarged kidney could be cancer, there are other explanations too that are not so ominous. Did the vet recommend an ultrasound? How is Chester doing today? How are you doing?

    ETA Sorry for the hijack of your thread.
     
  69. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 18, 2015
    @Marianne M I really think we should take your situation over to Health in a separate conversation so we can keep the details of each kitty separate and not confuse anyone. Can you please start another thread on Health and I will respond there. Thank you. :)
     
  70. Mary & Coco

    Mary & Coco New Member

    Joined:
    Jun 19, 2019
    Praying for Chester and you. He is in the best place he can be right now getting the treatment he needs. Cats are very tough animals and you’d be surprised what they can overcome. I will be praying and asking God to put his healing hands on Chester. Please keep us updated. <3
     
    Chester’s Dad likes this.
  71. Nortjude

    Nortjude New Member

    Joined:
    Jun 30, 2019
    Am just reading on here first time, and just want to let you know that my husband Patrick and I join in prayers for your precious Chester and you, and your family. It's so very, very hard to go through this (as we know too well), and your love for Chester shows clearly in all al your posts. May God bless you all
     
  72. Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA)

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

    Joined:
    Oct 2, 2015
  73. Chester’s Dad

    Chester’s Dad New Member

    Joined:
    Jun 10, 2019
    Thank you all for the kind concern. Chester is recuperating at home now. He’s eating with a great appetite and getting some much-deserved love and rest. He’s on a potassium supplement and an oral antibiotic. We are still going to have to see if his anemia has eased up.

    His BG has finally come down to the high 200s pre-shot just tonight, so we lowered his post-DKA dosage of ProZinc tonight from 3 units to 1.5 (it was 1.0 before the DKA episode).

    As for the enlarged kidney, the obvious explanation of cancer is very frightening, but it would require taking him to a specialist just to confirm. And I’m not sure I want to put him through that right now, considering how bleak the treatment options would be. If it’s something less sinister like a complication of the UTI, then hopefully the four antibiotics he’s been on will fight it.
     
    Last edited: Jul 7, 2019
  74. MrWorfMen's Mom

    MrWorfMen's Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 18, 2015
    This is SO good to hear. Was getting a little concerned about you and Chester. I think you are making a good decision about the kidney for now. Let Chester recuperate and see how things go.:)
     
    CandyH & Catcat likes this.
  75. Sandi&Maxine&Whispy(GA)

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

    Joined:
    Oct 2, 2015
    Yay!!! Good news! Agreed, no need to stress about the kidney right now.

    If you end up having specific questions about anything going on with Chester, starting a new thread would probably be in order at this point. Questions about infections, kidneys, anemia, etc would go in the Health forum, while any questions about dosing would go in Lantus (and having a spreadsheet avail with your testing results would be necessary at that time for us to give informed opinions). Remember that we are all ultra-involved kitty parents so questions aren't limited to only diabetes related, or even feline related for that matter :p

    Such a great way to end the day, thx for the update! :bighug:
     
    CandyH & Catcat likes this.
  76. Nortjude

    Nortjude New Member

    Joined:
    Jun 30, 2019
    Praying all stays peaceful. I'm sure he's in bliss just being home surrounded by that love ~~
     
  77. Bron and Sheba (GA)

    Bron and Sheba (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 21, 2015
    I am so glad Chester is home and eating well and getting lots of love!!
    Sending many vines that the kidney issue resolves.
    Are you testing for ketones?
     
  78. Bellasmom

    Bellasmom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 12, 2018
    Sending prayers
     
  79. Diane Tyler's Mom

    Diane Tyler's Mom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 21, 2018
    I hope Chester continues to improve , he must be so happy to be home with you
     
  80. Marianne M

    Marianne M Member

    Joined:
    May 27, 2019
    Hurray Chester is home. :cat::) Me and Mango wish you both continued better days ahead. We will be thinking of you both.
     
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