(((((Carolyn))))) :YMSIGH: (((((Latte)))))
Its just as torturous to get her to eat any of that (spoon fed) than it is to get her off her butt to eat regular cat food the last 1.5 weeks. She is eating very little at night...and its progressively getting worse. She only eats in the morning for the most part. So much for a steroid stimulating the appetite. A regular appetite stimulant should work, but she will pretty much only eat kibble.
A few thoughts, maybe questions for the vet -
could she be developing a tolerance to the antacid again, so is feeling more heartburn? (even though she hasn't vomited white foam since Feb 2, right?) I seem to remember that you've rotated her between (ranitidine?) and (famotidine) in the past?
from her SS, it looks like she's been having more constipation issues the last 3 weeks. She's been on lactulose for a long time... has she ever taken Miralax? If you think she can tolerate it, perhaps ask the vet about switching to Miralax? I think Miralax would also be better for her calcium issues than lactulose.
when was the last time her pred dose changed? Could be building a tolerance?
I'm also wondering about (from SS)
feb 6 -- PM- tired, lethargic..not active AT ALL. Very fast breathing..47, after petting her. Later between 24-36 while resting.????
Did it coincide with her +2, +4 and +6 high BGs? I realize she doesn't act like this every time she's running high, but am just wondering if there's a connection... maybe someone with knowledge can comment. Were her ears warm (like maybe a high temp?)? Another thing that comes to mind is BP; did the vet measure it last time she was in? I know money is limited...
Does she seem to be having more days with lethargy part or all of the day? ...does it seem to coincide with days she's constipated? .. or, when she has high BG? .. pancreatic flare? I understand the "so what" question is, what's treatable w/in available $$ - you're doing everything you can for her BG, have pain meds for pancreatitis; so if its constipation maybe a change in meds can help.
The other thing is these symptoms (lethargy, fast breathing) could well be from kidney, blood chem, and/or acid issues so I'd really encourage you to post over on Helen's list - the knowlegeable folks there may have some insights and ideas. (they'd love to hear from you anyway! cat_pet_icon )
I picked up the tramadol today, but am not convinced its the best choice as of yet. At least i have it as an option.
I haven't been able to find any specifics on the adverse effects and risks for this drug, other than the general stuff they have in the pet owners advisory sites (eg, VeterinaryPartner); I only found a few efficacy studies. But the cautionary opinions that Nancy posted on the CRF list and Dr Lisa posted here, are just red flags for me (links are in Latte's Feb 13 condo
viewtopic.php?f=9&t=6150&start=0 ).
Dr Lisa didn't elaborate on her concerns. Maybe you could get some more info by posting a follow up question on the Health board? I would also ask your vet why he recommends tramadol instead of bupe and/or gabapentin.
Big hugs -
Deb, angel Evie, and the boys
