Polyporus - or Apple Cider Vinegar - experiences?

[SHK]

I ask because EQ has a history of bladder issues, and was diagnosed with Feline Interstitial Cystitis (formerly FLUTD). Never crystals, never blockage, just inflammation, bacteria, and crummy-feeling symptoms - urinating outside box, drinking more, lethargy. It seems it might be acting up again - which I figured it might, since he is still passing high amounts of glucose in his urine. We just can't seem to get his diabetes under control yet.

Anyway... whenever his FIC symptoms flared up, his old vet (ugh, I wish he hadn't left us, but I digress!) would put him on a regimen of 1/8 tsp of polyporus powder mixed with his wet food, once a day for seven days. It always worked to relieve the symptoms, and sometimes it helped us avoid a course of antibiotics, although often antibiotics were necessary in addition to the polyporus. I'd prefer not to give him antibiotics until I've confirmed he has an infection, but I'd like to start him on polyporus right away until we can see the vet. Except I can't find anything online to indicate it is safe for cats with diabetes.

For those that don't know, polyporus is a mushroom (extract?) that helps reduce inflammation and has diuretic properties. It's not harsh, but I am concerned about three things - 1. Is it safe for diabetic cats? 2. EQ's urine output is still very high; would a mild diuretic harm him? 3. Could his diabetes not be responding to insulin because he possibly has an underlying infection?

I also would like to know anyone's experience with apple cider vinegar. I searched the forum, and found mostly questions with vague or little answers. This could mean nobody has experience with it, but I thought I'd try asking again.

Sorry I'm full of questions tonight, but thank you for reading!

*edited to add question about ACV

 

[sch]

I personally have no experience, but my thoughts would definitely lean toward not giving EQ something that would make him urinate more, ya know? I hope someone might be able to step up and give you some more info on this. Would your vet have knowlege about this? Perhaps that is a place to start.
Sorry I can't add anything. I just saw your question unanswered since last night and wanted to at least try to help even if just a tiny bit.
I am sorry EQ is still so full of symptoms, that is frustrating. I wish I could help, but for now.. I will just give you a (((((hug))))).
Hope it helps... a little?
Can anyone add anything to this?

 

[hmjohnston]

3. Could his diabetes not be responding to insulin because he possibly has an underlying infection?

Yes! The infection can be increasing his BG levels and making them difficult to control. There will be others on later who can answer the other questions.

Are you checking for ketones is my first question. DKA gets a foot hold when- not enough insulin, not enough food, and and infection is there. Since he is peeing a lot getting a sample will not be a problem :lol: .

Good luck on the other questions.

 

[SHK]

Thank you for the responses (and to the person who PMd me)! I was able to get hold of our old vet who confirmed via phone that polyporus is safe for diabetic cats as a once-in-a-while treatment for symptoms of FIC. I added a little acidophilus too, expecting to prepare for a round of antibiotics, but we may be able to skip those. He's been on the polyporus for 3.5 days now, and I'm seeing a difference in his behavior - he seems to be feeling better! This used to happen before the diabetes too, and polyporus was a good tool in helping him feel better without (or with) antibiotics.

I do test him for ketones, and we've been very lucky so far. His food is already zero carb (and Dr. Lisa says it's the best possible food out there), but I have been reading up on some other options. I want to have a backup plan just in case.

His BG just started to come down a tiny bit yesterday, and we're up to 5u now. Cross your fingers that we're getting closer to the right dose!

I wish someone here had experience with ACV. I've read so much about it and it sounds too good to be true. It would help to have some human confirmation on the subject. :smile:

 

[sch]

I'm so glad you got an answer,finally,and so glad to hear EQ is feeling a little better.
You are in our thoughts...