Now Shilo needs your prayers. WORRIED (*post 47*)

[jenluckenbach]

Shilo is currently at the vet's, getting a chest x-ray.

He hasn't been eating right over the weekend. And he has been laying around MUCH more than usual.

I was assuming his mouth was hurting, because when he did try to eat, he recoiled and then stopped eating.

But the vet feels that his mouth looks good and has minimal to no pain there.

BUT!!! He has labored breathing. And I did notice him breathing rather rapidly over the weekend, and purring....not the contented purr....but the "I am in pain" purr. He is getting a chest x-ray.

The vet's office was quite busy today (I think they had am emergency that set them behind, this morning) so they kept Shilo and sent me home until later.

So here I sit......WORRYING......what could be wrong???

[Laura's Babies]

Darn Jen! You have been having a really rough time with all the babies you have taken in lately. Please keep us posted on what is going on with him! Prayers are on their way for him.

[momcat]

Of course Shilo will be in my prayers and you remain in mine. Hopefully your little sweetie will be fine in no time and whatever might be wrong can be easily and quickly resolved. Please let us know what the vet says?

[kimlovescats]

Jen, I am so sorry! How old is Shilo? My first concern is always the darned FIP. I hope and pray it isn't that and that whatever it is can be easily remedied!

Hugs,
Kim

[krazyaboutkatz]

Jen, I'm so sorry to hear this.:( Hopefully it's nothing serious. He'll remain in my thoughts and prayers.

[jenluckenbach]

He's home. Nothing definite, but a possibility of a little congestion or possibly asthma. We are giving him some pain meds and some pred in hopes his breathing improves.

I am just glad they didn't tell me they saw a tumor or something! :eek:

I've got to watch him for the next couple of days for improvement.

[orangemm]

Let's hope the meds work for Shiloh. Poor lil guy! You've had a prolonged string of bad luck lately, Jen. :( Maybe you need a couple of days off?

Give Shiloh some nice tender scritches from me and the boys....

(hugs)

[kb2yjx]

WHEW Jen!!!! Prayers for Shilo!!! Will send a pm!!

[catmandu]

We are so glad that there seems to be nothing seriuouly wrong with Shilo
and we hope that the meds that your Vet gave him while help restore his health.
The Found Ctas say you are an alert Cat Meeowmie to spot when one Cat is ill when you are surrounded by some many Furr Friends.
Good Work Aunt Jen. Well Done!!!!!

[jazzcat]

Glad he's back home now. Hopefully it's just a little congestion and nothing more. Prayers on the way.

[Freedom]

Come on, Shiloh, let this be a kitty cold and let the meds get this beat so you can get back to life as usual!

[Medusa]

Good grief, you sure have had your share of catastrophes, Jen! I'm glad that nothing scary was found, so we'll pray that Shiloh gets his breathing calmed down and that nothing serious will be found.

[Catty1]

Dear Shilo...hope you are feeling better and getting good deep breaths of air really soon! HUGS!

[phesina]

Prayers for both Shiloh and Jen as they recuperate!

[jenluckenbach]

Well, I thought Shilo was feeling a lot better this evening. he was up, and moving about. he acted like he was hungry. He even followed me upstairs to the room the cats eat in............BUT............he collapsed at the top of the stairs. Like he just couldn't go on. :(

I picked him up and brought him to his spot in the room, I figured that he would eat once he was there........but he didn't. :(

One thing, the pred. really should perk up his appetite. So maybe tomorrow morning he'll be ready to eat.

[jazzcat]

Oh no, seeing him collapse would really scare me. Gentle kisses for sweet Shilo and (((HUGS))) for you Jen.

[AbbyMom]

Prayers and warm thoughts on the way for Shilo. Come on kitty, eat!

[Laura's Babies]

Oh no, seeing him collapse would really scare me. Gentle kisses for sweet Shilo and (((HUGS))) for you Jen.

Same from me Jen! Still sending prayers for the meds to kick in and make him all better. Poor baby!

[Reachoutrescue]

Dear Shilo...please feel better!! You got to eat buddy!! We all love you and want you to get well. Jen...you poor dear...I am so sorry your kits are having so many problems. I pray Shilo gets better and all goes well for the rest. Please give Shilo a head scritchy for me....

[kimlovescats]

Poor guy, I sure wish the vet had figured out what's going on with him! :confused: Hopefully the pred will get him eating tomorrow and he'll gain some strength back!

[Catty1]

Dear Shilo...Jen, I am sure you are right, that the pred will perk up his appetite, and he can get some energy back once he starts eating again.

{{{{hugs}}}} to you both!

[krazyaboutkatz]

Jen, I'm sorry that Shilo is not doing well and that he still won't eat.:( Hopefully he'll start doing better tomorrow. He remains in my thoughts and prayers.

[jennielynn1970]

Hope Shilo is doing better this AM. That would really scare me with the collapsing!

[jenluckenbach]

Still not eating. Maybe a small amount, but not much. Acting sort of OK, but did not sleep on bed at all last night which is VERY odd for him.

[kimlovescats]

Jen, what tests did your vet do? I know you mentioned chest x-rays? What else? This is so baffling to me, and I'm sure it is to you (of course)! :confused:

[kb2yjx]

Had this when Norton(16) had a bad URI. He cannot smell anything!!!So he will not eat....He might be able to smell chicken/turkey baby food!!! How scary to have him collapse!!!

[jenluckenbach]

Still not eating.

I am instructed to update the vet tomorrow, so he has another chance to eat before then. At that time we will see what step to take next.

He is not congested in the nose, so I doubt that is discouraging him from eating. the vet thought the x-ray showed a bit of congestion around the heart.

He is limping a little tonight, also.

Tomorrow is another day. :confused:

[Catty1]

Are you force-feeding him a bit? Sub q's?

Poor Shilo, and poor you.

PT Prayers for you both.

[Medusa]

Guess we gotta pump up the volume on the prayers.....

[kimlovescats]

Jen, is it his back leg? Can you feel it to see if it feels cold compared to the others?

This is why I ask:

What is Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy?:
More easily referred to as HCM, this disease is a thickening of the heart muscle, and is believed to be largely genetic in origin, with several breeds considered suspect. It is found most often in middle-aged cats, and in males. Although there is no known cure for this condition, with prompt diagnosis and early treatment, cats may live on for years after diagnosis. HCM is often associated with Hyperthyroidism in cats. Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)sometimes results from HCM.
What are the Symptoms of HCM?:
Unfortunately, one of the first symptoms may be heart failure and death, an important reason why cats with any of the "at-risk" diseases should be monitored carefully for heart health. Other symptoms include:
Sudden appearance of dyspnea (difficulty breathing)
Anorexia
Lethargy and/or weakness
Syncope (fainting)
Limb paralysis (rear legs may be affected)
Clinical symptoms include a heart murmur or a pulse over 200. Further tests would

[rg_girlca]

Prayers and positive thoughts on the way for dear Shilo and MAJOR prayers for you Jen, that this terrible time for you will end very soon.

{{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}

[Emeraldgreen]

Jen, Catty1 told me that Shilo had a tumor removed. I wanted to pass along that I have been giving Tiger 3 caps a day of Transfer Factor (http://www.4life.com/transferfactor.aspx), an immune boosting supplement that really seems to be helping him since his third tumor removal.
I contacted a woman named Bethany who had a cat with a nasal tumor (squamous cell carcinoma-the same as Tiger). Her cat was doing so poorly that she brought her to the vet to be put down but at the last minute, she just couldn't go through with it. She found out about Transfer Factor and started giving it to her cat. She chose to give the kind meant for humans in order to give her cat a strong dose. For 2-3 months she gave about 4 caps per day and then tapered it off to 3 caps a week. This was 2 years ago and her cat is doing really well she said.
I'm hoping that it will help Tiger and perhaps it might be something that could help Shilo? If you want any more info on it, just let me know.

[jenluckenbach]

Rutherford had the tumor removed. Shilo has no teeth because of stomatitis.

I think I am going to go feel his legs. And then feed the cats and see how he does.

[ChrisH]

Oh, Jen, I'm so sorry to hear Shilo is sick. :( Prayers and positive thoughts on the way.

[Emeraldgreen]

Rutherford had the tumor removed. Shilo has no teeth because of stomatitis.

I think I am going to go feel his legs. And then feed the cats and see how he does.

Sorry, I was given the wrong name in a PM sent to me.
Anyway, the Transfer Factor would certainly be helpful for Rutherford.
Hope Shilo gets better soon.

[GILL]

I am so sorry too hear. all our prayers are with you and Shilo.

[kimlovescats]

I think I am going to go feel his legs.

Jen, I forgot to add that the "coldness" could mean a possible blood clot, which is very painful and needs to be dealt with ASAP. Are you totally confident in this vet? If not ... please find another one!

HUGS and prayers!
Kim

[jenluckenbach]

Sorry for the delay in updating....had to go to work.

No coldness in the legs.

Still not eating. Licks a little but that's it.

We might go for an ultrasound, but I am not sure it is in the budget. :( We'll probably do blood work, too (I just need to ask the vet if he HAD blood work done before his last dental.)

I do trust the vet, and the other vet at the clinic. I doubt I'd NEED a second opinion (or actually a 3rd), but it is always a possibility if need be.

Tonight I am going to try to tempt him with some REAL food. LOL

[kb2yjx]

Jen, we all know that Shilo could not be in better hands - YOURS!!!!!!! Prayers heading out to Shilo and you, too!!!

[jenluckenbach]

He ATE tonight. I feed him canned food because of his lack of teeth. Tonight, I placed canned SALMON on top! Irresistable, I guess. :rolleyes:

[Catty1]

I guess BraveHeart told him to hold out for the human food! :D

Great news!

[jenluckenbach]

I guess BraveHeart told him to hold out for the human food! :D

Great news!
Maybe :p But BraveHeart was less than interested in his salmon today. He's more of a junk food junkie ;).

[jenluckenbach]

not even the salmon could tempt him this morning. he just lays there.

[Medusa]

This is so frustrating; one step forward, two steps back. I sure hope Shilo snaps out of this soon and feels better.

[catnapper]

Jen I am SO SORRY! I have been terribly out of the loop with everything in my own life -- I missed this! Many prayers for your dear beloved Shilo. (((HUGS)))) for you and Charlie.

[kb2yjx]

This is so CAT!!! They get our hopes us and then zam, they go back to their old ways!! Have you tried baby food? Or is it time to order pizza??? Hope BraveHeart starts eating again!!!

[jenluckenbach]

Shilo went back to the vet for blood work (results tomorrow) and they weighed him and listened to his chest again.

He lost a couple more ounces (in 3 days...of not eating) but the worse news is the vet hears a heart murmur that was not there even 3 days ago. A grade 4 (on a scale of 1 to 6).

He is now going on different medication: Lasix and Enalapril

The ultrasound is on hold because it is now thought to be HEART related, so the ultrasound would show nothing.

My poor special boy! :(

[jennielynn1970]

Oh my goodness! Poor Shiloh! I hope the new meds work and he gets better. he's such a sweet boy. Many gentle hugs and kisses for Shiloh!

[kimlovescats]

Jen, is it his back leg? Can you feel it to see if it feels cold compared to the others?

This is why I ask:

What is Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy?:
More easily referred to as HCM, this disease is a thickening of the heart muscle, and is believed to be largely genetic in origin, with several breeds considered suspect. It is found most often in middle-aged cats, and in males. Although there is no known cure for this condition, with prompt diagnosis and early treatment, cats may live on for years after diagnosis. HCM is often associated with Hyperthyroidism in cats. Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)sometimes results from HCM.
What are the Symptoms of HCM?:
Unfortunately, one of the first symptoms may be heart failure and death, an important reason why cats with any of the "at-risk" diseases should be monitored carefully for heart health. Other symptoms include:
Sudden appearance of dyspnea (difficulty breathing)
Anorexia
Lethargy and/or weakness
Syncope (fainting)
Limb paralysis (rear legs may be affected)
Clinical symptoms include a heart murmur or a pulse over 200. Further tests would


Jen, it's looking more like my fear! :( I pray it isn't!!!

[kb2yjx]

Jen!! That poor boy!! Maybe they should do a cardiac ultrasound. Prayers that the meds help!!

[Medusa]

Goodness, this poor boy has had his share of troubles! I'll light a special candle for him tonight. ((Hugs)) to you, Shilo and Jen.

[Moesha]

Oh dear! Hoping for good news to come from this. You have sure had more than you share of sadness lately.

[Catty1]

HUGS! Dear Shilo - major PT Prayers coming your way.

I hope whatever it is is treatable....

[jenluckenbach]

Limb paralysis (rear legs may be affected)
:eek: :eek: :eek: He's been limping on his rear legs. :( :(

[jazzcat]

Oh no, not the update I had hoped.

Lots of prayers and positive thoughts on the way.

[kb2yjx]

Has Shilo ever been checked for diabetes??? Eons ago, I read that that can cause a cat to limp. MEGA PRAYERS!!!!(I cannot but help and think about the pelvic clots from the heart condition!)......

[jenluckenbach]

His test results due tomorrow will hopefully tell us what is going on.

Shilo is to do this medicine combination 1 day to see if there is improvement. his update AND the blood test results will determine in what direction we need to go. The vet mentioned a possble need for a portion of a baby aspirin due to the risk of blood clots.....but needed to wait for the test results.

[Anikaca77]

Poor Shilo

My prays are being sent double time.

[kimlovescats]

Jen, the blood clot issue is why I asked about the back leg and seeing if it felt cold to the touch. That would signal a blood clot and the obstrucion of blood flow.

Prayers coming for you and Shilo!

HUGS,
Kim

[orangemm]

More hugs and prayers for Shiloh!

Poor Jen, this is not a very good time for you............ :(

[jenluckenbach]

As of 3 AM this morning I was well aware that Shilo felt better. He climbed into bed, started nuzzling me with his nose and paw-pawing on my neck.

So the good news is the medication is working but the bad news is it MUST be his heart that is failing. :( And that breaks my own heart into a million pieces.

Late tonight, I will speak to the vet who will have the blood test results and instructions on what to do next.

PRAYERS for sweet Shilo.

[Moesha]

Hugs for you and Shilo as well. It just doesn't seem fair does it?

[ChrisH]

Extra prayers on the way.

[GILL]

I am so sorry Jen. You know you and Shilo have all the prayers of the Crew.

[Kirsten]

I'm so sorry, Jen! This reminds me a lot of what my Katz was going through. Let's hope that Shilo will be better responding to the meds than she did...

Best wishes for him are on the way...

(((HUGS)))
Kirsten

[Taz_Zoee]

Jen, you and Shilo will be in my thoughts.

[Reachoutrescue]

Oh, poor poor Shilo! I pray your heart is okay and you can live a long, happy, healthy life. You are in good hands and very loved. We are all rooting for you to recover from what ever it is that ails you! Please get well sweet boy.

[kb2yjx]

Shilo, I will just send prayers....

[phesina]

Prayers for Shiloh and for Jen and her whole family.

[jennielynn1970]

Oh Jen, I hope that his heart is ok, I know how much you love this guy. He's such a sweetheart too! I hope that the news is better than expected, and that he can make a full recovery!

Big hugs to you all!

[jenluckenbach]

The blood work results were good. And since the meds are working, we just keep giving them. The vet will listen to his heart in about 2 weeks.

He is (hopefully) eating right now, so I guess I'll found out soon enough how much he ate.

But he feels better, that I am sure. :D

[kimlovescats]

That's encouraging news, Jen! Maybe if it is his heart, then you caught it early enough along to treat it! ;)

[jenluckenbach]

That's encouraging news, Jen! Maybe if it is his heart, then you caught it early enough along to treat it! ;)
This is what I hope!

He did eat tonight, not the full amount, but enough to be encourging.

[Catty1]

HUGS! Keep eating dear Shilo - I am so glad his levels were good, Jen! :D

[kb2yjx]

The Clan is happy to hear that Shilo ate something!!! YEA!!!

[catfamily]

i am so sorry i got to this so late.prayers are on the way to your Dear Shilo.
this is so sad knowing her heart may be going.
but knowing the meds are helping tremendously is great news.
i'm so srry for your pain to jen:(

[jazzcat]

That's a good update. Glad to hear the meds are helping, the blood tests were good and he is eating.

[phesina]

Well done, Shiloh!

[krazyaboutkatz]

Jen, I'm glad to hear that he's feeling better and starting to eat again.:) Lots more prayers and positive thoughts are being sent his way.