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View Full Version : What would you do? (**Update 6-18-09 - need your prayers)



kittykatharine
05-28-2009, 09:05 AM
So Sydney's cancer has been in remission since December. This has been very wonderful and we have been totally grateful to have her everyday. A new issue, however, has surfaced. Sydney was diagnosed as having hyperthyroidism yesterday. I had a feeling this was going to be an issue, because she has lost some weight and has been vomiting some (although not excessively). The vet has told me that I have three options for Sydney:

1. Do surgery and remove the thryroid tissue - the vet said she does not recommend this because it is very difficult to determine how much needs to be removed and many times - you end up having to give medications for hypothyroidism because too much was extraced. (RULED OUT AS AN OPTION)

2. Daily administration of Methimazole - for the rest of her life. The problem with this option is it does not cure the problem, only manages it - and long term wise it becomes expensive (daily meds, blood tests, thyroid tests, etc.) (MAYBE)

3. Radioactive iodine therapy - this option cures the problem. Problem with this is it is around $1500 and I have to travel to Auburn and leave her there for at leat 2 days. (MAYBE)


Here are my concerns - if I drop the $1500 on the treatment - the stress of the trip could cause her cancer to come out of remission, not to mention I dont have $1500 laying around. Plus, I am so afraid that I will get her the treatment, only to find out she has other problems, which would result in my having to deny her future treatments because I can no longer afford it. However, with the pill therapy the cost will end up being much more in the long run if she lives more than a year. I am just afraid I will be spend the money and her cancer will return in a month. I just dont know what to do. Any ideas or anyone with expereince with this would be greatly appreciated!:love::love::love:

columbine
05-28-2009, 09:36 AM
Was it the vet who told you stress can bring cancer out of remission? I've never heard of that before.

Sounds like a hard choice. How about getting a second opinion? It seems like a situation where one would be helpful.

Love, Columbine

kittykatharine
05-28-2009, 09:45 AM
Thanks so much for the response Columbine! No, it wasnt the vet who told me this, however, I used to work in a medical setting with people and this was believed to be a common occurance. Because stress causes the sympathetic nervous system to be activated - you have increased heart rate, increased sweating, increased blood pressure, decreased immune system, etc. - all of which make you vulnerable. Sydney has survived 6 months of chemotherapy and I have been very adament about making her life as comfortable and stress free as possible. I am afraid leaving her in Auburn will for several days would be traumatic - especially since she is almost 14 years old. However - I have been reading all the previos posts on hyperthryoidism and it appears long term usage of the pill can be problematic, wherein loose stools, appetite, and vomiting issues can occur. This is not what she needs. It is so difficult sometimes having to be the one incharge of her life. The responsibility is exhausting at times :(

moosmom
05-28-2009, 09:58 AM
I'd definitely get a second opinion. I adopted a 14 year old cat, Murphy, in December and she had thyroid problems that were corrected by the Humane Society before I adopted her. I've noticed that she vomits whenever I give her anything other than dry food. Since she's been on nothing but Wilderness Cat food, a high quality, expensive dry food. The vomiting has all but disappeared.

Since your precious baby has been through so much with her cancer and stuff, do the best you can for her. You guys will be in my thoughts and prayers.

kittykatharine
05-28-2009, 10:07 AM
I'd definitely get a second opinion. I adopted a 14 year old cat, Murphy, in December and she had thyroid problems that were corrected by the Humane Society before I adopted her. I've noticed that she vomits whenever I give her anything other than dry food. Since she's been on nothing but Wilderness Cat food, a high quality, expensive dry food. The vomiting has all but disappeared.

Since your precious baby has been through so much with her cancer and stuff, do the best you can for her. You guys will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Moosmom, thank you so my much for your kind words - dont worry I will do what is best for Sydney, regardless of what a vet says. If I had listended to the vets the first time around, she would have been put to sleep a year ago.

Medusa
05-28-2009, 10:26 AM
Oh boy, that's a toughie, Katherine. I hate to be a "me, too" but I think a second opinion is in order. I will say, though, that since you've ruled out surgery and you're leery about leaving Sydney at the vet's and stressing her out, the second option appears to be the most viable. My Creamsicle is on Prednisolone which does not cure her allergies, only manages them, but this is the option I've chosen. Granted, allergies and cancer certainly don't compare in severity but I'm sure you understand my comparison. Good luck, honey. You've done a great job so far and no doubt you'll continue to do so. Gentle pets to your sweet Sydney and (((HUGS))) to you. :love:

kittykatharine
05-28-2009, 10:35 AM
Oh boy, that's a toughie, Katherine. I hate to be a "me, too" but I think a second opinion is in order. I will say, though, that since you've ruled out surgery and you're leery about leaving Sydney at the vet's and stressing her out, the second option appears to be the most viable. My Creamsicle is on Prednisolone which does not cure her allergies, only manages them, but this is the option I've chosen. Granted, allergies and cancer certainly don't compare in severity but I'm sure you understand my comparison. Good luck, honey. You've done a great job so far and no doubt you'll continue to do so. Gentle pets to your sweet Sydney and (((HUGS))) to you. :love:

Thanks so much Medusa - you are always so wonderful. I have been reseaching this all morning - and if Sydney had no other problems, this woud be an easy choice - the radioactive iodine treatment is the best choice and a true cure if successful. However, the fact that Sydney is dealing with cancer - if complicates the entire situation. I am going to try and get in touch with the vet oncologist who saw Sydney a year ago in Auburn. Hopefully she can shed some light on the best protocol to follow.

Medusa
05-28-2009, 10:47 AM
if Sydney had no other problems, this woud be an easy choice - the radioactive iodine treatment is the best choice and a true cure if successful. However, the fact that Sydney is dealing with cancer - if complicates the entire situation.

Exactly. Nothing is easy in this life, is it? And we take our responsibility to our little fuzz nuggets so seriously, as well we should. I sure would hate to see you trade one illness for another, if you know what I mean. You're truly in a precarious predicament but the oncologist may give you the peace of mind that you need in order to proceed. I know you'll keep us all posted and prayers will continue for Sydney and you. :love:

Grace
05-28-2009, 11:14 AM
I don't know the difference in price - pills vs cream - but there is an alternative to pilling her every day. The medication can be mixed as a cream and applied to her ear daily. This is called a transdermal dosing method.

We had a cat once, Nelly, with thyroid problems. The cream was not yet available, so we gave her a liquid mix each day. She had no side effects - I read somewhere that only about 15% of the cats do experience any.

kittykatharine
05-28-2009, 11:57 AM
I don't know the difference in price - pills vs cream - but there is an alternative to pilling her every day. The medication can be mixed as a cream and applied to her ear daily. This is called a transdermal dosing method.

We had a cat once, Nelly, with thyroid problems. The cream was not yet available, so we gave her a liquid mix each day. She had no side effects - I read somewhere that only about 15% of the cats do experience any.

Thank you so much Grace for the info! Sydney is actually used to taking pills since she has been required to take several a day for many many months (chemo). If I do choose to go the medication route, I will probably stick with the pills because Sydney is used to pilling and because I heard the absoption of the medication is not as good with the transdermal method.


Exactly. Nothing is easy in this life, is it? And we take our responsibility to our little fuzz nuggets so seriously, as well we should. I sure would hate to see you trade one illness for another, if you know what I mean. You're truly in a precarious predicament but the oncologist may give you the peace of mind that you need in order to proceed. I know you'll keep us all posted and prayers will continue for Sydney and you.

Thank you for the thoughts and prayers - as always they are appreciated. :D:D:D

**Continuing my research :p**

kb2yjx
05-28-2009, 12:54 PM
Hi Katherine!!!
We have had several cats with thyroid(hyper)disease. Boo was the first. We had the radioactive method done on Boo. She was doing well, when SUDDENLY, one morning I looked at her and thought she was dying. She was rushed to the vet. Blood work was done. The vet threw in a T4. Despite the last time Boo's T4 were was checked, and it was NORMAL, this T4 showed Boo had NO circulating thyroid hormone at all in her system. It was a life threatening situation. Once stablized, Boo had to get a daily dose of Solixine until the day she went to the Bridge.
Another thyroid kitty, was little Molly Meu. Molly was given the transdermal Tapazole. It was very effective for Molly and her T4's were in the NORMAL range.
And now we have Norton. He is 17 yrs old. Norton get the Tapazole pill twice a day. His dose has been successfully titrated to a 1/4 tablet in the morning and a 1/8 of a tablet in the evening. His T4's have been in the normal range.
I have tried all the methods, and to be honest with you, I do not think I would use the radioactive method again. But, perhaps a second opinion is to be considered. Good luck with your kitty!!! Sandra

kb2yjx
05-28-2009, 01:00 PM
I forgot to say that Molly was on the transdermal because the Tapazole by mouth upset her stomach. Also, I buy the pills from our vet, that is cheaper than going to the human pharmacy. The transdermal cream is dispensed for 30 days(at least that is how the pharmacy we used in NJ dispensed it). It is involved and you do have to wear gloves. You rotate the cat's ears. We used the right ear in the morning, and used the left ear in the evening(that was all that was LEFT to do). The tip of the ear is washed to remove all the transdermal med that may be left. In the evening, we washed the right ear off so it would be ready to use in the morning, and the left ear was washed in the morning, so it would be ready for the evening application. I know it sounds like alot, be Barry and I did this for several years....if you have any questions, please ask!!! Sandra

kittykatharine
05-28-2009, 03:22 PM
Another thyroid kitty, was little Molly Meu. Molly was given the transdermal Tapazole. It was very effective for Molly and her T4's were in the NORMAL range.
And now we have Norton. He is 17 yrs old. Norton get the Tapazole pill twice a day. His dose has been successfully titrated to a 1/4 tablet in the morning and a 1/8 of a tablet in the evening. His T4's have been in the normal range.



Sandra,

Thank you so much for sharing your experiences - I have been searching all the previous forums to see others experiences with the three treatment options. My one concern is many of the pet owners who chose to give their pets the daily meds had issues with diarrhea. Have you noticed this to be a problem? Sydney is so very delicate with the cancer and I would really not want electrlyte imbalances because of diarrhea. The story about your baby going from one extreme to another (hyper to hypo) is also very scary. This would be very detrimental to her as well. I am so sorry about Boo. How old was Boo when he was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism? Was his death related to the thyroid issues? So many things to consider....:(

Randi
05-28-2009, 03:47 PM
Katherine, I'm afraid I don't have any advice, but just want to wish Sydney the very best. I really hope you will find the perfect treatment for her. She looks like a wonderful girl and I send her lots of kisses and positive thoughts. :love:

kb2yjx
05-28-2009, 03:50 PM
Katherine!
No Boo died of kidney disease. She was 16 yrs old. I never had a problem with cats having diarrhea on the Tapazole, just the upset tummy with Molly. I hope that helps....

Moesha
05-28-2009, 03:58 PM
I have no experience with thyroid problems in kitties, or humans for that matter. But I just wanted to say hello and am so glad to get an update on Sydney. I've wondered often how she is doing. That's great news about the cancer. Hopefully you will be able to treat the thyroid issues as well. Please keep in touch with us.

lvpets2002
05-28-2009, 04:20 PM
:( Oh wow that is a tough decision to make.. I agree with the others on getting second advise from a diff Vet.. Sending Lots of Prayers & Huggss.. keep us posted ok..

carole
05-28-2009, 05:35 PM
I really feel for you, what a difficult situation to be in, you are really caught between a rock and hard place, you can only do your best for you sweet Sydney and it is obvious you are doing that, and that you love your kitty with all your heart, bless you, and dear Sydney , i can only hope you can find a solution that you are comfortable with and keep you in my thoughts and hope for a good outcome that will benefit Sydney, thinking of you and HUGS , i Know how hard this is for you, keep doing your research and maybe the second opinion would be a good idea.:love::love:

krazyaboutkatz
05-29-2009, 12:19 AM
I'm so glad to hear that Sydney's cancer is still in remission.:) I'm sorry to hear that she now has hyperthyroidism.:( Hopefully whichever method that you choose to treat her hyperthyroidism will do the trick without causing her stress or any other side effects. I'd probably try using the pill method first to see how that goes. Good luck.:)

Kater
05-29-2009, 01:16 AM
If Sydney were my cat, I'd choose the Methimazole. I think the fact that she is already good about taking pills is important. It'll be the most stress-free option for her.

She is obviously very loved and a very lucky cat! I wish her continued quality time with you and your family. :)

jennielynn1970
05-29-2009, 09:48 AM
I had a foster with thyroid issues, and he was on a high dose of meds for a while when I first got him. After a while, the thyroid started to get under control, and the medicine amount got lower and lower. Within time, it was so minimal, he was almost totally controlled, and on 1/4 of a pill once a day. It wasn't that expensive of a medicine either, and you may be able to get it at a Walmart cheaper than at the vet office. I'd check there or a Walgreens if you have them (they get the $4 Rxs, so maybe since it's an older drug, they may have it??).

I will keep Sydney in my thoughts and prayers and hope that she will be ok and that whatever you choose to do, she will continue to thrive and be a healthy girl!

Catty1
05-29-2009, 12:44 PM
I know when I had temporary hyper-thyroid, I was told that meds could actually correct it after a while. That seems to match what Jenn is saying.

My vote, personally, is for the meds, as they are inexpensive and the dose might decrease over time. With the surgery and iodine, Sydney might have to be on meds to keep her level UP if "too much" if the gland's effects are removed.

Seems to me the med can be compounded into a cream that's applied on the ears.

What does your vet think?

HUGS! to you and dear Sydney.:)

Lizzie
05-29-2009, 01:12 PM
I'm another who has gone through several routes with different cats, including transdermal. The radioactive iodine treatment worked very well on Nougat, who was perfectly awful to pill, and she lived another three happy years before dying of rapid onset renal failure. The Tapezol pills have worked very well on three other cats whose age and/or other medical issues made them a poor subject for the iodine treatment. Alexander has been on the meds for 18 months now, and my Ginger was on them for 5 years (she was 17 when diagnosed and so considered too old for the radio-iodine treatment). They have/had no problem at all with digestive upsets, diarrhoea, etc. I think the transdermal does work, but it is not as effective, at least that was my experience.

I must admit that in your place I wouldn't want to risk the gift you've both been given of extra time for Sydney by having her go through the radio-iodine treatment. It is stressful for the cat, no doubt about that. And, unless the protocol has been changed, even when she is back home you won't be able to spend more than an hour a day with her for a week.

kittykatharine
06-11-2009, 03:43 PM
So after talking to my vet and the specialist - we have come to a plan of action. Sydney is been started on the Tapezol for the time being. I wanted to see how she handles the medication, plus I wanted to make sure the hyperthyroidism hasn't been masking any other issues, such as kidney or heart disease. Once she has been cleared of all problems, then I am going to re-evaluate and see if we should just keep her on the medicine or just get the radioactive iodine therapy. I am having to leave Sydney with my mom, while I go off to school in the fall (thought it would be too traumatic to move her to a new house with out her companion Charlie), so the contiunuous pill administration will be determined by her ability to remeber to medicate Sydney. I am going to call everyday to remind her, plus I will make frequent trips home. I have a 3 week break in December, so if she is needing the radioactive iodine treatment, I could do it then. In the meantime, Sydney will be receiving monthly bloodtests to determine how she is doing with the medicine. Hopefully, she will keep on the upward trend and continue to do well. Right now my major concern is getting her to gain some weight. More poor little mama is 7lbs and 3 oz - which is the lightest she has ever been. Before this whole thing she was 13 lbs. I have stocked on Nuvo wet food and hopefully her eating will improve. Thank you again for all your advice and stories - they helped a great deal in my decision making. Thanks! :love::love::love:

Moesha
06-11-2009, 03:55 PM
Thank you so much for the update on Sydney. I was actually just thinking of her earlier today. I sure hope that the medications work well for her. I am so sad to hear that you and she will be separated this fall. I understand the decision and know that you always put her best interests first when making them. But I also know how much you love your little one and that it will be a difficult transition for both of you. Please continue to keep us posted on her condition. I love hearing about Sydney!!

kittykatharine
06-11-2009, 04:06 PM
Thank you so much for the update on Sydney. I was actually just thinking of her earlier today. I sure hope that the medications work well for her. I am so sad to hear that you and she will be separated this fall. I understand the decision and know that you always put her best interests first when making them. But I also know how much you love your little one and that it will be a difficult transition for both of you. Please continue to keep us posted on her condition. I love hearing about Sydney!!

Thanks so much Moesha - the decision to leave her with my parents was a very hard one - however, that has been her home for most of her life and I felt it would be really selfish of me to move her. I am actually trying to transition her to spending more time with my mom, by having my mom constantly reward her with treats, plus I have been trying to train both my mom and sister how to "pill" her. I am going to miss her soooooooooooo much. I have had her by my side for what seems like forever. We even have this routine in the morning where she follows me around the house like my little mascot and she always sleeps at the end of my bed. I know this is going to sound dumb, but I am setting up a video cam so I can at least video see her while away. Luckily I will only be about 3 hours away, so I can come home pretty often. I just hope my mom can keep up with her strenuous medical schedules. I am thinking about buying a big calendar and writing out everything that is needed up till December. Hopefully it shall work - and I will definitley keep everyone posted. This thread has become a very important place for us :D

Medusa
06-11-2009, 07:29 PM
Setting up the video cam is no dumber than my kissing my RB Puddy's pic every night that I have on my phone. It makes us feel better. You've been an exceptionally good cat mom, Katherine, and I'm sure you're going to be worried about Sydney while you're away at school. So do what you must to put your mind and heart at ease. :love:

kittykatharine
06-15-2009, 03:09 PM
Sydney has been doing very poorly these past few days - so badly that my mom turned to me yesterday and said she didnt think Sydney was going to be with us much longer. This of course broke my heart into a thousand pieces. Here is the problem - I can't get her to eat and she is rapidly diminshing into skin and bones. I think she looks very very thin. I have changed foods a million times, tried every flavor and brand of food in my area (dry and wet), have tried cans of tuna, fresh chichen breast, whatever I am eating i try to give her with the hope she will get something in her stomach. I have been able to get her to eat some treats, however these have no nutritional value. Of course I have been working with the vet and she says the Tapazole may have upset Sydney's GI track and to decrease the amount to a 1/4 of a tablet twice a day. I am hoping this will work really soon because she is not doing well. I also purchased some appetite stimulant, which the vet has asked me to use if the reduction of the medicine doesnt work within the next 3-4 days. Please send your thoughts and prayers her way, she needs it really badly. I am going to the store tonight to try and purchase some baby food. Hopefully she will eat this. :(:(:(

Moesha
06-15-2009, 03:24 PM
I sure hope things improve for Sydney. You're doing all you can for her and she knows it and so we all of us. Have you tried NutriCal? It comes in a tube like hairball medicine. I'm sure you can get some at your vet's office. It is superloaded with nutrients. If you could get her to lick some of that, she could get some much needed nutrition. Good girl going to try the baby food. You're remembering many of the tips that others have posted around here. Please keep us in the loop. And give Sydney a little kiss on that sweet head of hers for me if she'll let you.

kittykatharine
06-15-2009, 03:38 PM
I sure hope things improve for Sydney. You're doing all you can for her and she knows it and so we all of us. Have you tried NutriCal? It comes in a tube like hairball medicine. I'm sure you can get some at your vet's office. It is superloaded with nutrients. If you could get her to lick some of that, she could get some much needed nutrition. Good girl going to try the baby food. You're remembering many of the tips that others have posted around here. Please keep us in the loop. And give Sydney a little kiss on that sweet head of hers for me if she'll let you.

I have tried the Nutrical, but Sydney will not have anything to do with it. I was thinking I would try mixing some in with the baby food, if I can get her to eat some of it. I just need to get her to eat something, anything at this point. I will definitley give Sydney a kiss for you - one thing she loves is kisses :-) :love::love::love:

Medusa
06-15-2009, 06:12 PM
When my Puddy was sick, my vet told me to give her cooked elbow macaroni and chicken baby food. She lapped it up. I'm so sorry that Sydney is having this problem. I know how worried and stressed you must be especially knowing that you'll be going away to school soon. You both are so strong that it amazes me. Please know that my prayers are always w/you and Sydney, Katherine. Keep the faythe, honey. :love:

carole
06-15-2009, 06:45 PM
My heart truly goes out to you at this very difficult time, i know exactly what it is like having a cat that won't eat, Ash is the same on and off with his CRF, you try everything with no success sometimes,then all of sudden yes my boy eats, i know Sydney has a lot of problems, and i can only hope with all my heart you find something he can eat and soon, i will be thinking of you, all paws and fingers crossed Sydney makes a turn around and eats, come on Sydney you can do it. HUGS:love::love:

krazyaboutkatz
06-15-2009, 09:21 PM
I'm so sorry to hear this.:( I hope that her appetite will improve soon. I'll keep her in my thoughts and prayers.

kittykatharine
06-18-2009, 11:50 AM
Well, Sydney was on the Tapazole 1/4 of a tablet Monday night, all day Tuesday and no changes were seen. I then added an appetite stimulant to see if that would make her hungry and eat. She has been on that all day Wednesday and this morning. Sydney looks terrible. She is very lethargic, she looks extremely weak, and she just lays around looking very sick. The appetite stimulant has made her more hungry, because I watch her go up to the bowl - but she will only eat a few bites at a time. She acts like she is hungry but then to ill to eat. This morning when I was getting ready for work, I took her out on the back porch (which is her favorite thing to do) and she just laid next to me on the cement. I am sure now something is definitley really wrong and she needs to go the vet. Unfortunately, my little sister was in a car accident Tuesday and I missed work and then Monday I missed work to go to the vet, therefore I could not take any more time off this week - luckily my wonderful boyfriend has dropped everything he was doing and ran to the house to take her in. As soon as I hear word of what the vet says, then I will make a post - I hope and pray it is nothing too serious:(:(:( I was starting to wonder if maybe she went from hyperthyroidism to hypothyroidism... I have no idea - I just know that Sydney and I need as many prayers as we can get, because it isnt looking very good right now...:(

Catty1
06-18-2009, 12:13 PM
PRAYERS for dear Sydney....I so hope it is something treatable and straightforward!

{{{{hugs}}}}

And - I hope your sister is ok. :love::love::love:

Medusa
06-18-2009, 12:36 PM
Goodness, we need to pump up the volume on the prayer power! Here's praying for good news. Keep the faythe, Catherine. :love:

kittykatharine
06-18-2009, 12:37 PM
PRAYERS for dear Sydney....I so hope it is something treatable and straightforward!

{{{{hugs}}}}

And - I hope your sister is ok.

Thank you so much Catty1. I just got a call from my boyfriend stating that the vet will not be in till 2pm today, so he left Sydney there. This is upsetting because that means two more hours of waiting and poor Sydney spending more time there, which she hates so much. I am just so worried. I really can't handle too many blows with her - it seems like everytime we have a wonderful step forward, we always take several backwards. I just want her to be happy and healthy. Before we started her on these meds her only symptom from the hyperthyroidism was she was loosing some weight. Now with the medicine, she still isnt eating and she now looks so sick. It has been nothing but an up and down rollercoaster. :(

Oh, and my sister, she is fine - she just hurt her neck some. Sad thing was she had just bought that car two weeks earlier. I felt so bad for her - she was sitting at a red light when some guy rammed into three cars behind her, who hit her, and she hit the car in front of her. We are praying that they can fix the car. It has been a horrible week...:(



Goodness, we need to pump up the volume on the prayer power! Here's praying for good news. Keep the faythe, Catherine.
__________________
Blessings,
Mary


Thank you so much Medusa, we can use all the prayers we can get right now.

kittykatharine
06-18-2009, 02:57 PM
The vet clinic called and said the vet agreed Sydney wasn't feeling well. They called to ask my permission to perform a blood panel test, a thyroid functioning test, and an exam. Plus, since Sydney has always been one to vocalize her displeasment with being at the vet - add in the cost of sedation. **Sigh** this is getting so hard. I managed to come up with the thousands of dollars for chemotherapy, the thousands of dollars in tests, and I had even accepted the $1500 for the radioactive iodine treatment if needed. But now, it just seems like these costs keep skyrocketing and there is not an end in sight. I have already signed a lease in the city I am moving to for school and there is no way to get out of it (unless I pay the full amount of the lease). When is she going to get better? My biggest fear is she is going to have some issue, which is fixable, and I am going to have to watch her die because I just cannot afford it. I have put myself in so much dept as it is, and I am reaching a breaking point. My family is starting to look at me like I need to make a decision when enough is enough - but I just hate that I have been put in the position to where her future is in my hands. I have never expereienced this before. Baby and Hercules died before I was really capable of doing anything. Sydney on the other hand refuses to give up and I feel I owe it to her to not give up on her as well. When is enough enough?

kittykatharine
06-18-2009, 04:36 PM
The vet called and here is the synopsis. Her blood work came back normal with the exception of her creatine levels (went from 33 to 27) - which the vet attributed to the Tapazole. Her kidneys, liver, and heart all looked good. The vet said she didnt feel any masses in her abdomen and her nasal passages looked clear - meaning no indication at this time that the cancer has returned. The vet sent away her blood for a thyroid tests and I believe the vet agrees with my hypothesis that the Tapazole made her go from hyperthyroidism to hypothyroidism. We were instructed to discontinue her Tapazole until further notice (till the test results come in in a few days). The vet gave her subQ fluids and an anti-nausea injection. She said that Sydney should drastically improve overnight. I hope and pray this is it - if not then her cancer may be back and we just can't see it. Please send prayers and thoughts our way.


**holding onto hope** :love::love::love:

krazyaboutkatz
06-18-2009, 05:32 PM
I'm glad to hear that Sydney's bloodwork and oragns look good. Lot's of prayers and positive thoughts are being sent her way.

I know all to well about vet bills because I'm dealing with this right now myself. When you have 6 cats it's a never ending thing.

kb2yjx
06-18-2009, 06:43 PM
My Boo went to hypothyroidism after she had the radioactive iodine. Boo looked like she was on death's doorstep. But she pulled thru and lived another two years, before kidney disease caused her death. Prayers for you and Sydney.....

kittykatharine
06-19-2009, 11:32 AM
Well, I stopped the Tapazole as directed and gave Sydney her anti nausea medication this morning. Sydney does look better today, and she seems to be more alert and not looking like she is on the verge of death. She does, however, still look like she doesnt feel very good. She was eating more, and I was actually able to get her to eat about a small can of cat food and a half of bottle of baby food - which is more than I have been able to get her to eat for a week. I am hoping she continues to improve and that she will be feeling better really soon. I am going to call the vet this morning to let them know about her progress. Still waiting to here back about the test results.


I'm glad to hear that Sydney's bloodwork and oragns look good. Lot's of prayers and positive thoughts are being sent her way.

I know all to well about vet bills because I'm dealing with this right now myself. When you have 6 cats it's a never ending thing.

It was defintely a huge relief to see her liver and kidneys were fine, I was becoming increasingly concerned. Thank you so much for the postive thoughts, they are very much needed. Like I have said before, this whole expereince has been very eye opening for me. I never really thought about cats and chronic diseases before my Sydney, and now I feel I am more proactive and watching for any signs. I am also researching pet insurance for my Charlie, becuase I just don't know what I would do if he got sick. I could never imagine having 6 kitties! :LOVE:




My Boo went to hypothyroidism after she had the radioactive iodine. Boo looked like she was on death's doorstep. But she pulled thru and lived another two years, before kidney disease caused her death. Prayers for you and Sydney.....


Thank you so much for sharing your story. I am so sorry that Boo has passed on. I feel that Sydney too looked like she was on death's doorstep yesterday, and this is why I feel she went in to hypo. I hope this is it because it is fixable, whereas if the cancer returns, this would not be. Thank you so much for the prayers - they are greatly appreciated!

Catty1
06-19-2009, 01:00 PM
More prayers as Sydney gets better and better :) .

HUGS!:love:

momtomany
06-19-2009, 07:58 PM
The Dunn gang is sorry that you are having such a bad week. We will keep the kitty prayers going up for you, your family, and Sydney.

jenluckenbach
06-20-2009, 05:59 PM
Definitely praying for Sydney.

Karen
06-20-2009, 06:20 PM
Good to hear she is eating more, that much be such a relief to see. I hope she continues to improve, poor dear!

kittykatharine
06-21-2009, 11:35 PM
Thank you so much Catty1, momtomany, jenluckenbach, and Karen for your kind words and thoughts. Although I am able to get Sydney to eat some, she still isnt eating what she needs to prevent any more weight loss. She actually looked worse today then yesterday. My vet is supposed to call me tomorrow to discuss what are my options now. I am very worried about my little girl, because as it looks like right now, she is dying. She is bone frail and looks like she doesn't feel good at all. It is so sad and my mom and I have stay home all day taking turns feeding Sydney anything we can. We had to put some Nutrical on her lips, so she would lick that down. I can only get her to take a couple licks at a time. She is so very weak. It is heart breaking. I will post what the vet says tomorrow...:(:(:(

Scooter's Mom
06-22-2009, 04:05 AM
I'm so sorry to read this latest update. ((Hugs)) coming your way for you and Sydney. Please keep us updated as best you can.

Medusa
06-22-2009, 06:23 AM
This is heartbreaking, I know, Katherine. Perhaps all you can do right now is keep her comfortable unless/until you see improvement. This is such a difficult time but please know that our prayers are w/you. You've done so much for Sydney and have gone above and beyond. Keep the faythe. :love:

Catty1
06-22-2009, 09:19 AM
:( Prayers and hugs to Sydney, and to you and your mom. Sydney is such a survivor, it's horrible that she has some 'mystery thing' that is making her so ill. :(

Prayers for a fixable answer soon!

Pinot's Mom
06-22-2009, 11:14 AM
I'm so sorry Sydney is so ill.:(
Please let us know if we can do anything besides prayers and being here.

Catty1
06-22-2009, 11:56 AM
More prayers...:love:

Cinder & Smoke
06-22-2009, 03:04 PM
HI God ~

Purrayer Pups here onna KAT Line again ...
We know You're werkin hard on Sidney da KAT's case ...
but a lil extra Purrayer Help kan't hurt a bit, kan it?

Maybee You kuld check inna Big Ress-a-pee Book fur sum extra speschul
and *YUMMIE* stuff that Sidney could munch on to help her appie-tite.

We'll go wiff what You suggest, God ... but how'z about roundin up a
2nd Opinyun - just fur talkin sake?

And a {{{God'sHug}}} fur Momma Katherine wuld be a big Help, too.

THANKS, God~

/s/ the Purrayer Pups / KAT Division

Catty1
06-22-2009, 03:46 PM
The Prayer Pups raised a point, KK - what do you think about a second opinion?

I mean...dumb idea here...but could she have something blocking her digestive system? Is she pooping anything since she has been eating a bit more? Would a treatment of sub q fluids help at this point, to get her over the hump?

HUGS and more prayers! :love:

krazyaboutkatz
06-23-2009, 12:33 AM
I'm so sorry to hear this.:( Lots more prayers and positive thoughts are being sent her way. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

allmycats
06-23-2009, 06:43 AM
I'm so sorry to hear of sweet Sydney's health problems:( I know how hard it has to be for you, to see her sick like this.

how is she today?

kittykatharine
06-23-2009, 11:27 AM
Well, the vet seems to think that the cancer is back - even though her blood tests are all normal and there are no masses that can be palpatated, the vet suspects this is why she is acting so lethargic. The vet wanted me to take her to Auburn for an MRI, but I can't financially do that. I told the vet that if in fact the cancer has returned, that Sydney would have to be switched to paliative care, because I cannot afford chemotherapy anymore:(:(:( I started Sydney on some Prednisone, so hopefully this will, if anything, make her feel better. I am going to spend as much time I can with her, because I fear her time with us is very limited. I have been able to get her to eat some tuna and I hope that her eating will improve. This is a very sad time for my family and we are totally devastated. I am going to try to spoil her rotten, so she knows how much she is loved. We are also not letting her know that we are upset, because we know that she could sense this - we are being strong for her. :(:(:(

Thank you again everyone (allmycats, krazyaboutkatz, Catty1, Cinder & Smoke, Medusa, Pinot's Mom, and Scooter's Mom ) for all the support and prayers. They mean the world to us and they help the roughest days not seem so bad. Thank you so much.

Medusa
06-23-2009, 11:55 AM
Oh no, I'm so sorry to hear this, Katherine! I can only imagine how sad you must be but you're right, our furkids can sense it when we're emotional. If indeed the cancer has returned and you are going to give her palliative care, I'm sure that it will be the best care she can possibly receive. The amount of love and care that you've shown Sydney already is almost palpable and I know that she loves you all the more for it. (((HUGS))) to you, Katherine and gentle pets to your sweet Sydney. :love:

kittykatharine
06-23-2009, 01:47 PM
Thank you so much Medusa for the kind words - I know you know exactly what I am feeling right now, and your kind words make me feel better. I can promise you Sydney will be loved more than is humanly possible for as long as she is here - and we will continue to love her once she is gone. Her furpals Baby and Hercules are still in our hearts and minds everyday and she will be no different. Well for now I am going to focus on making her happy, so when I get home I will take her in the yard so she can lay in the grass. That will for sure make her smile :):(:)

jenluckenbach
06-23-2009, 02:41 PM
The Pred might make her hungry too.

Prayers that she is comfy for as long as possible.

katladyd
06-23-2009, 03:17 PM
Would it be possible to get a second opinion? It may not be the cancer's return.

kittykatharine
06-23-2009, 03:55 PM
I wouldnt know where to go to get a second opinion - most the vets in Pensacola are not familiar with cancer and they just refer me to Auburn, which I cannot afford the MRI needed to definitively say that the cancer is back (my own vet suggested this). I think for now - I am going to give her the Prednisone, which wont hurt her any regardless if the cancer is back or not, and hopefully it will jump start her eating and make her feel better. If I can get her to put on any weight, then I will beable to figure our what the next step should be. I main concern is that she is not in any pain. I mean as of now none of the blood tests or exams have shown cancer - she is not breathing funny - and my vets entire diagnosis is based on the fact that she is not eating - she thinks the cancer has affected her ability to smell and therefore effected her eating. I dont know....:(

katladyd
06-23-2009, 04:01 PM
Cancer almost always shows up in blood work, so I'm going to remain optimistic that she just has something else affecting her appetite that the Pred will take care of. Prayers coming my way for your precious Sydney! One time, my orange kitty, MacGyver, has a mystery illness that the vets, even the specialists, could not diagnose. They wanted me to spend thousands of dollars to find out. I couldn't afford that (I understand your situation very well), so I just asked for some special food I could force feed him to put some weight on him, some Sub-Q fluids so he wouldn't dehydrate, and some antibiotics on the hunch I had that he had a blood infection. Well, 24 hours after leaving the vet, Mac started to eat and drink on his own. That was four years ago and he is now a very healthy 11-year-old cat. Miracles do happen!

Moesha
06-23-2009, 04:20 PM
I hope that Sydney feels better soon. I've been out of town and have been reading updates on Sydney but haven't been able to respond. Dear Sydney and Taz (Taz_Zoee's kitty) are in my thoughts often. At least look at the extra time that you were able to spend with Sydney. I never ever would have thought that she would still be with us after seeing those first pictures that you posted with the lump on her head. More kisses from me to her please. :love:

kittykatharine
06-24-2009, 11:27 AM
Well, Sydney has been eating a little better the past two days, I have been able to get her to eat about a can of tuna a day and she will take a couple of nibbles of dry food. My mom is starting a morning routine where she will be putting nutrical on her lips, so she has to lick it off. We are trying to get her some strength back. She seemed to be in better spirits yesterday, although she still looks as if she doesnt feel good. We are taking it day by day. I am keeping some hope that it is not the cancer, but I am also trying to prepare myself emotionally in the even it is cancer. She is getting tons of hugs and kisses every day.

Medusa
06-24-2009, 11:52 AM
That's encouraging, Katherine. I check this thread first thing every morning and pray that there is some good news. We're all holding on for Sydney. If you see that the Pred isn't working for her, there are other appetite stimulants, such as Val Syrup that you can give by dropper, that your vet may recommend but we'll keep our paws and fingers crossed that the Pred will do the trick. :love:

kittykatharine
06-24-2009, 01:34 PM
Cancer almost always shows up in blood work, so I'm going to remain optimistic that she just has something else affecting her appetite that the Pred will take care of. Prayers coming my way for your precious Sydney! One time, my orange kitty, MacGyver, has a mystery illness that the vets, even the specialists, could not diagnose. They wanted me to spend thousands of dollars to find out. I couldn't afford that (I understand your situation very well), so I just asked for some special food I could force feed him to put some weight on him, some Sub-Q fluids so he wouldn't dehydrate, and some antibiotics on the hunch I had that he had a blood infection. Well, 24 hours after leaving the vet, Mac started to eat and drink on his own. That was four years ago and he is now a very healthy 11-year-old cat. Miracles do happen!

katladyd, thank you so much for your post - I had the same feelings as you and I am holding onto hope that this is not the cancer. I did have one question though, do you remeber what the name of the food was that you bought to force feed your kitty and how were you going to do this (e.g., syringe, gastric tube)? I need to put some wieght on Sydney and at this point I am open to anything. Thank you!


Also thank you Medusa and Moesha - you both are wonderful and have always been there for Sydney and me. I thank you for your constant postive thoughts, prayers, and posts. I truly appreciate it!

katladyd
06-24-2009, 04:18 PM
I fed him a high-calorie canned food the vet gave me with a rather large syringe that had an almost spoon-like end. The water was through a syringe a little larger than the ones used to give meds. A spoon would work fine for feeding, though. I picked up a spare syringe for liquids at Wal Mart in the pet section. He started to eat before he drank on his own. Funny. The vet said drinking was more important than eating in the short term. If the syring didn't work for hydrating him, I was given a bag of water and a needle to give him Sub Q fluids. He ended up not needing this, though. My prayers are with dear Sydney, I remember pulling for her when she was going through her chemo. She is one, tough little girl. Give her hugs for me:love:

jennielynn1970
06-24-2009, 06:51 PM
Gosh, I'm so sorry to hear that Sydney is feeling so poorly. I'm just catching up with things here on PT.

I think the cancer would show up on the blood tests, so I hope that the cancer is still in remission and that there is just another reason as to why she is not feeling well. Hopefully it is just something easy to fix and will not be anything long term or degenerative in nature.

Big hugs to you and to Sydney. All my good thoughts and hopes are going out to you.

Lizzie
06-25-2009, 10:51 AM
Kat - I'm glad you are pushing through this, trying everything you can. Sometimes we have to do this and sometimes we win through, which I very much hope will happen in your case.

A can of tuna is quite a bit of food, unless you mean a mini-can? If you decide to force feed her, use AD from the vet (it's VERY high calorie) with a splash of nutritional supplement. I've found that the best feeding syringe to use is a 35cc rather than the larger ones the vet techs use. Mix the AD up with warm water to the consistency of sloppy oatmeal and make sure it doesn't have any tiny lumps that will block the syringe tip. I keep the mug of feed in a jug of very warm water so that as I draw up more feed it's still nice and warm. Expect protests, but she will feel really good when that stuff is in her stomach.

Did your vet give you Mirtazapine? It's very effective and the dosage is really low, something like a 1/4 tablet every three days. The first day, as you might expect, the cat's appetite is very strong and by the third day it's pretty much back to the way it was before the medication.

Do you know if Sidney is dehydrated at all? That will make a cat lethargic and cause inappetance very quickly. To test for dehydration lift up the cat's skin between the shoulder blades with your thumb and forefinger then let go. If the skin springs back right away, it's a good indication that the cat is not dehydrated. Giving sub-q fluids, if necessary, can make a cat go from lethargic to feeling more normal very quickly.

Good luck! Sydney is lucky to have you as her guardian.

kittykatharine
06-25-2009, 12:18 PM
So i wrote this super long post and I was logged out of Pettalk and I lost it - so as a synopsis, Sydney seemed better today. She actaully came down to my room looking for food this morning, which is something she hasnt done in a very long time. She still is eating the tuna (and yes the big cans!) and I was able to get her to eat some of the kitten food last night. Between the nutrical in the morning and the tuna during the day I am trying my best to get her to eat anything she can. Thank you so much katladyd,jjenn_librarian, and Lizzie for your positive thoughts and helpful information. I have printed out this page of the blog to bring to my vet in the event I have to force feed Sydney - since she is eating at this point, I do not think this is necissary, however, if her eating subsides then I at least know what to ask the vet to get. My poor little Sydney - she weights approximately 6bls rightnow, whereas she weighed 13 lbs this time last year. She is one of the strongest fighters I have ever seen and I want her to know that her mommy is right along side her fighting for her as well. Weoll, I am going to run home and feed her, I will make sure to give her extra hugs and kissses from everyone at PT! :love::love::love:

katladyd
06-25-2009, 01:47 PM
You and Sydney are so lucky to have each other:love: The weight loss may be a delayed reaction from all the chemo she went through a few months ago. You both are in my thoughts and prayers daily. Good luck to both of you!:D

Catty1
06-25-2009, 02:54 PM
Good news...better and better. :)

If you talk to your vet, see what she thinks of Sydney trying the A/D food on its own without the syringe. Mix with a bit of warm water and some tuna, maybe.

Just a thought. :) She is bound to put a little weight on now. :love:

She just has the SWEETEST face - worth fighting for any time. :)

Taz_Zoee
06-25-2009, 02:54 PM
Wow, I have just caught up with this thread. I am bad and do not come to the health sections very often.
Katherine, if you haven't seen my post about Taz in Cat General, I'll just tell you I know what you are experiencing. Minus the cancer part (at least as far as I know). Taz weighed in at 21 1/2 lbs about 5 years ago. He now weighs 7 lbs. He is skin and bones. I give him sub-q's and it's hard to even pinch his skin to get the needle in. But the fluids have been helping. He seems more alert and more active. He's not eating as much as I'd like him to, but tuna is always a winner. He screamed at me this morning for it.

I also can relate to not wanting to show them how stressed you are. I did my crying BEFORE we gave Taz his first sub-q treatment. I'm much better with it now.

I will definitely be thinking of you and Sydney and hope for the best.

krazyaboutkatz
06-25-2009, 10:15 PM
When my Ziggy stopped eating and was in the hospital, they force fed her some canned A/D and I brought some of it home and she ate it here too. It's very easy to mix with water and put in large syringes if you need to force feed her. They also gave her a vitamin B-12 shot and I'm supposed to give her another one tomorrow. This is supposed to help her appetite and maybe it would also work for Sydney. Lots of prayers and positive thoughts are being sent her way.

katladyd
06-26-2009, 01:05 AM
Yes, the food was A/D. Mac hated it, but it brought him right around and put weight back on him. He had gone from 9 pounds to 7 pounds, but he needed to lose a little weight, anyway. Now, he weighs about 8 pounds and is healthy. Never give up hope.

Lizzie
06-26-2009, 10:32 AM
Yes, the food was A/D. Mac hated it, but it brought him right around and put weight back on him. He had gone from 9 pounds to 7 pounds, but he needed to lose a little weight, anyway. Now, he weighs about 8 pounds and is healthy. Never give up hope.

It's in the nature of cats, isn't it, that the ones who need AD rarely like it but the ones who definitely don't need it are so keen they will lick it off the sick cat's whiskers!

kittykatharine
06-26-2009, 01:04 PM
Today she didnt seem as if she felt as good as she did yesterday. She was less interested in the Tuna, and more interested with going outside. I am going to talk to the vet today about getting some pain medicine and more Prednisone. **Sigh**:(:(:(

catlover32648
06-27-2009, 12:42 AM
I really hope she feels better

barncat
06-27-2009, 05:18 PM
I have not posted in a while... but those that remember me will know I have always had multicat households and my guys have usually been long-lived. It is so hard when they get so ill that you can't be sure what they would want you to be doing.

It sounds as if you are and continue to be your cat's loving advocate... In all the years I've had pets I have learned that you need to listen with your heart to what they want. You will know when you are helping him fight his illnesses and when you are fighting not to lose someone you love but who has gotten tired of the fight and wants to let go.

This is not to say that this is that time. You know your cat and you know yourself. You both have my strongest wishes for the best. Whatever happens, remember the love you share never ends.

the barncat

Catty1
06-30-2009, 02:44 PM
How's our girl doing, KK? :love:

kittykatharine
06-30-2009, 04:42 PM
Sydney has been on the Prednisone for almost a week and she is significantly better. She was actually playing with her toys today, which is something she hasnt done in a long while. She is eating a lot better and has returned to eating her dry food. She still has a long way to go before I feel comfortable with her wieght, however, I think she feels heavier and has put on some weight. I still dont know what is going on inside her and why she was so ill, but I am hoping and praying it was not the cancer. For now, my focus is keeping her eating and then hopefully I will go from there. I was so afraid I was about to loose her and she has turned around again. Lets hope this trend continues and she keeps eating. I will keep everyone posted with her progess and thank you again for all the positive thougts. Thank you! :love::love::love:

Medusa
06-30-2009, 04:45 PM
How encouraging, Katherine! I'm so glad that Sydney is doing better and even putting on weight. Pred will do that, for sure. Atta girl, Sydney! High five to you, Katherine! And, of course, (((HUGS))). :love:

Taz_Zoee
06-30-2009, 04:47 PM
I am so glad to hear how well Sydney is doing. :D This is wonderful. I will be hoping she keeps up the trend. :)

Moesha
06-30-2009, 04:49 PM
I'm so happy to read your latest update! Go Sydney!!

jenluckenbach
06-30-2009, 06:14 PM
What a wonderful update! :D

Pinot's Mom
06-30-2009, 08:53 PM
Go Sydney! Happy to hear good news! :)

katladyd
06-30-2009, 10:05 PM
Hooray for Sydney! This made my day:D

kittykatharine
07-06-2009, 11:42 AM
Thank you so much everyone for your positive thoughts and sweet words. Sydney is doing pretty well right now. I had to go out of town this weekend to help my boyfriend move to another city, and my mom was in charge of taking care of Sydney. Apparently she has been eating a lot because my parents have told me that she has been eating everything in sight. She is acting a lot better as well - I would say she is acting like her normal self - she is running around the house, with her tail up, and her eyes as bright as they can be. She is throwing up, which is a side effect of the hyperthyroidism, but other than that she is much better. I need to talk to the vet further - but for now, Sydney needs to just put on weight. The hyperthyoidism is going to have to wait until she is at a healthy weight. Keep up the postive thoughts - she again is doing well - that is my little fighter ;-). :love::love::love:

kittykatharine
07-06-2009, 12:10 PM
Sydney making biscuts! :D:D:D


http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f39/kittykatharine/th_Kats_Camera_6-29-09165.jpg (http://s44.photobucket.com/albums/f39/kittykatharine/?action=view&current=Kats_Camera_6-29-09165.flv)

katladyd
07-06-2009, 02:10 PM
Keep up the good work, Sydney! Hugs and kisses from me:love::love:

krazyaboutkatz
07-06-2009, 02:13 PM
Kat, I'm so glad to hear that Sydney is doing so well.:D I hope she'll continue to do well for a long time to come. I'll keep her in my thoughts and prayers.