Big Major Prayers for Tiger

[Catty1]

Tiger's vet is getting him in for surgery tomorrow, or the next day at the latest. Emeraldgreen emailed me and said that if she couldn't get him in - he was so bad she had decided to have him PTS.

Please pray the surgery will work - it will - and that this time, the follow-up treatment will work (it will be started immediately, as she had to wait for it to arrive last time), and Tiger will be well...and his purrents relieved.

This is his last chance, so let's pray it's the best one.

BIG PT PRAYERS FOR TIGER FROM ALBERTA.

[Moesha]

Thank you for letting us know Catty! I sure hope Tiger gets to have the surgery and that it helps him again. :love:

[krazyaboutkatz]

I sure hope that his surgery will go well and that he'll recover and get better and better each day. Lots of prayers and positive thoughts are being sent his way.

[Catlady711]

Please tell her I hope Tiger gets his surgery and is healthy and back home in no time. Thoughts and prayers are with them both.

[Medusa]

Add heartfelt prayers from Ohio for sweet Tiger and Emeraldgreen.....

[Scooter's Mom]

Prayers for everyone on the way from me.
Hugs and very gentle headbumpies too.

[Catty1]

Tiger's surgery is Friday. It is the non-invasive one, so he will be able to breathe right away.

This time he will be on Transfer Factor right away, which has worked well for many animals (and hoomins).

More prayers going out. :love:

[Randi]

Lots of positive thoughts for Tiger and Emeraldgreen - I so hope this will make Tiger feel better!

(((hugs))))

[Emeraldgreen]

Thanks for posting this thread Candace!
You guys are the best.:)
Tig will be on the morning flight Friday and they will do the surgery shortly after. We are driving over there and will pick him up on Saturday morning. My only concern is the anesthesia but his suffering is so bad now that I was definitely going to put him to sleep if my vet couldn't get him in. I prayed and prayed that an opening for him would come available and when I called the hospital they said that it just so happened that my vet was coming in on Friday June 13th, his day off to repair a shattered elbow on a dog and he could do Tiger's procedure on the same day. I was so thankful because the only other time they had for Tiger was next Wednesday and he wouldn't have made it to then.
I'm so shocked at how fast Tiger went down hill in these last few days. But... I have been explaining to him what will be happening and as crazy as it sounds, it seems like he understands. After our 'conversation', he perked up a bit and was purring and rubbing up against me.
Anyway, thank you all for your prayers and for reading so many posts and threads about my guy. After this, I'll certainly keep his threads to a minimum, except of course with an update once he's back. :)

[MoonandBean]

I have LES after reading your post Lara. It sounds like you and Tiger have such a special bond! I will definitely be praying for him over the next 24 hours. It sounds like you have peace with this whole situation and that you will be ok no matter what (and so will Tiger). I will anxiously await your update.

[Moesha]

After this, I'll certainly keep his threads to a minimum, except of course with an update once he's back. :)


Please don't do that!! I love hearing about Tiger, the good, the bad and the ugly! Give him hugs for me please.

[MoonandBean]

Please don't do that!! I love hearing about Tiger, the good, the bad and the ugly! Give him hugs for me please.

I thought the same thing!

[kittykatharine]

Tiger is in my prayers and thoughts. I hope the poor baby will feel better really soon. I can tell by your post Emeraldgreen that Tiger loves you a great deal and she knows that you are doing everything inthe world for her. She is appreciative for your love, concern, and dedication.*****Good thoughts and vibes sent Tiger's way*****




Tiger's vet is getting him in for surgery tomorrow, or the next day at the latest. Emeraldgreen emailed me and said that if she couldn't get him in - he was so bad she had decided to have him PTS.

Please pray the surgery will work - it will - and that this time, the follow-up treatment will work (it will be started immediately, as she had to wait for it to arrive last time), and Tiger will be well...and his purrents relieved.

This is his last chance, so let's pray it's the best one.

BIG PT PRAYERS FOR TIGER FROM ALBERTA.

[jennielynn1970]

Please don't do that!! I love hearing about Tiger, the good, the bad and the ugly! Give him hugs for me please.

Agreed!!! Don't keep them to a minimum, no matter what. I think everyone loves and adores him and we all want to be there for both of you (and the others too!).

Big hugs going out to you and Tiger!

[Catty1]

Slight hope - but it would be great if they looked in there and found it was something ELSE clogging up the airways...

Prayers for Tiger, that all goes well tomorrow...glad he perked up a a bit, please give him cuddles for me.:love:

[Medusa]

Yes, we all want to know what's going on w/sweet Tiger and w/you, too, Lara. We will never stop praying for you all.....

[momtomany]

Prayers from the Dunn gang for Tiger and Lara. We are so sorry you are going thru this. We don't mind how long the post is, we just want you to know that we all are here to listen, pray, cry, and hope together.

[rosethecopycat]

Loud Meezer songs rising from FL, for brave Tiger and his surgery.

[Emeraldgreen]

Thank you all so much. I can't tell you how much it means! I will definitely post an update as soon as I can. We'll be home late Saturday. Tiger just had dinner and he seems to be doing okay. Thank you again for your prayers. :)

[ChrisH]

Prayers on the way for Tiger.

[krazyaboutkatz]

I hope that everything went well with Tiger's surgery and that he's now home and doing well.:) Please update us when you can. I'll continue to keep him in my thoughts and prayers.

[MoonandBean]

Thinking about Lara and Tiger.............

[kb2yjx]

JUst saw this thread. How is Tiger doing??? Prayers for you both!!!

[Emeraldgreen]

Tiggy is home. I wanted to post sooner but we got home at midnight last night after a 9 hour trip and 3 ferries and today our realtor called to ask if they could show the house this afternoon. I'm so thankful this day is over!
Tiger flew over in the a.m. on Friday and had his surgery later that morning. When my vet called I could tell that he was going to tell me some bad news by the tone of his voice and I was terrified that he was going to tell me that Tiger hadn't survived but thankfully that was not the case. He did however tell me that he took digital xrays of Tiger's chest and he said that there are two spots in his lungs that he said he believes are the cancer. These are the same two spots that my local vet found on the xray she took but she wasn't sure if it was the cancer or inflammation or an infection. But yesterday's xrays seemed to show that the cancer has metastisized.

I was so sad to hear that but I was also so grateful that Tiger had survived the surgery. My vet said that he removed as much of the tumor as he could but he said that it has grown down towards his throat and he couldn't access that part. He told me that I would have to decide when Tiger's quality of life was no longer there and then help him over to RB. And until then to make him comfortable.

I'm trying to look at this in a positive light. A few days ago I would have had to say goodbye to him because he was struggling so much and now I hopefully have a few months with him. I'm praying that in a day or so he will begin to feel better, as he has in the past after the surgery. I will spend time with him and give him treats and whatever he wants. And, perhaps it's possible for the Transfer Factor to make some kind of a difference so I will continue with it.

For now Tiger is in pretty rough shape and I'm concerned but he has been through alot, including a very long journey home. He's eating and drinking which is a good sign but he is coughing and gagging quite a bit and drooling. He did cough a bit each of the last times but the drooling is something he never did before. I will call my vet tomorrow with an update and see what they say.

I hope to post an update in a day or two saying that he is feeling better and more like his old self. Thanks for your prayers everybody. :)

[Moesha]

Thank you for the update. I'm sorry to hear the news about the possibility of the cancer spreading. Please give Tiger some pets from me and keep us posted. Hopefully he'll be feeling better soon and you'll be able to enjoy spending some quality time together.

[Catty1]

Hi...

I hope Tiger's gagging and drooling is temporary, because the vet went further down his throat.

Good to hear he is eating.

I guess there's nothing for it but to get going on the TF and hope that helps. Salmon cream cheese plus stinky salmon wet cat food (cheaper than real salmon) will hopefully help get more TF into him.

I'm not going to express pity or sadness at this point. I think a positive visualization and affirmation thread is what's needed now.

What we call "disease" is "dis-ease". Tiger is at ease, full and strong and clear and healthy. He fills with great health as a wind blowing away the illusory dust that the x-rays saw.

Tiger is free and clear. :D:):love:

[krazyaboutkatz]

Thanks for the update. I'm glad to hear that Tiger is now home and I hope that he'll start feeling better soon.:) I'm so sorry to hear about the two spots on his lungs.:( Hopefully the Transfer Factor will work well for him so you'll have lot of good quality time with him. I look forward to hearing a good update soon. Please take care and Tiger will remain in my thoughts and prayers.

[Randi]

I bet it has been a rough time for Tiger and for you too. :( I so hope he'll be feeling better in a few days and you are able to post a positive update. Keep him comfy and give him lots of kisses. I'll be sending lots of good thoughts. :)

[MoonandBean]

I am glad you're both home and safe. I'm glad that you and Tiger will get to spend quality time together until his time comes. You two are very lucky to have eachother :)

Hugs to both of you.

[Medusa]

Sweet Tiger has sure been through it and so have you but, as you say, you may have more time w/him now, thanx to the surgery. We will all see Tiger well and keep our spirits high for him and for you. Lots of (((HUGS))) headed your way and gentle pets for Tiger.....

[ChrisH]

Glad to hear Tiger is home and I hope he will be feeling better soon. Prayers and positive thoughts continuing.

[Emeraldgreen]

Thanks for all the positive thoughts and affirmations! I believe they will help. I don't want to view any of this as sad because this really is a second chance to spend time with him and I am so grateful.
He is much perkier this morning and went ballistic on the cat tree as soon as he woke up so that was great to see! He had a big breakfast of canned salmon and asked for seconds which I gave him. :)
The drooling has stopped and the coughing spells seemed to have stopped as well. He is still mr. wobbly legs but it usually takes him 2 or 3 days to recover from the ordeal of surgery.
He is on Prednisilone two times a day for inflammation that will tapered off after 3 days. Thankfully he eats that mixed into his food. I won't start the Transfer Factor for another day or so to make sure that he isn't gagging or coughing. The cream cheese can get a bit sticky in his throat and I don't want to add to that.
Candace, you mentioned some stinky cat salmon. That sounds like a good idea, do you know of a particular brand? I think Fancy Feast has a salmon that I could try and sneak some Transfer Factor into.

Here are two pics and one video that I took about an hour ago of Tiger laying in his donut bed on our deck. Paddy is with him and they seem pretty comfortable enjoying the morning sunshine. :)

http://i225.photobucket.com/albums/dd102/emeraldcreek/Picture004-1.jpg

http://i225.photobucket.com/albums/dd102/emeraldcreek/Picture005.jpg

http://i225.photobucket.com/albums/dd102/emeraldcreek/th_MVI_3728.jpg (http://s225.photobucket.com/albums/dd102/emeraldcreek/?action=view&current=MVI_3728.flv)

[Catty1]

Heck - just go to or call your pet stores and ask for the stinkiest salmon wet cat food they have! It's usually the cheapest. Grocery store brands are good for that too - like Friskies.

Not the best for 'health food', but if it will get more TF down him, that's the point.

I just hope the TF finally works...hopefully you can up his dosage for a while....

[Medusa]

Well, Tiger looks great! You'd never know he's been through such an ordeal, the sweet boy!

[kittykatharine]

Tiger is so beautiful. Looks really great!

[momtomany]

We will keep you and Tiger in our prayers for a beautifull, peaceable and happy time together. All of us are here for you anytime you need us.

[Emeraldgreen]

Thanks everybody! I think he looks good too considering all that he has gone through. Thankfully, the surgery is done through his left nostril, kind of like a biopsy, using the rhinoscopy so there are no exterior wounds and no stitches used inside either.

I forgot to mention in my previous post that he can breathe alot easier now. It is still a bit stuffy but I believe that is due to inflammation and should get a bit better by tomorrow or the next day. It's definitely improved though compared to what it was before the surgery.

When I went to pick him up, the tech said, " I couldn't pill him!" She said that he had an incredible gag reflex and after 2 tries she gave up because she didn't want to stress him. That made me feel alot better because I have had the worst time trying to pill him and I felt like it was just me doing a bad job but if a tech is struggling, then it might not be my pilling skills! lol

Anyway, any pill he's on now is put into his food so we don't need to force him which I'm very thankful for. :)
I'm planning to start him on the Transfer Factor in a day or two. I ordered another bottle from the States yesterday. I'm going to stay hopeful!

When he has a bit more energy and is walking around more, I'll get another video of him. Maybe of him out in the outdoor enclosure getting some sunshine!

[krazyaboutkatz]

He looks great and I'm so glad that he's also breathing better.:) I hope he continues to improve. I'll continue to keep him in my thoughts and prayers.

[Pawsitive Thinking]

Hey Tiger - you enjoy that sunshine sweetheart :love:

[Medusa]

Letting him enjoy the sunshine is a wonderful idea. When Pidge first came to me after all she went through, my instincts told me to do the same thing. I didn't have an enclosed area, so I held her on my lap while I sat on the patio and she never tried to get away. She just purred and purred and ate it all up. I do so hope that Tiger gets to enjoy soaking up the sun and that you get to enjoy lots more quality time w/him. I'm so glad that he can breathe better. :)

[Catty1]

Just looking at the pics again...what a sweet and gorgeous boy!

OT - has Paddy continued to receive "laser light play therapy"? ;)

[Emeraldgreen]

Just looking at the pics again...what a sweet and gorgeous boy!

OT - has Paddy continued to receive "laser light play therapy"? ;)

Mr. Paddy unfortunately never showed any interest in the laser light and he also grew a little too large for the amazing harness that my brother and neice sent him. I do make sure that he only gets a wee handful of crumbles each day and the majority of his diet is wet. But as you can see in the pics, he is still a 'largie'. It's been hard to work on that with all the other stuff but he is equally important so I will be getting him slimmed down.:)

I'm not looking forward to the actual 'move' itself but I am looking forward to having a more affordable place which will allow us to get a few of our cats the medical attention they need (holistic and regular vet medicine). It's going to be so great. :)

[Catty1]

OT for Tiger - but have you sold? (aside from the people who may not sell til August...though that is only six weeks away...)

[jennielynn1970]

About the stinky salmon cat food... can you find FIGARO canned food??? It's basically all tuna or salmon, really smelly, but when I had Bear (who was FIV+ and had horrible URIs) and he was sick, he scarfed it down. I've found it at Redner's in our area. I don't think it's a "gourmet" food at all... so look at some of the cheaper stores, lol.

[Catty1]

New post on June 24 from the older thread on Tiger:
Thanks for your post. Tiger is not doing very well. We're just taking one day at a time right now and I'm praying that the struggles he's dealing with right now are somehow related to the surgery and intubation tube irritation in his throat. He's very low energy these days and won't eat anything that has Transfer Factor in it. I'm basically just trying to make him comfortable and continuing with the prednisilone to help with inflammation.
He still attacks the cat tree but his balance is off and it does seem that he's getting weaker. I'm giving him lots of love though and brushing and visits outside so each day has good stuff along with the not so good.

Oh Lara...I am so sorry to hear that Tiger is not well...

Even the stinky fish food - he won't take the TF?

Is it worth you and hubby doing it the 'quick and dirty way', into the back of the throat with a pill syringe/finger?

{{{{hugs}}}}

PT PRAYERS FOR TIGER! :love:

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so sorry to hear that Tiger isn't doing well.:( Lots more prayers and positive thoughts are being sent his way. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[Emeraldgreen]

I was so hoping to read a good report. Well, we'll take the good and leave the rest. He's attacking the cat tree; that's something at least. Lots of (((HUGS))) to you and love pats to Tiger and, of course, prayers.
__________________
Blessings,
Mary

Thanks, that's how I'm trying to look at it. He may not be recovering but at least he is able to breathe much easier since the surgery. I do think that the cancer is really causing him problems in his lung area now and something is going on with his throat. But at least he can get air in quite well through his nose so he's not in a panic the way he was before the surgery.


Oh Lara...I am so sorry to hear that Tiger is not well...

Even the stinky fish food - he won't take the TF?

Is it worth you and hubby doing it the 'quick and dirty way', into the back of the throat with a pill syringe/finger?

{{{{hugs}}}}

PT PRAYERS FOR TIGER!

Thanks Candace. He just hates this stuff for some reason and he is very fussy. If I try and mix a little bit of it with his food and put the plate on the floor, he somehow knows, even from 4 feet away. He won't even come near the dish. And it's not the act of mixing that he's catching onto because I crush and mix his prednisilone twice a day into his food and he watches me do it and has no problem eating the food afterwards. It's bizarre. The only thing that seems to work is salmon cream cheese and sardine juice with a bit of sardines. I will try and give him some more but he gets tired of the cream cheese and sardines after awhile. The cream cheese really seems to gum up his throat too and he coughs afterward.
I wouldn't try and force this stuff down him, especially because his issues are right in this throat. It's just too traumatic for him. If it was a tablet, it might have been easier but this is a fair sized capsule. And unfortunately he is no longer interested in pill pockets.
I'll keep on trying but my main goal is to make him comfortable right now. I think this thing has become very advanced now and I just don't know if TF could turn it around. I will keep trying though.


About the stinky salmon cat food... can you find FIGARO canned food??? It's basically all tuna or salmon, really smelly, but when I had Bear (who was FIV+ and had horrible URIs) and he was sick, he scarfed it down. I've found it at Redner's in our area. I don't think it's a "gourmet" food at all... so look at some of the cheaper stores, lol.

He does love Figaro tuna! But not with the TF in it. He is such a smartie! Thank you for the suggestion though. :)

[momtomany]

I am sorry Tiger is not doing well. We will keep the prayers going up for you both.

[Catty1]

Lara - could you open a capsule and do the same thing with it that you do with the pred?

Maybe it is the CAPSULE he senses.

Couldn't hurt to try. Remember that other lady - her cat had had NO cancer treatment and recovered.

As you say, Tiger's may be more advanced by now...but heck, open the caps and stir it in to the stinky stuff!

HUGS to that gorgeous boy. :love:

[Emeraldgreen]

Lara - could you open a capsule and do the same thing with it that you do with the pred?

Maybe it is the CAPSULE he senses.

Couldn't hurt to try. Remember that other lady - her cat had had NO cancer treatment and recovered.

As you say, Tiger's may be more advanced by now...but heck, open the caps and stir it in to the stinky stuff!

HUGS to that gorgeous boy. :love:

That is how we've been doing it. The capsule is too big to do it any other way. I open the capsule and mix in half of it, sometimes even less hoping he won't detect it. I mix it really well with the stinkiest food I can find and he knows it's in there. The cream cheese is the only way to hide it so I'll keep trying with that.
Thanks for the suggestion though.:) You are right, that woman, Bethany didn't give her cat any cancer treatment other than the TF so I'll keep on.

[Catty1]

Maybe Denise could have a word with Tiger about the TF? I'm serious. At this point, I wonder if it is him truly not liking the stuff, OR just asserting his independence! (NO cat does that ,right?):D

The only other thing I can think of - though it would be REALLY time consuming - is to get smaller gel capsules and a plastic 'pill-popper'. Hubby holds mouth open, you shoot cap to back of throat (with a tad of butter on it).

Sorry to nag...I just want SOMETHING to really help this boy! :(

[Moesha]

Please give Tiger my love and tell him to share some with you also. Perhaps if you are feeling up to it you could also give him some scrubbies from me.

[Emeraldgreen]

Maybe Denise could have a word with Tiger about the TF? I'm serious. At this point, I wonder if it is him truly not liking the stuff, OR just asserting his independence! (NO cat does that ,right?):D

The only other thing I can think of - though it would be REALLY time consuming - is to get smaller gel capsules and a plastic 'pill-popper'. Hubby holds mouth open, you shoot cap to back of throat (with a tad of butter on it).

Sorry to nag...I just want SOMETHING to really help this boy! :(

The Denise idea might be a good one but I wouldn't want to pill Tiger at this point. He is having difficulty swallowing wet food on his own so I don't want to add anymore stress to his throat area. He is a very difficult cat to pill, even for the tech who had help. She was ultimately unsuccessful. I'm sure that my husband and I could manage to force a few down him but it would be a struggle and I can't do that to him. The few doses I would be able to get into him won't be enough to save his life. I have to find a way that I can get it into him on a regular basis without trauma. I wish the TF came in a tablet form because it would then be a smaller amount of medication to deal with. This capsule is really packed and it's hard to hide two full caps per day. He only wants the cream cheese once per day.
I think I need to get more creative and try stuff like warm cream of chicken soup and stuff like that. Or maybe I could purree some chicken with chicken stock and hide it in there. I will pick some up tomorrow. If you have any other ideas with regard to food that you think might make a good place to hide the TF, I'm all ears. :)

[Emeraldgreen]

Please give Tiger my love and tell him to share some with you also. Perhaps if you are feeling up to it you could also give him some scrubbies from me.
Thanks!:)

[Emeraldgreen]

I took a video of Tiger today in the outdoor enclosure and thought I'd post it. He seemed to have a good day. About an hour ago he was in the kitchen and I offered him some milk (which I don't usually give him) and he really liked it. I know some cats don't do well on milk but he loved it. If he doesn't get an upset stomach from it I think I might pick up some light cream and try and mix the TF in there! I don't know why I didn't think of this sooner. :)

Edited to add: It's just after 10:00 p.m. here but it's still a bit light out so I decided to take Tiger for a walk with a harness. He seemed to really enjoy it! I let him lead and he took us all around the property sniffing everything! There were two deer grazing not far off and Tiger was watching them intently. Owls were hooting and it was such a nice time. I think we will make this a nightly routine for as long as he wants to do it.

Here is Tig's video from today:
http://i225.photobucket.com/albums/dd102/emeraldcreek/th_1a0da6ef.jpg (http://s225.photobucket.com/albums/dd102/emeraldcreek/?action=view&current=1a0da6ef.pbr)

[krazyaboutkatz]

I was also thinking that you could mix the pill powder into a liquid. If Tiger likes it then he can drink it and if he doesn't then maybe you could put it in a syringe and then try to squirt it down his throat. Hopefully this wouldn't cause a gagging reflex in him. I sure hope that something will work and that he'll start feeling better soon. He looks good in the video.:) Your grass sure is getting long. Do the cats ever try to eat it?

[Emeraldgreen]

I was also thinking that you could mix the pill powder into a liquid. If Tiger likes it then he can drink it and if he doesn't then maybe you could put it in a syringe and then try to squirt it down his throat. Hopefully this wouldn't cause a gagging reflex in him. I sure hope that something will work and that he'll start feeling better soon. He looks good in the video.:) Your grass sure is getting long. Do the cats ever try to eat it?

We keep the grass really short everywhere else but we let it grow really long inside the enclosure because the cats love it. I think it's like a little jungle for them. Their favourite thing to do is wind up and race from one end to the other through the tall grass. My husband goes in there with the weed wacker every few weeks and cuts them a path so they can have some short stuff to hang out on too.
Yes, they all eat it on a regular basis and then throw up their hairballs. Seems to work well for them, maybe a little too well! LOL

[momtomany]

What about trying some yougurt. I have done that with my guys when getting medication down them has been difficult. We will keep the prayers going up for you and Tiger.

[moosmom]

Emeraldgreen,

Tiger is beautiful! Great enclosure too! Prayers coming from CT for Tiger's recovery.

[slick]

What a wonderful video! I love the sound of the birds in the background and I can see why the kitties love it, especially with the long grass.

Kisses to you sweet Tiger and more prayers coming from the mainland.:love:

[MoonandBean]

Thinking about and praying for Tiger........

[kittykatharine]

I hope Tiger is doing well. Again, major prayers and thoughts going out to her!:love:

[Emeraldgreen]

Thanks guys. :) Tiger isn't doing too well. He seems to be getting enough air through his nose but he is making major rumbly sounds from his chest and some from his nasal area and is much weaker and wobblier. I had a new bottle of Transfer Factor compounded into a chicken suspension and of course he detects it in everything I tried to hide it in. For the past few days I've been forcing it in him and he resents it so much and it makes him cough alot and I don't want to continue with it. I know the cancer has metastasized (the vet informed me of this) and it is obvious with the chesty sounds he is making and I just don't know how TF will turn this around at this point. I do want to find a way to give it to him but forcing it is just a miserable experience. I don't want this last bit of time I have with him to be negative.
I have tried to hide the TF in the following things:

stinky cat tuna
canned salmon
canned chicken
canned ham
canned turkey
milk
baby food (ate it in this once but didn't want it a second time)
cream of chicken soup
Chicken a la King soup
gravy (for people)
gravy found in canned dog food
stuffed inside a pill pocket
yogurt
ice-cream
cool whip
sour-cream
salmon cream cheese(which he will eat but only every few days)
sardines and juice (" " " " ")


I'm going to try puree-ing some chicken and trying to mix it in there. I will also try some cream and maybe some sour cream and maybe some real whipping cream as opposed to the cool whip I tried. After that, I'm out of ideas.
If anyone has any other suggestions, I'd love to hear them.

In the meantime, here is a video I took of Tiger with his long time mate, Tiny. He used to spend 24/7 with her but she is very 'clingy' and for the past year he becomes aggitated when she is all over him which I can certainly understand. So, Tiger now bunks with Jimmy and Paddy and I let him visit with Tiny every couple of days. This is one of their visits (and a quick clip of Jimmy waiting his turn at the kibble bowl while Tiger is eating):


http://i225.photobucket.com/albums/dd102/emeraldcreek/th_b66e2a0a.jpg (http://s225.photobucket.com/albums/dd102/emeraldcreek/?action=view&current=b66e2a0a.pbr)

[catmandu]

THE FOOD WE USE AS A LAST RESORT IS THE HILLS A/D WHICH IS VERY SOFT,ALMOST LIQUID.
JOSEPH WHEN HE HAD AN URI AND BAD GUMS ONLY ATE THIS FOOD, AND WE PRAY THAT TIGER LIKES IT TOO.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v621/catmandu/cat%20angels/cats918.jpg
WE ARE PRAYING FOR YOU TIGER,:love: PLEASE GET WELL.

[Scooter's Mom]

Saying prayers for sweet Tiger. I hope he will eat something with the TF in it soon!

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so sorry to hear that Tiger isn't doing well and that he refuses to take the Transfor Factor.:( He looks great in the video though. I'll continue to keep him in my thoughts and prayers. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[Catty1]

:( I am so sorry to hear this....:(

Did you try the soy ice cream or yogurt? How about in a chunk of raw stewing beef?

Maybe...Tiger isn't too worried about getting better....maybe he feels fine about what is happening, better than the humans do...

:(

HUGS to Tiger...

[Medusa]

What a shame that Tiger doesn't want the TF but he seems to be doing ok. My Puddy is sitting next to the computer and, when she heard him purr, she watched the video w/me. I wish I had some answers for you. I'll surely continue to pray, though. :)

[kittykatharine]

I am so very sorry that sweet Tiger is not doing well. She looked owe so sweet in the video, Sydney heard the purring and was alerted to my computer. I wish I could think of something you haven't tried already.... my old kitty used to like to lick NutriCal, so we would put his medication in that. One time I went to a friends house, and there mom had left over shrimp, so I put some in a blender so that it was like a paste, added in the medicine, and Sydney ate it. Your kitty seems to be really really smart. Tiger is in my prayers and I will light a candle and send a special prayer you and Tigers way. :D

[Emeraldgreen]

THE FOOD WE USE AS A LAST RESORT IS THE HILLS A/D WHICH IS VERY SOFT,ALMOST LIQUID.
JOSEPH WHEN HE HAD AN URI AND BAD GUMS ONLY ATE THIS FOOD, AND WE PRAY THAT TIGER LIKES IT TOO.
WE ARE PRAYING FOR YOU TIGER,:love: PLEASE GET WELL.

Thanks for the suggestion. I will pick up some A/D at the vet the next time I'm in town. Might do the trick! :)

Scooter's Mom wrote:
Saying prayers for sweet Tiger. I hope he will eat something with the TF in it soon!

krazyaboutkatz wrote:
I'm so sorry to hear that Tiger isn't doing well and that he refuses to take the Transfor Factor. He looks great in the video though. I'll continue to keep him in my thoughts and prayers. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

Thanks guys. :)

Catty1 wrote:
I am so sorry to hear this....
Did you try the soy ice cream or yogurt? How about in a chunk of raw stewing beef?
Maybe...Tiger isn't too worried about getting better....maybe he feels fine about what is happening, better than the humans do...
HUGS to Tiger...

I have tried the soy ice-cream and got a thumbs down from the big guy. :rolleyes:
I might try some beef though. He doesn't eat alot now, just a bit here and there. He wouldn't take on a piece of beef unless it was a shred of it. Even when I give him deli meat I have to tear it into the tiniest pieces these days if he's going to eat it. But I'm thinking that maybe some raw ground beef might work? Tiny miniature raw meatballs with the med powder mixed in.

Medusa wrote:
What a shame that Tiger doesn't want the TF but he seems to be doing ok. My Puddy is sitting next to the computer and, when she heard him purr, she watched the video w/me. I wish I had some answers for you. I'll surely continue to pray, though.

He has his good moments throughout the day. But if we spend too much time outside or walking around, he's in rough shape the following day is really gaspy and stuff. It's hard to watch. Right now he's sitting on my desk while I type and seems to be having a good moment. We'll take as many as we can get. :)

kittykatharine wrote:
I am so very sorry that sweet Tiger is not doing well. She looked owe so sweet in the video, Sydney heard the purring and was alerted to my computer. I wish I could think of something you haven't tried already.... my old kitty used to like to lick NutriCal, so we would put his medication in that. One time I went to a friends house, and there mom had left over shrimp, so I put some in a blender so that it was like a paste, added in the medicine, and Sydney ate it. Your kitty seems to be really really smart. Tiger is in my prayers and I will light a candle and send a special prayer you and Tigers way.

That's neat the your cat and Mary's cat both were listening to Tiger's purring! I've got some NutriCal and Tiger does like it. I've snuck some TF in there a few times but lately he just isn't up to the super goey stickiness of the paste. He just turns his nose up at it and walks away. I think it makes it harder for him to swallow and stuff which he is already struggling with. I tried to thin it out a bit with some water but it just made it turn weird and then Tiger REALLY didn't want it. lol
I like your idea of blended shrimp though. He might go for that. I'll let you know.

Thanks everybody for your thoughts and ideas. I brought home some 10%cream today after work and tried that and it was vetoed. I also bought some whipping cream that I will blend up tomorrow and see if he'll eat. Maybe I will add some real salmon juice and make salmon whipping cream. That might work! :)

[Moesha]

The things we do for our furkids! LOL If they only knew the mental anguish they cause us while we are trying to come up with the strangest concoctions for them! As I have told you before, Tiger is on my mind quite often. Please let him know that and thank you for doing so much for the picky guy!

[kittykatharine]

I really hope that something works for poor Tiger! God knows that you are trying with all of your heart! Tiger is quite the picky little guy. Hopefully he will like that one A/D food that was suggested. You are trying everything you can, and you are being the best you can be for Tiger. Hang in there!

[Medusa]

Have you tried putting the TF in peanut butter or cashew butter? I love cashew butter but it's so high in everything that isn't good for ya :(, so I don't eat it that often but, once in a while, I scoop out a tsp. or so and eat it that way or on crackers. My Creamsicle wanted some so I let her lick a little of it and she loved it! Maybe that will work?

[Emeraldgreen]

Have you tried putting the TF in peanut butter or cashew butter? I love cashew butter but it's so high in everything that isn't good for ya :(, so I don't eat it that often but, once in a while, I scoop out a tsp. or so and eat it that way or on crackers. My Creamsicle wanted some so I let her lick a little of it and she loved it! Maybe that will work?

I'll give that a try! I have some almond butter on hand and some peanut butter. I would have never guessed that a cat would like that! Sneakers likes refried beans and butterscotch pudding and Stinky likes mashed potatoes so I shouldn't be surprised! :)

Thanks for your posts Moesha and Kittykatharine!

[momtomany]

I am sorry that Tiger is not doing well. We all know how hard this is on you. I know all of us on here wish we had the majic ingredients that would help Tiger take the TF. Prayers will continue.

[Moesha]

Just a word of caution. Becareful with the peanut butter. It may be sticky in his mouth. But if he eats it, then it might be worth it too.

[Medusa]

Just a word of caution. Becareful with the peanut butter. It may be sticky in his mouth. But if he eats it, then it might be worth it too.

He'll probably just lick it the way Creamsicle did. I didn't give her a glob of it, just let her lick it. :)

[slick]

I finally have a bit of time to catch up on this thread. I'm sorry to hear that little Tiger is not doing well. Has there been any improvement since your last post?

[kittykatharine]

I am curious to how Tiger is doing, I hope much better. Have you found any solutions to the picky eating? You guys are still in my prayers, I hope all is well!

[Emeraldgreen]

Momtomany wrote:
am sorry that Tiger is not doing well. We all know how hard this is on you. I know all of us on here wish we had the majic ingredients that would help Tiger take the TF. Prayers will continue.


I am curious to how Tiger is doing, I hope much better. Have you found any solutions to the picky eating? You guys are still in my prayers, I hope all is well!

Slick wrote:
I finally have a bit of time to catch up on this thread. I'm sorry to hear that little Tiger is not doing well. Has there been any improvement since your last post?

I've wanted to post but just don't have anything new to add, anything that's positive anyway. :(
Tiger is fading but he's still enjoying small amounts of food and short visits outside and brushings. He sleeps alot and I'm finding him more and more in the 'meatloaf' position. He has only ever sat like this when he is uncomfortable so I'm keeping a close eye on him. I don't want him to suffer.
For now though, we're still keeping on. :)
I'll post a video of him in a day or two which will show how he's changed. But in the meantime, here is a video I took of him more than a week ago of a walk we took in the woods. Unfortunately he isn't doing as well now but he has good days and bad. The good days are the best!

http://i225.photobucket.com/albums/dd102/emeraldcreek/th_a5f6f45b.jpg (http://s225.photobucket.com/albums/dd102/emeraldcreek/?action=view&current=a5f6f45b.pbr)

[Medusa]

I'm so sorry to read that Tiger isn't doing too well. I wish I could take this all away from you both. Please know that prayers continue to go up for you and that our hearts are w/you always. :love:

[Catty1]

:( LES

I'm SO sorry, Lara.

Silly boy wouldn't take his meds...

If ever there was a time for a miracle, this would be it.


{{{{hugs}}}}

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so sorry to hear that Tiger isn't doing well.:( I sure hope that things will start to improve. He remains in my thoughts and prayers. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[jennielynn1970]

I just keep hoping and praying for a miracle for Tiger. He's such a gorgeous boy, and seems to have such a sweet personality. It's just so sad, and so not fair.

Big hugs going out to you both!!

[catmandu]

The Pet Angels Are With Tiger, And Are Trying To Make Him Comfortable, So He Can Get Well, And Be With The Ones Who Love Him.:(
Thats Sad When Our Friends Are Ill, And We Feel So Helpless That Theres Nothing We Can Do To Help Them:(

[Catty1]

It was July 20 last year that you first posted about Tiger...I can't believe where the time has gone.

I hope he has had a longer and better life than he might have...that he was comfy for most of it...and for sure, no kitty was better loved than Tiger.

{{{{hugs}}}}

[Emeraldgreen]

Thanks for that. LES
I was thinking last night how it was a year ago that this all started and in May of '07 I noticed that his breathing sounded rumbly and it took a few months to get vets to believe me that something wasn't right.
If I had been told a year ago that I would have a whole year with him after he was diagnosed, I would have been filled with relief to have that year so I have to look at this as a gift. I do believe the Transfer Factor gave him this extra time along with the multiple surgeries and I'm thankful that you found that link for me about TF so I could provide that for Tiger. :)
He seems to be in pain today and I'm thinking about letting him go to RB tomorrow but I will see how he is in the morning. He is so sweet and I've been crying alot lately because there is simply nothing left for me to do.
I keep asking God to take him in his sleep each night but it's not happening so I will do this last thing for him to help him. :(

[Moesha]

That's positive thing to look at. All the wonderful days that you were able to spend with him since discovering his problem. Saying goodbye is terribly hard and please be assured that you and Tiger and the rest of the gang are in my thoughts during this difficult time.

[MoonandBean]

Lara, we will all be with you in that room when you decide that it is the right time for Tiger to go to RB.

LES.........

[slick]

EG:
I'm so very sorry to hear this about "our" sweet Tiger. You know that his eyes will tell you when the time is right and you will not be alone.

{{{hugs}}}

[Emeraldgreen]

That's positive thing to look at. All the wonderful days that you were able to spend with him since discovering his problem. Saying goodbye is terribly hard and please be assured that you and Tiger and the rest of the gang are in my thoughts during this difficult time



Lara, we will all be with you in that room when you decide that it is the right time for Tiger to go to RB.

LES.........

Thank you so much. :love:

[mamaducky]

I'm so very sorry to learn about Tiger's deteriorating condition, and about all that you're going through at this time.

Letting our beloved animals go to RB really is such a hard decision to make -- so many times you wonder if the time is right, and if there's really no way for your friend to get better. Even when you do know what has to be done, it is so hard to say goodbye.

To echo what so many others have said, you and Tiger are in my thoughts and prayers. You're not alone now, and you won't be alone when the time comes for Tiger to go to RB.

I know that the "extra" year you've had together has been a blessing -- and I hope you are able to feel some consolation in knowing that Tiger has had a life touched with the kind of love and compassion that many animals (heck, many people) never experience. You have done, and continue to do, everything you can for Tiger's well being. God bless you!

Much love,
Diana

[Medusa]

Oh, I'm so sorry that this is happening. You and sweet Tiger have really been through a lot together and he knows how much you love him and how you did your best to keep him comfortable. They instinctively know. We'll be w/you, as always, every step of the way, no matter what decision you make. Prayers going up for you and Tiger and lots of comforting (((HUGS))), too. :love:

[jennielynn1970]

I'm so sorry to hear that Tiger is in pain, and not doing better. He has made such an impact here on PT this past year, and has just touched the hearts of all of us. He's been loved from near and far, and he'll be able to feel that when the time does come for him to go to the Bridge.

My thoughts, prayers and tears are with you... big hugs to you!

[kittykatharine]

I just read your post in Candice's thread about Tiger and I am so sorry. Your message brought tears to my eyes. I wish there was something I could say or do to make you and Tiger feel better, but know that we are all praying for you here at PT. Tiger is loved very dearly by you and will always have a place in your heart. Prayers and thoughts going your way. I will definitely be thinking about you both.

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so sorry to hear that Tiger is in pain and not doing well.:( You've done everything possible for him and have gone above and beyond to help him. Making the decision to let him go to Rainbow Bridge is such a difficult one but you are making the right unselfish choice and thinking of his quality of life. We'll never forget him and he'll always be loved. I wish that I could say something to comfort you during this difficult time but all I can do from here is to send you some cyber hugs and let you know that I'll be thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[Emeraldgreen]

Thank you all so much for your kind words. They brought me to tears but they've really helped me. I will know that I will not be alone tomorrow when he is put down, I have all of you guys thinking about him too which means so much. I made his appointment for 9:45a.m. (pacific time). I probably should have booked it for today but I'm being selfish and keeping him with me for one last night. It just didn't feel like the right day though I know I can't wait any longer than tomorrow.
Thank you everybody for being there for me and for Tiger this past year. It has meant so very much.

[Catty1]

LES One more night - tons of cuddles and loves and kisses from me, please! :love::love::love::love::love:

We will all be with you, Lara. I am so - glad? - that you chose us to share Tiger's journey with. I wish we could have saved him.

Someone here has a saying in their siggy or somewhere - "If love could have saved you, you would be alive today." With you and Tiger, that is absolutely true.

{{{{{HUGS}}}}}

[Moesha]

I get tears everytime I open this thread. Please know that you and Tiger will be in my thoughts tomorrow. Give that boy big hugs for me please. I am going to miss him.

[mamaducky]

As always, you're doing exactly the right thing. Hard as it is, this is the decision that needed to be made. :( I am so, so very sorry for what you and your sweet boy are going through.

I'll be thinking of you both tonight and tomorrow; please give Tiger a kiss on the head for me.

Love & prayers to you,
Diana

[Medusa]

Lara, we will send up prayers that Tiger's transition will be an easy one. He deserves a peaceful trip to the Bridge. It's so difficult to even type this; I can only imagine what you must be experiencing right now. Peace to all you and savor your precious moments w/sweet Tiger. :love:

[jennielynn1970]

My thoughts and prayers will be with you tonight and tomorrow. I hope that everything will go smoothly, and that Tiger will be at peace. I'm so sad to see things conclude this way, I think we all hoped he would make a miraculous recovery.

Tiger boy, you've stolen the hearts of so many here. I'll miss seeing your handsome face in pics, but you will remain in my heart. :love:

[GILL]

All of our thoughts and prayers will be wth you. It is never easy, but it is for the best. I'm so sorry.

[momtomany]

Our prayers are with you and Tiger. I am so sorry.

[krazyaboutkatz]

Lara, my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[Moesha]

Tiger was the first thing I thought of when I woke up this morning. I hope you are doing ok.

[Scooter's Mom]

My thoughts are with you today. I just read the update. I am so sorry to read that one, but like Candace, I am glad you shared his journey over the last year with us.

Big hugs to you.
Crystal

[AbbyMom]

Thinking of you and Tiger.....

[Catty1]

I sent Lara a very brief PM yesterday...she replied as she was on her way to bed, and said she would post on Saturday.

I pray it was painless and peaceful for Tiger...but will sure be painful for her and her hubby.

{{{{hugs}}}}