Big, big, BIG prayers needed for Allie- UPDATE on #148

[Cataholic]

Today, we took our best snuggle girl, Allie (Alabama) into the white coats. I can't articulate why, but, I fear the worst. Last night, she didn't come out when we got home, 100% abnormal for her. We called and called and she arrived, looking awful. Thin, matted and slow. I picked her up and noticed a depreciable lightness about her. And, she stayed in my arms- 100% abnormal.

This am, she tried and failed to jump up on the counter to get her wet food. This girl is a spring, normally. She will leap into my arms, onto my back, all without trouble. So, at 8am, we dropped her off at the vets. So far, I know she has lost 2 pounds since our last visit. I can't remember when I took her in last, but, it was within 8 months. The record was on the vet's desk..so, the tech couldn't confirm it. Two pounds on a cat is a lot.

Sigh. Allie is 10 years old this August. I don't know how to deal with this, it will crush my son.

So, the blood work will be back tomorrow, and they are trying to get urine from her now, then they will give her some sub-q fluids, and I will talk to the vet when I pick her up tonight.

I am so sad. :(

[Taz_Zoee]

Oh no. :( I will keep Allie in my thoughts and hope it is something that can be fixed with a little meds. Fingers crossed here!

[Killearn Kitties]

I'll certainly have my fingers crossed for lovely Allie's tests. I'll be thinking of you all in the meantime.

[Cataholic]

It is dire. It is some sort of chronic condition- most likely the liver. Treatment options, if this is the case, are very limited. The bloodwork will come back tomorrow am.

:(

[Freedom]

Prayers and cuddles for Allie, cyber hugs to you and Jonah.

[Killearn Kitties]

:( I hope they can make poor Allie more comfortable in the meantime.

[Prairie Purrs]

I hope a treatment can be found. I'll keep Allie in my thoughts.

[Catty1]

Prayers for dear Allie! I HOPE that it is treatable, whatever it is. :(

HUGS!:love::love::love::love:

[momoffuzzyfaces]

I am so sorry! Prayers on the way for Allie, you, and your family. :love:

[Karen]

Prayers on the way for all of you.

[Anikaca77]

Prayers coming for Allie.

Melissa

[Pinot's Mom]

Prayers on the way! Keep us posted! :(

[Cinder & Smoke]

HI God ...

Need sum Help down here on the ole Durt Ball fur Allie Kat ...

Maybe You could ride along with the blood to da Lab and help
with the tests ... a good result would be nice.

Please help da Kitty to feel better and not suffer. :(

And could You give a {{{God'sHug}}} to Momma Joh;
and some comfort to Da Kid ... he'll need some, too.

THANKS, God!

/s/ the Purrayer Pups

[krazyaboutkatz]

Johanna, I'm so sorry to hear this.:( I sure hope that there's some kind of treatment for whatever is causing this. Lots of prayers and positive thoughts are being sent her way. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[shais_mom]

big hugs and lots of love on the way.
Prayers being sent.

[katladyd]

I'm sending prayers for Allie.:love:

[Grace]

Prayers for Allie, and Johanna.

[Randi]

Johanna, I'm so sorry to hear this. :( I hope the bloodwork will show it's not too bad and there will be some treatment for Allie.

Sending lots of positive throughts to Allie - and big hugs to you. :love:

[Vio&Juni]

Poor Allie. I hope they can figure out something to help her.

[Barbara]

Sending all my best wishes for Allie- I know what a shock it is to suddenly experience this..
Love to you and Jonah. And Allie.

[Medusa]

Hmmm, darned if that doesn't sound like how my Boo was when he was first diagnosed w/thyroid problems. Of course, Boo is much older, he's nearly 19 now but the way you described Allie's appearance and behavior, it sounded like how Boo behaved. Whatever it is, I do hope that your vet can get to the bottom of it quickly and that a solution is found just as quickly. Prayers are going up for Allie, you and your son. Keep the faythe. :love:

[chocolatepuppy]

Prayers headed Allies way...

[lizbud]

Sorry I didn't see this earlier.Prayers going out for Allie. I hope it's not
as bad as first thought & she can be helped back to good health.

[pomtzu]

Prayers for Allie.

Hang in there, and think positive.

[Asiel]

Sorry Cataholic, hope Allie will pull through for you.

[zippy-kat]

Prayers for Allie and your family. {{hugs}}

[bowlkat]

The same on the way from here- it could also be renal failure (CRF), hard to say without the blood work results - but sub-cu. fluids gave several of my kids 4-5 happy, healthy YEARS with that condition, if it's early enough (and it sure sounds like it is)- good luck and prayers-- hope it turns out small and treatable-

[Cataholic]

Thank you, everyone.

The blood results came back this morning with the three biggies- kidney, liver and thyroid- all within normal limits. The vet was VERY surprised. Her white count is elevated- which matches the fever, which she still has today, at 103.5. I took her in for another sub-q fluid, and will do it again tomorrow morning before the vet office closes.

The vet is baffled. Her bilirubin numbers are high, no question. That suggests a liver issue. But, her liver numbers were fine. She is sick, no question about it. But, with what, I don't know. The plan is to treat her with sub-q fluids and clavamox and if no change by Sunday am, take her to the ER vet for furthe diagnostic testing.

She will not eat. This am, I found her and carried her to the counter for morning treat of wet food. She stared at it, and licked it twice then went to jump down. I got her to eat about 4 little treats which I figure are better than nothing. I will go out this afternoon to get some tasty stuff, and pray that she eats.

So, while Allie is sick, I don't know how sick. Overall, I am happy with the blood work, but still cautious with the lack of information. I will keep you all posted.

[smokey the elder]

Smokey the Elder had the same thing in 1997. She lost a bunch of weight, but nothing on the blood work. She was put on A/D and a quarter Tagamet (ancestor to Pepcid) once a day, and she got her weight back. The vets were scratching their heads on this one.

[Grace]

What about baby food? In the past I've used that for cats with upset tummies.

[Cinder & Smoke]

The blood results came back this morning with the three biggies-
kidney, liver and thyroid - all within normal limits.

Well, that's a good start! ;)

Get a nice selection of Junque Food and hope she's impressed.

Purrayers will continue.

{{{Hugs}}} to the BiPeds. :love:

[Cataholic]

And, I don't want to appear unthankful, I am! But, with a cat that won't move, won't eat...and is super thin...it is hard to be over the moon.

Off to get sardines, tunafish, salmon and babyfood! Thanks again, everyone.

[Killearn Kitties]

How odd. I very much hope she starts to feel better over the weekend. What a worry!

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm glad to hear that her blood work looks good:) but sad to hear that you still don't know why she's so sick.:(

Did your vet say anything about pancreatitis? Last year my Ziggy stopped eating which is not like her at all. The vet did many tests and even an ultrasound which did show that her pancreas was slightly inflammed. I guess it's hard to diagnose this in cats so the diagnosis ended up being slight pancreatitis. I tried giving her home treatment but she kept vomiting so she had to be hospitalized for 24 hours. Luckily she began to eat for me when she got home and she's been fine since. They also gave her a vitamin B12 shot to help improve her appetite and I was sent home with some syringes and a vial of B12. I had to then give her one shot a week for about 6 weeks I think.

I also know that when cats stop eating that they can get fatty liver disease but I would think that this would show up in her blood work. If she doesn't eat anything for you at all then you will need to force feed her. I had to do this with my RB Pepper. I sure hope that she'll start eating, doing better, and feeling better. Lots more prayers and positive thoughts are being sent her way. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[Barbara]

I can understand that you are still worried. I hope Allie eats. Smokey's story sounds kind of encouraging.

[zippy-kat]

Jo,

Royal Canin has a "Picky Eater (http://products.royalcanin.us/products/cat-food/selective-3530.aspx?Animal=Cat)" formula. When K'Cee was first diagnosed with the kidney "stuff" and was refusing all other "good" food, she would eat this. (Of course now she won't touch the stuff. :rolleyes: )

Can the vet give her an appetite stimulant to help get her over the hump? With K'Cee, valium did the trick. Of course if it's an ulcer or inflamation, it might not be a good idea.

Best of luck to you guys!

[pomtzu]

Prayers that you can help Allie get over this bump in the road. Don't give up, and believe in the power of PT prayers. I believe that they helped Myndi immensely. Just two weeks ago today, she was at death's door, and today she is back with me, and close to 100%. We'll be sending prayers for Allie, you and your little boy too! :love:

[phesina]

Prayers and healing energies for dear little Allie.

[Freedom]

Frustrating, is how I read this latest report.

If you can, some salmon should be helpful and tasty! gets her those Omega 3 and 5 's.

[gini]

Goodness - too many things going on for you and poor Allie.

Prayers are being offered for you both.:love:

[Randi]

Johanna, have you tried Royal Canin's "Sensitive"? Fister is crazy about it, and the Killiarn Kitties, too. See if you can get samples from your vet.

Hope Allie will start eating, put on some weight and get better! :love:

[Medusa]

Johanna, ask your vet to inject B12 or even all the B vitamins into the subQ bag. S/he may say that it won't help, my vet said so too, but it brought Puddy back. She ate, she had energy, her senility left, all of it instantly. Because Allie is so thin, it would be better to inject the B's right into the port on the bag instead of the skin b/c it does burn but this way Allie won't feel it. It couldn't hurt but I'll bet it'll help big time.

[Cataholic]

The good news, Allies fever has broke, and is now at 102.5. Not perfect, but a whole degree lower has made a difference.

This am, she was upstairs when I got out of bed, whereas the last 2 days I had to bring her upstairs. She still can't jump up to the counter. That is still sad to witness.

She still won't eat. She refused all tempting foods. Maybe another 4 little treats were eaten. The vet said cats tend to feel better first, then pick up eating next. So, anyday now, Allie, you can start!!

I can tell there is a marked improvement...she even darted out the door this afternoon, and her tail isn't strictly low flying anymore.

2 additional tests came back negative, so it is a head scratcher. She will stay on the clacalox, and maybe more fluids in Tuesday if needed.

I don't think my vet does B12 shots...but, I didn't think to ask before the fluids were administered.

As to the steriods...if there is something internal, the steriod would make it go crazy. Doing anything but treating her supportively is a hard call...in case something done makes her worse.

Thanks for the prayers and thoughts! It is just so bizarre. And scary.

[Barbara]

Oh my- any improvement is better than no improvement. I hope Allie will start to eat soon. At least it is getting better- slowly but hopefully steadily.

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm glad to hear that her fever broke and that she's doing a bit better.:) Cats just don't want to eat when they're feeling bad or even when they can't smell their food. I hope she'll start eating something soon. Lots more prayers and positive thoughts are being sent her way.

I also forgot to add this info earlier. One time my RB Pepper was very sick and he had stopped eating and he was also losing weight. Back then I free fed so I didn't even catch this right away so I didn't even know how long it was going on. It turned out that he was severly constipated and once this problem was solved he made a full recovery. Then later on I caught him jumping in and out of the litter box and he was constipated again so he had to have a kitty enema. After this he was on lactulose which finally kept him regular and on track. I just wanted to mention this because sometimes the problem can be overlooked and it's usually an easily treatable problem.

[jennielynn1970]

Poor Allie, feeling so badly! Many thoughts and prayers coming your way from PA.

Feel better Allie! (((HUGS)))

[Anikaca77]

My prays are still coming for Allie.

Melissa

[Cataholic]

Well, that was short lived. I took Allie to the ER cry last night, where she was admitted. Her fever was back to 104.6, and she was dehydrated, despite having 3 days of fluids administered sub q.

I am waiting on internal medicine to call back after a ultra scan. When I called at 1015, her temp was back down to 102.5.

[Karen]

Poor Allie! Still in our prayers.

[Cataholic]

It is cancer. I am so sad. Not sure what kind yet, so I don't know treatment options. But, frankly, none of my experiences with cancer in cats has been positive.

[Husky_mom]

I´m so sorry... hope whatever kind it is it stills give you time with precious Allie..

and at least gives you options of what to do.. ((hugs))

[Grace]

I'm so sorry, Johanna. Prayers continue for all of you; may your decision, whatever it is, bring you peace.

[Karen]

Oh dear, sorry to hear that. You and she and Jonah will be in our prayers.

[phesina]

I am so sorry to learn this. Many prayers are being said for Allie and all who love her.

[krazyaboutkatz]

Johanna, I'm so sorry to hear this sad news.:( I'm hoping that it was caught very early and that it's one of the types that can be treated easily. I'll continue to keep Allie in my thoughts and prayers. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[Prairie Purrs]

Oh, no. I'm so sorry. I'm holding out hope for a treatment.

[gini]

Johanna, you have my prayers that Allie can be treated and you will have her for many more years. Also, some prayers are offered for you..........you have had a lot on your plate since I have known you through Pet Talk with your animals.

So here are some hugs as well.................:love::love:

[pomtzu]

I'm so sorry that it was not a good news update. My prayers are with you at this time, as I know you struggle with a decision of where to go from here. Only you know what's best for Allie, and you will do what's best for her.

[momoffuzzyfaces]

I am so sorry. Prayers on going for you both. :love:

[Catty1]

Many prayers for you and Allie. She sure is loved and knows it.

Praying for a miracle, that the cancer is treatable. {{{{hugs}}}}

[caseysmom]

I am so sorry I am just seeing this now. Prayers are on the way for Allie and for you.

[katladyd]

Both you and Allie are in my toughts and prayers. Hope all turns out well.:love:

[jennielynn1970]

So sorry to be reading the latest update, Johanna. Poor Allie. I hope they can make her comfortable and have some more time with you.

Thoughts and prayers going out to you and to Allie.:love:

[Barbara]

I am so terribly sorry. After our experience with Tigris I was afraid it would be cancer.
I am sending my best wishes to you.
I know you will make sure that her life is as good as can be- even if it may be a short time.
{{{{{{{{Hugs}}}}}}}}

[Cataholic]

I got the call today that it is cancer (though I had already been told that), and it is lymphoma. This would be the 'better' cancer to have, but, Allie has the worst kind of lymphoma there is- the large cell granular (or something to that effect). The choices were 1) do nothing, and know that it would be the most humane thing to have her PTS; 2) do chemo, which would have limited effects on things, or 3) have surgery to remove the part of the large intestine that has the tumor and get clean margins on either side, then do chemo, which means, hopefully, that the chemo would be attacking smaller cells.

Course, this is a big surgery, the risk is there for leaking of the intestine once it is sewn back up, the cancer probably will return (when might be a question), and how much time am I 'buying' with all this.

As I told my mom, I owe it to each of my animal to hope for a miracle, and given the facts that I have, I have elected to have surgery performed, followed by chemo. I pray I am making the right decision for Allie.

Her surgery will be tomorrow sometime. Please hold her tightly in your thoughts and prayers. She truly is the very best snuggle girl there is. She deserves much more time, and we so much want her with us.

Thanks,
Johanna

[jenluckenbach]

I am so sorry to hear about Allie. :( I will pray for her treatments to go well.

[Catty1]

Prayers going out. You may or may not be a fan of Transfer Factor, but you can ask your vet about a 'cancer diet' for cats.

Stay strong, Allie!:love::love::love:

[lizbud]

Oh Johanna, I am so sorry this turned out to be so very serious. I was
reluctant to check back on Allie, for fear of bad news.:(

I am glad you & the Vet both have good feelings that the surgery & treatment can help her back to good health. Strong, positive prayers
for you & Allie. (((hugs))) to you both.

[krazyaboutkatz]

Lots more prayers are going out to her for the surgery and treatments to be successful. Please take care and more (((hugs))) coming your way.

[Husky_mom]

keeping you all on our thoughts.. ((hugs))

[jennielynn1970]

Prayers coming that the surgery goes successfully and that the treatments go easily.

Hugs to you and Allie.:love:

[shais_mom]

lots of love and hugs on the way for you and Allie and Jonah -
txt me anytime :love::love:

[pomtzu]

My thoughts and prayers are with you and sweet Allie. :love: Hopefully the surgery goes well and the treatments after, and that she will have more quality time with you.
Fingers, toes and paws crossed here in DE.

[Laura's Babies]

OMG! Poor baby!! I am praying for her.

[Medusa]

Oh I'm so sorry. Of course, add my name to the list of people who are praying for Allie, Jonah and you. Keep the faythe. :love:

[Cataholic]

Allie came through the surgery 'as well as could be expected' according to the vet. She had no problems with the anesthesia. The vet found her intestine folded over on itself. This showed up on the scan as a significant thickness/mass. As it turns out, there were two diseased parts of the intestine, separated by a 'normal' piece of intestine. So, an entire section was removed. This was 'good', according to the doctor. All her other organs looked good- to the eye, not sure microscopically. There was some imflammation to the lymph nodes, that could be just reactive. Could also be indicative of the cancer spreading. I will know the results in 5-7 days. Not trying to get too ahead of things at this point.

Allie will be released from the hospital once she eats. She is back on a nasal feed tube, but she will need to eat orally before she comes home, OR, she will come home on a feed tube. She has to be confined for two weeks.

The complicating factor is that I leave for vacation in 10 days. :( I have gone back and forth in my mind as to what to do. If it were just me going away, I would cancel in a moment. But, my child will be crushed. I have someone staying in my home, but of course, no one can look after cats like I can, right? The vet said if there is leakage (the next hurdle), it will, most likely, be in the next 3-5, 5-7 tops, days. This girl will have to take Allie to have her staples removed prolly the Monday after I leave. That might be a good thing...give the vets a chance to examine her while I am gone. I will probably, just in an abundance of caution, ask about having her examined maybe on that Thursday, too....just in case. Heck, what is another $150, right? (Its only money, right?????).

I took Catty1's advice, and I have ordered the Transfer Factor, and will begin that as soon as Allie gets home. Anyone with advice/experience on this, please share with me!!!

<sigh>. I can't help but feel a slight sense of relief, but that is pretty short sighted, considering the facts.

Thanks for your thoughts and prayers.

[Killearn Kitties]

Our thoughts are still coming your way! A lot can happen in 10 days and hopefully Allie will be a lot better by the time you go away.
Come on Allie, start eating soon!

[Karen]

We are glad they were able to removed the diseased portion of the intestine, and that there's still good intestine there to do its job as she recovers. Prayers on the way for a good recovery!

[katladyd]

I am getting good vibes from what the white coat said. I am still praying that everything goes well for Allie. Thank you for giving her a chance at life!:love:

[phesina]

Prayers and love for Allie and you all.

[Prairie Purrs]

I'm glad that Allie's surgery went well, and I hope that the cancer hasn't spread. May her recovery be smooth.

[Catty1]

Prayers for Allie! I hope all works out so you and J can enjoy your holiday. :love:

[caseysmom]

I am glad things went well considering. Why do things like this always happen before vacations? Worse case Allie could stay with your vet if she takes a turn while your gone, the actualy boarding fees aren't usually too bad.

[Medusa]

I know exactly what you mean about going on holiday. When Puddy was so sick, I just could not leave her but her situation was different from Allie's. Puddy could've gone at any moment. I'm so glad that the surgery was a success and we're all praying that Allie will heal quickly, easily and in peace. :love:

[jenluckenbach]

ANY good news, is a relief to hear, even if there are still questions in need of answers. The bottom line is, she got through step one. :)

Still here hoping for the best.

[Cataholic]

We have elected to both delay and shorten our vacation. We will leave on Wednesday, and stay through Saturday. So, our first day leaving will be day 14 post surgery, rather than day 10. I just feel better about that.

[columbine]

Healing energy sent. :love::love::love:

Love, Columbine

[heidiv]

I sure hope your kitty pulls through all of this soon....Paris had a NE Tube and was sent home....I was so scared she would rip that thing out of her nose. I was so intimadated by that thing. As soon as I fed her with the tube she would lick her lips and they say that is a sign of feeling full...Well it didn't work so I just brought her to the University to finish her healing because I just couldn't get the hang of feeding her through a tube. Your kitty may be a different story and handle it well....She too had surgery for a folded intestine once they had her open they found it was a little twisted but nothing was removed...And her lymph nodes were all swollen. They thought it was her Pancrease at the end.... She seems to be doing much better now....She has to take an antiacid daily to keep her acid levels at a better level to keep her vomiting under control....I sure hope she does well for you and you can enjoy your vacation...Its so hard to do when they aren't well....Prayers for your little one.... My thoughts and prayers are with you and your kitty!!

[krazyaboutkatz]

Johanna, I'm so glad to hear that Allie's surgery went well and I hope that her recovery will also go well and also any other further treatments that are needed.:) Hopefully you and Jonah will be able to enjoy your vacation. I'll continue to keep Allie in my thoughts and prayers. (((HUGS)))

[Barbara]

Good to hear that Allie's surgery went well.
I can understand your situation so well as Filou had a crisis some days before we left for vacation. My vet then said: You will go because I start to be more worried about you than about Filou. Well with my sister coming for part of the time, with Christine downstairs who has 3 cats and 2 rabbits and with the vet giving her mobile number to both of them (:love:) we went and Filou was really great.
But I also think that Allie will be a lot better in 2 weeks. She has to eat now- that is very important.

[Asiel]

Gosh I didn't know cats could be as bad as dogs, for some reason I always thought they didn't really get sick. I've never owned a cat, guess that shows. I hope Allie pulls through with flying colours, I like the idea of changing the vacation plans, you'll feel better if you see how she's getting along. Keeping fingers crossed for both of you .

[pomtzu]

Sending out healing vibes to Allie, :love: and {{{HUGS}}} to you and Jonah. :love::love:

Think positive!

[lizbud]

We have elected to both delay and shorten our vacation. We will leave on Wednesday, and stay through Saturday. So, our first day leaving will be day 14 post surgery, rather than day 10. I just feel better about that.



Sounds like a excellent idea.:) When does Allie get to come home?
I hope she shows steady improvement day after day. Prayers that all
goes well.

[Cataholic]

Hi Everyone. First off, thank you all for your loving thoughts and prayers. I don't post everytime someone does, but I do read them and am touched by them all the same.

I visited Allie at 8 am this morning and was pleasantly surprised at her alertness. When the vet called in the afternoon, she even said something about how alert Allie was, considering. The feeding tube is back in, and tolerated well. They offered food at 12 noon and she showed no interest. The vet wasn't overly concerned with this. Said it was common, the feeding tube takes the edge off, Allie is at a clinic, etc.

I came back at noon with snacks, food and her own bowl. I even placed some toys in there. I was so hopeful I could get her to eat from my hand. Nope. She seemed much less responsive at noon. I haven't called back yet to confirm her 'mood'. Tomorrow am, I intend to go in loaded with treats- liver and cooked chicken. I am really hoping she eats. If not, she comes home with a feeding tube.

As to her discharge, I don't know yet when that will be. I am kind of hoping Saturday. I am in the process of breaking down J's room for her confinement of two weeks. As Minnie lives under MY bed, I can't use my room. I want to be prepared for her arrival. I need to arrange the calendar for next week. Thankfully, working at home IS an okay, temporary, option.

Thanks again for the well wishes. I really am thankful for you all.

Johanna, Jonah and Allie

[Medusa]

Sounds like everything is coming together. Better and better......:)

[Killearn Kitties]

Come on Allie, we all want you to wake up STARVING today! You can do it. :love:

[krazyaboutkatz]

I hope she'll eat some food for you today. She remains in my thoughts and prayers.

[katladyd]

C'mon Allie, eat! You are going to be getting really good treats, the kind you only get if you are very, very, good. Enjoy them and all the attention you will be getting. Prayers are still being said, of course.:love:

[jennielynn1970]

C'mon Allie, we're all rooting for you to be a hungry little girl!!

Eat up and come home feeling better!:love:

[Cataholic]

Allie didn't eat any of the goodies. I brought her fave snacks, liver, chicken and fish- all refused. :( She seemed much worse today than yesterday am. I am still waiting on the doctor to call- its after 2 oclock here! I called at noon to make sure she was still in the clinic.

If its possible, I would like to bring her home today and see if being at home would make her eat. I am really feeling down, and have this awful feeling in the pit of my stomach.

Ten minutes later:

I couldn't handle it, and I called- again. Allie made the executive decision that the nasal tube needed to be removed. They are now seeing if, without that irritant, she will eat. They also took off the e-collar. I am betting that she won't eat. I can bring her home after 5. But, I have some re-configuring still to do. So, I will leave here shortly, fix things up, collect J and go get her.

Please pray that Allie will eat at home!!! <sigh>

[phesina]

Dearest Allie, prayers for you that you will eat when you get back home.

[Catty1]

Prayers that Allie eats once she is home with you - she is likely pretty scared.

HUGS to you and Allie.:love::love:

[Grace]

Will they let her go home before she poops?

When people have surgery on their intestines, normally they have to at least pass gas before going home - to make sure everything is truly open down there.

[Cataholic]

Grace,
It is likely that Allie hadn't eaten in 2 weeks before surgery. She hasn't had food since surgery. It might be some time before my girl poops, and not eating at all only delays it.
:(

[Grace]

Grace,
It is likely that Allie hadn't eaten in 2 weeks before surgery. She hasn't had food since surgery. It might be some time before my girl poops, and not eating at all only delays it.
:(

I didn't realize it had been so long since she ate. Did they give her an tube feedings at all before she removed the tube?

That reminds me of a patient from long ago. He had an ET (endotracheal tube) to help him breathe. He pulled it out all by himself, and did better once it was out. It's called a therapeutic extubation.

[Cataholic]

Grace-
She had an NT about 11 hours after surgery, until today, so about 1.5 days. My understanding is that it was a constant drip. The plan is to entice her to eat, or, on Monday, she gets the ET. :(

I have her secured in a room, with no jumpable objects. She is kind of dazed...but, much more interactive then she was this am. I am still debating whether I will sleep in there, or leave her alone.

The pathology came back on the intestine. I already knew the mass was LGL, or something like that...a non-responsive form of lymphoma to chemo. The ends of the intestine, that were removed to hopefully obtain clean margins, showed a more common and better treatable form of lymphoma. So, Allie will undergo chemo, God willing.

I could just cry. But, what is the point? One foot in front of the other, with an eye towards a finish line.

thanks again,
Johanna

[lizbud]

Johanna, (((Hugs))) Allie might have a sore throat from the tube. It
might make eating uncomfortable at first. I think she sounds pretty good
considering the invasive surgery she had. Keeping her from moving around
may be more important than her eating just yet.

Can she stay in a crate or cat carrier overnight?

[Cataholic]

Johanna, (((Hugs))) Allie might have a sore throat from the tube. It
might make eating uncomfortable at first. I think she sounds pretty good
considering the invasive surgery she had. Keeping her from moving around
may be more important than her eating just yet.

Can she stay in a crate or cat carrier overnight?

I would have to double check with Grace, but I think the NT doesn't bother the throat at all like the ET does. I can tell Allie is dopey...blank staring, unsteady gait, etc. I put down 3 types of food, and water, made her a hidey hole, and told J to leave her alone!!! I will medicate her in an hour or so, but, I think we should just leave her be for the night. I hope.

I can't imagine keeping her in a crate, after spending the last 5 days in one, KWIM? It is a pretty small room- J's bedroom (LOL, like he uses it???). I have his twin mattress down, the box spring up against the wall, and one dresser on top of the other to keep her from jumping. And, of course, a litter box. She does like his room...so, I hope by tomorrow morning there is some food gone. Hope, hope, hope.

Please, little girl, eat!!!

[Grace]

Can you give her some broth with a syringe - squirt it in her mouth? Some of it will go down. It would be time-consuming, but at least she would get some nourishment.

Johanna, you're correct. Those NT tubes are very tiny and cause very little irritation while being inserted or while in. The ET is a whole nother matter.

[Cataholic]

Can you give her some broth with a syringe - squirt it in her mouth? Some of it will go down. It would be time-consuming, but at least she would get some nourishment.

Johanna, you're correct. Those NT tubes are very tiny and cause very little irritation while being inserted or while in. The ET is a whole nother matter.

When I asked about force feeding, they said I could do it, but to give her a chance, first.

Zippy-kat and Randi have both suggested the Royal Canin fussy eater. I will track that down tomorrow am, if there has been nothing eaten yet.

[lizbud]

I would have to double check with Grace, but I think the NT doesn't bother the throat at all like the ET does. I can tell Allie is dopey...blank staring, unsteady gait, etc. I put down 3 types of food, and water, made her a hidey hole, and told J to leave her alone!!! I will medicate her in an hour or so, but, I think we should just leave her be for the night. I hope.

I can't imagine keeping her in a crate, after spending the last 5 days in one, KWIM? It is a pretty small room- J's bedroom (LOL, like he uses it???). I have his twin mattress down, the box spring up against the wall, and one dresser on top of the other to keep her from jumping. And, of course, a litter box. She does like his room...so, I hope by tomorrow morning there is some food gone. Hope, hope, hope.

Please, little girl, eat!!!


Sounds good Johanna.:) As long as she has nothing to climb on, she should
settle down eventually. Sleep tight Allie, hope you feel better tomorrow.:)

[zippy-kat]

Fingers crossed for Allie's appetite. Hope everyone sleeps well!

[Catty1]

Welcome home, sweet Allie. Have a good sleep, and maybe in the morning, you will want a little breakfast. :love:

[krazyaboutkatz]

Johanna, I'm glad to hear that she's now home and I sure hope that she'll decide to eat some of the food that you put down on her own. I know that my Ziggy had to be force fed at the hospital and since she was able to keep it down they let me bring her home. She was very hungry when she got home and she immeditately ate on her own. I sure hope that Allie will get hungry and do the same. Lots more prayers and positive thoughts are being sent her way and many more hugs to you.

[Medusa]

Hopefully, after a good night's sleep, she's ready to eat now. Fingers and paws crossed here. :love:

[pomtzu]

You need to eat, Allie - please??? Certainly you must be hungry by now.

Prayers and well wishes for Allie and her family. :love:

[Barbara]

Among the things Filou ate even when he was in bad shape was egg yolk and goose fat. He also loved fresh chicken.
Thinking of you...

[Cataholic]

Allie just won't eat. Anything. I took her into the clinic today for another round of fluids and a B12 shot. I also got most of a Transfer Factor pill down her.

I am not going to give her any more pain meds, nor the clavamox. She will still get one antibiotice, but clavamox irritates the stomach. I will see what happens over night.

Please pray that Allie eats.

[Catty1]

Someone here mentioned Pepcid or something like it - to settle a kitty's stomach. Might that be an option?

Will she lap beef broth or chicken baby food?

Prayers that Allie eats soon! Come on sweetheart - it's okay, eat up a bit.:love::love:

[lizbud]

Allie just won't eat. Anything. I took her into the clinic today for another round of fluids and a B12 shot. I also got most of a Transfer Factor pill down her.

I am not going to give her any more pain meds, nor the clavamox. She will still get one antibiotice, but clavamox irritates the stomach. I will see what happens over night.

Please pray that Allie eats.


I wonder if the Vet said anything about what to expect for the first days
at home? I hope she will take some liguids at least. Is she mosting sleeping
or what? Lets hope that tomorrow brings some progress for Allie. Sending
a few (((Hugs))) for you both.:)

[krazyaboutkatz]

Johanna, I'm so sorry to hear that Allie's still not eating.:( Yes, pain meds or some antibiotics will make animals not want to eat. Clavamox has caused Storm to become very sick so I always have to mention that he's allergic to it now.

When Ziggy had her pancreatitis they did give her a liquid form of famotidine,which is what's in pepcid, along with fluids, pain meds, and a vitamin B12 shot. I'm currently giving Storm the original strength of pepcid in pill form and he gets 5mg which would be 1/2 a pill of it every night. It's helped him with his tummy issues. You might want to ask your vet if this would be something that would help her and maybe you could get it in liquid form from your vet. Lots more prayers and positive thoughts are being sent her way. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[Cataholic]

I syringe fed Allie this morning, and had another transfer factor pill in there. She hated it..but, it wasn't the same hate that it was with the meds. I flipped her on her back and wrapped her in a towel. I am hoping she will submit once she realizes my will for her to survive is kind of strong.

I wonder...how much should I be giving her? I put about 3/4 of a tablespoon of A/D, mixed with water, and it came out to about 12 MLs. I got about 9 MLs in her. I plan on doing it 3 times a day, and wonder if there is a target to shoot for?

She is more alert today, and I assume most of the pain meds are out. I wonder, though, what the consequences are with giving her NO antibiotics at all. I remember that with TNR, a female is spayed without any additional antibiotic, and seemingly does ok. I think Allie's surgery was more invasive than a typical spay...but, hope I am not killing her by not giving antibiotics.

Thoughts?

[Barbara]

I think the antibiotics are more for the open wounds not for the interior ones so that should be ok. I hope Allie's will for survival is strong too- and it must be.

[Grace]

I syringe fed Allie this morning, and had another transfer factor pill in there. She hated it..but, it wasn't the same hate that it was with the meds. I flipped her on her back and wrapped her in a towel. I am hoping she will submit once she realizes my will for her to survive is kind of strong.

I wonder...how much should I be giving her? I put about 3/4 of a tablespoon of A/D, mixed with water, and it came out to about 12 MLs. I got about 9 MLs in her. I plan on doing it 3 times a day, and wonder if there is a target to shoot for?

She is more alert today, and I assume most of the pain meds are out. I wonder, though, what the consequences are with giving her NO antibiotics at all. I remember that with TNR, a female is spayed without any additional antibiotic, and seemingly does ok. I think Allie's surgery was more invasive than a typical spay...but, hope I am not killing her by not giving antibiotics.

Thoughts?

9 ml per feeding - that would be about 1 ounce per day. Doesn't seem like enough to me, but would check with your Vet tomorrow and see how much they think is a good amount. Also ask about the antibiotic. There is one out there that can be given by injection and is good for 2 weeks. Not sure if that is the type of ABX they prefer, but might be better than none at all.

[Cataholic]

Grace- I thought the same thing. I am going to up it to 9 or so MLs a time x 3. But, I will ask tomorrow, too.

Barbara- I hear you. I really do.

Johanna

[sasvermont]

I agree with Barbara about the open wound. I had two surgeries, and no antibiotics afterwards but then I didn't lick my wound, like a kitty might. Is she still wearing the E-collar? Is she attempting to lick the wound? I would keep an eye on the site and if it looks good, then I would forget about the antibiotics altogether.

I hope she begins to eat soon. Any chance she might like baby food?

[Scooter's Mom]

I agree with Barbara about the open wound. I had two surgeries, and no antibiotics afterwards but then I didn't lick my wound, like a kitty might. Is she still wearing the E-collar? Is she attempting to lick the wound? I would keep an eye on the site and if it looks good, then I would forget about the antibiotics altogether.

I hope she begins to eat soon. Any chance she might like baby food?

When my Scooter Bug was so sick, all he wanted was the "meat only" type of baby food. He would eat that over anything else. Baby food is a good temporary idea.

Hope she feels better soon!

[Cataholic]

She isn't licking at all, thankfully! So, I am feeling a tad better about the no antibiotics thing. There is some controversy anyhow with antibiotics and the effect it can have on our body.

I just finished syringe feeding number two. I fed her about 1 tablespoon, minus a few MLs, I am sure. Judging by my t-shirt...it isn't really an exact and clean science. I will do one more tonight, and lay down some fresh wet stuff and send a BIG prayer that tonight is the night she begins eating on her own.

The thing about the types of food...and let me tell you, I have twice the amount of opened catfood in there than I do human food, is it just doesn't seem to matter. Allie doesn't want to eat, period.

I have found that A/D is the best liquidity type to do, and mixed with water...it prolly is the most nutritionally dense. I wish I had more of the larger sized syringes. I had to fill 10 little ones. I will try to track down some bigger ones tomorrow.

Thanks again...chant with me- Eat, Allie, Eat!

[katladyd]

Hang in there. About 5 years ago, Mac had a severe reaction to Hartz Flea Meds. Both of my cats suddenly got terribly infested with fleas over a holiday weekend and my vet's office was closed. After giving him the meds on Saturday afternoon,Mac didn't eat or drink for 2 days, so I took him to the emergency vet. Well, they hydrated him and on Tuesday I took him to our vet. He showed no improvement, so they had me take him to a specialist 20 miles away. They wanted to put a feeding tube in him and do exploratory surgery, to the cost of over $2,000! He had now gone over a week without eating anythingand I thought I could force-feed him as well as they could, so Iasked them for some large syringes, two cans of A/D, and some liquid antibiotics. Well, it took about 36 hours of force feeding and hydrating, I know all about wearing the leftovers, and suddenly, Mac went over to his food dish and began to eat some dry food. He never looked back and he is now and older gentleman cat whom I treasure every day! Just keep up the syringe feeding and try giving Allie maybe one-third of the antibiotic if you feel you must. I bet she will be eating on her own by Tuesday night! Remember, you have to get their stomachs used to food again and that takes a few days. I am praying for your pretty girl!

[Vermontcat]

Johanna, I am just now catching up with this thread and I am so sorry to hear about everything that Allie has gone through recently and that she still isn't eating on her own yet.
Keep up the syringe feeding, at least she is getting something and hopefully she will feel like eating on her own again real soon.
(Chanting with you, Eat, Allie, Eat! Eat, Allie, Eat! Eat, Allie, Eat!)

[Pinot's Mom]

Chanting from MD - eat, Allie, eat, Allie! Paws crossed!:love:

[Karen]

Eat, Allie, eat! I know you might not feel hungry, but right now you need to eat!

[krazyaboutkatz]

Johanna, I've only had to force feed my RB Pepper and he was a very large cat so at his normal weight he would've been about in the 14-15lb range. I also used the Hills A/D and my vet gave me several of the large syringes so I would fill 3-4 of them up before I started feeding him. I do remember the last time that I had to force feed him that my vet said to try to get 1 1/2 cans of food in him each day. Unfortunately this was impossible because he kept vomiting it back up.:( I hope that Allie will want to eat on her own very soon. She remains in my thoughts and prayers.

I also wanted to let you know that when I had Cirrus, he had the PU surgery and he was supposed to take antibiotics. He was given some by the vet while he was in the hospital but I was never able to get any in him. I tried mixing them in food but he was too smart and would taste it and then not eat it. He healed up just fine without any problems. In fact he decided to take his e-collar off a few days ahead of time and he was healed up enough so he was able to have his stitches removed sooner. Hopefully Allie will do just fine without any antibiotics. Good luck.:)

[Catty1]

Johanna, hopefully her eating instincts kick in, as in katlady's case.

Eat Allie Eat!:love::love::love:

[Cataholic]

OK. Time to 'biggie size' my efforts. I have 2 more cans of A/D, a target of 3/4 can each day, and two large syringes! I also have one more B12 for Saturday, and 5 days of anti-naseau injections I start today.

I will go to my vet for a instruction on injecting, and get some fluids in her, too.

This am, Allie drank from the bathroom faucet on her own. I cried, put her back on the floor, got in the shower with little peeks at her, and she climbed back up there and drank some more! Course, then I had to get back out and lift her to the ground. She hasn't done that in two weeks I bet. First time I have seen her voluntarily take fluids.

Then, J and I went into her room and laid on his bed. She finally got out of the drawer (she is in his lower clothes drawer, always has loved to do that) and snuggled with us. Weak, yes...but, she actually showed interest!!! J offered her some catnip and she licked it a little...another good sign.

<sigh>. Is it enough to say the tide is turning? I don't think so, but, I am happy with it. I hope the anti-naseau injection and the fluids this afternoon put her over the hurdle. I also plan on taking her outside this evening, for some fresh air, and to help stir her interest in life.

[Medusa]

Well, that certainly sounds encouraging to me. I think you're right; the tide is turning. Better and better......:love:

[krazyaboutkatz]

This is a very encouraging update and I do believe that she's slowly getting better.:) Lots more prayers and positive thoughts are being sent her way.

[pomtzu]

That's great news. Keep it up Allie. :D

Like I said in Myndi's thread - hope springs eternal. :):love:

[jennielynn1970]

What a great update!! I would have been crying with joy!!

Keep up the great efforts, Allie!!

HUGS to you, Johanna!

[Karen]

Awww, good job, Miss Alabama! Keep it up and you'll feel better even quicker.

[Laura's Babies]

It has been heart wrenching reading this but it is sounding better and better. Poor Allie for having to go through all this and poor Mom for having to go through it too! You must be emotionally exhausted.

[lizbud]

Sounds encouraging.:) I hope tonight's feeding goes well too. It's good
to hear the Allie's acting more alert.

[Grace]

Progress is made in small steps - not moon shots. This sounds very promising :)

[Catty1]

Keep inching forward, Allie...atta girl! :love:

[Nomilynn]

I have only just seen this thread now. I will keep your girl in my prayers! :love:

[slick]

I lurk at least a couple times and day but don't often get the chance to post. Johanna, I'm sending out big prayers to you and Allie.

Come on - eat Allie eat - eat Allie eat.... **chanting**

[krazyaboutkatz]

Still keeping Allie in my thoughts and prayers. I hope to hear a great update about her soon.:)

[Cataholic]

Today is one week from the date of surgery, and Allie still won't eat or drink on her own. She had more fluids administered today, and the holes in her skin from the other times of fluids and injections haven't healed. This allowed fluids to run back out of her. She will have a second B12 shot on Friday, and I still give her the transfer factor every day.

I have a date on Monday, July 19th to have Allie re-checked and the staples removed. I have made the decision that if Allie isn't eating and drinking on her own by that time, I will help her to the Bridge. It just isn't fair to her. My will for Allie to live must be equal to Allie's will to live. I pray this isn't the case, but for Allie's sake, it is the way it must be.

Johanna

[Medusa]

This is such sad news, Johanna. We'll pump up the volume for Allie to eat and drink on her own. Keep the faythe. :love:

[pomtzu]

I'm so sorry - I was hoping you would have better news about Allie. No matter what the outcome, just know in your heart, that you did all you could for her.

All to often, pet parents hold on and on, and it's for their own "selfish" reasons. Selfish in the sense that we love them so much, that we just can't bear to let them go, even when we know it's time. I've been down that road, and I have promised myself and furkids, that it would never happen again.

Hopefully, by some miracle, Allie will turn it around. Our thoughts and prayers are still going out to Allie, you, and Jonah.

[krazyaboutkatz]

Johanna, I'm sorry to hear that Allie is still not eating or drinking on her own.:( Hopefully she'll start feeling better enough to begin to do this on her own. I feel your pain and frustration because I've been there before with my RB Pepper.:( You've done more for than most people would've done and I support your decision. Lots more prayers and positive thoughts are being sent Allie's way. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[jennielynn1970]

so sorry to hear that allie still isn't eating and drinking on her own. I hope that she will get the urge really soon!!

more thoughts and prayers going out to you and to allie!:love:

[lizbud]

Oh please, little Allie, please try hard to get better. You need to eat
and drink to get stronger, little one. (((hugs)))

Johanna, you & Allie will stay in my prayers.

[slick]

I'm so sorry Johanna. :(:( You and sweet Allie are in my prayers. :love:

[Russian Blue]

I'm so sorry that I'm only seeing this thread now, Jo. :( I'm barely on the boards these days.

Big, BIG hugs going out to you. Reading through your thread so reminded me of everything I was going through with Nakita. The force feedings, sub fluids etc.And each day watching for any little hint that she was turing a corner and maybe, just maybe, she would finally eat on her own. It's such an emotionally draining struggle.

Allie, I know your hurting little one, but if you can just try a little to eat and get past this block it will make a world of difference. Just one small step is all that is needed.

My :love: goes out to you all. If you need me for anything, you know how to contact me. (((((( hugs ))))))

[Catty1]

PT Prayers for a miracle for dear Allie. I wonder if the staples could be affecting her appetite? But I don't see how.:(

Come on, little girl...forward just a bit...your mom loves you so much!:love:

[Barbara]

I am so sorry. After his biopsy Tigris did drink but he didn't eat in the last week of his life. I still remember Vio to come and say goodbye to him and he was under the bed and couldn't be enticed to come out for his favorite treats.:(
All my best wishes for the difficlut way that lies in front of you.

[Randi]

Johanna, I'm so sorry Allie still won't eat. :( It seems you have tried everything now. I hope today will be the day she starts eating.

Fister and I will keep paws and fingers crossed for her.

{{{hugs}}}

[phesina]

Prayers for Johanna and Allie both, as you go through this difficult time.

[Cataholic]

Allie has gone to the RB. :(

[Catty1]

OMG - I am so sorry, Johanna.....:(:love:

[Cinder & Smoke]

Allie has gone to the RB. :(

:(
The Prayer Pups offer thier Sympathy to Joh and Jonah at this difficult time.

{{{Hugs}}} to you both. :love: :love:

/s/ :( Phred

[krazyaboutkatz]

Johanna, I'm so sorry to hear this.:( RIP sweet Allie.:( Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[caseysmom]

I am so sorry Johanna...play hard at the bridge Allie.

[phesina]

I am so very sorry, Johanna. Deepest sympathy to you and yours.

Rest in peace, dearest Allie. You are very much loved.

[Nomilynn]

I am so sorry for your loss :(

BIG HUGS from me, Tilly and Nutmeg. :love:

[jenluckenbach]

Oh gosh, I am so sorry. {{{{{HUGS}}}}}

[Pinot's Mom]

I'm so sorry, Johanna, I just saw this latest update. :(

Play well at the Bridge, dear Allie, where you're well again. Prayers for Peace to your family in this time of loss.:love: