Well, we got another sickie on our hands

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Got up this morning - Tubby nowhere around. Took a shower - still no Tubby. Had breakfast and headed down to clean the litterboxes and there was Tubby, just sitting in the litter box. He acknowledged me with one of the mrrwwowws from his throat, but wouldn't come out of the litterbox. I cleaned the other ones and kind of nudged him so I could clean that one. He moved out of the box, but went to another one, pawed around a bit, took up "the stance" but nothing happened. I thought to myself that this was kind of weird....

Went upstairs and continued to get ready. I sprained my elbow or something so Terry and I were in the bathroom with him wrapping up my elbow when Tubby saunters in and starts pawing at one of the throw rugs. He has pooped on these rugs in the past, but he only does it when his tummy is upset because we normally find puke nearby too. So I say forget wrapping the elbow and pick Tubby up, carry him downstairs and put him in a litterbox. He paws at it a bit, takes up "the stance" and I leave thinking he's ok and just has an upset tummy.

Go back upstairs, resume wrapping the elbow, determine it's not right, rewrap it, finish getting dressed, head downstairs to check on Tubby and he's still in the same litterbox, still in "the stance." He hadn't moved in over 5 minutes, and nothing had happened (nothing in the litterbox).

Now I'm starting to get worried so I call the vet, but they don't open until 9:00, so I call the emergency #, explain what's happening and she says I should get him to the vet as soon as they open. She said it could just be that he was constipated, but with his failing kidneys she said it's best not to take any chances. So now it's about 7:45, I call my boss and tell him I'm going to be late and finish my morning routine. All this while, Tubby is pacing around the basement from litterbox to litterbox (we've got 3) attempting to do something, but producing nothing. He would also sit down and lift his leg like he was going to clean himself, but then he would just sort of sniff at his belly or something. He seemed uncomfortable and would only let me pet him for a minute or two before it was back to the pacing and the litterbox shuffle.

Anyway, to try and shorten this up, I got him in at 9:15 and explained the whole situation. She said his coloring was good, he's not dehydrated and didn't have a temperature (didn't seem to mind the thermometer so much :eek: :o ), which were all good signs. It has been 4 months since his last check up where everything checked out real well, but she said it wouldn't hurt to do a whole blood check again - especially since he was having problems.

She eventually came back to the room with him and said she had gotten a little urine out of him, and it was bloody, so that indicated a bladder infection. She had also give him some fluids intravenously just to make sure he doesn't get dehyrdated, and took some blood for the blood tests.

She gave me some antibiotics for him and told me to call back tomorrow for the results of the blood test. She said to make sure he keeps eating, using the litterbox and to make sure he drinks a lot to help the infection. A bladder infection is always serious, but especially so with his kidneys not being in the best shape. :(

I had him on the counter while I paid (yup, credit cards are a good thing) and he peed two little drops on the counter, and it looked to me more like he dripped blood instead of peeing. As usual he couldn't wait to get out of there, and as soon as we were in the car he went in the footwell of the passenger seat and tried to pee again. Just a few more red droplets were all he could squeeze out - poor guy.

I got him home and the first thing he did was head for the litterbox. I gave him his medicine - and made sure he swallowed it so he couldn't spit it out, and then I gave him some Cat Sip diluted with water to try and get as much liquid in him as possible. He did try to eat a little too, which was good because right before we left he threw up - and it was a lot, so his poor tummy was probably empty. He should be ok with fluids for the day since she gave him some, and I told Terry to watch him and get him to drink if he can. Terry's not very good with sick kitties - or sick me for that matter - or sick himself even - so I'll be glad when I can go home and babysit my poor sick boy. I'm hoping by that time the antibiotics will have kicked in a little so he's at least not so uncomfortable. I know how awful bladder infections can be, so I really hope he's feeling better soon.

I'm sure he'll be ok, it's just worrying because of his kidneys. He hasn't lost any weight since his last trip, so hopefully his blood counts will be similar too, which would indicate it's just a bladder infection and not a sign that his kidneys are getting worse.

Sorry for being so long-winded, but my big boy has never been sick a day in his life until his stupid kidneys started giving out on him. :(

So, Phred, how did you shoot the water into Boots' mouth? Was it with a reqular syringe like you can buy at the drug store - without the needle on it? Or was it with the pill popper thing that I can get at any PetSmart or PetCo?

[Former User]

:( oh no, not Tubby... poor baby, I hope so badly that he can go and do his business in the litterbox, and that he'd be fine. We'll keep our fingers crossed for Tubby (and C & K will cross their paws), to recover fast.

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Thanks Niina, Casper & Kitty. You guys are the best. :)

I just got a call from Terry to tell me that Tubby is fast asleep in his little (ok, big) bed. He said he paced around a little bit after I left this morning, but then he came upstairs, looked at his bed, jumped in and has been fast asleep ever since. I'm glad because then the antibiotics can do their thing while he sleeps and hopefully he'll feel better when he wakes up. :)

[JillLovesMinnie14yrs]

Tubby don't be ashamed, I lost my bladder on my mom this morning for the first time in my life. I sowwy youre sick. I think I am too. I never pee on my momma :(

::hug::
Minnie

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Oh no, Minnie, I hope you're not sick too. Hopefully your mommy will have it checked out and let us know that you're ok. :(

[JillLovesMinnie14yrs]

Tubby's Mom...

A bladder infection is way treatable and has a fast recover rate. A similar problem to a bladder infection is "blockage" It strikes our male cats and has them produce bloddy urine, if any. Thank goodness Tubby isn't blocked, and I know he will be better in no time. I bring this up because every owner of a male cat should be aware.;)

Jill

[Former User]

Originally posted by Tubby & Peanut's Mom
Thanks Niina, Casper & Kitty. You guys are the best. :)

I just got a call from Terry to tell me that Tubby is fast asleep in his little (ok, big) bed. He said he paced around a little bit after I left this morning, but then he came upstairs, looked at his bed, jumped in and has been fast asleep ever since. I'm glad because then the antibiotics can do their thing while he sleeps and hopefully he'll feel better when he wakes up. :)

This is good that he sleeps yes, antibiotics can really "kick" in then. I hope your boy will be back to normal soon. Sending hugs in your way ((((((((((((Tubby))))))))))))). Take care lil one and get well soon, ok?

[JillLovesMinnie14yrs]

Yes, Tubby is a big strong man, he will recover fast :) Get your Zzzzzz's Tub!!!

[Randi]

Poor Tubby! :( I so hope it's not a kidney problem - but a bladder infection is bad enough.

When Fister were on the edge of having problems, I gave him half a Romefen, which is a painkiller, and a few times he peed a little later. But as you know, eventually we had to let Fister operate and we haven't regretted!

Tubby, get well soon! :)

Headbumpies and nosescritchies from us all

[Edwina's Secretary]

So sorry Tubby isn't feeling well!! And bladder infections are just sooooo annoying. You really, really feel the need but the body won't cooperate. Ugh.

But sleep is the best medicine of all!

Get well Tubby!

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Originally posted by JillLovesMinnie14yrs
A similar problem to a bladder infection is "blockage" It strikes our male cats and has them produce bloddy urine, if any.

Thanks, Jill. The emergency girl mentioned blockage too, and said that's why I should get him in right away.

Thanks everybody. I'll be sure and give him a special hug from you all when I get home.

I was just wondering.....after all these years, what would cause a bladder infection now? Is it possibly because he's getting older and can't clean himself as well? He still really does a good job in that dept., but isn't quite as fastidious as he used to be. Any other ideas? :)

[Vermontcat]

Poor Tubby, I guess he isn't just "lovesick" after all if he had to go see the vet!:(
Maybe he just had too much excitement last weekend with all the other cats visiting.;)

I am sure that Phred will have some good advice for you, I remember him mentioning giving tuna juice drained from a can of tuna to help hydrate Boots.
Maybe Tubby will like it too.
Good luck in making him feel better, get lots of rest sweet Tubby and feel better soon so you and Samantha can make plans to travel someplace warm and sunny for Valentine's Day.:)

[slick]

Oh no, too many sick kitties! When I first got Speckles she had about 5 bladder infections within 2 years. We tried different medications and finally found the one that works (Baytril). It took about a week to kick in and to see her feeling better. I never did come up with an answer as to why so many infections in a short time but at that time I had 1 litterbox for 2 cats so I immediately got Speckles one of her own. I also switched them from tap water to filtered water and that helped as well. Max was also causing her quite a bit of stress (and still is) because he would continously stalk her. Now we are in a bigger condo and she was lots of places to call her own. I did use a syringe to get more water in her and I also changed the water twice a day to make sure it was fresh. She's also overweight but does manage to clean herself OK.

Her last episode was Nov 2001 and had been good since then however with her being 16 this year and with failing kidneys I'll have to keep a close watch. Assuming that's it's just a bladder infection, Tubby will be fine with proper medication. As with all antibiotics you should make sure you use up the whole dose even though she appears to feel better.

Hope this helps. Get Well, Tubby! We're praying for you.

Slick
Max & Speckles

[trisha0503]

I hope Tubby feels better :( Please give him hugs and kisses from me, Missy and Toby!

[NoahsMommy]

Poor, sweet Tubby....one of my most favorite black kitties.

Glad mommy got you in the vet, it sounds like you are in great hands with the white coats and your furless parents. I'm so sorry you have a yucky bladder infection, those are the worst. You drink lots of water and you'll feel much better.

I've always wondered if a cat would drink cranberry juice. Tubby, are willing to try that? ;)

I'll be praying for a good answer from the blood tests and that you are back to normal in no time.

Sleep well, sweetie.

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Originally posted by Vermontcat
I am sure that Phred will have some good advice for you, I remember him mentioning giving tuna juice drained from a can of tuna to help hydrate Boots.
Maybe Tubby will like it too.


I know Tubby will like that, and I had already thought about that and thought about stopping on my way home to pick up a couple of cans. However, I also thought about....NOOOO!!! Please do not send the clam juice!!!! :eek: :eek: :p


Her last episode was Nov 2001 and had been good since then however with her being 16 this year and with failing kidneys I'll have to keep a close watch.
Aaahh...so you know exactly what I'm talking about.....16...failing kidneys....don't tell me Speckles is black too. ;) :) Somehow, with a name like Speckles, I don't suspect she's all black. :)

Thanks, the info did help. Since Tubby has never had antibiotics, I'm hoping this one does the trick right away, and yes, I'm familiar with the "finish the whole prescription" thing from the many bladder infections I've had myself. :rolleyes: The vet also mentioned that I should give the antibiotic a couple hours apart from when I give him his Pepcid so there's no chance of binding and rendering the antibiotic ineffectual.

[wolflady]

{{{Tubby}}}
I hope Tubby feels better soon!! It's just awful to see a furbaby having trouble and not being able to help. I felt helpless when Scooter had UTI and he exhibited the same symptoms: straining at the little box, crying, licking himself...only getting drops out here and there. It's definitely no fun! I sure hope the medicine kicks in fast and he gets better soon! Do keep us updated on his progress:)
**hugs**
Karen

[ChrisH]

Oh, no, poor sweet Tubby :( I`ll be praying that the antibiotics do their work quickly, the test results are good, and he is feeling much better soon. Please give him hugs and kisses from me and Ebby, and, yes, from Bobby too.

Chris

[JillLovesMinnie14yrs]

Let us know first thing tommorow morning his improvements , poor Samantha must be a wreck too :( Awwww Tubs you got everyone's paws walking on egg shells!!

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Originally posted by ChrisH
and, yes, from Bobby too.

It's funny, but I don't think Tubby is afraid of dogs at all. He has never really come in contact with dogs except two times now when he's been at the vet. The first time was 1 1/2 years ago now. I was holding Tubby on my lap waiting our turn with the vet when this bouncy dog came out of one of the rooms. He was on a leash, and Tubby was too. The dog came bouncing up to us and sniffed Tubby. I was holding tight, waiting for the big hiss and slap with the paw, but all Tubby did was stick his face out further so he could sniff back. I was so proud of him. :D The dog's owner then realized what his dog was doing and reined him in, but I would have liked him to stay there for a bit longer to see what happened next. :)

The second time was just this morning. While Tubby was in the back having blood drawn and such, they put another lady with a big dog (Bear, I heard her call him) in the room next to me. He was fussing away, crying and barking. Right when I was leaving with Tubby, Bear got out of his room and they were trying to drag him back in. He was blocking the hallway so I had to wait until they moved him and, of course Tubby wasn't feeling that good, but he just looked interested as they passed by and the dog reached up to sniff him.

So he appreciates Bobby's hugs and kisses too. :)

Thanks everybody. I have an appointment at the doc for myself tomorrow morning, then we're off and running with our normal Saturday errands, so I'll post an update as soon as I can tomorrow after I hear about the blood tests.

Tubby's not going to get much sleep tonight with all the hugs and smooches he'll be getting from everybody. Thanks! :)

[Miss Meow]

Originally posted by Tubby & Peanut's Mom
Tubby's not going to get much sleep tonight with all the hugs and smooches he'll be getting from everybody. Thanks! :)

I hope you're still awake so you can give him six more from us and our bunch :) Get well soon Tubby, I hope the meds are starting to kick in so you feel a lot more comfortable.

[jenluckenbach]

Poor Tubby. I sure hope that you will be feeling better real soon.

[Sara luvs her Tinky]

Poor Tubby!!!!! :(
One way I get my kitties to drink more water is I drain some tuna juice in a bowl and water it down a little and after they drink it I fill the tuna can back up with water and let it sit and give them the water with a little bit of the tuna in it too.... they gobble it up. Keep us posted on sweet little Tubby.

[Cataholic]

Oh, Tubby, you poor black kitty! Hugs and scritchies to you from us in Cincinnati. I hope those antibiotics kick in and do their magic! 24 hours in is usually the relief time! Good luck, and get some extra lovin'.

{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}
Cats and the herd.

[Cinder & Smoke]

Sorry we're late getting here :(

A few Serious Thoughts...

The "assume the position" but nothing happens...
Is often a sign of a Urinary Blockage, or "I want and Need to *pee* - but I can't!"
His bladder might be full, but his urinary tract is *blocked* with a kidney stone or a sand-like plug of tiny crystals...

If the Vet checked him (and not a Vet Tech) - s/he should have mentioned that she felt his bladder and it was empty. This check of his bladder *should* have been done - and from your description of his actions (EXACTLY what Boots did when he was plugged) - I would have thought the Vet would have detected a full bladder and Inserted a Catheter to 1) open the blockage and 2) Drain his bladder.

Think back to What the Vet did and said - DID s/he Check his bladder?????

I was told - Several Times - by two different Vets - that a Urinary Blockage *IS* a Fatal Condition if it is not treated properly within a few hours of the onset....
The bladder becomes full of urine, and the cat cannot pass the urine through the blockage. The bladder fills to capacity, and the Kidneys begin to shut down (stop producing urine) because there's no place to store it (kidney produces the urine, but it gets stored in the bladder).
(Cat is now WAY uncomfortable and frantically trying to *pee*)

It is the shut-down of the kidneys that starts the Really Serious situation - toxins that are supposed to be removed by the kidneys are not removed - and flood the cat's body with those toxins. And the kidneys, once they shut down, often do not recover and resume their filtration and waste removal duties.

Vet told ME - each time the catheter was removed - *I* had to WATCH Boots like a hawk...
Being certain that he actually Produced Urine (wet sand in the box) EACH & Every time he tried...
Straining to go and not producing the 'normal' amount of wet sand (urine) was to be considered a RED-Flag emergency - get him to a Vet within a few hours. He was operated on immediatley after his third plug-up and third catherization.

Cautions:
Don't over-water Tubby if he's not *peeing* and actually eliminating urine... He will want to stop drinking if he's internally "full" and cannot pee.

If he has takin IN water, but hasn't been able to successfully urinate since you saw the Vet this afternoon... *I'd* be worried...

With Boots - he didn't ever drink a "lot", but he'd pee once or twice a day. When he plugged up - I'd notice no "wet sand" for about 24 hours; and then Boots would start the *frantic* try to pee but nuffin's happnin routines...
Three times we rushed to the Vet - and all three times he had a "very full bladder"... Meaning we got there "just in time" :eek:!!

I know it's late - but at least ~
Start watching him - Closely!!
I'd suggest putting him "in jail" - locked in a bathroom With a clean litterbox. Check the box every few hours... "No Pee" by morning - I'd be on the phone to the Vet. (In Jail so you don't confuse "his' pee with somebody else's eliminations.) Also check the room - Boots would pee outside the box on occasion - I think he was trying to "tell Dad there's a problem"... :(

I hope your Vet DID check his bladder and found it comfortably empty - but I'd of thought s/he would have TOLD you this fact.

ALL Tybby's signs & symptoms indicate a Urinary Blockage... Please be SURE that was considered and checked! If in doubt - consider a visit to the ER in the morning - it will only take a minute for a trained Vet to palpate (feel) his bladder and tell you if it's empty, full, or TOO Full.

Again - sorry this is late... Been a busy day here.

GOOD LUCK to Tubby and you, *Mom*.

/s/ Phred

[AmberLee]

Good luck, sweet Tubby. Hope you are feeling much better soon. {{{snugglies}}}

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

[zippy-kat]

Dearest Tubster...

Thinkin' of ya and sendin' ya lots and lots of ear skritchies, nose skritchies, and anywhere-else-ya-like-'em skritches. Come on buddy, get better quickly --- we're all routin' for ya!!

much luv,
Zip, K'Cee, and Piper


~~~~~~~~~~
Here's hopin' for some good news on the vet's part!!

I spoke with my friend who had a kitkat with a similar problem...her boy ended up having crystals that blocked his urine. After a quick trip to the vet, bloodwork, and some new food, meds--everything was/is under control. Here's hopin' the answer is that simple for you guys!

I wouldn't hesitate to seek a second opinion if you don't agree w/ this vet's answer!

keepin' ya in my thoughts ~ Hopin' for the best!!
Please keep us uppie-dated!

[shais_mom]

Poor Tubby!
I certainly hope he starts to feel better soon.
The syringe I use is just like the one that you get shots with, without the syringe. I get them from work.
You will be in my thoughts, and prayers!
If it continues, I agree I wouldn't hesitate to hurry to the vet!

[mom of 6 cats]

poor Tubby!

please post another update when you know more.

[wolf_Q]

Oh poor Tubby!! :(

I hope you read Phred's post, it sounds like this could be very serious....I hope you are able to get him into a vet asap to check his bladder, or maybe even go to another vet for a second opinion! Please let us know how everything goes!

[smokey the elder]

Poor Tubby! Urinary tract problems are the PITS! You be good and let your mommy take care of you. Try to make some "wet sand" but if you can't YOWL YOUR HEAD OFF!

[koxka]

Hey Tubby, how do you feel today?

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Hi Everybody, just wanted to check in and let you know I think Tubby is feeling much better this morning. He even did his Saturday morning begging/wanting to get out in the garage routine with Terry. He has stopped his pacing back and forth between the litter boxes, and has "used" the litter box. Now for details that you might think are "more than I really needed to know."

Tubby usually pees twice a day, and when he pees, let me tell you, he pees! Seems like he goes on forever! So this morning I clean the boxes and there are more spots, but they arent' as big as normal so I think he's still feeling some of that "urgency" but at least something is coming out now. Terry is having breakfast right now and Tubby is right there, begging as usual, which he didn't do yesterday.

Phred, the vet did indicate that his bladder was empty and she was going to try and get a sample but could only "squeeze out a little bit because there's nothing in there." Both the Vet and the emergency Vet mentioned the blockage, and of course I was all prepared for the worst so I made sure to bring it up. Sorry I didn't mention that in my first post.

He most certainly doesn't like the extra pills, but he does like that he's getting the Cat Sip more often - and I'm sure he'll rave about the Tuna he's going to get later today. And Peanut is enjoying the whole thing because she gets her share of everything too:rolleyes: ....except the pills that is.

I am still keeping a very close eye on his intakes and outputs, and did find a syringe although that didn't work as well, or as easily, as Phred made it sound. Guess I have to practice the technique. ;) Got a few "aaccckks" from the cat, but ended up getting more water on him than in him. Not to mention all over me and the cupboards and the floor.....:rolleyes:

He slept good last night, whereas the night before he didn't sleep with me at all, so I think he is feeling much better, but is not out of the woods yet.

The Vet just called and said his blood work was about the same as last time he was there, so that indicates there has been no decrease in his kidney functions since Sept/Oct, so that is a good thing. I guess he just got some bad bacteria in him somehow. Poor boy. But Terry is done with breakfast now, which is normally the time that Tubby gets Cat Sip, so I'm going to go give him some more so he pees for me.

Thank you so much to everyone for your concern, and special thanks to Phred for all the details and what to watch for. Like I said I'll be keeping a close eye on him and we'll check back in later. :)

[ChrisH]

Thanks for giving us such welcome good news!:) :) Our time in the UK is about 6 hours in front of yours (it is now nearly 5pm) so I have been on pins today, as has everyone else I am sure, waiting to hear how Tubby is today:) So very pleased he is doing so well and the tests came back good :) Please give him another hug and kiss from me.:)

Chris

[Former User]

Debbie, that's good news, esp. the begging fact. I hope he can go to the litterbox the usual way soon. Keeping our fingers crossed for Tubbster!:)

[zippy-kat]

YaY!! So glad the Tubbie-monster is feelin' better!! What GOOD news!!

More skritchies comin' at ya... you can beat it Tubby, just keep trying!! :)

[Edwina's Secretary]

Sooo glad to hear Tubby is doing better!! Now I have a question...what is "cat sip"?

[Nomilynn]

Oh Tubby! Another in the down and out club! I'm so happy to know that you are feeling better though!!! :D :D :D

[Randi]

Great news that you're feeling better Tubby. Now keep it that way! ;) A bit of treats and lots of cuddles can do wonders. :D We're all worried bout you! :eek: So please keep us posted. :)

Headbumpies to you!

[Vermontcat]

Glad to hear that sweet Tubby is doing better today. Give him some extra hugs and kisses from me and Samantha.:D

[AmberLee]

Whew!! Such a relief! THANK you for the update.

[jenluckenbach]

I am glad Tubby is on the way to recovery.



Originally posted by Edwina's Secretary
Sooo glad to hear Tubby is doing better!! Now I have a question...what is "cat sip"?

cat sip is a milk product safe for cats. it is sold near the cat food in grocery stores.

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Another update.

Right after I signed off earlier today, Tubby was heading to the basement so I followed him. He's probably wondering what all the 24 hour surveillance is about but that's ok, let him wonder. ;)

He headed right for the litter box and started peeing, which was a relief to me because I had seen the wet spots this morning, but hadn't actually seen them being made. So I now know it was him, and I know things are working again.

We just got back not long ago and he came down to greet us as usual, and even went to the couch and started scratching as usual - indicating he's happy to have us home. :) I gave him some more watered down Cat Sip, and he's right now sitting on the floor begging for me to pick him up.

So, I guess I'll go oblige my big baby and let you all know that he's improving as we go.

Thanks again for all the worry and concern. It really helps me even if he doesn't really understand why he's getting all the extra hugs and smooches. ;) :)

Coming Tubby......:)

[zippy-kat]

{{Keep the good news comin'!!!!}}

[Karen]

Ooooh, rub that big ol' head one for me! Kiss on the nose, too! :)

[Cataholic]

I am so glad to hear his 'pipes' are workin'...even if he doesn't get any privacy! Yay!!!!!!! Tubby!!!!!!

[Barbara]

I missed this thread until today and now I'm so glad Tubby is feeling better. I hope he'll be 100% ok soon. Filou and Tigris are sending their best cat feelings.

[jenluckenbach]

Originally posted by Karen
Ooooh, rub that big ol' head one for me! Kiss on the nose, too! :)
and his wonderful tummy, too!

[Cinder & Smoke]

Originally posted by Tubby & Peanut's Mom
... when he pees, let me tell you, he pees! Seems like he goes on forever!

... and did find a syringe although that didn't work as well,
or as easily, as Phred made it sound.
Guess I have to practice the technique. ;)
Got a few "aaccckks" from the cat,
but ended up getting more water on him than in him.


Glad the plummin'z werkin better, Tubby!!
Boots sez HI! ;)

Az fur the *looooong squirt*, yep! Boots wuz noted fur doin that, too! Seemed like wunce he got inna *mood* ta pee - he dumped da tank! He'd offin do it jest wunst a day... but we wurried he'd fill da box an drown! :eek:

We he furst started havin trouble doin hiz peez; he tried several tymez a day, lil bit now, lil bit latur. Doc figgered he had a URI an treated him wiff biotik pillz an a kuppla shotz... We went thru that twice over a few munthz...

Then he started strainin an *Grrrrrrin* an aktin unhappie inna sand box... Got the plastik pipe uppa thingie THREE tymes affore Doc sed we wuz fightin a loosin battle. Datz when Dad cided to go ahead wiffa Sir Jury job.

Az fur the Direct Inject Wadur Intake Enhancement Procedurez...
Dad summtymez furgetz ta mention allua *great ideaz* that turn out ta be a lil short onna *great* part... :rolleyes:

When Doc sed we gotta boost da Kat'z wadur intake ~
Dad tried givin wadur wiffa spoon!
Ho-Boy! Wuz THAT a surkis!!
Wadur, Wadur - EBERYwhere! (Cept inna Kat! :mad: )

We tried a Straw a few tymez... Fill da straw wiff wadur, put a finner ober the uppur end, insert lower end in Katz mouff, releese finner, watch wadur run - onna floor! Kuz da Kat took a powdur an runn'd off...

Doc Mike finally showed Dad da *Syringe* trick...
Small 1/4" by 2" plastic *ouwie* shootur wiffa *dart* thingy taken off. Suck uppa load a wadur; *grab* da Kat; an hold da hed wiffa thumb an furst finner pushin in on opposite sides of his mouff corners - jaw pops open ebery tyme! Big trick iz to push the syringe far enuff Down da Throat - GOTTA get over an past the Tongue Likker - then unload wiffa Quick Push onna plunger!

1) Gotta be abel to *ignore* the loud Gaaaakin Soundz da :mad: Kat makez...
2) Gotta hang on tite - Kat NOT a happie kampur durrin the procedure!
3) Aftur bout the third *shot* inna row; Kat so buzy swallerin he gibz up strugglin.
4) Affore we found the wadur flavur he *likes*, Kat wuz gettin 6-8 *shot* doses of wadur bout 6 or 8 tymez a day - :eek: - He wuz dribblin out wadur like a garden hoze!!

Aftur he cided he *likes* hiz wadur flavored wiff either chikun krunchies floatin in it; or Tuna Juze added; he'z doin a LOT better at drinkin wiffout gettin wadur *shot* downa hatch! :)

Mistur Tubbz ~
KEEP Drinkin an Peein - stop doin either wun an you'll get a fast trip to the White Coat Lab! :eek:

[krazyaboutkatz]

Debbie, I just now saw this thread. I'm so glad to here that Tubby is recoving so well and so fast too. :) I'm sure he'll be just fine. Prayers are on the way for a full and speedy recovery.

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Originally posted by krazyaboutkatz
Debbie, I just now saw this thread.

That's really quite all right, Tracey. Your attentions are much better spent on Pepper these days, poor boy, but thanks for thinking of Tubby too. :)

Since I know how everyone loves pictures, I really pestered Tubby today - and no, I didn't pictures of him in the litterbox. :p

So I gave him some Cat Sip with water added just to make him drink.
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid48/pd7f14ba9d5f543d283d6219191cd6a8d/fcbac7a4.jpg

MMMM.....yummy, yummy Cat Sip.
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid48/p622e4674e0cbf9cca3a28959aebb11ab/fcbac7a0.jpg

Oh, oh, almost gone.
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid48/pb069cbfa02a5bd10fd6253f390958207/fcbac79c.jpg
(check out that tongue!) :eek:

Ok, Mom, if you're not going to give me anymore, I'm going to take a nap now.
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid48/p9a2d58ec7e72663e23af8314618f84b8/fcbac51d.jpg

And of course we can't forget Peanut.
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid48/pd86ffc019976fecbff92b48c8c86f578/fcbac50e.jpg

[krazyaboutkatz]

Great pics. :D I also took some pics of all 3 of my babies today too. They're on their new cat trees. I'll have to post this thread later today or tomorrow. Tubby looks very healthy and I hope he stays that way for a long time to come. :)

[trisha0503]

I'm so glad Tubby is feeling better! :) :) :)

[zippy-kat]

Handsome, handsome Tubby boy--keep makin' marks in the box!

So happy Tubby is doing better!

[Former User]

Oh, so great to hear that Tubby is feeling better. Nice pics :)

[ChrisH]

I am so glad that Tubby is doing better :). The pictures are great, it is lovely to see Tubby drinking all the cat sip up, and the bonus pic of Peanut too!:)

Chris

[smokey the elder]

Tubby, I'm glad your plumbing is working again and you feel better! You be good.

[Cataholic]

Tubby sure has a LOOONNNGGG tongue, doesn't he:D I am glad he is drinkin (as with Peanut!). Keep up the good work, both of you!

[Vermontcat]

Originally posted by Cataholic
Tubby sure has a LOOONNNGGG tongue, doesn't he:D

LOL:D :D I agree with you but I will behave and not say anything else except WE ALL LOVE YOU TUBBY!;)

[Randi]

Tubby, I'm so happy to hear you've been a good boy, drinking your Cat Sip. :D You go and have a nap - and come back and drink some more! ;)

Great pics - thanks! :)

Headbumpies from Fister!

[mom of 6 cats]

I am so glad to hear he is getting better!

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Originally posted by Cinder & Smoke
GOTTA get over an past the Tongue Likker - then unload wiffa Quick Push onna plunger!

Ah-HA! That's what I was doing wrong. I just sort of aimed it at his open mouth and squirted it it - resulting in him spittin most of what little I actually got in, out. :rolleyes:

He's been real good about drinkin' though, so I haven't attempted this again. It did sound like I was drowning him though, which did get me a little worried, but now I know the procedure so I can try it again if necessary - hopefully not.

Hey Boots, Tubby says thanks for the advice to keep drinkin' and peein. He doesn't mind the actual trip to the white coats, it's just all the pills and stuff that come afterwords that he hates so much. He's been drinkin' and peein' much better and things seem to be working much more like normal - but not quite normal yet. We spots are bigger and fewer, but not as big as before, and more than there were before and he has completely stopped making like he's going to clean himself and then sorta lick his belly or his leg like he was doing before.

He was much more normal yesterday, and much more active. I went on a crazy cleaning spree and he was helping the whole time - 'cept when I got too close with that rug sucker thing. Then in the evening he actually started playing with this orange peeler thing I have. It's sorta like a pen - plastic and maybe about 4 inches long. It was laying on the couch after I got done with my orange, and he started batting at it and biting it - which he likes to do to pens. Then he got that goofy look in his eye and did some serious batting at it, until it ended up on the floor. Why are things no fun anymore when they end up on the floor? :rolleyes:

I'm just a little concerned yet because the water plumbin' is workin' fine, but the solid waste disposal has stopped production. He is eating his hard food, and I gave him some canned food just to make sure he was eating, but Sat, Sun and this morning there were no toosie rolls in the litter boxes (Peanut goes on the floor so I know which ones are her and which is his). I'm not that concerned yet because I don't think he's been eating as much as he usually does - more liquids than anything, but if there is nothing in there when I get home tonight, and nothing tomorrow morning, I will be making another phone call to the vet at the very least. He's acting like his old self again which is why I'm not that worried....yet.

Tubby says thanks again to everyone for all their concern. After his morning medicine and Cat Sip treat, he headed up for a nice long nap after such a busy day yesterday. The only problem now is he's beginning to expect the Cat Sip and the canned cat food. And I'm just glad he's doing ok so I haven't been able to deny it yet, but he's still a sickie. Maybe once his medicine is gone and I know he's completely recovered, maybe then I'll be able to say no - no turkey giblets for you today big boy. ;) :D

[Logan]

Poor Tubby! :( I'm so sorry he has been having such trouble and that I haven't been here before now to send him lots of loving thoughts and prayers. Keep us posted on how he is doing!

Logan :)

[slick]

So glad Tubby is feeling better. Max, Speckles and I send our love and prayers for a continued recovery. And please Tubby, have a good Poo-Poo for your Mom! (Sorry, I call it as I see it!)

slick
max & speckles

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so glad that Tubby is feeling better. I sure hope he's not constipated. :( Please keep us updated.

[HayleyRosie]

Poor Tubby. I'm glad he is feeling a little better. I hope a full recovery is just around the corner!

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

I believe the Tubster is fully recovered. Not one, but two little piles were found in the litter boxes this morning. He must have gone as soon as I cleaned them yesterday morning - which isn't unusual. :rolleyes:

He seems to be acting normal again - except he's not sleeping with me. He has slept with me just about every single night since I brought him home 16 years ago, and the last few nights he's nowhere to be found. :( I think he really likes that new "pad" I bought him (see here (http://petoftheday.com/talk/showthread.php?s=&postid=256929#post256929) for description and picture), and I'm beginning to think he now prefers to sleep there all night rather than with me. :( Guess I'll just have to throw that durn thing away. ;) :)

But other than that, he is completely normal again, intake and output is normal, so I guess for now he's better, but I will be finishing the antibiotics and then watching him closely to make sure it doesn't come back.

Tubby says "Tanks eberbudy. Yur cunsern made my momy fel mutch betr, so pureze tell hur I'm betr now and she can stop trailin' me ebrewear I goze. Iz wud like to pee in peace agin." :)

:D

[HayleyRosie]

I'm so glad Tubby is feeling better again. Hopefully what ever was making him sick will stay away!

[NoahsMommy]

Yay! I'm so glad that our Tubby is better! Having an upset tummy is just horrible...glad everything is OK now. :)

[jenluckenbach]

Good news for Tubby.

[Cataholic]

Way to be a trooper, Tubby!!

[ChrisH]

I am so glad Tubby is better!! :) :) :)

Chris

[Randi]

How nice to hear Tubby is feeling better! :) :)

I think it's a good idea to continue with the antibiotics though - and keep an eye on him after that.

Nose kisses and headbumpies to you Tubby - Stay well!!

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Originally posted by Randi
I think it's a good idea to continue with the antibiotics though

Yup, whether I have any fingers left by that time or not. ;) :rolleyes: I have to break the pill in two because it's so big, so by the second one he knows what's coming and puts up a pretty good fight. Yesterday he drew blood for the first time since I've been giving him pills (almost 2 years now).

Once the antibiotics are gone I'll be watching him like a hawk again to make sure it doesn't come back. Yup, he's going to be pretty sick of me in about a week or so between giving him his pills and following him around everywhere - no wonder he doesn't sleep with me anymore. :rolleyes: :D

Thanks everyone, for all the good wishes and hugs. He's getting so spoiled with all the attention. :)

[Sara luvs her Tinky]

I am not sure if this will help your pill problem but................
When Tinky had to take pills for her worms (but they were small pills) I would break a pounce treat in two (the soft ones) and lick my finger to wet one side of the pill and push it into the broken pounce treat .... the treat would stick to the side of the treat and she would eat the treat. She never caught on and she took all her pills. Maybe that will help.:confused:

[slick]

Way to go Tubster!!

slick
max & speckles

[AmberLee]

Congratulations, Tubby!

Debby, what a relief for you, I'm sure.

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so glad that Tubby is feeling much better and doing so well. :)

[Cinder & Smoke]

Originally posted by Tubby & Peanut's Mom
... I just sort of aimed it at his open mouth
and squirted it in -
resulting in him spittin most of what little
I actually got in, out. :rolleyes:


Boots sez ~

Been der; dun dat! :D
I started tinkin Dad wuz a *sloooow lurner*...

He'd dump a load a wudur inna mouff an stand back spktin me ta swaller = Fat Chance! :p

I kuld shoot wadur haf way cross da room! ;)

Itz a differnt storrie wiffa Sqwirt Gun shuved haf way down :eek: to yer tummie! Gotta *GULP* fast ta keep frum drownin!

Kat Sip huh?
Gotta look fur dat next tyme we goez shoppin!
Soundz like gud stuff!

Keep drinkin, Mistur Tubbz!

/s/ Boots, da Kat

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Originally posted by Sara luvs her Tinky
I am not sure if this will help your pill problem but................


Thanks for the suggestion, Sara, but Tubby caught on to that one way back when. It was the second I tried giving him the Pepcid after I first found out his kidneys were failing (almost 2 years ago). I thought I was so smart by burying the Pepcid in a treat - and the day before it worked like a charm. The second day I gave him the "stuffed" treat, which he promptly ate, then just as promptly spit out the pill. :rolleyes: Then I thought I could bury it in canned cat food. Worked about 2 times before the 3rd time he figured it out - ate all the cat food and left the pill. :rolleyes: Even Peanut has caught on and will eat the treat and spit out the pill. I've found that the only 100% guaranteed way to make sure it goes in is to shove it in myself. :eek: Peanut tolerates it and Tubby has only started fighting it with the antibiotics, and I'm sure he'll go back to normal (not putting up too much of a fuss) when the antibiotics are done with.

I think the antibiotics are flavored to make cats like them because the first time I just held it out so Tubby could sniff it. He took it in his mouth like he was going to eat it and I'm like "Yes!!!" But then he spit it out. :rolleyes: So much for that idea. ;)

We've got the routine down pretty good and it's really only a problem if I miss the first time. Seems once he spits it out he's doubly sure he doesn't want it back in. ;) :)

But thanks for the suggestion. :)

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Originally posted by Cinder & Smoke
Itz a differnt storrie wiffa Sqwirt Gun shuved haf way down :eek: to yer tummie! Gotta *GULP* fast ta keep frum drownin!
Kat Sip huh?
Gotta look fur dat next tyme we goez shoppin!
Soundz like gud stuff!
/s/ Boots, da Kat

Boots, you sure do know how to tell a story! :D :D

Fortunately Tubby seems to be drinking plenty on his own so I haven't tried the sqwirt gun again.

With all the Cat Sip Tubby's been getting lately, we ran out. I was at the grocery store last night and they didn't have it anymore! This is the same grocery store where I first found it so I'm wondering if they were just out or if they aren't stocking it anymore. I usually find it near all the treats. I'll have to check another store tonight, and if they don't have it I'll have to check the Petcos and Petsmarts around town.

Tubby sez "Boots, buddy, dis kat zip stuff is yumi yumi stuff. Jest like moo cow milk but no urppies when ur dun, and dem hoomins presheat da no urppies. Tell ur dad u needz ta hab dis cat zip stuff. U really needz it bad like."

:D

[Cataholic]

continuing good news on Tubby's recovery!

[Randi]

Giving pills to a cat can turn out to be a major problem! :eek: Knowing Fister, I was worried sick when I first had to give him one, but my vet gave me this great tip: crush the pill, mix it with butter and smear it on his front paw - and he will lick it off to clean himself! - Well, this may work. :rolleyes:

However, I managed to give him the first one while he was half asleep. I sat next to him as usual (don't try to sneak up on him, it won't work!!) Stick your fingers in from the side of his mouth to open up, forcing him as little as possible, bend his head back and drop the pill in the back of his mouth, then close and rub his throat gently until he swallows!!

[shais_mom]

Originally posted by Randi
Giving pills to a cat can turn out to be a major problem! :eek: Knowing Fister, I was worried sick when I first had to give him one, but my vet gave me this great tip: crush the pill, mix it with butter and smear it on his front paw - and he will lick it off to clean himself! - Well, this may work. :rolleyes:


I have tried that and Kylie flings it across the room!!

[smokey the elder]

If you can't find Cat Sip, you might want to try Lactaid milk. I think it may be the same stuff. Lactaid has lactase, an enzyme which allows people to digest milk sugar.

[emily_the_spoiled]

There is also a cat milk produced by Whiskas that works well (available at PetSmart). Emily and Tanner just LOVE it, every time the purple box comes out of the fridge they are crawling all over me to get at it. One time Tanner actually climbed into the fridge and started to lick the outside of the container. :D

[hellostranger]

Oh Tubby! I'm so sorry I didn't know until today that you hadn't been feeling well. I've been almost computer-less for over a week and missed all your Mom's posts. Please keep feeling better, Mr. Tubbs!!! :)

[ChrisH]

I get the Whiskas milk in the purple box for Ebby, also a Felix milk in a small bottle shaped container.

Chris

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Thanks for all the tips on the other milks out there. I had no idea! T & P will definitely have a new flavor in the refrigerator tonight! :)

[slick]

How's Tubby? Still doing OK?

slick
max & speckles

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Originally posted by slick
How's Tubby? Still doing OK?

Thanks for asking. :)

Yes, so far so good. He got the last of his medicine Saturday morning, and I've been following him around ever since Sunday morning (24 hours after last dose) to make sure everything is still working ok. So far so good, but I'll still be keeping an eye on him and making him drink.

Hopefully it's gone for good but I won't be able to relax for at least a week or so. :rolleyes: :)