Halo needs PT prayers

[kuhio98]

Halo needs all the PT prayers she can get. She had x-rays taken yesterday. Today the vet called with the news that there appears to be a tumor in her intestinal tract and a golf-ball size tumor on or next to her liver. We will be meeting with the vet again tomorrow to look at treatment options.

This 3-year old girl has been a joy in our life. She has helped heal our broken hearts when we lost Kuhio. She is the sweetest, most kindest kitty I've ever known. There is not a mean bone in her body. Please keep her in your prayers. And give your kitties an extra special hug tonight.

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a373/kuhio98/Kuhio%20Halo%20Cammie/f2c20c32.jpg

[Craftlady]

Oh my.
Prayers for a good outcome for/from treatment options.

[jenluckenbach]

Well if each hug can count as a prayer for Halo's good health, then you just got 26. Plus all the prayers I too can send her way.

[kittycats_delight]

Prayers flying to you and Halo on angelwings. All fingers, toes, whiskers and paws crossed for a good outcome and successful treatment. You can bet I will give my girls extra special hugs tonight and I am sending an extra special hug to you and Halo.

((((((((((HUGS))))))))))))))

Michelle & the girls

[AbbyMom]

Prayers for Halo on the way!

[jazzcat]

Lots of prayers and good thoughts on the way for Halo!

[slick]

:( :( I'm so sorry to hear about little Halo. What a sweet girl she is. My good thoughts and prayers are on thet way. Please let us know what the vet says.

Yes, I've given Max and Speckles some extra loving and like you, I treasure each day that I have them.

[sasha the cat]

Halo, this is Sasha the Cat. I understand the situation 100%. You have me pulling for you and my purrents, KatMa & Paw-Paw too.

Hang in there, beautiful girl. Pray to the great Goddess Cat Bastet for her help.

Purrrs,
Sasha

[furrykidsmother]

Oh, I am so sorry! I just saw this. I pray that Halo will be all right and that you will have many more years with her. I hope that your meeting will go well and that the vet will have many favorable options for you.

[Barbara]

Sending best healing thoughts to little Halo:)

[lvpets2002]

Oh my you little adorable Halo. So hope we can have treatment for this. My girls send lots whisker kisses & prayeres & hugs.. Be sure to update us on the next Vet visit..

[Medusa]

Puddy says to "hang in there and trust" and what Puddy says, goes! :p My fur posse and I are all rootin' for ya.

Blessings,
M

[ramanth]

Many Healing Vibes for Halo!

[kuhio98]

Well, we met with the vet today. Dr. Townsend first showed us the x-ray of a "normal" cat. There was a big difference when we then looked at Halo's. First of all, there really isn't a tumor in her intestines (I evidently misunderstood Dr. Townsend's wonderful Italian accent). But, even though her intestines were free of food, the appeared to be thick and swollen compared to the other cat's. The tumor on her liver was very noticeable. It is about the size of a golf ball and is on the left side.

The bloodwork indicates several problems. I'm sorry, but I managed to block out all the awful, medical terminology, but I was in too much shock. Two of her liver readings were very high (indicating some sort of problem) so obviously the tumor is causing problems. In addition, an enzyme in her blood was so off the charts that they ran the test twice to confirm it. The enzyme indicates that Halo's body is attacking her own muscle tissue. She is quickly losing muscle tone and mass.

We have noticed that Halo is "uncertain" about jumping up onto something. She makes several attempts before she really tries. It's like she doesn't have any spring in her back legs.

We asked Dr. Townsend what he would do if Halo was his kitty. He suggested we do nothing for now. We will take her back in a month for more blood tests and more x-rays to see if anything has changed. Dr. Townsend is giving chemo to his own dog. So, he knows about cancer. He's not willing to talk about that now for Halo. Which either means that he doesn't think it's cancer or he thinks it is but feels that it's too far advanced to treat. I confess, I didn't try very hard to pin him down because I was afraid of an awful answer.

Once the shock wears off, I'll ring him up and ask more questions. She's only 3 years old. It doesn't seem fair that she's been through so much already.

Halo? Oh, she's fine and dandy. Rolling around in her cat nip. Eating and drinking well and being her usual sweetly, shy self.

Thank you for your prayers. I'll update you when I know something.
Love, Lisa

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a373/kuhio98/Kuhio%20Halo%20Cammie/Aug2005004.jpg

[jenluckenbach]

I am so sorry that the news isn't better. {{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}

[furrykidsmother]

Don't give up hope yet. Perhaps in a month things will have changed for the better. We can hope and pray things will improve for Halo.

[Craftlady]

We will keep good thoughts and prayers that a plan of treatment will work.

[Medusa]

We'll just keep those candles burning for Halo and you. I could feel your fear as I read it and I'm sure every one of us can relate. Prayers going out to you and Halo.....

Blessings,
M

[AvaJoy]

Halo, you are a beautiful girl and you will endure and overcome this, I pray. Your health and comfort are what truly matter, so make every moment count and remain optimistic . . . whenever you may feel sad just take another roll in the catnip, to keep your spirits uplifted. Blessings to you and yours, sweetiepie!

It is a good sign that she seems to be acting like herself . . . I hope that in a month the prognosis will be more encouraging. :)

[Tinkerboots]

I most certainly have Halo in my prayers right now. I hope that she is given another chance... until you know for sure, the best thing to do is spend some time with her quite often and keep an eye on how she acts. I'm very shocked to hear her health problems...that's what happened to my Boots. He developed a big tumor next to his heart that could not be fixed because by the time the doctor diagnosed the problem, it was too late. We had taken him in before, but the previous vet continued to tell me he was fine and that he was just overweight. So we switched vets... and what do ya know... I know my baby and something just wasn't right. I can only hope you caught poor Halo's condition in time to be able to be fixed. I'll be sure to pray for her. Please keep us up to date as to how she is doing.

[NoahsMommy]

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d902b3127cce92aafe8fce8f00000016109BYt2Llq2I
Sweet Halo....

Your fellow grey girl is keeping you in her daily prayers. (As are her meowmie and her kitty siblings...) You keep a paw-sitive attitude and don't loose any hope.

Give your meowmie some extra kisses just to let her know you're going to be well soon. I just know it.

Love of hugs, prayers and love,
Kelly, Phoebe, Noah, Micah, Basie & Jonah

[kuhio98]

Okay, the shock is wearing off. Bobcat and I talked and we're making an appointment to get a second opinion. I love my sister's vet. He is very good and very caring. Waiting to hear back from his office to see when we can get Halo in for x-rays and bloodwork. I did some research on the internet late last night and found a few websites. One said that 50% of liver tumors are not malignant. They also recommended a biopsy. I'll keep you all posted.

Thank you for continued support and concern.
Lisa

[kittycats_delight]

Good for you keeping a level head is such a difficult time. I think a second opinion is a great idea. You can be assured their are lots of prayers and get well vibes coming for sweet Halo and for you as well. Let's hope vet #2 will give you a good treatment plan to be able to follow and get Halo all fixed up in no time.

Hugs, whisker kisses and headbumpies
from
Michelle & the girls

[Shady]

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid182/p627b54da2d290086498c577dcedf306a/f2c20c32.jpg

What a doll Halo is.

I'm glad you're getting a second opinion it's always good to have options, our prayers to Halo in hopes that this can be dealt with swiftly and totally and back to normal asap.

[Craftlady]

I agree a with everyone that a second opinion is warranted here.
Do you have the blood workup results from the first vet? That way you wouldnt have to put Halo through needle stick again and also not get charged for another blood work up.

[slick]

I'm so glad you are getting a second opinion. More prayers coming out from me.

My, just look at that sweet facie......smoochies to you Halo.

[solares412]

How much did you vaccinate Halo? Yearly? I was reading the other day about why pets (young) are getting cancer when cancer in pets was unheard of fifty years ago. They said it's from preservatives in pet foods, environmental toxic substances , and vaccinations repeated yearly. They're saying now that yearly vaccinations are unnecessary because they last three years and up to a lifetime. To do it more frequently is to end up with disease-ridden , chronically -sick pets.

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so sorry that I'm late in replying to this thread but I only just saw it now:o . I'm so sorry to hear about Halo:( but I'm very glad to hear that you're getting a second opinion. I hope that you'll receive some good news and that her condition will be treatable. Lots of prayers and positive thoughts are being sent your way. Please take care.:)

[TopCat3]

Originally posted by solares412
How much did you vaccinate Halo? Yearly? I was reading the other day about why pets (young) are getting cancer when cancer in pets was unheard of fifty years ago. They said it's from preservatives in pet foods, environmental toxic substances , and vaccinations repeated yearly. They're saying now that yearly vaccinations are unnecessary because they last three years and up to a lifetime. To do it more frequently is to end up with disease-ridden , chronically -sick pets.

I too have read this sort of info, Solares412 and decided once again to stop vaccinating my cats this year. I lost a 7 year old to an aggressive cancer a few years back, very sudden and swift, it was, around her shoulder area.

I am very sorry to learn about Halo, she is a very pretty, sweet looking girl, and I hope all turns out well and she is with you for many more years to come. Whatever the cause, I hope the cure may be found.

[kuhio98]

Originally posted by solares412
How much did you vaccinate Halo? Yearly? I was reading the other day about why pets (young) are getting cancer when cancer in pets was unheard of fifty years ago. They said it's from preservatives in pet foods, environmental toxic substances , and vaccinations repeated yearly. They're saying now that yearly vaccinations are unnecessary because they last three years and up to a lifetime. To do it more frequently is to end up with disease-ridden , chronically -sick pets.

Thank you for the info and the PM you sent. No, Halo does not get vaccinated every year. We adopted her in 2002. In 2003 she had an awful reaction to the vaccinations and almost died. Her fever spiked to 105 degrees (F) and it took 2 days to get it back to normal. We met with the vet then and agreed that she would not get any more shots. So, she got shots in 2002 before we adopted her and then again in 2003. Her immune system seems to have been compromised somehow. Whether that was from the vaccinations, we're not sure.

[jazzcat]

I'm just now seeing this about sweet beautiful Halo. I am so sorry.

I think getting a second opinion is a good idea and I'll be praying that you get better news.

Lots of prayers and good thoughts on the way.

[Medusa]

Reading this about immunizations is scary! Dr. LeBeau was/is 'old school'. He told me years ago that as long as I was going to keep the cats inside that they didn't need immunized every year. So I got them what they needed to get them started in life and then that was it. I mean, my little ones, Creamsicle and Coco Puff both have an inflammatory brain disease. I wouldn't want to inflict any more tragedy on them than they've already endured. I'm so glad I read this because sometimes I get looks from people like "What? You don't get your pets their shots?" Even Dr. Lee's vet techs looked kinda sideways at me. Oh well...I'm devoted to my furkids and I want only what's best for them, as all of you do for yours.

Blessings,
M

[kuhio98]

We've got an appointment with my sister's vet, but he can't see Halo until September 1st. In the meantime, I've been doing research on the internet. Here's what I've found about her bloodwork:

ALT ~ An enzyme normally present in liver and heart cells that is released into the bloodstream when the liver or heart is damaged. The blood ALT levels are elevated with liver damage (for example, from viral hepatitis) or with an insult to the heart (for example, from a heart attack). Some medications can also raise ALT levels. ALT is also called serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT).
Normal range is 10-100. Halo's is 131

AST ~ Also an enzyme found in the liver, red blood cells (RBCs) and in muscle tissue; damage to any of these can result in increased levels of AST in the blood. An elevation in AST signifies more severe damage to the cells than an elevation in ALT. AST was previously called serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT).
Normal range is 10-100. Halo's is 272

CPK ~ Is an enzyme which is very useful for diagnosing diseases of the heart and skeletal muscle. This enzyme is the first to be elevated after a heart attack (3 to 4 hours). If CPK is high in the absence of heart muscle injury, this is a strong indication of skeletal muscle disease.
Normal range is 56-529. Halo's is 29,748 !! They did the test twice just to make sure.

I got this information from:

http://www.assistfeed.com/BloodTestValues.htm
http://www.peteducation.com/article...p;articleid=314
http://www.cathospitalofaustin.com/...e_bloodwork.htm

Halo is doing well. She's eating and drinking and playing like a silly girl. Right now the stairs are littered with her wine corks. No, she doesn't drink the wine, but she likes to fish the corks we've saved over the last 20 years out of their container and then bounce them down the stairs. Each morning, we're greeted with quite a collection at the bottom. So, as long as she's still playing....

[Medusa]

I'm so glad to hear that Halo is still playing! That's great news! I wish I had thought to save all the corks for my furkids to play with. When I moved to my new house, I threw out everything that wasn't necessary and they went out w/the trash. I'll be sure to save future ones. I imagine my little ones would have a ball w/them and maybe leave my little crystal balls alone. :rolleyes:

And thanx for the enzyme info!

Blessings,
M

[QueenScoopalot]

Lisa, I'm so sorry to hear about Halo's medical conditions. :( I agree 100% that a second opinion is needed, and sure hope the second vet can give you hope for Halo's full recovery. Being such a young girl, and with a good body weight, chances are a great for her to get through surgery fine. Sending many purrayers and nose rubs from the East Coast, to Alaska that things will work out fine for your beautiful little girl. ;)

[slick]

Thanks for the uppydate and I'm continuing my prayers for this little one. So nice to hear that she's still playing.

[sasha the cat]

Meeow, I'm praying to Bastet, the Great Cat Goddess asking her to intercede on your behalf.

purrrs

[rosethecopycat]

Yes, I was going to suggest a 2nd opinion as well, but

Instead of waiting for Sept 1, can you get your vet to write a referral to an specialist? A cardiologist or internist?

I'm sure if she's acting fine, there is no problem in seeing the second vet, but when I went through this a couple weeks ago, the second vet issued the referral. Turns out I could have skipped that whole step and went from 1st vet to specialist.

I think the sighting of a tumor warants a specialist.

Positive thoughts and songs for Halo.

[TopCat3]

That's a good idea, Rosethecopycat. It's quite a while to Sept 1st.

I'm glad Halo is still playing and happy, and hopefully free of discomfort. Kuhio98, You must be beside yourself with worry. Thank you for the links, I've written them in my website reference book under C for cat, for future reference. Good luck and keep us posted with what you decide to do. Best wishes from the TopCats in Sydney.

[smokey the elder]

27000+! Wow! I bet that freaked out the technician running the test. I hope Halo feels better.

[Barbara]

Yeah, that third level is quite out of range. But the number of corks at the bottom of the stairs must warm your heart.

All the best for Halo:)

[K & L]

I'm just now seeing this thread and wish you the best with Halo! I'm so bad about only looking in cat general since my time is so limited here at work on the internet! Best of luck to you & Halo!

[Donnaj4962]

I am so sorry to hear about Halo.... poor thing. I am sending lots of prayers and hugs and kisses your way. I hope that the 2nd opinion will be with better news. Keep us posted.

[sirrahbed]

Kuhio98 - you are on my mind and I have said my prayers for you and Halo. Thank you for the updates and I will be sure to check back here to keep up with ya'll.

[NoahsMommy]

I'm so glad to see she's playing with her corks (SOO CUTE!!!) and eating OK.

We're keeping her in our prayers. I hope your sister's vet can offer some advice on how to make her all better.

Hugs,
Kelly xoxo

[kuhio98]

Thanks to Jan (QueenScoopalot) we received an excellent referral (through vetpet) with a specialist. Dr. Nelson Priddy (poor guy, I bet he got beat up every day at school) :p will be examining Princess Halo this Friday. I will be at work and since I work 600 miles away from home, I can’t exactly run home for the appointment. So, Bobcat will be handling it and will keep me posted and I’ll keep you posted. I’ve written up a letter with a bunch of questions. I’ve made a copy of all her test results for Dr. Priddy and Bob will get the x-rays to take over there so that they don’t have to sedate her to take more. It was also suggested we get an ultrasound. Our vet never suggested one and we didn’t know enough to ask.

Thank you for keeping Halo in your thoughts and prayers. A big thank you to Jan for telling us about vetpet.

[Barbara]

That sounds very good. Princess Halo will be in good hands:)

I have made the experience that some vets don't propose ultrasound because they think it would be too expensive. They should leave that to the owner to decide.

[Killearn Kitties]

I'm so glad to know you have got an appointment with a specialist (isn't PT wonderful?!) I won't be around for a few days over that time, but I will be thinking of adorable Halo and wishing her all the best.

[furrykidsmother]

Best wishes and good thoughts for Princess Halo's visit on Friday. Continued prayers too!

[NoahsMommy]

That's so great!! :)

**Thanks to Jan!!!**

Phoebe (and the others) are sending their healing vibes and prayers...
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d600b3127cce93c0744369ac00000016109BYt2Llq2I

[sirrahbed]

Good news that Halo will see this specialist - thanks QSA! Writing up a list of questions is a terrific idea - sorry you have to be so far away right now with your job - but Bobcat will take care of things and isn't the internet wonderful for quick relay of information??

heehee - yes "Priddy" for a last name must have followed this doctor!! :p

[Donnaj4962]

I am glad that you are getting into see a specialist so quickly! My girls and I are saying our prayers that there is better news from the ::: silly::: "Dr. Priddy"!!!! {{{{Hugs}}}} for Halo.

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so glad that Halo will able to see a specialist very soon. I hope that everything goes well and she continues to be in my thoughts and prayers.:)

[kittycats_delight]

Jan you are a doll you know that. Thank you.

So glad to know that sweet Halo will get to see the specialist soon. Lots and lots of kitty kisses and healing vibes coming for you sweetheart.

(((((((((((HUGS))))))))))))

Michelle & the girls

[QueenScoopalot]

Lisa, I'm so glad that Vetpet forum was able to get you the number for a specialist so fast! The beauty of the internet! ;) I agree that waiting is absurd, and I'm so happy to know Halo is being checked out Friday. :) I know you'll keep us posted. ;)

[Medusa]

Keeping faws and pingers crossed. ;) Let's hear some good news!

Blessings,
M

[sandragonfly]

not our dear halo! :(

great! I was going to advise you getting a second opinion from cardiologist. but you got it, (a specialist to be seen) and it's this friday! hooray! (what specialist, may I ask?)

reading your posts a couple of times again, I'm not sure if I understand how have you found her misery? was not able to "spring" her legs the only problem she has right now? the reason?

sorry your princess halo is heartbreaking you, but glad things got to be planned in advance already! good luck, you both! have us posted still please.

sweet halo, please keep playing and steal more corks until this friday! you've only got two and half more days left. you did good and keep your muzzle up! :)

~(((kuhio's meowmie)))~
..gina & thirteen furrfaeries!

[kuhio98]

Gina ~ Halo will be seeing Dr. Nelson Priddy who was recommended as a specialist in liver tumors as well as heart problems. Although Halo doesn't appear to have any heart problems, the enzyme that is sky high in her blood CAN be the result of a heart attack. Halo hasn't had a heart attack as far as anyone can tell. But does indicate muscles problems and since the heart is a muscle....

Halo's always been very careful when she runs and jumps. She was always having to "muscle it out" when she jumped up somewhere high. She'd jump as far as she could, catch the top with her front paws and pull herself the rest of the way up. We were originally told that this could be the result of her having kittens when she was so small. She walks with her back legs spread apart and kind of waddles. She also hops like a bunny with her back legs. We always thought these quirks were cute, but they may indicate muscle problems.

Halo's tumor was found during a routine exam. To investigate further, her vet ordered the blood tests. When the very high numbers came in he ordered the x-rays. That's when the tumor was found and the "thickening" of the lower intestines.

[kuhio98]

I'm away for work but checked in with Bobcat this morning. Halo is doing fine. Not feeling sick at all. She played all night with her wine/champagne corks, raced him down the stairs this morning hoping to go outside when he got the newspaper and is currently playing with her ribbons.

Halo has been obsessed with her ribbons since we first brought them home. All they are is shoe strings tied to a loop on a wire. She runs with them in her mouth, she plays with them all the times and she'll drag them to you when she's bored. Most times you can find her sleeping on them just in case they decide to wiggle on their own. I can't count the number of shoe strings and wires we've worn out over the last 3.5 years. She just never gets tired of them.

Tomorrow is her appointment with the new vet. I'll post whenever I know something. We did get all the records over to the new guy so he shouldn't have to sedate Halo to take more x-rays. And I wrote him a letter introducing Halo and letting him know that she won't bite or scratch him but she will pee when she's frightened. Figured I'd better warn him so he wouldn't be unpleasantly surprised. :p

Keep those thoughts and prayers coming. This sweet girl needs a miracle.
Thanks, Lisa (and Bobcat)

[Barbara]

Good to hear that Halo is happy- the most important thing.:) Keeping fingers crossed for tomorrow.

[QueenScoopalot]

Fingers & paws (and that's a LOT) crossed for Halo's appointment bringing you good news. :) Is he doing an ultrasound to determine what's going on from another angle? :confused: I'm very happy she doesn't have to wait another week to be seen. ;)

[Killearn Kitties]

I'll be praying for a miracle for sweet Halo tomorrow!

[jenluckenbach]

I am glad Halo is playing. I will be waiting for any news.

[sandragonfly]

kuhio, thanks for answering! thankfully you were able to take halo in sooner.

I'm soo glad things are still well! I'll be thinking of you (especially halo) tomorrow!!

(((halo))) & (((you))) I'll be checking back in..

..gina

[Medusa]

A special candle will be lit tonight for Halo and you all. I'm glad she's holding her own. Here's for a good report....

Blessings,
M

[slick]

She played all night with her wine/champagne corks,
:D :D :D I'm so sorry for laughing....but it's the visual....cats and wine corks. LOLOLOLOL

So happy to hear that little Halo is feeling fine but I recognize that you are not out of the woods just yet. I send you my continued prayers.

[sirrahbed]

I am thinking of you and Halo today - hopefully you can give us some news once you have heard from Bobcat. I will check back! (((HUGS))) to you and scritches for Halo.

[krazyaboutkatz]

I hope that everything goes well today. I'm sending prayers and positive thoughts your way.:)

[furrykidsmother]

Just checking in to see if there was an update. Hope everything goes well and that he has some good advice and options. Will check back later for update. Good thoughts and prayers continuing.

[rosethecopycat]

Thinking of Halo today, and praying for good results.

[Randi]

I'm so hoping everything goes well for Halo today. Will keep all fingers and paws crossed for her. :)

Hugs to you.

[kuhio98]

Originally posted by furrykidsmother
Just checking in to see if there was an update. Hope everything goes well and that he has some good advice and options. Will check back later for update. Good thoughts and prayers continuing.

Hang in there. There is a 4 hour time difference between Alaska and New Hampshire. Her appointment starts is scheduled for within the hour. I'll post as soon as I hear something.

Thank you for thinking of Halo. It's driving me crazy not being able to be there and snuggle her. She hates going to the vet so much. :(

[slick]

Continuing my prayers for sweet Halo! Will be watching for an update.

[jazzcat]

Just checking in. I'm sending lots of good vibes Halo's way!!! Good luck today sweetie!

[kuhio98]

Halo had her appointment with Dr. Priddy today and acted like a good girl (meaning, she didn't pee on him). :D

Dr. Priddy said that Halo is in very good health. He also (just like our usual vet) recommended we wait 2 or 3 more weeks and have the blood tests done again by the same lab to see what the numbers were.

He said that the high enzyme # could be the results of muscle inflammation not necessarily the body's immune system attacking them. He said that a virus (Bobcat couldn't remember the name) is usually the cause of a muscle inflammation but that is kind of rare up here (that virus in Alaska). But, it could be something to pursue of her numbers remain high.

He also is pretty sure that the tumor on the liver is a fatty tumor and not cancer. An ultrasound will help determine that for sure. He did not recommend doing a biopsy because he is pretty sure that it is just fat and because they would have to cut her open to do the biopsy and it would take a few weeks for her to heal up.

He has relieved our minds so much. We'll be taking her back around September 15th for the blood re-test and the ultrasound. I will keep you posted.

Thank you, thank you, thank you for all your words of encouragement and thoughts and prayers. They have meant the world to us. For now, I think it's safe to focus your energy on some of the other sick babies here. Halo seems to be doing just fine. :D

[jenluckenbach]

This is very promissing news and I am very glad to hear it. I am also happy that Halo is feeling well! Good news all around.

[jazzcat]

Such good news!!!! :)

[kuhio98]

Originally posted by slick

:D :D :D I'm so sorry for laughing....but it's the visual....cats and wine corks. LOLOLOLOL


Slick, I'm going to try to get pictures of her playing one of these days. She usually likes to do this in the dead of the night and I'm too pooped to get up and try to get pictures.

On the middle landing of our stairs, we have a hollowed out cottonwood tree stump that someone gave us as a present. It is beautifully carved and shaped. Well, over the 20+ years we've lived there, we've thrown our wine and champagne corks into it where they've collected. Kuhio didn't bother them for 17 years but Halo is fascinated by them. On one side of the stump/bowl is a hole where a branch must have grown out. Halo, puts her paw in there and fishes around until she snags a cork and then she pulls it out and rolls it down the stairs. Because their shape is irregular, she particularly enjoys the champagne corks. She can never quite predict how it's going to bounce. So, several times a night you hear: thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump (there are 8 stairs) followed by a TWANG as it hits the heat register at the bottom of the stairs. :D

[Randi]

What a great update, I bet you are relieved. :) I'm so glad Halo is feeling fine, she is such a sweet girl.

Keep thinking positive, we'll keep all paws and fingers crossed for her. :)

[QueenScoopalot]

I'M SO ELATED AT THE NEWS!!!!! :D I'm sure it's a big load off your shoulders as well Lisa. ;) Silly Halo and those corks...I think this calls for a video of her cork fishing. ;) Now about that little un-adoptable Mona Lisa..... :D :D :D

[furrykidsmother]

Great update!! Worth the wait!!

[sirrahbed]

I am so glad to read the encouraging news Lisa!! It made me :D tonight!!

[Medusa]

Whew! What a relief! I'm sure you're going to sleep tonight! I'm so glad that she's in good health and doing better. Give her some scritchies for me.

Blessings,
Mary

[sandragonfly]

horray corky girl! :D I can picture and laugh. ;)

kuhio, it's good to see your ":D"s.. :D

halo (& you) definitely will remain in my thoughts until we all know for sure!

[TopCat3]

Good news! Love the cork story, I had a great mental picture happening there. Agree a video would be terrific. Keep healing Halo and get back to purrfect health soon!:)

[krazyaboutkatz]

Whew!!! This is excellent news!!!:D

[SANDY FROST]

Originally posted by kuhio98
Halo needs all the PT prayers she can get. She had x-rays taken yesterday. Today the vet called with the news that there appears to be a tumor in her intestinal tract and a golf-ball size tumor on or next to her liver. We will be meeting with the vet again tomorrow to look at treatment options.

This 3-year old girl has been a joy in our life. She has helped heal our broken hearts when we lost Kuhio. She is the sweetest, most kindest kitty I've ever known. There is not a mean bone in her body. Please keep her in your prayers. And give your kitties an extra special hug tonight.

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid160/p99f6fccd0dad898f82cf7e27dd4547ed/f4eb1105.jpg
I'll say a prayer for Halo that she gets better. Remember have FAITH. PURRS AND HUGS FOR HALO.
Sandy Frost

[AvaJoy]

I'm so glad the Dr. feels that Halo is going to be OK. Pet talk prayers can work wonders. Blessings to you and Halo for good health. :)

[Donnaj4962]

Wow! What great news for Halo! and you! And thanks for the wine/champagne cork story! Too sweet! Please continue to keep us posted.... and get out the video camera some night after adding to the wine/champagne cork collection!

[sandragonfly]

and I hope we still get to see her with corks! ;)

[kuhio98]

Halo is going to the white coats on Wednesday (9/28) to have her blood retested and an ultrasound. We're praying that her bloodwork will be closer to "normal" and that the liver tumor is just a ball of fat growing on the outside of the liver and not inside. (This was Dr. Priddy's diagnosis). I'll keep you posted.

Halo has been feeling well. She plays like normal. Maybe she sleeps a little more. She's never been a big eater, so I can't tell a difference in her eating habits. Dr. Townsend was concerned that she was losing weight. Now I ask you... Does this kitty look underfed to you? :p

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid104/pea939d2f91b608b9c58576edca514e5d/f9994b2f.jpg

[furrykidsmother]

I would say that she looks pretty well fed and happy. Hope all goes well with the bloodwork and hoping for just a ball of fat on the outside.

[jenluckenbach]

She looks good to me. I hope all her tests come out fine.

[catarius]

I will -- best of luck to you !

[Donnaj4962]

I am hoping and praying that Halo continues to get better. She looks adorable in that last picture! Too cute... but still waiting for the video of her playing with the corks! :D

Continue to keep us posted please! :)

[Medusa]

Here's keeping pingers and faws crossed that all goes well at the vet's.

Blessings,
Mary

[krazyaboutkatz]

I think she looks great.:D All fingers and paws are crossed here for good blood test and ultrasound results. Good luck.:)

[TopCat3]

Gorgeous cuddly kitty, not underfed! Hope all goes well on 28th.

[kuhio98]

Halo's vet appointment went very well. The ultrasound shows that the tumor is just a ball of fat growing on top of the liver and not inside. It also appears to have shrunk some since last month. The best news of all is the bloodwork.

ALT ~ An enzyme normally present in liver and heart cells that is released into the bloodstream when the liver or heart is damaged. The blood ALT levels are elevated with liver damage (for example, from viral hepatitis) or with an insult to the heart (for example, from a heart attack). Some medications can also raise ALT levels. ALT is also called serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT).
Normal range is 10-100. Halo's in August: 131 In September: 35

AST ~ Also an enzyme found in the liver, red blood cells (RBCs) and in muscle tissue; damage to any of these can result in increased levels of AST in the blood. An elevation in AST signifies more severe damage to the cells than an elevation in ALT. AST was previously called serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT).
Normal range is 10-100. Halo's in August: 272 In September: 17

CPK ~ Is an enzyme which is very useful for diagnosing diseases of the heart and skeletal muscle. This enzyme is the first to be elevated after a heart attack (3 to 4 hours). If CPK is high in the absence of heart muscle injury, this is a strong indication of skeletal muscle disease.
Normal range is 56-529. Halo's in August: 29,748 !! In September: 110

:D :D :D

She also weighed in at a healthy 11 pounds. We go back in 3 months for retesting. Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers. Looks like we've dodged another bullet. :D :D :D

[Killearn Kitties]

Snuggles and hugs to beautiful Halo!!! Please tell her how happy I am at her fantastic news! :D :D

[jenluckenbach]

What wonderful news. :D:D

[Medusa]

Excellent news!

Blessings,
Mary

[TopCat3]

Catgratulations from the TopCats 1,2 & 3. this is wonderful news. Happy Happy Happy!!! :D :D :D

[krazyaboutkatz]

This is excellent news!!! :D I hope that she continues to stay healthy now. :)

[jazzcat]

That is such great news!!! I'm so happy for you all!
:)

[smokey the elder]

That's great news! I wonder if Halo had a heart attack, and beat it.

[furrykidsmother]

Wonderful, Wonderful News!!!

[trayi52]

Lots of healing prayers and good thoughts being sent out for Halo.

Willie

[kb2yjx]

What wonderful news about HALO!!! She definitely has an ANGEL whose halo is protecting her!!! She is a beautiful girl and may the news continue to be good!!!! Prayers and healing thoughts heading her way!!! Sandra

[AmberLee]

Whew! What wonderful news. :D :D :D Stay healthy and happy, you beautiful girl!!!

[Donnaj4962]

What wonderful news Halo! Keep getting better! And play with those wine corks tonight little one! ;)

[kuhio98]

Halo goes back to the vet on Wednesday for another x-ray and bloodwork. Keep your fingers and paws crossed that her bloodwork continues to be normal. Both Bobcat and I are positive that her tumor has shrunk even more. We can barely feel it now and it used to be golf-ball size! :eek: I have still not been able to get a video of Halo playing with her corks. The best I can do is this photo of her on the landing getting ready to dig into the bowl.

Please keep her in your prayers. I'll keep you posted when all the results are in.
Lisa

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid194/p8737e06bdf5c6238662f7c86a0703f50/f18221d5.jpg

Here she is watching the corks like a hawk in case they decide to jump out of the bowl all by themselves and bounce down the stairs :p
BTW - My grandma made the quilt you see in the background. I think she made it in the early 70's. She liked what she called "bright pretty colors". :D

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid194/pa61c7bda48a829886a4585f5f2882ff6/f18221c7.jpg

[catnapper]

Good luck Halo! We'll all keep our fingers and paws crossed here!!!!

[jenluckenbach]

Best of luck to Halo. And Halo......you keep watching those bad corks. I have heard stories of how they can jump and cause trouble all by themselves if not properly supervised. ;)

[TopCat3]

Best wishes to Halo for her continued recovery.

Keep your eye on things there, can't have those naughty corks bouncing around the place on their own. :eek: :D

[Killearn Kitties]

We will all be thinking of sweet Halo here. The girls have their paws firmly crossed!

[Donnaj4962]

Wamr thoughts and well wishes for Halo as she goes to the vet. Hope all turns out well.

[krazyaboutkatz]

Good luck Halo. Lots of prayers and positive thoughts are being sent your way. :)

[sasha the cat]

We wish your Halo a complete recovery. Please post how she is doing. Gentle caresses and kisses to her from us.

[Barbara]

Paws and fingers crossed for Halo :) I am sure looking at that beautiful quilt is good for her soul- it would be for mine ;)

[AmberLee]

Puuurrrrs and >^._.^< headbumpies >^._.^< to the beautiful Halo. I hope good stuffs happens at the white coats.


Purrr
Perspicacity Purrsonality "Cassy"

[kuhio98]

Well, Halo's at the vets. She is NOT happy at all. She yowled brokenheartedly as soon as she saw the port-o-prison. She collapsed into a boneless heap when I put her in there and turned her back on me. Pepper attacked me and bit my ankles trying to stop me from taking Halo away. Bobcat said she cried and cried looking for Halo after I left.

Halo yowled the whole trip over and continued in the waiting room. She sounded so distressed that the vet techs came running thinking I was bringing in an animal in pain. :eek: She just hates being in a cage. No matter how I tried to reassure her she seems convinced that she's being dumped. :(

Counting the hours until I can pick her up.
Oh! I'm also being "punished" by Pepper and Cammie. They turn their backs on me and walk away when I try to pet them. I hope I'm forgiven when I bring Halo home this afternoon.

[lv4dogs]

Good luck sweet Halo girl.

[jenluckenbach]

I will be waiting to hear.

[K & L]

I'm so sorry I've missed all of this. I rarely go anywhere else except Cat General since I have little time to be here. I sure hope all continues to go well for Halo and you. I will watch this for updates.

[kuhio98]

Halo is home. She's been thoroughly sniffed and welcomed back into the herd. Another $294.00 in tests. :eek: The results should be back tomorrow. I'll keep you posted.

[jenluckenbach]

:eek: Waiting is the hardest part. :(

[Donnaj4962]

Anxiously waiting news of Halo's tests. Warm thoughts and many prayers being sent your way from me and both of the girls. Please keep us posted.

[kuhio98]

Just got off the phone with the vet (it's 5:00 p.m. here). The lab did not get the blood results to him today so we still don't know anything for sure. But, Halo is playing and cuddling. I really think she's feeling better. I'll let you know when I know.

[jenluckenbach]

:eek: :eek: :eek: WAITING !!! :eek: :eek: :eek:

But I am very glad that she is playing and feeling good. :D

[Ally Cat's Mommy]

Hoping and praying for good test results!

[kuhio98]

Halo is a-okay!
Dr. Townsend called at noon today. Halo's bloodwork continues to be normal. The golf-ball size fatty tumor on her liver has shrunk to be a little larger than a grain of rice. She is happy and healthy.

She still hasn't forgiven me for taking her to the vet. :( She runs from me and hides under the bed when I try to pick her up for a cuddle. :( It breaks my heart. I hope I'm forgiven soon.

Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers. It really helped knowing you guys were there to support us. :)

[jenluckenbach]

This is GREAT news!!!! :D :D (well, except for the fact that she is still mad at you;) )

[catmandu]

Thats very young to have so many Health Problems.
We are praying that her problems are over.
And she will forgive you,once Halo starts feeling better.
Its a shame that we cant tell them that its for thier own good..

[Prairie Purrs]

Such wonderful news for Halo! What a great Christmas present! :D

[Cataholic]

Yippee, YI-YAY! Great news about Halo.

[Craftlady]

Great news :) :)
I'm sure in a day or two you will be forgiven for the trip to the white coats. :)

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so glad to hear that her test results are normal and that her fatty tumor has shrunk. :) I'm sure she'll forgive you soon.

[AmberLee]

What WONDERFUL news!

(I hope Halo forgives you as quickly as Lady Olivia forgives me...)

[smokey the elder]

I'm so glad that Halo is doing well and the tumor has shrunk so much. Halo, meowmie only wants the best for you, so how about making nice? :) :p

[Kirsten]

I'm very glad to hear that Halo is doing fine!

That's really good news! :)

Kirsten

[Donnaj4962]

What wonderful news.... and the best Christmas present you could get!

I am so glad that the test results are fine. Now, what needs to be done to get Halo to forgive you? Maybe some yummy treats! I am sure Halo will come around soon. I had to travel this weekend (family Christmas 3 hours away) and as I started packing my overnight bag Saturday morning, Tabitha got very pi**ed and decided to give me the cold shoulder! She layed on her pillows on the bed, with her face as far into the headboard as she could get it! But she was fine when I came home today! Just wait until the 2oth when I pack the BIG suitcase for a week in sunny Florida!

Anyway... VERY glad to hear the great news about Halo! :)

[LoudLou]

Headbumpies to Halo! Glad she is feeling better!

[Killearn Kitties]

I'm so pleased that Halo's tests revealed such great results.

Merry Christmas, sweetie!

[Barbara]

Hey Halo girl! You are fine :D :D :D And now your mom is so happy! That was what all the fuzz was for. I hope you forgive her ;)

[kimlovescats]

What wonderful news!!!! :D

[kuhio98]

Well, I've been forgiven. Halo is letting be pick her up and cuddle her. But she's still scared. :( I picked up a xerox box of stuff to go through and she took one look at it and ran for her life and hid under the bed. Same thing happened when I picked up the laundry basket. :( I guess she thinks they are the port-o-prison. Poor baby.

At least she's still enjoying her place under the Christmas tree. :D
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid196/p5ca8c97618b054195b9df44039cff46e/f1137ee6.jpg

[QueenScoopalot]

OHH Sweet Halo!!! I'm so happy that the tests came back as great news, and that creature in your body is going, going, and hopefully soon to be gone! :) This sounds like a huge cork party should be thrown in Halo's honor! :D

[jenluckenbach]

there's a cat in that picture??? :confused:

[Court]

I hope your sweet baby has much continued health success! I'll be thinking of her... :)

[TopCat3]

there's a cat in that picture??? :confused:

Yes, it took me a few looks before I saw it, like one of those 3D pictures you have to sort of look away from or through half-closed eyes.

Anyway, what fantastic news.I am intrigued at this "tumour" shrinking from golf ball size to grain of rice size, isn't that just wonderful? I've heard of people achieving this through a natural diet and meditation etc - but a cat? (though we know they are masters at meditation!)

Good luck and well done, Halo, may you stay in excellent health from now on.

[myjett]

Prayers are coming your way for Halo!!
Jo..

[myjett]

Halo is healthy and that's great!! I read the first page and replied before I read the rest! I am glad she is doing well. Jo..

[Frostfrog]

May Halo long grace the great state of Alaska.

[kuhio98]

Anyway, what fantastic news.I am intrigued at this "tumour" shrinking from golf ball size to grain of rice size, isn't that just wonderful? I've heard of people achieving this through a natural diet and meditation etc - but a cat? (though we know they are masters at meditation!)
Yes, we were very lucky. The vet was pretty sure that the tumor was just a ball of fat growing on top of the liver, not down in the organ itself. But, her blood levels were so out of wack, they indicated a liver problem of some sort. We're so glad that surgery was not necessary. Halo continues to be her sweet self.

[kimlovescats]

Congratulations! What wonderful news! ;)

[kb2yjx]

The news is very good that it was just a fatty tumor!! Halo is a lovely girl!!! Wishing her MANY more YEARS of GOOF HEALTH!!!