Needing advice re my Ellie-Mae

[carole]

Most of you know the ongoing saga of my poor wee Ellie, she has been very unwell again, and this after two weeks of being really good,she has chronic gingivitis /stomatitis,we tried her on a new antibiotic, which was a disaster, poor wee girl vomited all her food up all day long, so was taken off that, she has just had her injection tonight, so hope that makes her feel good for a while.

The vet is talking about extraction of all her teeth now, he was hesitant at suggesting it himself, but has done some research and feels it might be an option for her, however i am really in two minds about this, my research also say's it often does not fix the problem, is traumatic for the cat, a big expense, with no guarantee's.

If i thought for one moment, this would cure her, and make her painfree, i would not hesitate at all, i would do anything to make her painfree, however i just cannot put her through this, if it is not going to work, i really don't know what to do, i feel so confused and worried about doing the right thing for her.

I guess i am asking if anyone has done this with their cat or know's of anyone with good results, i need more facts before i go ahead with something so drastic as this.

The alternative is not good either, we keep up with the steroids, which do have long term effects on the organs, the antibiotics now and then and really the truth is i will have to Put her to sleep eventually,however if i go ahead with the extraction, she could go through all of this for nothing and we end up with the same result,there are more risks for her to have this procedure as well because she has this stomatitis ,last dental procedure she got the cat flu after it, even though she is vaccinated, and nearly died as she was so ill, this can happen as they are stressed and low immunity apparently,and the cat flu virus lies dormant but under these conditions rears it's ugly head again, anyhow any advice, opinions are alway's valued by me from my fellow pters, i know i will have to make the decision for my wee girl eventually either way.

Thanks for listening.

[moosmom]

Carole,

it often does not fix the problem, is traumatic for the cat, a big expense, with no guarantee's.

There is your answer. I always ask myself when a situation arises what guarantees there are and what quality of life will my cat have with no teeth. If there are no guarantees and it will only cause my cats pain and stress, then I know I have my answer.

You and Ellie Mae will be in my thoughts and prayers. Know that whatever you decide will be the right decision for you both.

Love and hugs,

Donna and fur crew

[Sonia59]

I do not have this experience, and I won't suggest anything, but I know that some people have done extraction of all teeth, here on PT and elsewhere, and kitties seem happy and healthy, after recovery and adaptation. I have never that it could fail. I am sure more advice will come.

[Medusa]

I'm of the school of thought that you should trust your instincts, Carole. If you feel that she may go through this for nothing, that there probably will be no improvement, then I'd probably not do it. However, I do know that Jen Luckenbach has had success w/having all teeth extracted in some of her cats and w/good success, too. Perhaps PM her and she can give you more info. Whatever you decide, we know that it'll be the right decision b/c I really think that there is no wrong decision here. You're looking out for Ellie-Mae's best interests and wanting to cause her the least amount of pain as possible. Keep the faythe, my friend.

[Pinot's Mom]

Carole, I don't have this experience, either. My tendency is also to listen to your gut feeling. Only you and Ellie Mae are there, and you are the only one who can truly tell the situation to make the decision. I will not give my instinct, as it would serve no purpose. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you, and I'll support whole heartedly any decision you make.

[Catty1]

Also - ask the vet how this has worked on other cats in the same situation as Ellie Mae.

Prayers for you and that beautiful girl.

[Anikaca77]

Carole, I don't have this experience, either. My tendency is also to listen to your gut feeling. Only you and Ellie Mae are there, and you are the only one who can truly tell the situation to make the decision. I will not give my instinct, as it would serve no purpose. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you, and I'll support whole heartedly any decision you make.

I agree as well. My prays and thoughts are with you and Ellie-Mae.

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm of the school of thought that you should trust your instincts, Carole. If you feel that she may go through this for nothing, that there probably will be no improvement, then I'd probably not do it. However, I do know that Jen Luckenbach has had success w/having all teeth extracted in some of her cats and w/good success, too. Perhaps PM her and she can give you more info. Whatever you decide, we know that it'll be the right decision b/c I really think that there is no wrong decision here. You're looking out for Ellie-Mae's best interests and wanting to cause her the least amount of pain as possible. Keep the faythe, my friend.

I totaly agree. Whatever you decide to do I'll support you. Lots of prayers and positive thoughts are being sent her way. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[Laura's Babies]

I have no experience either and I also say follow what your gut says.

(Didn't catmandu also have one that had to have all their teeth pulled?)