UPDATE again - Mishi's Across the Bridge :(

[RedHedd]

I'm beside myself. This week it's Mishi's turn, however he's taken a really bad turn. It's been difficult getting him to eat in the past week and I've noticed a marked weight loss - he's a kidney cat and I know this is normal for kidney cats who are declining, but this is scary.

He's been hospitalized for fluids and syringe feeding. The minimum this will cost is around $900. I really don't have the money - I'm in a debt management program and trying to pay off my bills so incurring this kind of debt is going to place a financial burden on me. I can put it on the one emergency credit card I have, but I really can't continue to pile on the debt - that defeats the purpose of the debt management program and I can get thrown out of the program if I abuse it.

I do not qualify for iMOM - I've read their rules. I've talked to the vet and depending on what his bloodwork shows, I may be able to give him the care he needs at home - I'm fine with giving him Sub-Q's and syringe feeding. It will be stressful as I'm really pressed for time these days, but I can do it.

So, I guess, pretty much all I'm asking for is prayers and good vibes that Mishi responds quickly to the treatment. I know the big boy doesn't have much time left on this side of the bridge, but I'm not ready to lose him just yet.

[wolflady]

Lots of prayers and good vibes on the way for you and Mishi. Hopefully you will be able to take care of him at home, pending the results of his bloodwork.

Many, many **hugs** for you.

[Freedom]

Paws crossed for Mishi!

[Donnaj4962]

All paws and fingers crossed from us here in Indiana! We will also keep you and Mishi in our prayers. Please keep us posted!

[Barbiecat]

I'm so sorry for you. My guy is 12, and just starting to have his own health issues, so I certainly know what you and your little friend are going through. I'll pray for your buddy.

[RedHedd]

Thank you everyone. I'm waiting for the vet to call back with labwork results. This is the other vet at my vet's office that I don't really care for. She talks in clinical terms and makes no effort to sound compassionate; whenever she's in charge, my vet bills are more expensive.

Cats in Crisis is pretty much the same as iMOM. I guess I know where my non-existent vacation fund money is going this year Ah kids. I love the big bugger - well not so big; he's down to 10 lbs! - so much. I will keep you posted.

[cassiesmom]

All paws and fingers crossed from us here in Indiana! We will also keep you and Mishi in our prayers. Please keep us posted!

SAme here - prayers for Mishi and Mitzi and their human

[RedHedd]

My poor dude. He is marginally better - he's eating and the SubQ's are really helping, however he just looks so darned miserable. He's so thin and bony and his fur is in horrible condition - I won't take pictures of him like this, it's too painful to see him looking this way.

He is a good sport about being treated, but he always was. Giving him his Sub-Q's last night was sad for me, but he felt good enough to try to fight it a bit, but then went back to his normal laid-back ways.

His meow sounds hoarse and it's obvious he's feeling punky.

Vet Crachit has ordered a medication to help him avoid forming crystals, as there were signs in his urine. It's an expensive human drug, so she uses an animal compounding pharmacy back East. Very strange organization and they can't ship until next week. The vet says it's fine for him to just hang in there until then.

[kuhio98]

Prayers for you and Mishi. I'm so sorry to hear that he's ill.
If you haven't already, you might try Cats in Crisis. I think their procedure may be similar to iMOM -- in that they don't pay for existing vet bills -- but it's worth a try.

[jenluckenbach]

PRAYERS for Mishi!!

[RedHedd]

Well, the big skinny goofball is home and he's eating and I'm $329 poorer. Came home supplied with all the Sub-Q gear, Periactin to jump-start his appetite if needed and a healthy supply of canned X/D which he is gobbling down.

We'll get more test results in a day or two and he goes back for follow-up next week. Gawd I love this boy SO much; it breaks my heart to feel him so skinny and see his fur so lack-luster, but he's still acting like his same goofy self, meowing and demanding that I turn on the bathtub tap so he can drink water properly

Thank you everyone for the purr ayers and good thoughts and kind words. They mean so much to us. I will keep you posted on his progress.

Thanks again - Georgia

[Prairie Purrs]

Keep eating and feel better, Mishi!

[Barbiecat]

Good news for your special kitty! I feel like you do when mine has issues; sadder, poorer and more anxious with each new problem I see. Best of luck with your precious friend.

[Felicia's Mom]

Keeping Mishi in my prayers!

[Barbara]

Sorry I saw this so late! I also hope it's just another episode. 10 lb- that's not too much for a big boy like Mishi.
You are lucky however that you can give him the sub-qs yourself. It will be so much less stress on him.
Filou sends loud baritone purrs to Mishi.