Mr Meow......biopsy update (1-2-2008)

[jenluckenbach]

The lymph node was not cancerous. But do not celebrate just yet.

The diagnosis (pending some other tests, special stains)is pyogranulomatous lymphadenitis which means immflamation of the lymphatic system ("pyo"=pus). Most likely cause..... FIP.

What do we do next?
-supportive care. He will get a steroid shot again (probably tomorrow or Friday to help with the diarrhea, and immflamation in general)

- depending on the results of these other tests/stains, there is a medicine that might work BETTER for him than the steroid shots. I believe the vet said cyclosporine, but I did not have his spell it (since we aren't actually using it yet).

So.....more waiting. But as we all know, FIP is totally uncurable. All we will be able to do is keep him comfortable if they decide on this diagnosis. The vet did not mention any other of the options of what could be causing the immflamation, just that they are trying to rule things out.

As for Mr Meow. He eats about 3 out of every 4 meals I offer him. And the diarrhea is quite liquid. But he is acting mostly normal.

[slick]

I have been following the adventures of Mr. Meow but have not posted until now. I'm glad that you finally have a "somewhat" diagnosis and that there is a new drug he can try. All fingers and paws crossed that it will work and give him some extra time with you.

I can't imagine how this must be tearing you apart. Sending you big {{{hugs}}} across the miles and some loving scritches for Mr. Meow.

[Catty1]

Dear Mr. Meow - FIP the 'most likely cause'...yeah, I wanna stick my head in the sand and HOPE it is not that.

However...the fact that he has thrived for so long with the Depoprovera gives me hope that his illness, FIP or no, can be managed.

How contagious is FIP? Or do adult cats develop an immunity?

Praying and hoping for the best. Thanks for the update! Give that fluffy boy a hug for me.

ETA: Cyclosporine is an immunosupressant, used as an antirejection drug in transplant patients, and in combo with other meds for psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis.

I think it's all the love that has made all the difference! Hoping for non-FIP results.

hugs

[Medusa]

So it's a good news, bad news kinda thing. I'm so sorry; hoping that it isn't FIP but if it is, that you'll be able to keep him comfortable.

[Catlady711]

How contagious is FIP? Or do adult cats develop an immunity?

As far as I know FIP is contagious from mucus, saliva or bite wounds.

[Catlady711]

I hope Mr. Meow doesn't have FIP and there is another cause that's treatable. Me and my furkids will say a prayer for him.

[krazyaboutkatz]

Jen, I'm glad to hear that Mr. Meow doesn't have cancer but I sure hope that he doesn't have FIP either. I always thought that if a cat had FIP that they would get very weak and die within a few weeks. I hope that whatever he has can be treated and that he'll be able to remain as comfortable as possible. I'll continue to keep him in my thoughts and prayers. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[orangemm]

Praying lots for this little guy; I have been reading and watching about him and know your heart is heavy.

Lots of prayers, hugs, and scritches coming your way...........

[kimlovescats]

Oh Jen, I sure hope it isn't that horrid FIP!

[Anikaca77]

My prays for Mr. Meow that it's not FIP. My hugs and prays.

Melissa

[jazzcat]

I really hope it's not FIP. Lots of prayers going out.

[kb2yjx]

Jenn, this was kinda good news/bad news. But as long as Mr. Meow is with you, he will get the best care possible!!! Prayers for you both!!! Sandra

[jennielynn1970]

Awe... I hope it's not FIP, but if it is, he's been holding on this long, so he is a survivor. Not all cats die immediately from FIP.... doesn't Kathy W. have a cat that's had FIP for years??? I hope there is something they can give him to keep him comfortable and have a good life with you.

[Catty1]

Jen, if it does turn out to be FIP, I looked up some recent info and can email the page (just one page!) to you.

Hugs and more PT Prayers for Mr Meow!

He's done very well so far, so there is hope.

[cassiesmom]

Sweet Mister Meow, I hope it is not FIP.