aww...sweetie...I hope it is not cancer.

The prednisone does relieve swelling, no matter what the cause. So Charlie would be more comfy.

If you can swing it, get some Omega 3-6 caps from the vet to break up in his food. These are really powerful antioxidants that can help somewhat.

I have two BIG kitties - they get 1 "pump" of canine Omega 3-6 in their wet food each morning, which is then divided between them. Together, they qualify for one doggie dose!

I had to buy some good quality but 'stinky' cat food to mix in also, or they wouldn't eat it.

If you have some Metamucil, try mixing just a tad in the syringe. If you have some canned pumpkin (no spices, JUST the pumpkin), and can get a bit down him, that might help too.

I wonder if he associates eating with a sore backside, and that's why he doesn't want to eat.

GOOD luck, and please keep us posted! Prayers to all of you!