PT prayers for Ripley please - update post #9

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

I'm so glad I checked in today, Lori, otherwise I wouldn't have seen this. Thoughts and prayers are on their way for Ripley and you and hubby.

You probably know this already, but with older cats, some days are good, some days are not so good and it sounds like Ripley is having some not so good days. Is it possible for the vet to do an ultrasound on him instead of an x-ray? I don't know if it would be less stressful, but it might show an enlarged _____(whatever) or something.

As for the yowling/mournful cries, Tubby did that as he got older too, and it seemed like he did it more often the older he got. I've heard the dementia theory and have to believe it because I have no other theory, except that they just do that as they get older......but Peanut never did it so it must be an older male thing? The scary part for me is that CJ has already started doing this, and he's not even 10 yet!

And one last thing.....as hard as it might be to even think about it, if he's not happy, and you're not happy.......

{{{hugs}}} and thoughts and prayers on their way.

Oops, just thought of one more thing. Renal failure often causes high blood pressure, which could contribute to the strokes he might be having. I really believe it was the high blood pressure that burst a blood vessel in Peanut's eyes making her go blind. I have no idea how to check a cat's blood pressure, but it might be something else to ask your vet about.

[rg_girlca]

Oh Lori, I am so sorry to hear that your Ripley isn't doing to well. I hope that the suggestions that others have given you will help him.

Prayers on the way for your dear Ripley and {{{{{{HUGS}}}}}} for you Lori.

[jazzcat]

Is it possible for the vet to do an ultrasound on him instead of an x-ray? I don't know if it would be less stressful, but it might show an enlarged _____(whatever) or something.

Thanks, I will ask about that.

As for the yowling/mournful cries, The scary part for me is that CJ has already started doing this, and he's not even 10 yet!

My vet said her 9 year old male has started doing it and "talking" to his toys more. She's worried that is a sign so I guess they can start young.

Renal failure often causes high blood pressure, which could contribute to the strokes he might be having. I really believe it was the high blood pressure that burst a blood vessel in Peanut's eyes making her go blind. I have no idea how to check a cat's blood pressure, but it might be something else to ask your vet about.

Oh yes, the vet said that exact same thing about the blood pressure with renal failure and possible stroke. She didn't say if there was a way to check though. I didn't realize burst vessels caused Peanut's blindness, wow.

Thanks for the support Debbie!

[jazzcat]

Catty - the vet has given valium for Ripley in the past and said it wouldn't hurt in the small dose but the stress of trying to pill him has become too hard on the old guy so I quit using it. I've been using Feliway spray and it doesn't seem to help the peeing issue with him right now and I really haven't noticed it relaxing him either. I wonder if Valium is available in a cream for his ear? That would be easy to apply.

I use to give Disney, my dog, fish oil on her food to help her skin allergy (vet suggested), I wonder if I could do that for Rip to get the Omega 3 in his system. Of course on that note she had bad canine cognative dysfunction so I guess it didn't help her much but I don't think she had strokes. Sorry, I think I'm rambling now.

Thanks for the support Jenn and Lorraine. And everyone!

[krazyaboutkatz]

Lori, I'm just now seeing this thread and I'm so sorry to hear that Ripley isn't doing well. I would just try to make him as comfortable as possible and if you're worried about him peeing in the house then I'd also do what Jen suggested and try to confine him to a bedroom or a bathroom.

Have you ever considered taking him to a holistic vet? I know that they can be more expensive but there may be some other herbal remedies that might help him remain more comfortable. I'm going to be taking both Starr and Storm to one on Aug. 9th so I can let you know more about it. You may also want to start buying the puppy training pads to help catch the pee from Ripley. I'll continue to keep him in my thoughts and prayers. I know that it's very hard to watch our furkids get old and have health problems. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[shais_mom]

I'm sorry you are both going thru this.
{{hugs}}

[ChrisH]

Oh, Lori, I am so sorry to hear about Ripley. Sending prayers, good thoughts, love and hugs for you both.

[Donnaj4962]

I am so sorry that the vet couldn't find "something specific to fix". Poor you and poor Ripley. The advice seen here from so many seems feasible. I hope something will help. Many prayers from me and the girls for you and Ripley.

[Killearn Kitties]

I'm so sorry that you are having these continuing problems with Ripley. I think he is as adorable cat and the girls and I are sending him all our good wishes and good vibes tonight. We are sending to them to you too, of course.