Amber has an injury to her leg.

[jenluckenbach]

Well, no real answers.

But the toes are are definitely the result of a lack of blood supply. But HOW? According to the vet, a clot would affect 1 blood vessel, but in that area there are HUNDREDS of blood vessles that could/should have taken over carrying the blood to the toes.

So..... the answer would be to amputate the leg (can't realistically do just the foot because of how they walk.)

but we are not going to do that.

she is not uncomfortable. She is getting around fine. She is relatively old, and somewhat frail (as her weight has gone down and she's actually bony). She should not have to go throught that drastic of a surgery at this point in her life.

We watch her for signs of pain and make sure gangreen (sp?) doesn't set in and we let her live her life as long as she can be happy and comfortable.

[slick]

Jen, I'm sorry that I have not been keeping up to date. How frustrating this must be for you. It's so sad to see something like this happen. Poor Amber and poor you.

For what it's worth, I agree with your decision. It's not fair to put a senior kitty through such tramatic sir jury. Just do what you can to make her comfortable and please place a kiss on that sweet forehead from me.

Prayers for you and Amber.

[columbine]

But the toes are are definitely the result of a lack of blood supply. But HOW? According to the vet, a clot would affect 1 blood vessel, but in that area there are HUNDREDS of blood vessles that could/should have taken over carrying the blood to the toes.

This just popped into my head, and may or may not make sense, but when my toes are loused up for lack of circulation, I massage them with warm oil. I use baby oil, but I guess something edible like olive would be better for a cat.

Love, Columbine (whose cat HATES having his feet touched and would be totally grossed out by this suggestion!)

[Catty1]

Hmmm...maybe an oil massage, nice and warm for Amber. If it is not uncomfy for her, she might really enjoy it. I totally agree about the surgery! Best to let her be comfy.

Could she have a bit of salmon oil daily? The omegas are supposed to help circulation, so I understand.

Please give her some gentle scritchies for me.

[jennielynn1970]

Awe... poor Amber. I hope she'll start to feel better. That's horrible that they'd have to amputate her leg. Poor girl. I hope that nothing progresses with her foot and that she'll be fine and live a long time to come.

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm sorry to hear this latest news. I agree that you should just try to make her feel as comfortable as possible. More prayers and positive thoughts are being sent her way. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[Medusa]

Yes, I think you're wise in opting for no surgery and keeping her as comfortable as possible. That would be traumatic even for a young cat. She isn't suffering so why give her any? We know that Amber will be as loved as any cat can possibly be.

[Catlady711]

Sorry to hear about Amber's foot.

That is a baffling problem. I'm sure it frustrates your vet almost as much as it does you not being able to find/solve the problem.

Glad to hear Amber is not in any pain, she has a good meowmy with you. Give her a cheek rubbing for me.