Max

[Barbara]

I only can listen- I have no advice to give. Our thoughts are with you.

[Medusa]

No experience w/Tramadol and pets, just that I'm switching to it myself b/c it's helping me w/my own pain. There are risks w/every drug we try but seeing that Metacam does damage the kidneys, the second vet is probably right on. I was concerned about giving it to my Boo but my vet assured me that it's ok for him but Boo isn't in CRF either. Just hold on tight and weigh your options, Slick. I found that I did so much reading that my mind just became clogged and I couldn't remember anything anyhow so I had to rely on my instincts, which were also shot by that time, so I know exactly how you feel. All you really have to do is love Max, then compare what the second vet said to what the first vet said. We're here for you. (((HUGS))) Keep the faythe.

[momoffuzzyfaces]

Sorry my friend. I have no experience with pets on Tramadol but, like Mary, I take it for pain myself. I only take mine once in a while when I can't stand the pain any more. I read it can be habit forming. I can understand why. Being in less pain can be addicting.

If the vet does start Max on Tramadol, I'd ask for the lowest possible dose to start with. I only take a 4th of a pill that I'm supposed to take. It still knocks me out for a while. (or maybe it just takes the pain away so I can sleep. I'm not real sure on that)

Hope the new vet can help. Prayers on the way for you and Max.

[gini]

Saturday morning hugs for you and for Max. I can offer you no additional information as I am completely unfamiliar with this drug.

I recall when my Magic was so ill that I read and read and ended up with a whirling mind full of bits of information, but no clear direction came to me.

It was at that point I made the decision to take Magic off all chemo treatments and stop torturing him with visits (overnight) to the vet. I feel that he had a good quality of life until the day came and he clearly told me it was time.

It broke my heart, so I understand what you are doing and how you feel.
All of us do, so I will add my name to the list of people who love you and
want to comfort you as much as we can.

[Randi]

And saturday hugs and warm thoughts coming me and Fister.

Slick, I have only once given Fister a painkiller, that was called Romefen, so I'm afraid I don't know know about the one you mentioned. If it does cause tummy problems, perhaps try to give him Royal Canin's Sensitive. KK's cats loved it as much as Fister does. I only give as treats, though.

Royal Canin Veterinary Cat Sensitive Adult S/O Dry NO30

This is what it says:
An ideal maintenance diet for adult cats with a sensitive digestion.

Also suitable for Pregnant and lactating queens and entire cats (un-neutered).

Specially formulated to be easily digestible for those cats that suffer from a sensitive stomach and do not thrive on other diets. Contains rice due to its high digestibility and beet pulp which stimulates the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria.

The Omega-3 fatty acid contact also helps maintain a healthy intestinal lining allowing easy digestion and efficient absorption for a cats optimal health.

A combination of essential fatty acids and trace elements come to form a nutritionally balanced diet that provides all the nourishment needed for healthy skin and a glossy coat.

Lots of hugs and positive thoughts to the both of you.

[carole]

I have taken Tramadol myself and for me personally i would never recommend it to anyone, it was the most awful stuff ever, good for the pain, but my head was in a different place, i could not even concentrate to pick up the phone and dial a number.

Good luck at the new vets, and just do whatever you think is best,what I and others may do may differ, you have to go with your own feelings about Max, I am thinking of you both and wishing for some positive news,just know we are all here for you through this very difficult time. HUGS

[slick]

Crap, my keyboard is not the greatest. It's got water all over it.

It was a long appointment and in summary, second vet said there is nothing else we can do. He moved Max every which way but he didn't flinch so we are both convinced that Max is not in pain - although I do know that they hide it well..... We will not explore any other option at this point as he is too far gone. Please, no bashing or thinking that I've given up, but there comes a point that quality of life is what counts. I will continue to make life easier for him as I see fit. He's wasting away - only 4 lbs now.

He hardly ate or drank anything last night. It's one day at a time at this point.