Purrs In Our Hearts - Cat Forum UK
Cat Health & Behaviour => Health & Behaviour General => Topic started by: Miroslav on July 12, 2014, 05:06:57 AM
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My Minty (19) is acting strangely - this in itself is normal, but she's mewwing a lot although she stops when I go over to her and stroke her.
I'm not 100% myself at the moment but tonight she hasn't let me sleep. She'll lay with me for a bit, cuddle in with me as normal, but no purring, then every few minutes she'll move, meww, sleep in one of her favourite spots for 5 minutes, wake up, meww, come and find me and the whole process begins again. The mewwing stops for a couple of minutes when I touch her.
She's eating and drinking fine, although she's stopped eating upstairs so much, possibly as it means she has to get off the bed and then get back, which she struggles to do when i'm in bed as I think she worries she'll land on me.
I've taken some food and drink up to her and it's on my bed (tray, newspaper the lot in the hope she doesn't spit it everywhere!) and she's eaten most of it and had a good drink.
I'm worried she's depressed - she doesn't do anything anymore other than sleep and eat/drink. I even carry her up/down stairs when i'm here as she has little energy although the vet says it's normal at her age, especially as she's had two strokes/fits/seizures. Should I stop carrying her and let her do it herself?
She generally purrs, but always has been a scaredy cat/worrier and has always found great comfort in me. Someone says she's attention seeking as I always go to her, but this seems different, like she's lonely, but I can't be home 24/7 as I need to work to pay for her. As it is , I come home a lunchtimes to feed her and make sure she is ok. When I am home, I rarely go out because of a recently diagnosed condition that means I need to rest as much as possible outside of work, so she sees me quite a lot and I spend a lot of time with her, but on the sofa she sticks her head in the back corner and never faces forward, but she's been like that for quite a while.
She's calmed down a bit now. Maybe she was waking me up as she was hungry, but she had food on the floor....I can't wake up every night to feed her as I give her a nice lot before I go to bed and in any case she'll start again soon as when i'm downstairs she's quiet after feed for a short while before mewwing again.
This has only started like this within the last week. She's always been a whinger, but this is different.
At least she's eating and drinking, I just hope she's happy.
She's started again........ :scared:
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She's purring again but every time I stop stroking her, she jolts her head at me as if to suggest 'how dare you stop'.
Any ideas on how to pick an old cat up. She's spoilt as she is and she doesn't play anymore.
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Miroslav, there are a few things which occur to me here about Minty, any of which could be the cause of her behavioural change, but let's just explore whether you think any of these may be an option.
When we had Paddy, who lived until he was just over twenty, he experienced a stroke at the age of 15.
As a result, he was left deaf, and it distressed him at first until he got used to the change. He would seek us out much more, and cry.
He had never enjoyed being picked up, but as these changes occurred, he more and more wanted to be with us, to have us near, and to be cuddled. It's possible Minty may have had another seizure you're not aware of, and it may have left her feeling confused and distressed. Paddy used to pace restlessly - almost as if he couldnt quite settle. If he wasn't pacing, he was sleeping.
Paddy also developed hyperthyroidism. It's quite common in elderly cats, and can also lead to yowling in cats that haven't exhibited that behaviour before - especially at night, for some reason. It may be worth asking your vet to specifically check for Hyperthyroidism. It would normally affect their appetite too, and can lead to increased vomiting, weight loss - especially round the hindquarters, or eating little and often, so hence repeated requests for food. The food often needs to be fresh to tempt their appetite, so food left out overnight wouldn't necessarily satisfy her (unless it's dried food, and she's accustomed to free feeding)
I wouldnt stop carrying her up and downstairs, if you dont mind doing it - it gives her much needed contact with you, and will help her access her old familiar places, which she might otherwise struggle to do on her own. I suspect her not jumping on the bed may have more to do with age and agility (or lack of it). You can get small cat steps from somewhere like the cat gallery (online) and these can be placed at one side of the bed to allow her to access the height more easily.
I dont think she's "whinging" as such, I think it's more likely to be physical changes which are affecting her. 19 years is an excellent age for a cat, but in human years she's almost a centenarian. If she's feeling poorly she may purr. It's long been thought that a cat's purr has a healing vibration which helps comfort a cat in discomfort, so can be used to help them feel better when in pain, just as much as being an expression of pleasure when they're happy. If she's purring when she has her face tucked in to the sofa, this may also be an indication that she's in pain. Cats hide it very well - as prey animals, they have to.
You clearly love Minty very much, and she loves you. I wouldnt say she's spoilt - I'd say she's been beautifully cared for - there's a difference. :hug:
The fact you're not feeling so good yourself won't be helping matters, as you'll need your rest and a good night's sleep. It's probably worth a call to your vet, to talk through Minty's behavioural changes and asking if they think it's worth testing her for HyperT, or to see if there is anything else which may have changed since her last check up. Often, your vet may be able to detect physical changes in the thyroid gland just by feeling it. Alternatively he may feel blood tests are sensible.
The time that you and Minty have left with each other is very precious. She won't be doing anything deliberately to "annoy" you. She's only reacting to the age induced changes, which may be impacting her health in ways which aren't immediately obvious. Elderly cats can be very demanding, but they're worth it. Their health issues can keep us on our toes, and that's not always easy when you're not feeling great yourself, but I hope that you and Minty will continue to enjoy and benefit from each other's company for however long is left to Minty.
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Maybe take her for a second opinion, a fresh pair of eyes may pick up on something your regular vet hasn't. Perhaps Minty is finding it more difficult to get up and down from the bed, is there any way you could make it easier for her by putting something she can use as a step? I would probably continue to carry her up and down stairs as this is probably too much for her. What about providing her with a cuddly toy to curl up to in her favourite napping spots and leaving a radio on low on a talk station when you are out?
Sending you and Minty a few :hug: :hug: :hug:
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These are one example of steps available for pets to use
http://www.thecatgallery.co.uk/Pet-Stairs-2-step_A1J5GW.aspx
You could also try a plug in like pet remedy to help calm any nervousness Minty may be feeling when you aren't there. You can get them online or from pets at home and other good pet stores.
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Spunds like she has arthritus that stops them jumping my ground hugger Millie diabetic is 17 and on a very high doseage of Insulin and has bad arthritus as well, I give her a Metacam injection as and when required and she is certainly easier for a while once it kicks in, Metacam can also be given on wet food vet prescribed. She also has an orthopedic bed now which she loves and I think thats helping to
My 2 Hyper T's are also feeling the heat at the moment and are seeking cooler spots I have fans on all day as find that helps to
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Hi Sue, Thanks for your lengthy reply.
Minty's hearing isn't great. I have been making noises that I know she reacts too - banging, whistling, weird noises - but I know that they need to be loud. She is hearing them though, but her hearing hasn't been great for a long while. She often doesn't know where the noise is coming from and looks in the opposite direction to where the noise is. Her eyes aren't the best, although she can see long distances, her vision is narrow. You need to be in front of her for her to see you as she seemingly has no peripheral vision.
Minty is a very affectionate cat. She doesn't come to you apart from at night, you have to go to her, but loves it when you do and will cuddle in with me. She may have had another seizure without us knowing. I guess I hadn't thought of it, as unlike the other two nobody has seen it and she hasn't been pacing around afterwards.
It's funny you mention Hyperthyroidism as I have the human variety. She's a yowler anyway, she likes to know someone is there, which isn't always possible, but I imagine she's never alone for more than 3-4 hours at a time. I think she was very slightly sick yesterday, but nothing else. She always has a big appetite, but usually clears a plate quickly. She hasn't lost any weight I would imagine - she's still a big lump! I'll try some dry food at night again, a mixture of wet and dry as she likes both, but prefers wet.
I don't mind carrying her at all - she can do it, I just do it to try and help her. I thought I would ask as I may have been taking away her freedom or similar. I'll look into those steps. Are they really easy for a cat. Would she realise what they were for?
She literally has two places she spends all of her time (aside food and litter) and that's her corner on the sofa (she won't go anywhere else on it) and my bed. She appears to feel safe there. If she makes it, she's 20 in October. Even though I know time is precious, she's a cat that just bounces back. I know one day she won't.
Everyone thinks she's spoilt because I buy her meat from the Deli etc. I agree she's just cared for and loved. It seems to have worked as she's nearly 20. Some people don't understand though.
I feared it may be the vet. She's sick on journeys and it's not my car. So stress for her, stress for me. I'll contact him and ask.
I know time is short now, but we've had great times together for the last near on 20 years. I guess I feel sad and teary thinking about it and i'm going to be completely lost when i've lost my final baby. I guess it annoys me that most people that I know just don't understand and that she's 'only a cat' or work thinking it's not a good enough reason not to be available for overtime as they all have 'families' and should therefore get priority over holidays, days off and Christmas hours etc.
I've called in sick today as I feel rough myself and little sleep hasn't helped. I will have to go in tomorrow though. Only 6 hours and 1/2 hour lunch means I get to come home for 10 minutes as I don't work far away. I can check her and make sure she's ok and freshly fed. Partner and flat mate are both away assisting on a summer camp until tomorrow night.
Thanks again for your response - I will respond to others now - and thanks for your link to the chair, below.
Miroslav, there are a few things which occur to me here about Minty, any of which could be the cause of her behavioural change, but let's just explore whether you think any of these may be an option.
When we had Paddy, who lived until he was just over twenty, he experienced a stroke at the age of 15.
As a result, he was left deaf, and it distressed him at first until he got used to the change. He would seek us out much more, and cry.
He had never enjoyed being picked up, but as these changes occurred, he more and more wanted to be with us, to have us near, and to be cuddled. It's possible Minty may have had another seizure you're not aware of, and it may have left her feeling confused and distressed. Paddy used to pace restlessly - almost as if he couldnt quite settle. If he wasn't pacing, he was sleeping.
Paddy also developed hyperthyroidism. It's quite common in elderly cats, and can also lead to yowling in cats that haven't exhibited that behaviour before - especially at night, for some reason. It may be worth asking your vet to specifically check for Hyperthyroidism. It would normally affect their appetite too, and can lead to increased vomiting, weight loss - especially round the hindquarters, or eating little and often, so hence repeated requests for food. The food often needs to be fresh to tempt their appetite, so food left out overnight wouldn't necessarily satisfy her (unless it's dried food, and she's accustomed to free feeding)
I wouldnt stop carrying her up and downstairs, if you dont mind doing it - it gives her much needed contact with you, and will help her access her old familiar places, which she might otherwise struggle to do on her own. I suspect her not jumping on the bed may have more to do with age and agility (or lack of it). You can get small cat steps from somewhere like the cat gallery (online) and these can be placed at one side of the bed to allow her to access the height more easily.
I dont think she's "whinging" as such, I think it's more likely to be physical changes which are affecting her. 19 years is an excellent age for a cat, but in human years she's almost a centenarian. If she's feeling poorly she may purr. It's long been thought that a cat's purr has a healing vibration which helps comfort a cat in discomfort, so can be used to help them feel better when in pain, just as much as being an expression of pleasure when they're happy. If she's purring when she has her face tucked in to the sofa, this may also be an indication that she's in pain. Cats hide it very well - as prey animals, they have to.
You clearly love Minty very much, and she loves you. I wouldnt say she's spoilt - I'd say she's been beautifully cared for - there's a difference. :hug:
The fact you're not feeling so good yourself won't be helping matters, as you'll need your rest and a good night's sleep. It's probably worth a call to your vet, to talk through Minty's behavioural changes and asking if they think it's worth testing her for HyperT, or to see if there is anything else which may have changed since her last check up. Often, your vet may be able to detect physical changes in the thyroid gland just by feeling it. Alternatively he may feel blood tests are sensible.
The time that you and Minty have left with each other is very precious. She won't be doing anything deliberately to "annoy" you. She's only reacting to the age induced changes, which may be impacting her health in ways which aren't immediately obvious. Elderly cats can be very demanding, but they're worth it. Their health issues can keep us on our toes, and that's not always easy when you're not feeling great yourself, but I hope that you and Minty will continue to enjoy and benefit from each other's company for however long is left to Minty.
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I'll look at the step that Sue has linked me too - and the plug in she suggests - maybe a feliway may help?
She used to have cuddly toys, but stopped cuddling them - maybe I will try again.
A radio won't be much use I don't think. Her hearing is dodgy at best.
Thanks for your reply.
Maybe take her for a second opinion, a fresh pair of eyes may pick up on something your regular vet hasn't. Perhaps Minty is finding it more difficult to get up and down from the bed, is there any way you could make it easier for her by putting something she can use as a step? I would probably continue to carry her up and down stairs as this is probably too much for her. What about providing her with a cuddly toy to curl up to in her favourite napping spots and leaving a radio on low on a talk station when you are out?
Sending you and Minty a few :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Spunds like she has arthritus that stops them jumping my ground hugger Millie diabetic is 17 and on a very high doseage of Insulin and has bad arthritus as well, I give her a Metacam injection as and when required and she is certainly easier for a while once it kicks in, Metacam can also be given on wet food vet prescribed. She also has an orthopedic bed now which she loves and I think thats helping to
My 2 Hyper T's are also feeling the heat at the moment and are seeking cooler spots I have fans on all day as find that helps to
Possibly. She can get around, I just think she's old and struggles up and down. Not really thought about arthritis.
The window where she sleeps on the sofa is slightly open and we have fans on.
You can tell how hot a cat is by the tips of their ears?
Thanks for your response.
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Re her deafness. She will still feel vibration. Our lovely Tom and Dingle both lost their hearing towards the end of their lives and we used to knock the floor etc as we approached to avoid startling them. Reduced hearing will also involve louder "talking". Dingle in particular was extremely vocal as she lost her hearing almost completely. Weirdly her deafness gave her a lot of freedom in her final years as Gandolf stopped chasing her :) She used to run if she knew he was about but stopped running when she couldn't hear him so he stopped chasing :)
Arthritis too very likely at such a good age. We still have the footstool by the side of the bed that our oldies used to use. She may benefit from metacam as Liz says. She may also benefit from a mat that reflects body heat? http://www.amazon.co.uk/Ancol-Self-Heating-Pet-Medium/dp/B002Q5AF84#productDetails
It's great that Minty is still such a good size and eating so well as she approaches 20. She sounds like she is very much loved and well cared for :Luv2: Her buxom size doesn't seem to point to the usual kidney, thyroid, diabetes probs that elderly cats are prone to but I'm no vet. If she is due a checkup though, I would recommend looking into some pain relief for arthritis to see how she responds but due to her age would also suggest usual geriatric blood test to hopefully rule other stuff out.
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I tend to make the noises from a far and not ones that will vibrate if you see what I mean, a loud voice - earlier she heard something outside and it was a dog barking, so she can hear a little, but not much. I do tend to make vibration to let her know i'm coming which i'm sure she appreciates.
Minty has no-one to chase or be chased by. I remember Dopey who went blind for the final couple months of her life used to be bopped on the head by Moses, her play mate - he didn't know but it confused her as to why he was still bopping her on the head.
I'll take a look at the mat - thanks. What signs are there that she has arthritis?
She is a very good size - quite a lump! The vets aren't open apart from emergencies until Monday, so will have to keep an eye on her over the weekend and if I get really concerned (I am worried, but she's coping - when I let he know i'm here, she's calm again) then i'll call emergency.
It's just strange she calms down when she knows i'm here - whether it is her ears and she needs to know I am here, or if I just reassure her.... I don't know.
Thanks.
Re her deafness. She will still feel vibration. Our lovely Tom and Dingle both lost their hearing towards the end of their lives and we used to knock the floor etc as we approached to avoid startling them. Reduced hearing will also involve louder "talking". Dingle in particular was extremely vocal as she lost her hearing almost completely. Weirdly her deafness gave her a lot of freedom in her final years as Gandolf stopped chasing her :) She used to run if she knew he was about but stopped running when she couldn't hear him so he stopped chasing :)
Arthritis too very likely at such a good age. We still have the footstool by the side of the bed that our oldies used to use. She may benefit from metacam as Liz says. She may also benefit from a mat that reflects body heat? http://www.amazon.co.uk/Ancol-Self-Heating-Pet-Medium/dp/B002Q5AF84#productDetails
It's great that Minty is still such a good size and eating so well as she approaches 20. She sounds like she is very much loved and well cared for :Luv2: Her buxom size doesn't seem to point to the usual kidney, thyroid, diabetes probs that elderly cats are prone to but I'm no vet. If she is due a checkup though, I would recommend looking into some pain relief for arthritis to see how she responds but due to her age would also suggest usual geriatric blood test to hopefully rule other stuff out.
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I think you look after Minty so well and agree with what everyone has said.
Hot ears indicate a temperature.
My late Kocka was 20 when she passed to the Bridge and had failing hearing and flapping retinas due to high blood pressure. She had a 1/4 of a mini pill for that and it could be crushed ib her food.
But she had dementia which causes howling and it seriously drives one mad and nothing can be done to help it. So with all the other health issues like thyroid, kidneys, sight, hearing, dementia is the one you cant do anything abouut but you love them so much......................
If Minty has arthritus she will be in pain and need metacam, it can be mixed in food and most cats love it cos its sweet. Sadly it can have an adverse effect on kidneys but at a grand age it is better for quality of life.
Kocka used a box to get up on the sofa until close to the end and at that point she stayed on the ground and slept and howled. I used to hand feed her cos often they dont want to eat and I used to try and get as much of a can of AD diet into her as possible and if she would eat anything else it was a bonus. She licked it off my finger or a spoon.
Sending loads of good vibes to Minty and to you cos this is a very hard time for both of you :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:
Love her as every day is precious now.
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Millie also has self reflecting head pads in all her beds and she even takes them to the cattery when she goes this time will be with the orthopedic bed as sadly she is the only one of mine the cat sittet can't do she has a phobia of needles but Millie has a fab new cattery and gets an inside run and is allowed to wander in the corridors at the cattery for exercise as she comes back when her treat box is rattled
Mt 20yo Floddy has dementia and it is the howling part that drives me nuts but she gets a treat and it stops apart from her forgotten how to use a grit box she can still jump 8 feet to the top of the cupboards where she sleeps apart from that she is hale and hearty according to the vet
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What signs are there that she has arthritis?
I got the impression that Minty doesn't like walking up and down the stairs or jumping on the bed which might point to arthritis esp if she is carrying some extra weight. Stiffness of gait would be a pointer towards arthritis. It's just very common in elderly cats. Perhaps I misread your posts? :shy:
Dingle stopped going upstairs for the last few years of her life but she was a dinkie little thing all her life so her arthritis wasn't exacerbated by her weight..
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Her ears are fine at the moment it seems. She appears to be cool and she's on the bed, head buried, fast asleep - which probably means she won't be for too long and she'll keep me awake all night.
Minty does get confused sometimes as to what route to take. We leave it the same so as not to confuse her more as she hates change.
I don't think she does have arthritis, I really think, and i'm not a vet, that it's likely to be dementia or something with her hearing - or maybe she's just under the weather.
Thanks
I think you look after Minty so well and agree with what everyone has said.
Hot ears indicate a temperature.
My late Kocka was 20 when she passed to the Bridge and had failing hearing and flapping retinas due to high blood pressure. She had a 1/4 of a mini pill for that and it could be crushed ib her food.
But she had dementia which causes howling and it seriously drives one mad and nothing can be done to help it. So with all the other health issues like thyroid, kidneys, sight, hearing, dementia is the one you cant do anything abouut but you love them so much......................
If Minty has arthritus she will be in pain and need metacam, it can be mixed in food and most cats love it cos its sweet. Sadly it can have an adverse effect on kidneys but at a grand age it is better for quality of life.
Kocka used a box to get up on the sofa until close to the end and at that point she stayed on the ground and slept and howled. I used to hand feed her cos often they dont want to eat and I used to try and get as much of a can of AD diet into her as possible and if she would eat anything else it was a bonus. She licked it off my finger or a spoon.
Sending loads of good vibes to Minty and to you cos this is a very hard time for both of you :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:
Love her as every day is precious now.
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I'll need to look into these I think and see if she goes for it.
Minty does howl but is ok once i'm on the scene to stroke her. It's just the last few days she's started howling again minutes after I leave!
Millie also has self reflecting head pads in all her beds and she even takes them to the cattery when she goes this time will be with the orthopedic bed as sadly she is the only one of mine the cat sittet can't do she has a phobia of needles but Millie has a fab new cattery and gets an inside run and is allowed to wander in the corridors at the cattery for exercise as she comes back when her treat box is rattled
Mt 20yo Floddy has dementia and it is the howling part that drives me nuts but she gets a treat and it stops apart from her forgotten how to use a grit box she can still jump 8 feet to the top of the cupboards where she sleeps apart from that she is hale and hearty according to the vet
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I just think she's old and the stairs are a long way up, for her anyway.
I just try and help her when possible. I also think when she had her first seizure, she fell a couple of steps and maybe she does recall that. She does climb up and down the stairs sometimes, she just sometimes looks at me as if to say "lift?" so I help her out as to save her legs.
She is a bulky cat - I don't recall her weight, but vet said last time that if she was any younger, he'd put her on a diet! Minty on a diet, I may as well emigrate as it's no way that this would happen.
I got the impression that Minty doesn't like walking up and down the stairs or jumping on the bed which might point to arthritis esp if she is carrying some extra weight. Stiffness of gait would be a pointer towards arthritis. It's just very common in elderly cats. Perhaps I misread your posts? :shy:
Dingle stopped going upstairs for the last few years of her life but she was a dinkie little thing all her life so her arthritis wasn't exacerbated by her weight..
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Strange night.
She was ok for much of it until about 5am and then ever since she's been mewwing, although she stops when you give her attention, but when you stop, she starts again, so little sleep last night and I must go to work today - only 10-4 though and I come home at lunch for 10 minutes to feed her, make sure she is ok.
I've given her a good feed this morning and she's eaten the lot, so nothing wrong with her appetite.
Worried about her whilst at work, obviously. People come home from camping this evening and one in particular has little time for her meowing - she's always meowed to get attention but nowhere near as bad as this, but she's going to have to learn not to get annoyed with her, as frustrating as it is.
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Hope you had a calmer night last night Miroslav.
Perhaps when the campers return (have returned?) it may be appropriate to have a word with them, and explain that whilst it might be irritating to hear Minty calling, it's no different to having a relative who is suffering from age related illness (such as dementia). Minty has limited ways in which she can make her needs known, and there has to be a degree of tolerance for her position. Compassion shown to her now will be a great life lesson for those around her. We never know when we may end up helpless and confused in our old age, and it's worth pointing out that we would hope to encounter kindness in our treatment, rather than exasperation and irritation.
It must be very hard for you Miroslav - trying to keep the peace, worryuing about how Minty's feeling and dealing with your own health problems.
We've always got an ear to spare on Purrs when you want someone to talk to. :hug:
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Well, it was calmish, until about 5am again - she must have an alarm clock!
They returned last night and were very tired going almost straight to bed. I did mention it, although it looks like I am on my own with the vets today. I know i'm the closest to Minty by a billion light years, but I hope their non attendance isn't their last opportunity.
It is frustrating, more so that I don't know the problem and Minty can't tell me and upsetting as I know time is limited, even if this can be fixed, as she is getting no younger.
It's tough right now, but i'm coping with my own issues and focusing hard on Minty, without losing sight of looking after myself. I have 3 of the next 4 days off and I need them.
I appreciate all of your responses, I really do. I just hope I don't lose my last baby :(
she's eatign lots at the moment. I am worming her in the meantime and we'll see what the vet says but i'm not sure if we will see our very good vet or one of the others that are ok, but not wanting to do too much to an animal under another vets care.
It's strange as she cries for food and also cries for....I don't know. But when I go over and stroke her, the cries stop immediately and sometimes restart seconds after I stop stroking her. :(
Hope you had a calmer night last night Miroslav.
Perhaps when the campers return (have returned?) it may be appropriate to have a word with them, and explain that whilst it might be irritating to hear Minty calling, it's no different to having a relative who is suffering from age related illness (such as dementia). Minty has limited ways in which she can make her needs known, and there has to be a degree of tolerance for her position. Compassion shown to her now will be a great life lesson for those around her. We never know when we may end up helpless and confused in our old age, and it's worth pointing out that we would hope to encounter kindness in our treatment, rather than exasperation and irritation.
It must be very hard for you Miroslav - trying to keep the peace, worryuing about how Minty's feeling and dealing with your own health problems.
We've always got an ear to spare on Purrs when you want someone to talk to. :hug:
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Will keep my fingers crossed that you get to see your preferred Vet, Miroslav. :hug: In a way, whilst it's tough on you, it might be better that you're the one to go with Minty, because she trusts you, and you're able to calm her with your presence and your touch. I hope that you have lots of time left to you both yet, and that you can find a way to enjoy this new phase in her life - or at least if not "enjoy" it then to find an acceptable way of managing it.
Enjoy your time off, and try and catch up on some rest when yu can.
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For sure. I prefer it when more than just myself goes though as it supports both of us. I hate the vet as much as Minty, I think. I always go though as she is my responsibility.
I may be back later today, it depends how much it takes out of me. If anyone here has the human version of Hyperthyroidism, topped with lack of sleep, they'll know how I feel right now.....let's just hope Minty is ok.
Will keep my fingers crossed that you get to see your preferred Vet, Miroslav. :hug: In a way, whilst it's tough on you, it might be better that you're the one to go with Minty, because she trusts you, and you're able to calm her with your presence and your touch. I hope that you have lots of time left to you both yet, and that you can find a way to enjoy this new phase in her life - or at least if not "enjoy" it then to find an acceptable way of managing it.
Enjoy your time off, and try and catch up on some rest when yu can.
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Sending shedloads of positive vibes for you both. :hug: :hug: As a bit ofan insomniac myself I know how debilitating lack of sleep can be - fortunately for me, I dont have that exacerbated by other health issues, so can imagine just how tired you're feeling. :tired:
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Oh yes - and Tinks and Moray both add their purriest purrs and good wishes for Minty too. :)
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Thanks to you and yours.
Vets at 6.20 - spoke to a new vet on the phone who at least spoke to me for 5 minutes and discussed quite a bit and sounded knowledgable.
She says diabetes/thyroid issues sound most likely but she will take bloods etc and have a good examination.
Sending shedloads of positive vibes for you both. :hug: :hug: As a bit ofan insomniac myself I know how debilitating lack of sleep can be - fortunately for me, I dont have that exacerbated by other health issues, so can imagine just how tired you're feeling. :tired:
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If the vet spoke to you for a time she sounds like she may be good, I like vets who listen and explain.
Write down your questions and thoughts/worries cos my mind goes blank and its the most important bstuff I forget!
I hope everything goes well at the vets :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:
I am another insomniac with health issues but retired so dont have to live to a time schedule.
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Pursley (18) and Beau (16) are both profoundly deaf and both are very vocal, Pursley especially likes to stay within her comfort zone and although she didn't sleep on the bed before now huddles up by my head on a pillow I've laid out for her in between me and OH. She feels protected there (we have a couple of younger cats in at the moment, one of whom, George, delights in chasing the residents off the bed! :tired: ) and will be awake almost all night, purring so loudly I have taken to wearing earplugs!
Beau is HT - his mewling is not associated with it, except for in the mornings when he knows full well the meds are coming hi way coated in a liberal casing of tuna pate or chicken paste :sneaky: but his demeanour is similar to Pursley - its not attention seeking, its more like "are you there Mum? Don't go away now, will you?" only when he's checked I'm in bed and asleep (I have to pretend) will he snuggle down on his bed on our Ottoman and sleep all night.
I suppose I'm saying the combination of deafness (and its inherent isolation) and the unusual sensations attached with old age are distressing, so comfort is sought by those both Human and non-Human alike. I think I'd cry all night for your attenton too if I knew a cuddle and a treat were available, but as we know our cats are safe here I choose to block out the cries with earplugs and the furparents eventually accept that I'm not playing any more.
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She was pretty good - more in another post shortly...
I emailed her before I went - I like to before I go in case ~I miss anything.
I'm up for work, so todays 5am alarm call was not as much of a problem as it's my earliest shift of the week on a Tuesday!
If the vet spoke to you for a time she sounds like she may be good, I like vets who listen and explain.
Write down your questions and thoughts/worries cos my mind goes blank and its the most important bstuff I forget!
I hope everything goes well at the vets :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:
I am another insomniac with health issues but retired so dont have to live to a time schedule.
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You don't have to cry all night for my attention :rofl:
Seriously though, sounds like you have your hands full.
I'm struggling with the 1, although would give anything to have my other 4 back to have the complete set of 5 again.
Pursley (18) and Beau (16) are both profoundly deaf and both are very vocal, Pursley especially likes to stay within her comfort zone and although she didn't sleep on the bed before now huddles up by my head on a pillow I've laid out for her in between me and OH. She feels protected there (we have a couple of younger cats in at the moment, one of whom, George, delights in chasing the residents off the bed! :tired: ) and will be awake almost all night, purring so loudly I have taken to wearing earplugs!
Beau is HT - his mewling is not associated with it, except for in the mornings when he knows full well the meds are coming hi way coated in a liberal casing of tuna pate or chicken paste :sneaky: but his demeanour is similar to Pursley - its not attention seeking, its more like "are you there Mum? Don't go away now, will you?" only when he's checked I'm in bed and asleep (I have to pretend) will he snuggle down on his bed on our Ottoman and sleep all night.
I suppose I'm saying the combination of deafness (and its inherent isolation) and the unusual sensations attached with old age are distressing, so comfort is sought by those both Human and non-Human alike. I think I'd cry all night for your attenton too if I knew a cuddle and a treat were available, but as we know our cats are safe here I choose to block out the cries with earplugs and the furparents eventually accept that I'm not playing any more.
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Hope all went well, Miroslav. Will wait to hear more later. :)
So know what you mean about having your babies back together in your care again.
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I've had a telephone message when I was at work and i've called back and i'm now waiting for another telephone call :P
Kidney and Liver = fine.
Sugar levels are quite high but not enough to be diabetes for sure, although it's tetering on the edge
of it.
Need to speak to her 'live' to discuss.
Hope all went well, Miroslav. Will wait to hear more later. :)
So know what you mean about having your babies back together in your care again.
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Topping up the positive vibes. :hug:
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Thanks
Ok...
Blood sugars are 15...normal is 4-8 but diabetes will be in the 20's, still a possibility though.
Thyroid tests not back in....will call me if it proves positive.
Appt for Thurs at 10.10 - with Minty having had no food for 10 hours - tomorrow night could be 'fun'.
Then we should know more....
Minty is a lot calmer today. Had my 5am alarm call and she ate a lot for breakfast. I went to work, checked on her at lunch and someone else was home today. She's been quiet and sleeping. On my lunch I fed her, she's not eaten it all - she's had some treats since I have returned at around 3pm, but no 'mewwing' - all calm, she came to see me and rubbing against me and purring.
Let's see what this evening brings...
Topping up the positive vibes. :hug:
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:crossed:
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Things are sounding good so could be just her age and eyes and hearing.................needs loads of support :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Morning Miroslav.
Wishing you and Minty a good morning.
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Yesterday wasn't so bad although she was mewwing a fair bit at times, but it was controlled with food.
Middle of her 'starve' and not going too well.
5 hours until vets and she's already up and not happy. Trying to keep her as settled as possible but by 10.10, she's going to be crawling the walls!
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Fingers in your ears time! :hug: :hug: Poor Minty - never mind old girl - wont be too long now, and when you get back, you can have another nosh.
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She was pretty good considering - now back home and chomping it down!
Well, her sugar levels were even lower on a starve than the other day, at 11.2.
Her thyroid is UNDER active which means she is unwell, but I guess that was easy to work out.
She's borderline diabetic maybe - everything else - livers, kidneys etc are fine and in fact in a better condition than a lot of younger cats.
So - she has been given Loxicam - just incase she has any arthritis which is possible and incase anything else is causing pain - she has drops starting tomorrow and has had an injection today.
Tomorrow she starts something I don't know exactly as I won't get it until tomorrow - Glycipan or something? Something to help her sugar levels being transported through her body?
Then, next week, she goes back to see how she is.
She's a very forgiving cat, she'll realise I was trying to help quick enough.
Fingers in your ears time! :hug: :hug: Poor Minty - never mind old girl - wont be too long now, and when you get back, you can have another nosh.
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Taken in the round, that all sounds pretty positive. I can imagine it will have been a bit of a relief to know your concerns for her were justified, but that her health generally is not as bad as you initialy feared.
Glad she's had a bite to eat to make up for lost time. And yes - of course she'll forgive you. :hug: :)
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I guess we worry about our little friends - even more so as they age.
I hope this will calm her down as i'm running on empty.
She already has forgiven me - given me a cuddle already :wow:
Taken in the round, that all sounds pretty positive. I can imagine it will have been a bit of a relief to know your concerns for her were justified, but that her health generally is not as bad as you initialy feared.
Glad she's had a bite to eat to make up for lost time. And yes - of course she'll forgive you. :hug: :)
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Thanks for the update, I am glad to hear that the news was, on the whole, good :)
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Cuddles - that's good. :Luv: :Luv:
Sending some for you too - everyone needs a hug from time to time. :hug:
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Sending loads of these for both of you :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Morning Miroslav, morning Minty. How are you both this morning?
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Thanks Gill :thanks:
Sue - 5am call again :P
She's pretty much the same - i'm just shattered, but managed my shift at work. Vet yet to call for me to go and collect medication, but I have another question for her now....i'll ressurect my old thread as developments have arisen.
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Glipizide is the medication she has started today...
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Well, a pretty good night. Maybe the thunder calmed her down :wow: Not that it bothers her either way.
Got up at 8am as planned having gone to bed around 9.30 - I don';t usually sleep that long but I had planned for a 5am wakeup and if it wasn't to be, a long sleep that I needed.
Pretty calm last night and this morning. Cuddled me in bed from 8-8.30 purring her not so little head off and has her brekkie with some painkiller in.
Maybe something is working - painkiller or Glipizide, or it could be just a good night.
Working 10.30-5.30 but get to come home for 10 mins at lunchtime to see she is ok etc but she appears a little happier this morning.
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:) That's good to hear Miroslav - seems like you've both had a better night
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Yes, although she has been more vocal since I posted - nothing a bit of food with a crushed pill hasn't sorted :P
:) That's good to hear Miroslav - seems like you've both had a better night
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:evillaugh: Minty's keeping you on your toes. ;)
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Minty is keeping me on my toes.
A small concern - barely touched her feed at lunchtime and eaten about a 1/3 of her meal at about 6ish.
She has scoffed a load of chicken though.
Worried she may have worked out tablet is in her cat food.
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Hope Minty is still doing well :hug: :hug:
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How is Minty?
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Hi Gill and Sue.
Thanks for asking.
She is fine....I would say just about back to where she was a couple of weeks ago.
Not mewwing as much (she always did a bit), food back to normal, drinking back to normal, sleeping back to normal.
Vets again in the morning :shy:
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That's so encouraging, Miroslav. Will keep everything crossed for tomorrow's visit. :)
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Thanks.
Not sure if tablets or loxicam has helped or whether she will stay on them, but something's changed for the better.
That's so encouraging, Miroslav. Will keep everything crossed for tomorrow's visit. :)
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Morning Miroslav. Morning Minty - thinking of you both this morning, and sending tons of good vibes for the visit to see the Vet. :hug:
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So pleased Minty is doing better, hope the vet visit goes well :)
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Only 30 mins til we go.
Minty ate overnight but not given her any breakfast as she's worse on the journey with a full stomach - not much protest so far :sneaky:
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Vet is happy but keeping her on the glipzide and the painkiller we already have is to be completed and then she can come off of it.
She's put more weight on - good and bad news as she's already fat, but she is showing better health.
Sugar level down to 8.2.
She's in a better condition anyway and we go back in a month.
Also had her nails clipped - Minty wasn't impressed!
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No, us ladies can be funny about our nails, but very pleased to hear that overall she's much improved . ;D
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I hadn't noticed :wow:
She's good right now - hope it stays that way for as long as possible.
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:evillaugh: Really?
Yes - I second that - may Minty's improvement continue and grow stronger. Would love to think you'll have years together yet. We had our Paddy until he was 20 "anna bit" bless his paws. :Luv:
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I was like that with my hair when it was long. Then I shaved it all off and never looked back - although my hairline says if I still had long hair now, i'd look like Bill Bailey :rofl:
20 would be amazing - I know it's just a number, but....
I also wish, naturally, the other 4 could have had Minty's luck. I genuinely love them all equally and wish they all lived longer. Obvious I know, but I feel for those gone that they didn't get me for longer - that sounds vain, but you get what I mean, it's not meant to be vain. :)
:evillaugh: Really?
Yes - I second that - may Minty's improvement continue and grow stronger. Would love to think you'll have years together yet. We had our Paddy until he was 20 "anna bit" bless his paws. :Luv:
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So......next Friday it's back to the vet, but Minty is doing my head in :censored:
She just meeows an awful lot. She's worse at night. I give her attention all of the time I am here. As soon as I stroke her she's fine, but when I stop, the majority of the time she starts again pretty quickly and i'm not sleeping much. :doh:
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:hug: Disturbed nights are a pain when you're working. Poor Minty, bless her.
And your comment about wishng they could have had more time with you isn't vain at all. So many of us on Purrs know exactly what you mean, and hold the same hope in our hearts for ones we've loved and lost way too soon, and the ones we cherish now.
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:hug: Disturbed nights are a pain when you're working. Poor Minty, bless her.
And your comment about wishng they could have had more time with you isn't vain at all. So many of us on Purrs know exactly what you mean, and hold the same hope in our hearts for ones we've loved and lost way too soon, and the ones we cherish now.
Funnily enough, I went to bed after I posted and she's been, for her, very good overnight - although no work today. It tends to work like this - it's as if she knows!
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So with what Sue said.
I wonder if dementia is starting, no problem healthwise but rnough to drive you right up the wall. I was there with my gorgeous Kocka for a year or two :hug: :hug: :hug:
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So with what Sue said.
I wonder if dementia is starting, no problem healthwise but rnough to drive you right up the wall. I was there with my gorgeous Kocka for a year or two :hug: :hug: :hug:
It's very possible.
As soon as I arrive and feed/give her attention, she's fine.
Sometimes she'll settle, other times she'll start again pretty quickly.
She makes mewwing noises as she's drinking/about to drink , but the vet can't find anything physically wrong. Just like when she had her two seizures, in November 2012 and January 2014 - could not find anything, so maybe it is her head.
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Does anybody know if vets charge for prescription per tablet or per prescription regardless of amount of tablets?
£17.94 for 4 glipizide tablets and they don't even know if they are what she needs.
Last time it was £40 odd when she went for the second consultation and 30 tablets included, which may suggest a consultation fee and a £17.94 prescription...
If so, I am slightly miffed they only gave me 4 tablets for something they say she may need to be on long term, despite not knowing if it's what Minty requires - i'd happily pay it if it's what Minty needs, no issues at all, I just don't want to be made a fool of.
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Does anybody know if vets charge for prescription per tablet or per prescription regardless of amount of tablets?
£17.94 for 4 glipizide tablets and they don't even know if they are what she needs.
Last time it was £40 odd when she went for the second consultation and 30 tablets included, which may suggest a consultation fee and a £17.94 prescription...
If so, I am slightly miffed they only gave me 4 tablets for something they say she may need to be on long term, despite not knowing if it's what Minty requires - i'd happily pay it if it's what Minty needs, no issues at all, I just don't want to be made a fool of.
Seemingly these tablets are the same as Glipzide http://onlinegeneric24.com/order-glucotrol-xl-online-en.html (this is a human site)
Found this as well http://www.justanswer.com/pet-cat/10zyx-give-feline-medication-glipizide.html
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Sounds expensive for four tablets, Miroslav. I think I'd ask the vet if you cuold have a breakdown for your own records.
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Seemingly these tablets are the same as Glipzide http://onlinegeneric24.com/order-glucotrol-xl-online-en.html (this is a human site)
Found this as well http://www.justanswer.com/pet-cat/10zyx-give-feline-medication-glipizide.html
Thanks. Will take a look.
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Sounds expensive for four tablets, Miroslav. I think I'd ask the vet if you cuold have a breakdown for your own records.
I contacted them and it appears they had 26 in and another 4 arrived the next day.
When I went to the vet, the receptionist only gave me the 4 and charged me for the 30, but I can collect the other 26 today as Minty is due back with them to see how she is at 5pm.
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That sounds much more like it. :) Am glad you were able to raise the matter and get it resolved.
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That sounds much more like it. :) Am glad you were able to raise the matter and get it resolved.
Just have to get the tablets without another receptionist insisting on another payment now :evillaugh:
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:ok: Indeed!
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Well, it's pretty much same as with the vet.
Continue with glipizide.
Her teeth may need work, but she is reluctant whilst Minty is still happily eating.
She doesn't think she is in pain.
Minty is not happy though. Pretty upset and mewwing and pacing sincve she got back - ate faster than i've ever seen and has not gone upstairs mewwing - not happy right now.
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Do you think Minty is just upset at the vet visit?
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I think so.
She's calmed down a bit now, although still a little agitated.
I managed to get the rest of the tablets, so that's good news.
Her blood sugar levels were back to 14, so she thinks it's underlying diabetes but not the need for insulin yet.
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I hope she calms down properly over night :hug: :hug:
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She had a good night and has calmed down a lot.
I've been at work, but it sounds like she's not been any worse than usual today.
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Thats good ;D
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Just an update...
Sorry it's been a while, but been struggling physically myself.
Minty is doing fairly well. Not a lot has changed and she is stable.
But mainly.....Minty was 20 last Friday :chicken: :loon:
Her 3 sisters would have been too. Moses was two months older.
She was a bit too old to party though but she trid to throw some shapes :Nooooo: :yesss: :attention:
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Oh my word - then a very respectful and (albeit belated) hearty :birthday: for the Honourable Minty. :wow: That's a wonderful milestone, and a great tribute to you, her devoted slave. :Luv:
Sorry to learn things have not been so good for you in the meantime though Miroslav. Please take care of yourself :hug:
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Happy birthday ti Minty ;D
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Minty's not good today.
Was sick this morning. Then she ate as normal throughout the day, but this evening has gone into the mode she was in when she had her strokes/episodes. Weak on her feet and generally not really with it mentally.
Contacted vet earlier and never got back to me before closing, so not only am I very worried, i'm also very annoyed.
Early night tonight so can be with her and will see how we are overnight.
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Morning Miroslave. What sort of night have you and Minty had? I would've been annoyed too, and hoping that you can speak with the vet today. :hug:
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Morning Sue.
Strange night.
She didn't want to be on the bed at first last night, choosing to be on her own. Then she came and laid with me before waking me up in the middle of the night wanting more food - eating some - standing in it, laying in it, wanting more, doing the same before I cleaned her off and she found her spot on the bed again.
She then proceeded every couple of minutes to move a few millimetres across the bed until about an hour later she got to the end and decided to get up and have a wander.
She went to her litter tray area, before I heard her stumbling down the stairs - she doesn't appear to be very strong, although she can walk but a little wobbly. I shot out of bed and she pooped at the bottom of the stairs where their is no litter tray (yesterday she did it in the kitchen!) before her usuall mewwing and me lifting her into her seat in the living room where she's had two lots of food in the last 45 minutes and lots of whimp-erish mewwing which only stops when I stroke her.
She's currently laying in her chair where she has her water and her chest is in the water. She's gone back to the stage where she knows where things are, but doesn't, if you see what I mean.
She's kind of acting like she was when she had the strokes/episodes but is a little more with it, but also has the physical sickness - hasn't vomited for about 24 hours though.
If the vet doesn't call me, i'll be calling them.
Even though I know she is old, i'm not at all prepared to lose her, but then we never are, are we.
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No treasure, we never are. Ever. :hug: :hug:
It does sound like she may have a form of dementia or cognitive problem, which is episodic, especially night-time restlessness. In humans dementia often gets worse with the advent of evening or nightfall.
Good luck with the vet call, and sending positive thoughts for you both. :hug:
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It's strange as it was November 2012 that she first had an issue and then Janaury this year, and now late October.
Could it be seasonal? She's warm as far as i'm aware.
She has a problem in her head, I don't think their is any doubt, but it appears to get worse this time of year.
Just given her a good brushing and she was purring, which was nice to hear. She does love a good brush.
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It's possible that when her seratonin levels fall in the winter months she suffers in some way - much as certain people can be prone to seasonal afffective disorder, but I guess it's so much more difficult to diagnose what may be affecting a cat's mental health, as degenerative brain changes may be the cause too, and naturally you cant easily ascertain whether that's the primary cause of her symptoms. Minty, bless her heart, is an absolutely splendid old age for a cat - she'd be over 100 now in human terms. I'd mention your observations to your vet, as it may give them a clue as to what is going on.
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We're back....or was it just me that was locked out? :innocent:
I did email the vet with a ful lengthy description as to what happened for 36 hours or so, just so she knew the full details as I tend to forget things.
Anyway, it's not good.
I took her in. Minty was in a world of her own and her glucose levels were sky high. They now accept she is diabetic.
The vet took her home last night so she could keep an eye on her, and inject her insulin.
She phoned this morning and she has picked up sugar level wise. Unfortunately, Minty was still on another planet with little/no idea of anything going on around her. We chatted and one of the options was to let Minty go. Not definite, but 50/50.
I phoned back moments ago as i've just finished work and Minty has picked up since this morning. She has shown signs of being more aware and she has nibbled at some food. She is still spaced out, but their is an improvement. She is on a glucose drip at the moment.
I go to the vets at 3.45 to discuss options. I'm off to the GP shortly to discuss being given the weekend off work. I am very low and i'll be even lower if I lose her tonight. Even if I don't lose her tonight, I want what may a last weekend with her. I will make the right choice by Minty, regardless of this. If today is the right day for Minty, then so be it. If she does survive I will need to learn how to inject her daily. One option is to have a brain scan, but the vet said at 20, it would be unfair and I agree.
Trying to work without tears was very tough. Minty is a fighter only this time she cannot have steroids to help her due to the insulin.
I'll update later.
This forthcoming Monday will be five years since I lost my Dopey. I hope I will be honouring her life and Minty will still be here.
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that is a lot to take in :hug: glucose can take a while to come down, well in people anyway so don't give up all hope yet
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Thinking of you both today Miroslav, and hoping that you dont have to make that decision just yet. :hug:
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Miroslav and Minty :hug: I hope that the moment you are dreading has not yet arrived.
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So very hard with elderly cats and am sending Minty lots of good vibes and these for you :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Thanks for your replies.
Ok, Minty is home. She has been given the next 2-3 days to improve. If she doesn't, it will be the kind thing to let her go.
I have a number to call over the weekend and Monday my surgery is open. Tuesday is D-Day as long as nothing bad has happened in the meantime.
She's with it for a short time and then zones out again. We returned 30 mins ago, she hasn't left her carrier, she's just permantly zonked at the moment. She sniffed her pillow when she returned, but not tempting enough to come out.
I was shown how to give her insulin and I am comfortable with it She will need two shots a day - 6am and 6pm, so no lay ins for me :sick:
I was also told Minty has been aggressive each time she has stayed at the vets - it's Halloween not April, Fools? Minty is less aggressive than a money spider. She obviously doesn't like the vet! Vet didn't mind though she's used to it and she'd rather her be aggressive than the state she is in now.
I have the time off work, so Sat-Mon I am off.
Take each minute by minute. I was 50/50 as to what to do, but speaking to about 4/5 vet staff it was decided to keep her going as she is having more good moments than overnight/this morning, so maybe...
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Every moment is special ith her treasure all of them :hug: :hug:
Pleased she is home and hope she picks up
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Don't worry, I intend too.
Pretty poor night.
Took her to bed. Carrier on the left side of the bed. I put chicken and wet food just outside (I realise the cleanign I now have to do) she sniffed the chicken and had a small nibble at the food, but that was it.
She then climbed out of the carrier, stepping through her food and slumped on my shoulder and remained there/right beside my head, all night. Virtually out of it the whole time.
A little movement this morning, but hardly anything.
I brought her downstairs this morning. She nibbled at some food and has had an insulin injection. She is awake-ish as opposed to being zonked but nothing to write home about.
It's a case of monitoring her now and taking each section of the day bit by bit.
How I miss her mewwing. Not a sound from her.
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My thoughts are with you and Minty :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Thanks Jiji
Well, she is eating and drinking, responding and has now just started mewwing.
Even in the 6 hours of this morning their has been a vast improvement.
I'm not getting too carried away but I am delighted with her fighting spirit (as per usual). She won't give up that's for sure.
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Maybe the insulin is starting to work?
Sending loads of good vibes for a continued improvement :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Well, the vet seems to think the insulin is only a small part of it and her brain is the biggest worry.
How much insulin can affect her brain, I don't know, but if it is this that is making the difference, i'm more than happy to inject her twice a day. It's not as scary as I thought.
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I am a diabetic and dont think insulin affects the brain at all but lack of can affect balance, confusion, not being with it and other stuff cos your body is overloaded with sugar
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Well, hopefully this is the answer then as balance and confusion have been problems.
I'll keep a close eye on her as i've taken the weekend off work, even though a phonecall this morning tells me i'm in trouble on Monday :sick:
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hope you are not in too much trouble, why is it that some cant understand that cats are like looking after a child!
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I guess I will find out Monday but I can get new jobs, I can earn more money but I cannot replace Minty.
I'm very easy to get on with but i'm also someone who has my say when required and I don't back down when pushed.
Having lost a child, the feelings are different in many ways, yet so similar in others. A bereavement is a bereavement.
Since then, I don't particularly like children, or more so, parents. I am inclined to tell the bosses who have kids, should they get funny with me, that I feel the same way about children as they do pets. I think I may seek advice from my union rep first though.
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Well, Minty is about 80%, possibly more, of the cat she was.
She's urinated where she sits a couple of times. She is not confident going up/down stairs and her litter trays are upstairs.
She's eating a bit less, but she is picking up her food intake. She is eating enough, i'm just used to her out eating me :rofl:
She's a little more needy. She does appear to be appraoching her old self though.
This has happened twice and she's made it back and the third time is looking ok too. I won't be over celebratory as she is 20 and the end has to come sooner or later, but this one's a fighter.
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that is good news, its true that glucose does go to the brain and almost glues up the synapse which causes confusion once the glucose goes down it improves
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Hoping you dont get too much aggravation work-wise Miroslav. I couldnt agree with you more, but it's added pressure that you really dont need right now. :hug:
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Dawn - well hopefully the insulin is what is making the difference. It's a better outcome than if it was the brain which has problems as there is no cure.
Sue - I went in on my day off and we had a chat. They saw my side when I said I was off due to anixety and depression due to Minty being ill rather than wording it as I was off because Minty was ill.
Basically it had to be me that was unwell to work, not Minty.
I don't think they are happy, but as everyone in store has had time off for illnesses, notably depression, I think they are accepting it.
I have two jobs and i'd rather the weekend job tell me off than the week job as they are trying to get rid of people as it is, although I have a union rep - and he has had the same illness which can lead to anxiety and depression, as me.
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Didn't think I would need to update so soon, but...
Minty has just climbed the stairs to have a pee.
Very shaky walking up so I stood behind her.
Pee was a bit strange as in it came out in 3 - 4 bursts as opposed to all at once, like she would spray and then hold back. Also was sitting up as per usual when she started but by the end she was almost on her stomach. No cries of pain and not sure if that can be considered normal but can take those thoughts with me to the vet tomorrow.
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This sounds good but I would give her a litter tray downstairs
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Yes, I am going too, although the last couple of hours have not been so good.
Minty has pooed in a strange place again and like every time she has done this, she's gone funny.
When I popped out to work for a chat, I was barely an hour.
I have no idea what is going on with her. She's refusing food again now.
Truly baffled.
This sounds good but I would give her a litter tray downstairs
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When does she go back to vet to have her sugar levels checked?
At this point in time they need to be monitored closely, dont know if you can do it at home :hug: :hug:
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4.30pm tomorrow
Different vet, but we've seen him before - both main vets there are good.
Now i'm worried as I have work tomorrow - up for Minty's injection then off to work and back home at 2ish.
Luckily, work is 6/7 minutes away and I come home for a few minutes on break to check on her. Always have come home but now do so to check she is ok.
When does she go back to vet to have her sugar levels checked?
At this point in time they need to be monitored closely, dont know if you can do it at home :hug: :hug:
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Strange night.
She stayed with me for a bit before leaving the bed. Woke up 4am to an empty room.
She'd made it downstairs in her seat, but she's had a pee and laid in it. Not eaten much if anything, although she is more with it than last night. Nibbled at breakfast, gone back to one of her places.
Better than last night in that she is more with it, but she's restless. Pacing up and down to the litter tray and her water bowl, pacing back to her place and repeats over and over.
So tiring having to wash her all the time. Hopefully she will get better.
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Oh Miroslav. Poor Minty. It's so very hard when they're increasingly frail. Will be thinking of you both today.
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Home for my break.
She's eaten a little. I've given her fresh food - a small nibble from her.
She is alert, so that's one good thing.
I just wish we knew what was wrong. Her bloods show her to be healthy, high glucose levels aside.
As she is currently, she's not at a point where I say it's fair to let her go. She's not 100% but there is hope. Compared to Friday and Saturday she's in a good state. It's just a backward step after Sunday and Monday (most of it)
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So very hard but it can take a long time to get unsulin amounts right,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,sending loads of good wishes :hug: :hug: :hug:
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I was wondering if insulin levels could be adjusted. I thought they must be able to.
She's on 1.5 at the syringe level.
I've just got home. She's not eaten any more than from 2.5 hours ago.
In a bit of desperation, although not total desperation as she has been nibbling, i've given her some Tuna in water. She's been having a good go at it for the last 3 or 4 minutes although not much has been eaten.
She is alert though, hence the attempting to eat, so she's not in too bad shape and i'd say better than last night now.
Up and down like a yoyo.
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Yes they definately can do this as its the only way of getting the sugar levels right but needs constant monitoring..............seem to think they have something that allows you to do this at home.
Low blood sugar is as bad as high.
Nibbling is good, slow and sure but the amount of food and type of food all affect sugar levels
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Hopefully they can give me something at home, even if I have to dip in her urine or something.
Tuna wasn't what I wanted but it was in water which makes it better than brine.
She loves chicken but hasn't touched the last two lots. Will have to read the labels to make sure that no added sugar is being used.
Just spoke to the lady vet we have seen although it's the bloke today. She talked about changing insulin levels but won't know until the bloke vet tests her later.
Yes they definately can do this as its the only way of getting the sugar levels right but needs constant monitoring..............seem to think they have something that allows you to do this at home.
Low blood sugar is as bad as high.
Nibbling is good, slow and sure but the amount of food and type of food all affect sugar levels
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I think it is a dip ttest but maybe wrong :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Looking at your suggestion, Gill, I think that seems to be about right and something easy enough to do.
We'll see what he says in an hour.
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I shouldn't moan, but £53 for a sharp box, 30 needles and a glucose test plus I guess the consultation fee is a bit OTT.
Nothing that couldn't have waited until Thursday when we must return again.
Minty has perked up though - still £53 plus journeys both ways was an expensive perk up!
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I got my sharps box free but in the end used coffee jars and just handed them in to the vet with no issues, also the boxes washing powder capsules come in works a treat as well
Needles and Insulin do however work out at about £35.00 a month depending on the insulin dose - I have had 3 diabetics and have 2 Hyper thyroids as well
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The Sharps Box may have been free. We didn't get a breakdown of costs.
We already have insulin, it was just needles, although Minty will need more insulin on Thursday.
Forgot to say yesterday, when in the vets, Minty was laying there with head facing me, back end facing vet, vet was talking and Minty looked at me, lifted her tail and let out a gush of pee all over the vet who ducked for cover.
I know cats can't smile, but I could swear their was a look of satisfaction on her face and if she could smile, she'd have had a big cheshire grin :rofl:
She's been very good overnight. Stayed with me all night other than to use litter tray and eat/drink. Waking me around injection time to ask for breakfast. Very perky and relaxed today. As normal as she has been since this started again and i'd say very close to being her usual self.
I got my sharps box free but in the end used coffee jars and just handed them in to the vet with no issues, also the boxes washing powder capsules come in works a treat as well
Needles and Insulin do however work out at about £35.00 a month depending on the insulin dose - I have had 3 diabetics and have 2 Hyper thyroids as well
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A promising update, Miroslav. :hug:
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Yes it is.
Take it bit by bit though as it may be just for a short while.
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Love thinking of that cheshire grin :rofl:
Every day as it comes and thats a good one :hug: :hug:
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Lovely story and nice to think of Minty getting some revenge on the vet! :rofl: I'm glad that things are going well today, long may it continue :hug:
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Going to bed in a minute and Minty is still good.
She meowwed at me earlier and I took her to her tray.
It seems when she is downstairs she wants me to take her to her tray. She does have one downstairs now too but yet to use it.
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Well she is comunicating with you. thinking things out , sounds good ;D
hope you both sleep well
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Morning Miroslav. How was your night, and how is Minty today?
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Gill - She's still not used downstairs tray though. Maybe she's not used to it.
Certainly lets me know in the morning that it's food time :wow:
Sue - Very good thanks.
She's back to where she was over a week ago. Only concern is she's asking me when downstairs to go to the loo. I'm not sure her confidence on the stairs is that good as she's downstairs all day. At night, after a few hours, she will come downstairs, almost as if to say after moaning to me, she'll be downstairs waiting for breakfast :evillaugh:
I'm wondering if she's had a fall down the stairs or something without me realising.
I've contacted the vet to see if she wants to see her. I'm reluctant the way she is as she's happy and I don't wish to upset her and knock her back. We'll see what she says.
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Yyes it sounds that she has a real problem with stairs.
Napoleon when he was having seizures had a problem. He didnt want to do stairs or jump up onto anything.
She has either had an accident, legs or head dont feel right, lost confidence but whatever she has a problem with them and quite rightly looks to her slave to help her :innocent:
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Paddy didnt do stairs for the last year or so of his life either. :hug: Think sometimes it's a confidence thing, sometimes they are too challenging for weak legs or arthritic conditions, and as Gill says, sometimes it's really hard to say why. Doesnt really matter if you can accommodate her food nad litter needs one way or another. :)
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Minty got down from her chair earlier but was confused. I took her to the tray downstairs but she refused to acknowledge it.
I took her upstairs and she used her upstairs trays - well, tried too, but missed. :P
She's had another good day and the vet phoned to say not to bring her in as she was doing well and they are there when we need them and when we need more insulin.
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Yes you tried ;D
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Still all good, aside one thing.
In bed last night she was cuddling me and then got up to leave. I stopped her to give a hug before she left - she wee'd on me :sick: :rofl:
Deserves me right for laughing about the vet, although my wee'd on was a very minimal amount although it was over my naked stomach :P
Still, she's used the downstairs tray whilst I was at work :evillaugh:
Shattered after work - I had to clean myself off in the middle of the night and change my bedding - little madam :tired:
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she is a mature lady, comes to us all in the end :naughty:
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Love knows no bounds, Moiroslav. :hug: :evillaugh:
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She acted as if nothing was wrong. She cuddled back in with me before I couldn't take it any more and had to wash and change bedding.
Never done it before, so must be for current reasons.
Hopefully she wont do it again, but next time she wants to leave, I won't be begging her to stay :rofl:
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Miroslav, I'm putting some of the posts together and coming up with a teeny tiny theory.
She's lost her confidence on the stairs...
Pooing outside her tray....
Two accidental wees, one with a little squeeze....
May have had a fall....
I wonder, putting all these things together if she has in fact injured her pelvic area and lost some sensation in her bowel and bladder. This may be what's confusing her, if she can't feel the need to "go" then she may not realise she's actually going?
I'm comparing apples with oranges, I suffered multiple fractures to my pelvis some years ago and this loss of sensation actually happened to me, I'm almost right these days but the first few weeks were difficult to manage until the bones knitted and nerves mostly repaired themselves. :doh:
Wishing you and Minty some loving times over the weekend. :hug:
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Hi Sheila
How would the vet find this out? Would their be any pain?
I ask as the vet examined her and felt all around her body and she didn't flinch or anything.
I think she is aware of when she needs to go but I think she's just not making the effort to go to the tray, although she as improved. Today she's been up and downstairs trays when i've been out and made her way to and from the bed and her chair, so I think she is improving.
Their is a problem there in that usually she will hold on when I grab her and just moan before I let her go, but last night she decided to just pee there and then.
It may be pelvic but would the vet not pick that up? I know you say loss of sensation, so you may be right. Certainly another avenue explore.
I'm working the weekend, so it's 3 hours in work, check at lunch, 3 hours in work and then home. Not big shifts but enough to keep me away from madam :-[
The evenings will be party time though. If you think a food fest in front of the footie is a party.
Not sure the good lady and friend who live with me will think it's a party, but if I tell them Minty thinks it's a party, I may get away with it ;D :naughty:
Miroslav, I'm putting some of the posts together and coming up with a teeny tiny theory.
She's lost her confidence on the stairs...
Pooing outside her tray....
Two accidental wees, one with a little squeeze....
May have had a fall....
I wonder, putting all these things together if she has in fact injured her pelvic area and lost some sensation in her bowel and bladder. This may be what's confusing her, if she can't feel the need to "go" then she may not realise she's actually going?
I'm comparing apples with oranges, I suffered multiple fractures to my pelvis some years ago and this loss of sensation actually happened to me, I'm almost right these days but the first few weeks were difficult to manage until the bones knitted and nerves mostly repaired themselves. :doh:
Wishing you and Minty some loving times over the weekend. :hug:
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Xrays would show if there was or had been damage to pelvis but suspect that even if she had an old injury nothing would help as like Sheila its a matter of time.
I think that her age is catching her up but sounds like the insulin is helping
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I do think it is age and diabetes.
Insulin seems to help. Vet said it takes a few days for insulin to take effect and she's been good since Tuesday evening now ;D
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I got my sharps box free but in the end used coffee jars and just handed them in to the vet with no issues, also the boxes washing powder capsules come in works a treat as well
Needles and Insulin do however work out at about £35.00 a month depending on the insulin dose - I have had 3 diabetics and have 2 Hyper thyroids as well
Just been to the vet and it's £5.74 for a sharps box which needs to be replaced every month :-[
I think next time I will be using a washing powder box.
My bill today was £32.86 for 25 days of insulin, 30 needles and the sharps box.
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and they wonder why people don't take pets to the vet, I'm sure you wouldn't mind if it was for medicine but a plastic box???
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and they wonder why people don't take pets to the vet, I'm sure you wouldn't mind if it was for medicine but a plastic box???
I am a little annoyed although the easiest thing for me to do is not replace it next time and just fill up another box of my own.
The first vet didn't offer one, the second one did when I asked what to do with the needles, although he took the first lot I had in a bag and put them in his own sharps box is his consultation room.
Today it was a vet nurse who I find, not unfriendly, but not as smiley as the others. She also seems awkward around the animals that come in and not really wanting to interact with them.
Oh well, next time I needles in just over two weeks, i'll just go in for the needles and not a box!
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I have used coffe jars, the boxes from Washing up tablets and my vets took them no issue and if its a full bottle of insulin then depending on the dose it can last a while longer than they recommend and we never chucked a bottle till it wash finished and the one thing to remember is to roll the bottle to mix the contents as shaking destroys the suspension
I was also as my vet put it to good with a needle and used the same one twice a day with no ill effects on my last 3 diabetics
I would shop about for the needles as am sure that Vetmeds or similar are cheaper to buy but never were for us with our vets discount
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Just put the needles in a glass jar or plastic container with lid.this is so pathetics and what use is a vet nurse who doesnt interact with animals...............fire her!
No wonder insurance keeps going up with vets ripping people off
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Liz - I will use something else. It's only £5.74 but it's the principal of paying for a plastic box. They probably empty it in the vets and try and get as many crammed into their own ones.
I know about the insulin - luckily the vet told me or I may have shaken it!
I was told to use each needle just once?
The vets don't give me prescriptions, they just give us the things we need. I know they make their money like this and don't want to upset them too much as Minty's life is their hands. Can I buy needles without prescription?
Gill - i'm going to use something else when i've filled this box.
The vet nurse is strange. I think she's a bit backwards. The usual vet nurse is friendly and helpful. As a whole, they are a friendly vets, but one or two don't appear to be the brightest.
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Miroslav, I don't mean to cause offense to any reader but free needles are available on the NHS to drug users, I know this facility is abused by bodybuilders who use them for their steroids, just an observation... :-: i wonder if PDSA might help you out with sharps?
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I dont know the difference between needles for cATS AND NEEDLES FOR HUManS BUT KNOW TGHE ONES FOR CATS ARE grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr in coloured 'holder' orange, blue and green and which colour determines how thick. The syringe bit also comes in different sizes and think the short chunky ones are used for diabetic cats.
i was given thesze to inject napoleon with his abs as they sort fit in the palm of hand and are easier to use.
tbh i would stick with what the vet gives you.
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Sheila - I have to pretend i'm a drug user :rofl:
I'll just settle for a jar or something with a lid - the needle itself is protected by a red cap anyway.
Gill - I have red tipped needles 1/2" although they are syringes really with a needle at the end
This is the box and you can see the red cap http://www.animeddirect.co.uk/caninsulin-syringes-05ml-pack-of-30.html
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Those are the needles and yes you can buy them without prescription - they are very fine and suitable for insulin and if its small lots of injectable Metacam ideal for that to except its a bit gloopy
There are so many different types of needles - I have about 7 different sorts for giving sub Q fluids, injecting and drawing them, ASntibiotics, Liquid Metacam, Vit B injections and a couple of other sorts depending on how big the cat is and whats needed to go in them - proper pharmacy of needles here :shocked:
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Ok I have never seen those but cat was not diabetic...............very expensive needles and syringe
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Miroslav you can get a sharps box from you local doctors for free
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They are all in one needles due to the delicate nature of the suspension, on behlaf of the late Millie we donated 2 boxes of needles and 2 new bottles of insulin to a lovely old ladies cat as she was worried about the cost and our vets kindly agreed to add our discount for any of the diabetic requirements for a further 12 months - so do love our vets
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They sound fantastic Liz! From the stories I hear, so many of them seem to be interested in only the money, yours sound completely different.
I have to say that we have 2 different vets and both lots seem very good (which is why I can't make up my mind to switch either cat to the other vet!).
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Liz - May get the needles rather than go to the vets every fortnight which is 30 mins walk away. Any particular reason they only want to give me 2 weeks supply when they are happy to give 4 weeks of insulin?
I think even though I can get a sharps box from GP's that i'll just fill this one up and then use something else.
Liz sounds like she has a good vet :)
Now, question. Minty is peeing outside her box. Sometimes she deliberately does, sometimes she gets in the tray but her bum is too near the back and sometimes she puts her front two legs just about in and then just pees.
It's on the wooden floor landing at the top of the stairs. I keep washing it and hot air blow drying it but I do worry that this will cause other issues.
Anything I can do? Tried difffering litters but to no avail.
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Best you can do I think is put puppy pads under and round tray edge.
Lupin also gets too close to edge and Misa, not deliberate just how they use the tray
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as well as the pads you could try a tray with a raised back, and push the litter towards the back in hopes of encouraging her further into the tray - might work if she still likes to dig
but it does sound as if her spatial awareness is not what it was, and that is unlikely to get any better
my mother's cat had this problem, and I used those cheap cloths on a roll (usually blue or orange) rather than puppy pads, because they rinse out and dry in a trice, and so are much cheaper than the pads
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Thanks for the suggestions - nothing is working.
I thought I had it last night - 4 litter trays in a pattern and she climbed in one. Woke up this morning and she'd had a couple more wees on the floor around them .
We are going to get kicked out at this rate.
Cleaning and eliminating the odour is hard work and as soon as I have, she's back at it again!
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I don't know of this has been suggested or not, but have you tried a tray like the sort you would carry your dinner on?? She might not be able to get into the litter tray easily??
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I'd not thought of it but she doesn't have any issues getting in and out I don't think. I watched her climb in. She just sniffs the clean trays and then decides to do it on the floor beside them. Tried different litters, trays, different sized trays etc, different places, even moved to the middle of the landing where she has been peeing.
I'm going to have to buy or pampers or something and lay them on the whole floor as i'm worried we are getting a leak into the kitchen below through the wallpaper - I really hope not or my Xmas present is eviction and to lose Minty. I am at my wits end now.
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One we have tried is the very high 3 sided tray from garden centres for potting up - it has 3 high sides then a flat entrance so to speak with a slight lip, puppy pad under the front maybe you answer, we have used them in the past for amputees about £10.00 maybe worth a try :hug:
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my problem is tilly goes in the tray but pees out backwards without lowering her bottom - we have got a large plastic tray which is actually the base of a dog crate, cost 8.99 and luckily catches everything - not sure if that would help but thought I'd tell you anyway
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Another daft idea from me !
Do you totally clean the litter trays? If you do it may help if you dont!! Just take out used litter and leave her smell inside.
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On the same thought line as Gill, although again it may have been mentioned, what do you clean the trays with??? I just clean excess :censored: off mine and then steam/boil the living daylights out of them.
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Liz - I will check one out. We have two garden centres close by, so worth a gander.
Dawn - Again, i'll take a look. Minty does that sometimes and it just flies all over the place.
Gill - I tend to take out the areas she's used and replace the litter but also other days replace the whole lot.
lilli - I tend to clean the excess out and then other days replace the whole lot and once a week give her a whole new tray. When I clean I wash with soapy water, then dettol spray them.
I've tried £3.29 ones, £2.39 ones and Poundland ones - different sizes and colours etc. She currently has 4 upstairs. She has peed next to one and pooped about 4 feet away from any tray near the bathroom door - maybe she's asking for big loo? :)
I've looked at Pampers :o I cna get two carpet runners for the same price and I have done so today. I will replace them weekly. They will protect the floorboards a bit more. I will wash anything she does on them and see if we can last the week before I replace them.
Expensive, but it's not forever as she is an oldie and i'll pay it.
Other than this issue, she's doing great and is as happy as Larry. Whoever he is :D
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Just a thought, my lot detest the smell of Dettol, I stopped using disinfectant on the
Utter trays after we had a bout of inappropriate peeing, and now I just scrub them out with blue fairy liquid which contains antibacterial agents. The kids seem much more inclined to use a loo that smells like a loo, if that makes sense? Ok, your Mum might not approve but it's much cleaner than having to constantly clean the rest of the house right? ;D
Glad she's happy as Larry, and love that you're doing all you can to keep her that way :wow:
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I disinfect trays rarely (every few months or so or if obviously needed) but, when I do, I use Johnsons Clean and Safe for litter trays that I get from Pets at Home. I wouldn't use any human disinfectants as not at all sure they are safe but also due to the smell. Cats' sense of smell is very much greater than ours and they rely on it a great deal. I scoop and replace soiled litter as soon as I see it's been used and every so often wipe around the rims of the trays and the cat flap with unperfumed huggies baby wipes.
Could be that it's nothing to do with cleaning her trays though? These are for you and Minty :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Sheila - I have some anti bac fairy, so will try that. She does seem to 'miss' the trays even before I disinfect though.
The runners are saving the floors at least. Have to constantly clean them and replace them, but cheaper in the long run.
Rosella - will look into the Johnsons. I tend to just replace the trays often. She has been a bit better since the runners went down. Instead of going in a 3m squared area, she's kept it to about a metre squared :-:
Merry Christmas Everyone - my favourite thing this Christmas is having Minty here ;D
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Have a great Christmas , you and Minty :hug: :hug: :hug:
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I have a covered litter tray for mine, and all three use it, although I had to dig out a spare when Lily first arrived. I don't think they'd all use the same tray if it wasn't covered.
Similar to this, though if you google "cat litter trays" you'll find many variations:
(http://nt.petplanet.co.uk/images/product_images/extra_images/60700/10_Kitty_Litter_Box_without_Door.jpg)
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I'm trying all sorts of litter trays but nothing is working.
Since Friday, she's started going wherever she wants :-[ She's not even trying to get to the right place anymore.
She leaves the living room and pess on the hallway carpet. It's so tiring cleaning up all the time.
I know she can get upstairs, she does it numerous times a day and night.
I swear the vet makes up the prices of syringes. £28.56 for 30 today which isn't even comparable to elsewhere - less than £10 online plus delivery, but not £18 delivery!
I might contact the vet as nearly £1 per syringe sounds a bit OTT.
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I have forgotten. How old is Minty?
Maybe you need to get a second opinion.
The syringe charge seems well OTT, I know they are special ones but..................
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Minty is 20.
Think I may get the syringes online. £10-£11 for 30, free delivery 2-5 days.
I have forgotten. How old is Minty?
Maybe you need to get a second opinion.
The syringe charge seems well OTT, I know they are special ones but..................
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20 is a great age, is it possible she just can't remember?
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She knows. She often sniffs the trays and rarely, but sometimes, uses it.
It's almost like a stand against something.
I just hope we get no permanent house damage from this.
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Oh Miroslav, I'm so sorry that this seems to be getting worse. Unfortunately, I think it may well be a case of age catching up with her, and an element of dementia.
It's really tough when you're in rented accommodation, and I can understand your anxiety. :( :hug:
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Well, she's pooped upstairs. Didn't even think of doing it downstairs.
I know she's old, but it's a case of worrying how long she has left.
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I agree with Sue.
Its so sad and know Kocka had accidents at that age but owned my own property and think that even if I hadnt I would have just cleaned up after her.
:hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:
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She's urinated on a puppy pad! :naughty: Finally :wow:
I do clean up after her, it's just tiring, especially with a health condition of my own. Everything is that much harder - and she seems to pee more than she used to, but maybe that's the diabetes, especially with more drinking etc.
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Thats good ;D
I have a health condition too and used to have to crawk around after Kocka to feed her cos she would only lick food off my finger and then she would move but loved her too pieces
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This is why we do it, because we love them to pieces :wow:
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This is why we do it, because we love them to pieces :wow:
It is indeed, creaking and aching bits notwithstanding. :hug:
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Well, I took Minty to the vet today and she has Cystitis. Another £63 and next Wednesday she is booked in for a Glucose Curve.
Money is running out so some serious cutting back is needed :shify: I don't do a lot so it's going to need to be downgrading food for a while I think :sick: Also some extra shifts at work, which I shouldn't do due to my own health - already got a 4 hour shift extra for tomorrow.
It turns out I was charged for two lots of syringes, so picked up the other box today.
The costs are
10 syringes is £4.76, or £14.28 for a box of 30. The Caninsulin is £12.84 for 2.5ml
Hopefully Minty will respond to her antibiotics today and I have some Loxicam to use at home for her as of tomorrow.
The vet did say it is going to be difficult to tell when the time is right for her at the end as she's such a fighter and comes backs from things a lot of cats wouldn't. It's quite remarkable she's still here and generally in a decent state of health/happiness.
I would post a pic but not sure how to take a good pic and then upload it from tablet >:(
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:hug: :hug: :hug:
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Glad you queried the charges Miroslav.
Oddly enough, this entry was posted on another blog I follow, yesterday, and I found much of it resonated with me. It's about trying to define when is the right time to let go, and it may help in any future decision you make. I'll post it here anyway in case anyone else may find it helpful:
http://www.wayofcats.com/blog/dear-pammy-but-my-cat-still-has-good-times/31060
Sending a gentle ear rub for Minty. :hug:
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Thanks for the link.
Good read. I think we'll know when it's time. Minty is happy as anything again. It just seems she needs boosts every now and then.
Glad you queried the charges Miroslav.
Oddly enough, this entry was posted on another blog I follow, yesterday, and I found much of it resonated with me. It's about trying to define when is the right time to let go, and it may help in any future decision you make. I'll post it here anyway in case anyone else may find it helpful:
http://www.wayofcats.com/blog/dear-pammy-but-my-cat-still-has-good-times/31060
Sending a gentle ear rub for Minty. :hug:
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And she's fortunate to have you looking after her. :) :hug:
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Here she is on her chair - not a great pic - she knows what a camera is and tends to shy away from them 8)
I've also been trying to resize to post, so if their are marks all over the pic, it's where i've accidently done something :briggin: I kept cutting her face off :sick:
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she is lovely, has a very sweet face
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D'you know, looking at that photo, she really doesnt look her age. She'a a beautiful lady.
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She is lovely and she doesn't look old in the face at all. She is also fuller figure :wow: Weighs 5.4kg now, was a little higher but is steady weight.
Walks like she's 20 though and she's definitely 20 as we got her and the others in 1994 ;D
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Minty is lovely ;D ;D
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A couple of good days but now back to peeing everywhere and trying to toilet all the time.
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Thats her cysitits. Have you some Metacam?
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Loxicam.
Strangely she's alright in the day but in the evening/overnight she's far worse.
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I don't suppose anyone has any idea how much a glucose curve would roughly cost? I know it varies but are we talking 10's or 100's? :sick:
Can only find American costs online. If it's similar to UK, we're probably looking at 60 or 70 8)
I did ask the vet surgery but they weren't sure >:(
Minty goes in tomorrow morning for one :P
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Am not sure Miroslav, but just wanted to wish you and Minty good luck for today - hoping the fee isn't as high as you fear. :hug:
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I think our last one for Millie in August last years was about £60.00 but I do get a very good discount at our vets
Good luck for you both today :hug:
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Well, yesterday didn't happen.
I'm not allowed to drive for various reasons so rely on others at times like these and they didn't show :sick:
Rang twice and they didn't know where they were but it was clearly noted they were due to take me and Minty to the vets.
So, possibly next week now.
Poor Minty. Got her ready, in the carrier, waited and waited....and nothing. She wasn't as upset as I thought she was going to be, thank goodness. She doesn't like the carrier and travel.
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Oh Miroslav - I'm so sorry. That's so frustrating, not to mention disappointing, that someone would let you down like that. Poor Minty, Bless her. Keeping my fingers crossed that you arent let down again. :hug:
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Yes, I was angry yesterday.
If people don't want to or can't do it, they shouldn't agree to it.
It's so annoying that when you do so many things for others, others then let you down.
Not been able to get a response yet. I'm off work next week on holiday, so hopefully Minty will get to the vet next week.
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I couldnt agree more. I wish you'd lived near us - I know my hubby would've been happy to help you out.
I have my fingers crossed for next week, and sending a gentle chin rub for Minty.
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I wish you lived nearer too!
Minty seems a little happier at the moment. The Cystitis hasn't played her up for a few days now, so she's more calm. Luckily yesterdays shenanigans haven't affected her.
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We're off to the vets in 20 minutes.
If transport arrives today.
I'm going to be nervous all day waiting for this evening to pick her up.
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She's home!
£78 for Curve, Insulin and Loxicom.
More importantly though, she's home and can now settle down for the evening, hopefully.
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That's very good news ;D
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She's got the hump a bit and is only now starting to settle.
Vets are happy with her though, so as long as she is fine, this won't need to happen again for 3 months.
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Thats good and hope she settles quick :hug: :hug:
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She's getting there but still no purring.
A bit more clingy last night but without the usual affection towards me. :shify:
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I am sure she will get back to normak when she realizes she is safe again :hug: :hug: :hug:
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A bit more purry overnight and today.
Nearly there :naughty:
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It's dark and I can't work out how to lighten it, but you can just about see a sleeping Minty :rofl:
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Has she forgiven you yet?
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A bit grainy, but a bit more detail:
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Thanks Dave.
Slugsta - didn't take her long really. She was just a little upset about her vet trip - naturally.
Just given her a bath :shify: as she doesn't wash anywhere other than her face these days. She's pretty good. I stand her in the bath, hold her with one arm around her and wash her legs and lower areas carefully as she gets messy (was thinking of trimming her fur a little bit in her back legs/bottom area as it excrement gets stuck in her fur but not sure if that would be classed as unkind) in luke warm water and cat shampoo and then I dry her off and she sits in her newly cleansed chair to finish drying in a heated room.
Her main body and head I have a spray shampoo which she actually enjoys :P
She's not a fan of the baths but doesn't struggle too much and just a couple of meeows. I think I dislike doing it more than she dislikes the water :sick:
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Not unlind to trim fur around tail end if you can manage it, my vet did this for Sasa but she is now much cleaner so no need.
Pleased she is happy ;D ;D
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I agree with Gill, I don't think it would be unkind to give her a little trim - especially if it reduced the baths!
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You are such a wonderful Cat Daddy, Miroslav. :hug: You and Minty have a very special bond.
I recall performing similar services for Paddy, and it's a real test of trust. Very rewarding when you can contribute to their comfort in their twilight years.
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I will try and trim her at some stage :Crazy:
I'm going to be lost when she is gone. I looked after them all, especially in their hours of need, but Minty's needs have lasted longer than the others.
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Of course you will Miroslav. :hug: :hug:
Do you think that you would have room in your heart for another?
I think it's fantastic that you've managed to nurture so many of your babies to maturity and beyond. It would be a shame if that talent fell dormant. :hug:
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You are a very kind and considerate cat dad :hug: :hug: :hug:
I wouldn't worry at all about trimming her nether regions as long as you are ultra careful not to nip her skin of course. I've been trimming Groucho's trewsers since he grew them altho now he is approaching 5 years old, less need. With him it has usually been slugs that he has sat on or such like altho we have had a number of "accidents" too. Best of luck :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Sue - I'm not sure. Part of me says yes, part of me says no. My sister's cats who she cannot have at he new house and are currently with her stranged husband are a possibility. If not, then I may just look at helping other cats etc by donating food and sponsoring etc.
Rosella - I've not tried the trim yet. As lovely as Minty is, she's a proper scaredy cat and worrier so I have to do things carefully without her knowing most of the time and then make a huge fuss of her afterwards just incase she did know. She's very sensitive. I will give it a go when I see an opportunity!
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Just a small update.
Minty has been doing really well in the main. She's bright and alert.
A few downsides - she's finding it tougher to eat. She certainly gives it a good go but it takes her longer and sometimes she gets frustrated. She has few teeth left and they are in a 21 year olds condition. Any advice on what to use to mash it up and make it easier for her?
She doesn't spend nights with me anymore. She comes up for a bit but as soon as I start to drift off, she leaves and spends the night downstairs. I can often here her mewwing which stops after 10-20 seconds. She doesn't come back up - I think she's lost confidence in the stairs.
Her earing is virtually gone I think. Maybe the new excessive mewwing is because of this. Lots of loud noises and not even a flicker of a sign that she can hear them.
We are having a new kitchen at the moment. She is kept away from them but lots of drilling and she isn't responding. Sometimes she looks towards the door but I think it's a case of her either feeling vibrations or seeing shadow or just having that cats sense.
She's started peeing in her chair again in the last couple of days. I fear it is because of the workmen and lots of things being moved which she hates. I did worry about this but could not put off the needed works much longer.
Any thoughts/advice on any of the above would be appreciated.
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Mash with a fork...............or have I misunderstood.
If the food doesnt hve much liquid add a bit of water. Try some pate food but again mix with water.
Yes her deafness will make her meow but also could be the start of dementia.
Poor girl having to endure the work, she will be able to feel the vibrations if she cant hear the noise.
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I liquidise the food with some water and add Complivit to my 21 yo food - Complivit is a food supplement and one pump equals a full days calories for a 4kg cat
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Thanks Gill & Liz
With the mashing of the food, I mean blending etc and what kind of foods. She's not keen on Pate for some reason, preferring Jelly and Gravy. Ironically, sometimes big pieces are easier for her than small pieces. She must be able to grab bigger pieces with her lips or something but ideally some food that is easy to mash. It's about experimenting. I will look at complivit too.
She's urinated on the floor and her place again today. It's very tiring having to wash her and her seat all the time and I can't get the smell out. I've had to apologise to the contractors incase they smell it. I will wash her cushion again later in the bath and give her the other one and keep swapping. I'm lost for ideas. She urinated in her normal litter/puppy pad place three times overnight and pooped too. She doesn't poop in her seat, just urinates.
I'm hoping when the works are complete she will go back to normal. Another two weeks yet though.
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From what you say, I suspect the peeing is related to the building work; hopefully she'll stop when they go. Have you thought about getting a waterproof mattress protector for her chair, something like http://www.dunelm-mill.com/shop/drynights-waterproof-cotton-soft-mattress-protector-510412 (http://www.dunelm-mill.com/shop/drynights-waterproof-cotton-soft-mattress-protector-510412). I would think a single size could be cut into (at least) two - one on the chair, one in the wash.
As far as any smell is concerned, I highly recommend http://www.commandenvironmentalsolutions.com/epages/BT4547.sf/en_GB/?ObjectPath=/Shops/BT4547/Products/RX23 (http://www.commandenvironmentalsolutions.com/epages/BT4547.sf/en_GB/?ObjectPath=/Shops/BT4547/Products/RX23). Eleanor can't bury her poos and she can come up with some right stinkers :fart: - a squirt of this stuff means I can at least approach her tray!
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Frances - i'd like to think it's just the building work but they've not been here this weekend and she's still doing it.
She pees a lot. Last night she done three pees in her litter area but her chair was wet. She has urinated there again today and layed in it.
Bathing her doesn't work, she still smells, my home smells and I can't get rid of it. I have to scrub many times a day whether I work that day or not and with my physical condition, it's getting harder and it'snot making the home smell any better anyway.
I will look into the mattress protector and the spray. Thanks.
If I sound grumpy, it's because my house smells, my landlord is probably going to kill us when they come back for the works tomorrow, i've had a crap birthday, my health is getting worse, my money is dwindling as all the extra sprays,pads etc etc i'm buying is killing me and i'm at my wits end worried about everything. I really have no idea what to do. She just won't stop doing it.
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Miroslav :hug: I'm sorry I can't offer any practical advice :(
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Well, she had a better night. No urinating in her place.
She was alert earlier, other than usual hungry/thirsty/attention so I carried her upstairs and she went to the loo, so I fear with the door closed (and it needs to be in case she runs out the front door, although I don't think she would and the builders have been asked to keep the door shut anyway) she is not asking to leave to go to the loo, hence urinating where she sleeps, silly girl.
The real test is Wednesday when I go back to work. She's not going to like being kept upstairs with a stair gate blocking her entry to downstairs.
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Miroslav :hug: :hug: It's so hard when you live in rented accommodation and things like this happen.
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I sus[pect that she will not be right until she gets her house back..............how long will the work go on for?
:hug: :hug: :hug:
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Hope things settle :hug: :hug: :hug:
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Thanks everybody for your best wishes over the past few years.
Minty had a fit around 8pm tonight and was rushed to the vets. She was constantly fitting for around an hour and 40 minutes bar coming out of fitting a couple of times in the early stages. The vet tells me she wouldn't have felt anything.
The options were Ketosis, sedation and intensive care for 24-48 hours or to let her go.
With a heavy heart, seeing the state she was in and hearing the vets facts, without any pressure from him and with tears running down my face, I decided to let Minty join her sisters Paws, Chubby and Dopey and her brother Moses at Rainbow Bridge.
I'm sorry for all the questions over the years and I can't say too much right now as I am completely lost and honestly wish the vet had put me to sleep as well but I shall be back when i've had chance to calm down a bit.
Thanks everyone. Tonight I lost the final one of my best friends and I just need time to recover. I am going to be completely lost for a while having worked my life around her for so long...
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I am so terribly sorry and dont feel bad about questions, thats what we are all about.
You gave Minty all the love and care you could and she will be so happy that you gave her the final gift with all your love. :hug: :hug: :hug:
RIP Minty you will always be a purr in your meomys heart
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RIP Minty
Sorry for your loss :hug: :hug:
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Awwww I'm sad to read this. Nite nite sleep tite Minty. Xxxxx x
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I'm so sorry to hear this, however I think you said it all when you said you worked your life around her, there aren't many who can have that said about them :hug:
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Miroslav, I am so sorry to hear the news about Minty, she had a long and lovely life with you and I know you will miss her terribly :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:
Run free Minty
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Thanks everyone.
The cremation date is set for Friday morning. She will stay here until then. I shall make it as cool as possible.
I got through work today and they understand I may not make it on time for my afternoon shift on Friday but i'lljust be there when I get there. I then work Saturday and Sunday but they have allowed me leave for 3 shifts next week, so when I finish on Sunday, I don't go back in until the following Sunday. It will give me time to not have to put on a brave face. I may even go away for a night, something I couldn't do with Minty being unwell for the last 3 years, which I was fine with, as she was here.
I'm a bit lost right now but I can hopefully rebuild. One thing is for certain, I won't let any of my five fur babies be forgotten.
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Miroslav :hug: I am so very sorry to hear this. You gave Minty so much love and care and then you did the final thing that she needed from you - you set her free. Of course you will feel lost, you spent so much of your time looking after your lovely girl, it will be really strange now that you don't have to do it. Minty will always have a special place in your heart, whatever the future brings. Our thoughts are with you :hug:
Rest in Peace Minty, run free at the bridge.
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Thanks Slugsta.
I know I made the right choice for Minty. I couldn't have done anymore no matter how much I nit pick at many things I could have done over the last 20+ years that actually wouldn't have made any difference.
Really annoying me how someone I live with is just living as if nothing has changed.
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Miroslav, you were a true Cat Daddy. My heart goes out to you. Knowing how badly you're hurting right now is making my own chest tight. :hug:
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I think what is helping is the fact I know i've done the right thing.
I don't want to go to bed, I don't want to stay up. I just don't want to do anything.
Oh, I didn't mention, I took Minty to the vets three hours ago so she is frozen as they feared she would smell as her cremation has now been set to 10am on Friday.
I get to spend a few minutes with her to say goodbye for now and hope I see her again in the future before bringing her ashes home in a wooden cat so she can be with the other four and their wooden cat/ashes.
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probably best that she is at the vets :hug:
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I'm very sorry to hear of Minty's passing, Miroslav. She was an utterly beautiful being who enhanced your life like no one else ever could. Run free sweet girl.
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I'm sorry to hear that Minty has gone. Just because you know it was the right time/right thing to do doesn't make it any less sad or difficult to bear.
Miroslav, you were a true Cat Daddy.
and so I suspect, in time, a cat will find you :hug: :hug:.
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Thanks everyone.
I hope to learn to love again.
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You will and you will know when the time is right :hug: :hug:
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Grief can be utterly paralysing but those who have not given their hearts to animal companions often fail to understand just how deep that grief can be :hug: Your heart will heal in time, but there will always be a Minty-shaped scar there.
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Well, in 30 minutes we're off to the cremation.
10am we are booked for - individual cremation in a proper place where they have single bays for individuals - no trays or anything, so we are as guaranteed as we can be to have our exact cat back. Used them 4 times before and they are as reputable as you can find with lots of 'satisfied' customers.
I keep looking for her, as in look at her chair, on the bed and keep thinking I hear her and it's just a winey pitch from outside :doh:
Going to be sad for a long while yet, probably always, but hopefully the bit where I can hardly do anything will pass.
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Sending you loads of mental surport and she will be back at home with you very soon :hug: :hug: :hug:
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:hug:
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I expect that, by now, your girl will be back home with you, where she belongs :hug:
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She was back with me by 12.00 and back home by 12.30 in a wooden cat like this...
http://www.pcsonline.org.uk/cat-tributes/sleeping-cat2 (this is the actual company we used - Minty's colour is slightly lighter than this picture).
I had to go to work not long after I got home, but had time to put Minty with the other four.
Just tomorrow and Sunday to work before 6 days off - i'm going to need it. I've not cleared Minty's area, including food and water bowls. Her litter trays are clean but I don't have the heart to get rid of them yet. Her chair is untouched too. She has a used pillow on it that I won't move yet.
The vet was great with me this morning when handing Minty back before the cremation. She's a great vet.
All that's needed now is to write the thank you cards (with stickers of the pictures of my cats stuck inside) to the vets, crematorium and the animal company who assisted us with the planning and travel to/from the crematorium) thanking them fro my cats for all the care they had and from me for aall the care, respect and dignity they received.
I'm going to be lost for a long while but amongst all the sadness are the good memories that I will treasure forever, along with all of their fur that I kept (shaved a bit off of each before cremation), all the collars, pictures and all the other bits and pieces. They will always be a massive part of my life.
Thanks to everyone here for all the advice and support over the last few years - you were sensible voices in all the insanity and despair.
I shall continue to pop in and look around.
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So pleased she is home and in a beaytiful casket :hug: :hug:
Hope to see you around Purrs
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With regards to the casket, it is pure wood but I want to protect it the best I can.
For instance, my other 4 are looking tired.
Whilst the appearance doesn't both me to the point that they are mine and nobody else sees them unless they enter my bedroom (they are downstairs sometimes if nobody else is home as the rule is they are not downstairs when someobody else is home) I would like to make them look more bright as the older ones are fading. At the same time, I don't want to make it worse, so what do people think would be ok to use?
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Miroslav, I'm so glad Minty is back home with you. :hug: :hug: Minty's casket is beautiful. I would think a wipe over with a linseed oil based product such as Sheratons wood polish (Wilkinsons sell it, amongst other places) should keep it looking fresh, but whatever you use, try it on a little inconspicuous part first.
Try to let yourself grieve and begin the healing process over your week off. Easier said than done I know, but - we'll be thinking of you and sending you our thoughts and best wishes. :hug: :hug:
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Thanks Sue.
I sell Sheraton's in my hardware store. I thought of wood polishes but a little scared. I will try it in a little area first. I'll get some tomorrow and at staff discount too. First time I can say my little babies have saved me money, but they are worth every penny I spent on them over the years.
The plans are to tidy on Sunday evening/Monday but I will do it when I can. I've now made plans to go away Tuesday afternoon and stay away for the night. I've only been away from home for 11 nights in nearly 21 years since I first got the cats and although I was happy not to go away as I loved being around the cats, I need to get away for one night and go visit my young nephews who like seeing me but only see me for a few hours every 3-4 months, as I had to turn around again in the evening and go home to be with the cats and/or medicate them in Minty's case.
Somehow i've now got to get a different life :doh:
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Miro :hug: you don't have to throw anything out until you are ready.
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My home is a mess right now because of the buliding works so I need a tidy.
Minty's things - well some things need to be thrown but some things never will be, just like all the bits of the other cats, i've kept in boxes.
Hopefully the pic I have attached comes out - back in the day when all 5 were going strong.
Minty is the one with her back end facing the camera.
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lovely picture, enjoy your night away, I know its not the same as having a houseful of cats but taking some time out can't hurt - I hope you will stay on purrs
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Well, it was kind of a pointless night away, not made any easier by nobody really understanding, some of which have pets (but have never lost them). Didn't really talk about Minty, but just the 'get another one' comments and change of subject (onto themselves) were enough to make me realise that I won't bother in the future.
After all the sadness etc i've now hit don't care mode and angry when others start complaining about menial things - the same people who seem to think a death of a pet is nothing at all.
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some people just don't get it, sad that people can have so little empathy
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some people just don't get it, sad that people can have so little empathy
x2
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I just received a card in the post with condolences from the vet surgery. Never had that before. Don't know if it is because she was the last one and we no longer have anyone registered.
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our vet does that as well its a nice touch. How are you feeling?
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First time they've ever done it for us. I still have to take Minty's syringes/needles back. Was planning on doing it today.
I'm still lost and don't know what to do with myself. Plenty to do but not the energy or motivation to do it. Need to move eveything back into the kitchen after the works, but a mixture of me not doing it and the person I live with not doing it (and she would shout at me if I did it without her) as i'm just not bothered right now.
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Miroslav :hug: :hug: It's so hard, being where you are right now. So many of us know a little of what you're feeling. Although it's different for each of us, we all know how hollow and empty it is, looking for the cat who's no longer there. Physically, anyhow. :hug: Be gentle with yourself.
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Well, i've some Lord Sheraton to buff up the caskets when I feel up to it. Last day off work tomorrow then a 6 hour shift and then 2 days off that I usually have. I've got time.
Can't face taking the needles back to the vets today. I'm guessing this is the only way to dispose of them safely?
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Yes its the only way to dispose of them .
I think you need a new furry friend :hug: :hug: :hug:
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I thought so. I will take them down in time.
I'd love a new furry friend, in time.
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Unbelievable.
Received a letter from landlord today for a home inspection.
One or more of the workmen have complained which is likely linked to Minty urinating and the smell or possibly her needles (maybe mistaking them for drug users?)
Just what I don't need.
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Hope it goes well :hug: :hug:
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was the inspection ok?
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It's been put back to August 4th.
I wanted to buy some time and some space so soon after Minty. They accepted it.
Some damage to floorboards that concerns me. I'm hoping if I offer to pay, over time, they'll be ok.
Thanks for remembering and asking.