Sunday, January 3, 2010

One Sick Kitty

We're off to a rocky start this year. We nearly lost Gatsby while we were away.

We left him at my son's house when we went away for a couple of days, and while we were gone he developed a complete urinary blockage. He's had urinary troubles before, but never to this extent. They took him to an emergency clinic in plenty of time, though, so we think he'll be OK.

The vet had to sedate him, which I think is why they shaved his arm. It's pretty bruised, and he's limping on it and walking oddly in general. They kept him two days and released him with three medications and a change in cat food. He was already on a prescription-diet wet food, but they're saying it's not the right one for him. Something to do with the ph of his blood, which I don't really understand.

The good news is, we have him back and he stands a good chance of recovering fully. But this could happen again. We lost another cat to problems like this, and I'm still awfully worried.

12 comments:

ramblingwoods said...

Oh Vicki....My sister is a vet..cat urinary problems are bad..I assume he is on a Rx diet from the vet..When I talk to sis I will ask her about it.....Having had visits to the ER, I know the huge bills they run up...They shaved the paw to get blood and have access in case of IV fluids or meds.....Michelle

Sallyacious said...

So scary and potentially heartbreaking. I hope he does indeed fully mend and sticks around for decades.

RA said...

I really hope Gatsby is doing better now. Wishing you all the best for 2010!

MyMaracas said...

Thanks for the good thoughts, everyone. He seems OK for now. He's passing urine well, which is the main thing. He's subdued and clingy, but batting at leftover Christmas bows and following everyone around again. They say there's a chance he'll reblock again within two weeks of treatment, but if he gets through without that happening we'll be able to breathe again.

He's on a new kind of prescription diet - which he hates - and meds. Most of the meds ended up all over me and the kitchen floor this morning, but with my younger son holding him tonight we got full doses down him.

It is scary. Gatsby is almost like one of my kids. I can't stand the thought of losing the little guy.

Anonymous said...

Hope poor Gatsby is recovering - it's hard when a pet is ill - they really are part of the family. Best wishes for the New Year, regards, Anne

Unseen India Tours said...

Oh i am scared about this ! Do take care of her.

Unknown said...

Poor, poor Gatsby! I do hope he gets better and that his new food helps.

Anonymous said...

Best wishes for the kit! Pet stuff is frightening. Best for 2010, and I know you're taking terrific care of Gats.

Sunshine said...

I found you via Tulsa Gentleman. What a sweet kitty. I hope he gets better soon.

Sallyacious said...

How's Gatsby doing? Update, please.

mum08 said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
mum08 said...

Hi, I hope puss is ok.
I love my cats. I have 2 burmess boys. Brown and Lilac. I love them. Do you have children? I do a daughter that is 19mths old and I have a great site for Mums.
Please have a look.
http://mumandbaby-mum08.blogspot.com
Thanks for your time.
Elicia