Hi Dee,
I did a quick Google and found the following site that talks about
what's "normal" for cats.
http://vetmedicine.about.com/od/diseasesconditionsfaqs/tp/TP_catfacts.htm
It says the respiratory rate should be 16-40 breaths per minute. That's
a pretty wide range. If he's just had one of his coughing jags, it
would of course be higher. I would check him when he seems to be
resting comfortably. I don't know why your vet would be concerned about
"easing" him into interferon or Lysine. Neither one of those should
cause him any side effects. He's been on Dox for 5 days, you should
have seen some improvement by now, have you? Do you know for a fact
that he indeed has Hemobart? The labored breathing thing is really
scary to watch. The only thing I've heard that is good for that is
setting up an oxygen carrier. What's going on with that cough? I'm
sorry if you've answered this before, but what does your vet attribute
that to? I hadn't heard about Hemobart causing respiratory symptoms.
Prayers and good thoughts to you and Smokey,
Nina
Dee & Evan wrote:
Smokey started his Doxy regiment last Wednesday for his Hemobart. I
started him on his Interferon this morning (Sunday). The vet
suggested I ease him into each regiment one at a time so if he has any
symptoms we may be able to pinpoint which regiment caused the
problems. I am hoping to start him on the Lysine this week. However,
I am still worried about his breathing. At times he seems to have
labored breathing and at other times it seems to be better...but still
not great. However, I have noticed on at least three different times
within the past week that he has had a coughing fit that takes him a
while to cease. It seems to be a "true" cough, not a hairball cough.
He has no discharge from his nose or eyes. Does anyone know what is a
cat's normal respiratory rate? The vet wanted him to come in any way
in about 5 to 7 days from when he started the Doxy to do some blood
work (this Tuesday). But I don't know if it would be better for him
to wait due to the stress of the travel to the vet or if it would be
better to take him in right away due to his coughing & breathing. I
know any stress can make the virus do more damage. Does anyone have
any advice to lend me? Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
~Dee
