>Hey Lee. Oh, she sounds like such a sweetie, and I love her name. It's odd that she cries out when her paw is touched. Tell me that they actually did an X-ray showing her shoulder all the way to her paw and got a clear picture. The pain could be a positive sign, meaning the nerve tissue is regenerating and enervating the area. The fact that she shows a curl response when you rub her tells us that she still has some reflexes. From my own experience, when my hand goes numb ( I have a shoulder problem), after awhile the numbness changes to a burning sensation that is, well, searing! But it hurts all the time...not just when it's touched/moved. I wonder if that's what's going on? Has this aspect been the same from the beginning? Does her leg (especially her paw--compare it to her other paws) seem to be the same temperature as the rest of her body? I'd call the vet about a noticeable difference either way. Did either vet say anything about trying a 24-hour steroid injection to see if the anti-inflammatory response might make a difference? I know that steroids need to be used very carefully in FeLV+ cats, but getting a grip on the amount of inflammation could be helpful. It can't hurt to ask. I'd also tell them that while her appetite is still good, she no longer makes the effort to get to her food dish and that you bring it to her. Acupuncture is great for some types of pain and it can help a lot with enervation. In fact, my acupuncturist uses a combination of needles and electricity (pretty much like the EMG). The idea is that stimulating the meridians enhances the neural pathways between them. And that's just what we're hoping for with Cessna, that she will be able to re-establish the neural pathways between her spine and toes. Chiropractic could resolve stenosis/narrowing/pinching of nerves caused by a bone misalignment. This is a long shot, but how does Cessna feel about getting wet? I worked with a kitten with a similar front leg problem and we had him swim 'in place' in the bathtub. I put a tiny 'H'-style harness on him with a leash and held him steady. He actually *liked* swimming. They paddle just like dogs do and it seems to be a natural reaction--no training required. Of course, most cats would probably try to rip your liver out (or stress out too much)...but if she's into water sports...well, it was just an idea. Keep us posted, Lee. Check for acupuncture and chiropractic vets in your area by going to <www.altvetmed.com>. Chow, Janet Janet Ashman <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Iowa City, IA Very closely supervised by: Rose, Lily, Basil, Lucifer, Izzy, Lorenzo, Forrest, Freddie, and a number of simply charming fostercats. We are FUR (feline underground railroad) Station #126, and active in both the Johnson County Humane Society, and the Iowa Federation of Humane Societies.
