Re: ear hematoma

[jenmeyer]

Hi Linda!

One of my FeLV guys just recently had surgery (under anesthesia) for 
an ear hematoma and now has cauliflower ear, but this is only because 
the doctor didn't set the ear properly while he was under.  Marvin now 
has one wrinkly ear that kinda lays close to his head...but I don't 
mind...it just gives him a little more character!  I do keep an eye on 
the ear canal, however, as debris seems to build up a little quicker 
in the wrinkle ear as opposed to the other ear...but otherwise, he's 
just fine!  Essentially, the vet either lances or uses a laser to 
pierce the skin in several areas to drain it, then uses a few stitches 
to readhere the skin back onto the cartilidge.  The main purpose of 
the stitches is to create scar tissue that will reconnect the skin to 
the cartilidge thus preventing any future hematomas...so I wonder if 
your vet couldn't just drain the hematoma like he did before and then 
just use a local anesthetic to put in a few stitches?

FYI, they do make a special kind of padding with a mesh screen backing 
that can be stitched onto the back of the ear to give it support while 
it heals thus helping to avoid cauliflower ear...and in the absence of 
that, our vet said you can use a Dr. Scholl's insert as a stand 
in... :)

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be 
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; 
You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine 
de Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know 
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
Chief Dan George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade 
Runner

- Original Message -
From: Linda Johnson <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Wednesday, December 6, 2006 10:27 am
Subject: ear hematoma
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hi -
> 
> I have a feline leukemia positive, partially paralyzed
> cat (Boo) who suffers from pressure sores on his bum. 
> He's been on antibiotics on & off for years due to his
> paralysis induced pressure sores.  Two weeks ago his
> health declined when he developed a severe liver
> infection and jaundice.  Since then, with the addition
> of 2 antibiotics & other meds, his health has improved
> and the jaundice is greatly reduced.  
> 
> Unfortunately Boo has also developed an ear hematoma. 
> My vet has drained it with a syringe, but it has
> filled back up with fluid, as she said it would.  My
> vet is telling me that the only way to completely fix
> the hematoma is with surgery.  Since his health is not
> great I'm concerned about doing this.  But his ear is
> not getting better, and, although my vet has told me
> that the hematoma won't effect his overall health, he
> will develop a califlower ear and have issues with
> cleaning the ear, if it's not corrected.
> 
> Has anyone had any experience with a hematoma?  Is
> there any way to correct the problem without putting
> Boo under anesthesia?
> 
> Thanks,
> Linda
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
___
_
> Yahoo! Music Unlimited
> Access over 1 million songs.
> http://music.yahoo.com/unlimited
>

Re: Sally - pain meds (was Uveitis)--ketoprofen in dogs

[jenmeyer]

Hi Nina!

I just wanted to caution the use of ketoprofen in dogs...it's rare, 
but severe ulceration of the GI tract can occur as a side effect of 
the drug...we actually had it happen at the clinic.  A young dog died 
as a result of a severe allergic reaction to ketoprofen...hence we've 
trashed our remaining supply of the drug and will no longer be using 
it as a pain reliever.  Like I said, it's *rare* to witness such a 
severe allergic reaction...but I assisted on the necropsy of this dog 
and couldn't believe what I saw!  :(



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be 
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; 
You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine 
de Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know 
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
Chief Dan George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade 
Runner

- Original Message -
From: Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Sunday, December 3, 2006 5:28 pm
Subject: Sally - pain meds (was Uveitis)
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hi Sally,
> I just wanted to comment on getting the antibiotic ointment in 
> Junior's 
> eye...  If you put a line of the ointment on your finger and 
> gently 
> apply it to his closed eye, (on the line where his eyelids meet), 
> at 
> least some will go in his eye and it should help at least keep his 
> eye 
> moist.  I didn't see you comment on Michelle's post about 
> steriods.  
> Have you been to a specialist for his eye?  Maybe your vet could 
> just 
> consult with an ophthalmologist over the phone to see what they 
> think of 
> the situation? 
> 
> Speaking of old fashioned pain meds...  I have used Ketofen syrup 
> for 
> dogs.  It doesn't taste bad, slight "medicine" taste, but not 
> bitter and 
> the the dosage, (at least for small dogs), is small enough that 
> I'm 
> betting it could be hidden in some baby food, or easily squirted 
> in his 
> mouth.  I did a quick search on it to see if it can be given to 
> cats and 
> came up with the following site on pain control for dogs and cats: 
> http://www.2ndchance.info/pain.htm
> Nina
> 
> Sally wrote:
> >
> > I knew that I skipped a day on the aspirin.. also the vet said 
> the 
> > anti-inflammatory properties were good for his eye. He ate more 
> > today...good sign I hope.
> >
> >  
> >
> > sally
> >
>

Could you add Chatty to the CLS?

[jenmeyer]

We made the decision to say good-bye last night...Chemo was no longer 
providing the quality of life that we had all hoped for.  I just 
couldn't put him through anything else.  :(  This just never gets any 
easier, does it?  :(  Chatty was arguably the "best cat in the 
world!"  Just so laid back and lovable...it's just not fair.  He was 
such a good guy...he sat in my partner's lap on the way to the 
emergency clinic last night and contentedly watched the scenery go 
by...he'd then look at me for awhile, then up at my partner almost as 
if he knew his time was about up and he wanted to remember us as we 
were then.  I don't know where our little Chit-Chat came from or what 
he's been through...he came to us at a ripe old age and was only with 
us for a year...but I hope we helped him complete his journey 
here...his little pawprints will remain forever in my heart.  I love 
you, Gettabuddy...be good and please don't forget us!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be 
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; 
You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine 
de Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know 
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
Chief Dan George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade 
Runner

Re: Vet Records

[jenmeyer]

According to the AVMA website, "Veterinarians are obligated to provide 
copies or summaries of medical records when requested by the client. 
Veterinarians should secure a written release to document that 
request."  Perhaps you could contact your state board?



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be 
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; 
You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine 
de Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know 
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
Chief Dan George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade 
Runner

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Tuesday, October 31, 2006 8:44 am
Subject: Vet Records
To: Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hi all,
>I ask for the records on Dukee they  won't release them to me. 
> They said 
> the only way they would release them if  another Vet requested 
> them. Then it 
> would be by fax only.
> This is the first time I have ever been turned down getting any  
> Vet records. 
> Is this right?
> I can tell you I'm getting disappointed in some Vets in the  area 
> I moved to.
> 
> Terrie Mohr-Forker
> 
> TAZZY'S ANIMAL TRANSPORTS
> SIAMESE  & COLLIE RESCUE
> Donations accepted at:
> _https://www.paypal.com/_ (https://www.paypal.com/) 
> 
> 
> _http://www.tazzys-siameses-collies.petfinder.org/_ 
> (http://www.tazzys-siameses-collies.petfinder.org/) 
> 
> _http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wasiameserescue_ 
> (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wasiameserescue) 
> 
> _http://hometown.aol.com/tatorbunz/myhomepage/petmemorial.html_ 
> (http://hometown.aol.com/tatorbunz/myhomepage/petmemorial.html) 
> 
> _http://www.felineleukemia.org/_ (http://www.felineleukemia.org/) 
> 
> _http://www.hometown.aol.com/tatorbunz/index.html_ 
> (http://www.hometown.aol.com/tatorbunz/index.html) 
> 
> _http://www.petloss.com/_ (http://www.petloss.com/) 
> 
> 
>

Re: Please add Spencer to the CLS

[jenmeyer]

Oh, Nina!  I wish I had the words to express my thoughts more 
poetically than, "I know exactly how you feel!"  But it's just as 
simple as that, I guess...You were there for me when my special guy, 
Fuss-fuss passed away...and Spence sounds like he was to you what Fuss 
was to me.  You're right, they're all hard...but there are a few that 
are particularly hard.  It's helped me to keep in mind that journeys 
work both ways...not everyone is placed in our own lives for our own 
benefit...we, too, get placed in others' lives for the other person's 
or animal's benefit.  For some of my cats, I feel as though I'm simply 
on the periphery of their journey...a blip on their radar, so-to-
speak!  Which is fine by me as I understand we're all busy trying to 
figure out our own destinies...and if I can make theirs that much more 
enjoyable (or entertaining as the case often is), so be it!  :)  But 
then there are those cats whose journey seems to be intertwined with 
mine for a brief period of tim
e, and I am honored that they are here to teach me...likewise, it 
hurts the most when it's time for them to leave as I feel we are a 
part of each other.  :(  Now, I'm not saying that one relationship is 
better or more important than the other as we're all brought together 
for one reason or another...but some of these guys seem to "talk" to 
you on a different level and you're never really the same again!

Please know that you are in my thoughts and let me know if there's 
anything I can do!!

Jen




"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be 
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; 
You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine 
de Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know 
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
Chief Dan George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade 
Runner

- Original Message -
From: Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Thursday, October 12, 2006 11:29 am
Subject: Please add Spencer to the CLS
To: Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hi Belinda and All,
> I'm so sad and numb this morning.  So completely worn out, I know 
> you 
> all understand how I'm feeling.  Spencer had been so weak 
> yesterday, but 
> still so attentive and loving, what an incredible spirit this boy 
> has. 
> The vet was late, (I'm so glad he was), and I had been laying next 
> to 
> Spencer on our bed, keeping him company while we waited.  He 
> lifted his 
> head and tried to move, but he just couldn't get his once 
> magnificent 
> body to work.  I decided to bring him out front.  He used to love 
> going 
> out with his dogs every morning to get the paper and I thought he 
> might 
> enjoy going out one more time.  I was right.  Unbelievably, he 
> rallied 
> and was actually able to stumble to his favorite spot under my 
> Jeep 
> parked in the driveway.  He even drank from the feral's water 
> bowl. 
> I couldn't stand seeing him on the uncomfortable cement any longer 
> and 
> put him on his bed and we sat and quietly watched the neighborhood 
> comings and goings from the front steps.
> 
> I had just brought him back inside when I saw my vet approaching 
> up the 
> front walk.  Heaven help me, but I wanted to scream, NO!  NOT YET! 
> Of 
> course, it was time to finally say goodbye.
> 
> Do you still do tributes with their pictures?  I'm going to send 
> you his 
> picture off-list to include in case you do.  Bless it, this was a 
> hard 
> one, (but then I guess there just aren't any easy ones, are there?).
> 
> I want to express my gratitude once again to this incredible list 
> of 
> caring people.  I went through such contortions dealing with 
> Spencer's 
> illness and decline.  I don't know how I would have coped without 
> your 
> support and prayers.
> Much love as always,
> Nina
> 
>

Re: My precious Tsubomi has now become free --

[jenmeyer]

"Sleep soundly little one, for your brand new journey has just begun."

Please take care of yourself, Hideyo, and let us know if you need 
anything at all!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be 
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; 
You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine 
de Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know 
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
Chief Dan George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade 
Runner

Re: dental work

[jenmeyer]

Hi Kayte!

I do alot of the teeth cleanings at my clinic, so I can tell you how 
we do them and what to ask your vet if that will help!

A regular dental does involve your pet being sedated and 
intubated...ask your vet what type of anesthetic will be used (we use 
isofluorane--an inhalant anesthetic that is considered very safe as it 
is not metabolized by the body and allows a fast recovery).  As for 
the dental itself, depending on the condition of the teeth (amount of 
tartar, etc.), the length of time it takes for a full cleaning is 
about 1/2 hour...We use an ultrasonic "water pick" similar to what 
human dentists use to scale the teeth, then polish (again, like human 
dentists do) and apply fluoride!  Depending on your clinic, there may 
be a dental technician who does the cleaning with the vet standing by 
to perform any extractions, or the vet may do the cleaning herself!

As for other questions you may want to ask...I'm not sure how old 
Crackers is, but if he is older, be sure to ask whether or not the 
clinic has a heating device to keep his body temp regulated while 
sedated.  Body temps drop when sedated which can drop blood pressure 
and make the recovery process much longer...especially in older pets!  
You may also want to ask about fluid therapy while sedated and even 
during the recovery process (I.V. drip)...it's not a necessary thing, 
but can aid in a smooth recovery process!

Overall, a dental is a safe procedure!  Just get all the assurances on 
the sedation process (we typically pre-med with atropine and some type 
of pain management med...as a sidenote for DOG owners, beware of the 
use of ketoprofen as a pain med for DOGS!!  It's rare, but severe 
ulcering of the GI tract can occur)!

Hope this helps!

Jen



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be 
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; 
You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine 
de Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know 
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
Chief Dan George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade 
Runner

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Tuesday, October 10, 2006 9:00 am
Subject: dental work
To: Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hi guys
> I was just reading the sharing price archive and it made me 
> think!! In a  
> month or so Crackers will be going for a dental check up. His 
> first. What  
> exactly happens and can anyone share experiences such as how their 
> babies felt  and 
> acted afterwards, what things are usually done? All the vet told 
> me was that  
> in the future we will do dental work. Nothing to worry about now. 
> I read once  
> where an owner got gold caps on the kitties teeth. LOL! i dont 
> think cracker 
> is  the kinda bling bling cat!! Hope all is well
> much love
> Kayte and Crackers
> Ps he has had his teeth and gums checked at each  visit.
>

Re: Jen's back!

[jenmeyer]

Hi Nina!  I'm so sorry I haven't been able to partcipate as much as I 
would like to these last few months...work and school (mostly work) 
have left me little time to do much else!  I've been doing my best to 
scan subject lines for the list whenever I can...it's 
bittersweet "meeting" all of the new members!  I wish the 
circumstances were different, but it's great to get to know all of the 
wonderful and caring FeLV parents out there!  :)

The household is chaotic, as usual!  :)  All of the FeLV guys are 
doing great (knock-on-wood)...and Sleepypants just turned 4 years old 
back in January!!  Chatty (our FIV guy) is undergoing chemo right now 
for the tumor in his nasal cavity...he's such a wonderful guy and it's 
been awesome seeing him get back to being a "normal" cat!  I'm not 
sure how long his remission will last, but, as always, we make sure we 
appreciate every single day we have left with him!  How is Starman 
doing??




"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be 
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; 
You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine 
de Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know 
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
Chief Dan George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade 
Runner

- Original Message -
From: Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Friday, October 6, 2006 5:49 pm
Subject: Jen's back!
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hey Lady, sooo nice to hear from you.  Do you have time to update 
> us on 
> what's been going on at your house?
> Nina
> 
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> 
> >Positive thougts are on their way to Hideyo and her crew!!  
> Please 
> >keep us updated!  And Oh oh ought to be able to donate as long as 
> >Tsubomi has never had a transfusion before...crazy little fact, 
> but 
> >for some reason, a cat can be given any blood type for its first 
> >transfusion...after that, you will need to give him the proper 
> blood 
> >type or else you run the risk of a reaction!
> >
> 
>

Re: Hideyo's Tsubomi is in trouble - prayers and advice please

[jenmeyer]

Positive thougts are on their way to Hideyo and her crew!!  Please 
keep us updated!  And Oh oh ought to be able to donate as long as 
Tsubomi has never had a transfusion before...crazy little fact, but 
for some reason, a cat can be given any blood type for its first 
transfusion...after that, you will need to give him the proper blood 
type or else you run the risk of a reaction!



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be 
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; 
You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine 
de Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know 
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
Chief Dan George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade 
Runner

- Original Message -
From: Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Friday, October 6, 2006 2:21 pm
Subject: Hideyo's Tsubomi is in trouble - prayers and advice please
To: Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hideyo is calling me from the ER vet right now.  She asked me to 
> write 
> to you guys because she needs your support.  Tsubomi is the young 
> felv + 
> that shares her room with Ginger, (also felv +).  For the last few 
> days 
> Tsubomi has been acting more and more lethargic, she's still 
> eating well 
> though.  She decided to bring her to the ER vet and her blood test 
> shows 
> a PCV at 9.4 and RBC 1.7.  She brought another of her kitties with 
> her 
> to donate blood, but she's not sure he's the same blood type.  
> First she 
> asks that you all please send prayers for Oh oh, the donor cat, 
> and for 
> Tsubomi to feel better after the transfusion.
> 
> The xray shows, what they think is a small amount of fluid in her 
> stomach, making her breathing a little rapid.  The WBC is very 
> high at 
> 52000.  After the transfusion, she's going to try feline 
> interferon, 
> possibly Epogen, (not sure about this), and maybe steroid shots.  
> She 
> wants to ask the group if there are any other suggestions of what 
> she 
> might do, or if anyone suspects anything other than a diagnosis of 
> cancer.
> Please pray and send healing, calming thoughts to Tsubomi, Oh oh 
> and 
> Hideyo.  Hideyo is in an exam room right now trying to keep it 
> together 
> as she waits and waits for them to do the transfusion.  Poor Oh Oh 
> is 
> very upset and little Tsubomi is listless in her arms.  She will 
> write 
> to the group as soon as she can.
> Nina
> 
>

OT: Diabetic dog groups and life!

[jenmeyer]

Hi All!

I'm so sorry I haven't been able to keep up with the list very well
these past several weeks...as always, you guys aren't far from my
thoughts...I consider ya'll a little piece of family and always try to
check subject headers in what little time I've had to get on the
computer!  My thoughts are with those who have lost a little one
recently and I'm pulling for those who are aren't feeling up to par!  :(

Recent happenings on this end:  Our FIV guy, Chatty, was diagnosed with
lymphoma somewhere around his sinuses...he's currently on Leukeran which
has given him the ability to smell his food...but the cancer is far from
remission.  We'll probably give Elspar a shot here in the near future to
see if that helps...the next step would be radiation treatments, but I
hear they can be pretty pricey.  :(  Despite it all, Chatty's still a
pretty upbeat little guy...I hope he'll be around for a little while!!

And the last guy from the litter of kittens who were born with FeLV
(Chinney, Pips, Charlie, Fuss-fuss), Sleepypants, just turned 4 years
old on the 22nd!!  He's doing well, demanding his Fancy Feast twice a
day!  :)

Also, I just started my NEW job!  I'm now a vet assistant at a local
clinic and will be taking online classes in the fall with my old school
to become a certified vet tech!  I love the job!  SO much to learn!  And
the discount is nice... ;)  I was able to assist on our cat's (Marvin's,
FeLV+) surgery!  He had an aural hematoma (what I just referred to as a
"balloon ear") as the result of a bacterial infection in his ear. 
Marvin's not too happy about the "cone" he has to wear for the next 3
weeks...but his ear looks much better!

Anyhoo!  To the point of my email!  Can anyone direct me to a good
support group for dogs with diabetes?  My mom-in-law just found out that
her dog has diabetes!  She used to be a nurse, so she's familiar with
the treatment for humans...but she's a little lost when it comes to
Sammie (the dog) as the hospital/doctor care just isn't on the same
level as it is for people w/ diabetes!  Any help would be greatly
appreciated!!

Oh!  And as an aside, the vet clinic I work at just started implementing
VetJet...it's a transdermal vaccine method that kinda "shoots" the
vaccine under the skin as opposed to using a needle to inject it...it's
very cool to use and is supposed to prevent the sarcomas associated with
traditional "needle" vaccine sites!  The only reason I mention it is
because the only vaccine that you can use with VetJet is the FeLV
vaccine...I'm sure many of you have heard of this method to give
vaccines, you only use a fraction of the actual vaccine that you would
normally give with a needle.  It's really neat to watch if you have the
opportunity!  :)

Take care!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

Re: Ceasar is no longer in pain (please add him to the CLS)

[jenmeyer]

Oh, Nina!  I'm so sorry...Please don't blame yourself, it sounds like 
Ceasar knew what he was doing and just who to go to for the relief he 
so desperately needed.  He obviously trusted you...what a blessing 
that he knew he could come to you!  Please take care of 
yourself...Ceasar is no longer in pain and well on his way to his next 
big adventure!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be 
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; 
You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine 
de Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know 
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
Chief Dan George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade 
Runner

- Original Message -
From: Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Friday, July 7, 2006 2:31 pm
Subject: Ceasar is no longer in pain (please add him to the CLS)
To: Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org, Paul Hendel <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

> Hello my beloved group,
> I just got the call from the vet.  Ceasar had deep puncture wounds 
> that 
> were abscessed all over his body, the deepest around his neck and 
> the 
> most infected on his rear leg, no wonder my brave little man was 
> limping.  He had a high fever and the worst news of all, he was 
> felv+.  
> They hadn't yet investigated why his nose was bleeding, or why 
> there was 
> blood in his saliva.  The vet, who is always reluctant to 
> recommend 
> euthanasia, said if she were Ceasar she wouldn't want to wake up 
> from 
> the kind of pain he must have been living with.  I still 
> hesitated, I 
> still thought maybe there was a way.  I asked if there could be 
> any 
> doubt about his status, the answer was an unequivocal no.  Before 
> we 
> left for the vet, he allowed me to stroke him through the grate of 
> the 
> trap.  His skin was covered with small lesions, with that gritty 
> feel 
> that comes from flea infestation.  Poor little lamb!  He was 
> angry, but 
> he didn't try to scratch me, or even hiss.  I spoke softly to him 
> and 
> told him how much he was loved and that he was finally home.  I 
> had so 
> prayed that I would be bringing him back to comfort and security 
> this 
> afternoon.  I had to finally decide to let him go.   I'm so sick 
> about 
> not being able to trap him when I first met him, maybe he would be 
> healthy today.  I feel like I failed him, my only consolation is 
> that 
> he's no longer suffering, he's no longer confined, and he's no 
> longer 
> producing felv kittens.  He lived the hard life of a cat on the 
> street 
> and I helped him as best I could.  Thank you all for caring about 
> a 
> special little feral boy and understanding how he has left an 
> imprint on 
> my heart.
> Bless you my sweet, brave, clever friend.  I will love you always.
> Nina
> 
>

Re: How is Shakiti today?--Petfooddirect.com

[jenmeyer]

Not sure how long you've been ordering from petfooddirect.com...so this
may be old news to ya... ;)  But if you sign up for emails to be sent to
you, they often contain coupons for up to 22% off your order!  I usually
wait to get a 20% or 22% off coupon as it usually just about covers
shipping depending on how you play around with the weight!  But like I
said, you probably already knew that as I think the 20% come around
about once a month!  :)



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Sunday, June 25, 2006 7:33 pm
Subject: Re: How is Shakiti today? (plus MK update and questions -
sorry   wrote a book)
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> 
> Thank you, Wendy, for the insurance info.  It sounds like it might  
> help a 
> good deal.  Do they cover regular check-ups at all?   I'll  go 
> online and see 
> what I can find out.  I thought I might also talk to my  vet and 
> see if they 
> have any information.
> 
> I ordered some EVO from PetFoodDirect.  You can get 24 5.5oz cans 
> for  $25.99 
> or 12/13.2 oz cons for $17.49...plus they always give you at least 
> a 5%  
> discount.  You still have to pay for shipping though but in my 
> case, it's  cheaper 
> than driving to some town where I might be able to find it.
> 
> I've kept MK inside some over the weekend trying to discourage her 
> from  
> tormenting the bunnies.  Thank goodness she hasn't felt the need to 
> bring gifts 
> the past day or so.  She's definitely on bug patrol  though - I 
> would hate to 
> be one.
> 
> elizabeth
> 
> 
> In a message dated 6/25/2006 6:53:45 P.M. Central Daylight Time,  
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> 
> Hey  Elizabeth,
> 
> I am so happy and relieved to hear that Shakiti is
> doing  so wonderfully!!!  You're such a great cat mom
> to take care of all  your furbabies like you do.  
> 
> I have Veterinary Pet  Insurance.  It's ok.  I pay
> about $90 a year for each kitty I  have insured.  When
> Cricket was initially diagnosed with FeLV in 2003,  I
> submitted $208 in fees, and they reimbursed me $117. 
> There is a $50  deductible per claim though.  Then two
> years later, when he developed  the anemia,  I
> submitted two different claims, one for $245 and  one
> for $102, and they paid $108 and $47 respectively.  So
> it  certainly isn't an investment, but it does help if
> you have a sick  kitty.  Every bit helps.  I've paid on
> two other of my kitties  for almost ten years now, and
> haven't had to make but a few claims, but  what it has
> done in the past is give me peace of mind that if I  am
> looking at an expensive treatment, I don't have to
> make a choice  between life or death.  Some other
> examples of benefits are:   They pay up to $800 towards
> chemo treatments (174$ per treatment).   They pay up to
> $110 towards a transfusion, which is between 3 and  4
> hundred dollars on average.  If a kitty develops
> hyperthyroidism  and you want to do the radioiodine
> treatment on her, which is between 1 to  1.5k$, they
> reimburse $528.  You have to pay everything up  front
> and then submit for reimbursement.  I am actually
> considering  dropping coverage on the two I still have
> covered, but am not sure  yet.  I like having the peace
> of mind.  Once I am financially  secure in the next
> couple of years, I will drop it for sure because  I
> should be able to cover whatever comes along.  I don't
> remember  if they ask about pre-existing conditions.  I
> don't think it's like a  human, where you have to get a
> physical first, but I've been with them so  long, I
> don't really remember.  I think you just sign them up.
> I  know what you mean about writing off pet treatments
> on your taxes.   That thought comes into my mind every
> time I get back into the car after  visiting the vet!!!
> 
> 
> I feed my babies Innova Evo wet and dry.   Only 3 out
> of 4 of my kitties like it.  I think it's great.   I
> believe we pay about 28$ for a case of it.  
> 
> Here's to  Shakiti and Mama Kitty kicking butt and
> taking names (in the health  department of course, not
> the bunny dept.)   ;)
> 
> :)
> Wendy
> 
> __
> Do  You Yahoo!?
> Tired of spam?  Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection  around 
> http://mail.yahoo.com 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
>

Re: Miss Kitty has gone to Rainbow Bridge

[jenmeyer]

Hi Brenda!  It's wonderful to hear from you despite the sad
circumstances... :(

I'm sure Miss Kitty is receiving a fine homecoming from her babies! 
That is my only consolation when Sleepypants must leave us...that he
will be reunited with his mom and brothers and the family will be whole
again!

Please take care and let us know if you need anything at all!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: Tim Lyons <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Saturday, June 24, 2006 7:12 pm
Subject: Miss Kitty has gone to Rainbow Bridge
To: Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hi folks,
> 
> I have only been lurking on the list for the past year or so.  Some 
> of you
> may remember me.  I lost Cher, Midnight, Lisa and Suzy to the 
> leukemia in a
> 6 month period in 2004.  Today, we came home to find their mother, 
> MissKitty dead.  She had been having some kidney issues related to 
> the leukemia,
> but was responding to the medications.  Just last night, she had 
> caught a
> small lizard.  She was OK this morning.  She ate her breakfast, 
> she's been
> scratching on her scratching pad and acting  only a little less 
> than she
> would normally.
> 
> This whole ride with her and the kittens has been tough.  It's our 
> firstexperience with FeLV and it's been HELL!  I still wouldn't 
> have put her &
> the kittens to sleep when we rescued them in July 2003.  I just 
> couldn't do
> it.  Our vet recommended the same fate for Miss Kitty when we took 
> her there
> about a month ago when her kidney issues flaired.
> 
> We gave her 3 years of life that she would not have had otherwise 
> and I
> don't regret any of it.  She was a sweet, precious soul who didn't 
> deservethe fate God handed her.
> 
> May she rest softly with her babies at Rainbow Bridge.  Please add 
> her to
> the Candlelight Service for Monday.
> 
> Thanks for being there when I needed you all.
> 
> Brenda Lyons
>

Re: Chatty update

[jenmeyer]

Thanks, Michelle!  That's good to know...I thought I heard the vet tech
read off something about finding "squamous" cells in the culture they
took from his nose...but I guess I have to wait until Monday to get the
final results as the culture has to be sent off to a lab.  Chatty just
finished his second day of fluids/iv baytril and he's doing much
better...he's definitely not as stuffed up as he was a few days ago and
he ate a whole can of Fancy Feast without any encouragement!!  I'm still
keeping my fingers crossed!  :)

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Friday, June 23, 2006 10:31 am
Subject: Re: Chatty update
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> I know that someone on the lymphoma group had a cat with nasal 
> lymphoma who  
> got it treated (chemo or radiation or both, not sure), and he did 
> really well  
> for a few years after that.
> Michelle
>

Chatty update

[jenmeyer]

Hi Guys!

Well, the jury is still out after his initial visit with the vet!  They
snapped several x-rays, but couldn't see any distinct tumor.  Whatever
it is is only affecting one side and when the vet went to swab inside
his nasal cavity, blood just poured out of that one side.  She took a
look with her own microscope and noted some abnormal cells...but she has
to send the culture off to get a definitive (hopefully) answer!  So we
probably won't know until next week what we're dealing with.  He's going
back in tomorrow and Saturday for fluids and iv baytril...so hopefully
that will give him some relief while we wait.  Has anyone ever seen this
with their own cats?  Poor guy...he wasn't happy to be there...it was a
little ironic that all of the cats around him were chatting up a storm
and the one guy who is actually named "Chatty" was tight-lipped!

Thanks for all your prayers!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

Positive thoughts for Chit-Chat...

[jenmeyer]

Our FIV+ guy, Chatty, is at the vet's right now having an x-ray of his
sinuses done...His congestion isn't getting any better and the mucous on
one side of his nostril is becoming tinged with blood.  We're fearing
the worst (a tumor) but still hoping for the best.  Please keep this
sweet teddybear in your thoughts!  :(

Thanks for listening, guys!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

Re: FIV infected Kitten

[jenmeyer]

Hello!

>From what I've read about FIV, it's very rare for a mother to pass on
the virus directly to her kittens (unlike FeLV).  I would definitely
have her retested in a few months and wouldn't be surprised if she
turned up negative.  But FIV is not like FeLV in that cats with FIV
usually live long, asymptomatic lives.  I also wouldn't worry about
mixing your positive and negative...the virus can only be transmitted by
a deep bite wound (typically seen with un-neutered, feral males who
fight each other).  I don't think you'll have any problem with the
little one!  ;)

I don't know much about the vaccine only that subsequent FIV testing on
a vaccinated cat can come up positive because of the vaccine.  Either
way, I think your older guy will be just fine...FeLV is considered more
contagious than FIV and I've mixed my FeLV guys with my non-FeLV guys
and no one has ever turned up positive.

Bless your heart for caring for the little one!  What is her name?

Jen



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Thursday, June 22, 2006 7:44 am
Subject: FIV infected Kitten
To: Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> I have been researching the net for information on FIV in kittens 
> and hope  
> to get more info here. My daughter came home two weeks ago with a 
> little freal  
> kitten appr. 5 weeks old. We already hav a 3 year old cat and had 
> not planned 
> on  another cat, but ofcourse everybody in the family fell in love 
> with this 
> little  thing. Yesterday we were told she tested positive for FIV, 
> which realy 
> upset  everybody, but we have decided to keep her and deal with 
> things as 
> they come.  Now I read that when a little kitten tests positive, 
> you need to keep 
> testing it  until at least 6 month of age because it might be 
> mothers 
> anti-bodies, passed  through mothers milk that might make the test 
> come back 
> positive. Is there  anybody in this forum that indeed had that 
> happen, meaning that at 
> first the  test came back positive but later negative? I know we 
> are grasping 
> at straws,  but hope helps. We are also trying to decide whether to 
> keep the 
> two cats  separate for ever or introduce them anyhow, I will talk 
> to the vet 
> to have the  older one tested too now and if that comes back 
> negative, to have 
> him vacinated,  but wonder whether that would be sufficient 
> protection. Any  
> advise??
>

Re: Safety first? - On my soapbox again--Rabies

[jenmeyer]

We just had an incident here in Houston where a highschooler was bitten
by a rabid bat...unfortunately, his family caught the signs too late and
no one could do anything for him...he died a few weeks ago.  It's been a
nutty year...another woman was bitten by a bat last week and the news
station ran a story about how it took her 2 or 3 days to get treatment
as none of the emergency hospitals around here had the necessary
vaccine/antidote!  Scary stuff!


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: Stephanie E Caldwell <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Wednesday, June 21, 2006 12:23 pm
Subject: Re: Safety first? - On my soapbox again
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> 
> 
> > Nobody I know has ever contracted rabies.  I don't know of any 
> pets 
> > personally who have gotten rabies either.  I could probably let 
> all my 
> > cats run free and they might never contract rabies.  That, 
> however, 
> > would be irresponsible - in my view - knowing the risk is there 
> and not 
> > taking preventative measures.  Ancedotal evidence indicates that 
> my cats 
> > probably won't get rabies.  I disagree, however, that 
> veterinarians and 
> > expert websites should change their information to include 
> > this ancedotal information.
> 
> I personally know someone who just lost a horse to rabies. It was 
> unvaccinated and sadly she, her hubby, her nephew and his wife and 
> their 
> three kids, 2 vets, 2 vet techs, and several friends were exposed 
> and 
> had to take rabies shots, and her entire herd of horses and her dogs.
> 
> Rabies is freakin' scary and I vaccinate every animal I have for it.
> 
> (now off MY soapbox!)
> 
> Steph
>

Re: Testing saliva for FeLV (was 'interesting')

[jenmeyer]

It's been awhile since I've researched the mechanics of FeLV...but I was
under the impression (and correct me if I'm wrong) that the virus wasn't
constantly being shed in the saliva?  Ie. a cat that may have been able
to sequester the virus would not necessarily be shedding it in the
saliva...but would still be considered FeLV+?

If not, that'd be wonderful if they didn't have to draw blood...but
would they have to draw blood anyway to test for other viruses/diseases
(FIV, etc.)?  Perhaps I should actually read the articles, though,
before I run off at the mouth!  LOL!




"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Tuesday, June 20, 2006 10:01 pm
Subject: Testing saliva for FeLV (was 'interesting')
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Did anyone read the post that Elizabeth sent on
> testing saliva instead of blood for FeLV?  It's below
> in case you deleted it.  I think it's very
> interesting.  Not only can they possibly test without
> taking blood, but if FeLV is hanging out in the saliva
> then it IS possible to pass it along via grooming (ie.
> heavy petting...lol).  What do you guys think about
> this new research?
> 
> :)
> Wendy
> 
> --- [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> 
> > An abstract from March 2006.  Sure would make life
> > easier if we could  test 
> > without drawing blood
> >  
> >  
> > _J Clin  Microbiol._ (javascript:AL_get(this,
> > 'jour', 'J Clin 
> > Microbiol.');)  2006 Mar;44(3):916-22. _Related 
> > Articles,_ 
> >
>
(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=pubmed&cmd=Display&dopt=pubmed_pubmed&from_uid=16517876)
> >  
> > _Links_ (javascript:PopUpMenu2_Set(Menu16517876);)  
> >  
> >  
> >
>
(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/utils/lofref.fcgi?PrId=3051&uid=16517876&db=pubmed&url=http://jcm.asm.org/cgi/pmidlookup?view=long&pmid=16517876)
> > 
> > Detection of feline leukemia virus RNA  in saliva
> > from naturally infected 
> > cats and correlation of PCR results with those  of
> > current diagnostic methods.
> > 
> > _Gomes-Keller  MA_ 
> >
>
(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=pubmed&cmd=Search&itool=pubmed_Abstract&term="Gomes-Keller+MA"[Author])
> > , _Gonczi  E_ 
> >
>
(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=pubmed&cmd=Search&itool=pubme
> > d_Abstract&term="Gonczi+E"[Author]) , _Tandon  R_ 
> >
>
(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=pubmed&cmd=Search&itool=pubmed_Abstract&term="Tandon+R";[
> > Author]) , _Riondato  F_ 
> >
>
(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=pubmed&cmd=Search&itool=pubmed_Abstract&term="Riondato+F"[Author])
> > , 
> > _Hofmann-Lehmann  R_ 
> >
>
(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=pubmed&cmd=Search&itool=pubmed_Abstract&term="Hofmann-Lehmann+R"[Author])
> > , _Meli  ML_ 
> >
>
(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=pubmed&cmd=Search&itool=pubmed_Abstrac
> > t&term="Meli+ML"[Author]) , _Lutz  H_ 
> >
>
(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=pubmed&cmd=Search&itool=pubmed_Abstract&term="Lutz+H"[Author])
> > .
> > 
> > Clinical Laboratory, Vetsuisse Faculty, University
> > of Zurich,  
> > Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland. 
> > [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> > 
> > A novel diagnostic test for feline leukemia  virus
> > (FeLV) RNA in saliva from 
> > naturally infected cats is described in this  study.
> > We evaluated different 
> > diagnostic tests and compared them with the widely 
> > used enzyme-linked 
> > immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of p27
> > in the  diagnosis of FeLV. Blood 
> > samples from 445 cats were tested for the presence
> > of  provirus by real-time 
> > PCR and plasma and saliva specimens from those cats
> > were  tested for the 
> > presence of viral RNA by real-time reverse
> > transcription (RT)-PCR  and for the 
> > presence of p27 by ELISA. In comparison to
> > conventional ELISA, the  diagnostic 
> > sensitivity and specificity of the detection of
> > salivary FeLV RNA by  real-time 
> > RT-PCR were found to be 98.1 and 99.2%,
> > respectively. Detection of  viral RNA in 
> > saliva had a positive predictive value of 94.6% and
> > a negative  predictive 
> > value of 99.7%. The kappa value was 0.96,
> > demonstrating an almost  perfect 
> > agreement between both tests. Furthermore, we
> > confirmed previous results  showing 
> > that a number of cats which tested negative for the
> > presence of p27 in  plasma 
> > were

Re: raw diets

[jenmeyer]

I think a list member, Julie (has anyone heard from her??  :-(  ), tried
the freeze dried Nature's Variety with her crew...if I recall, they
didn't think too highly of it (I wish cats were as easy to please in the
food department as dogs...)...but, again, it's just up to the individual
cat!  That's actually one of the many pros of having resident
dogs...they are always more than happy to eat whatever failed "cat food
experiments" I dole out... ;)



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: Gary Murphy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Tuesday, June 20, 2006 9:36 pm
Subject: raw diets
To: Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hi, has anyone here tried the "freeze dried" cat food?  It's raw 
> all dried out, you reconstitute it with water.  Doesn't sound too 
> appetizing, but then again, neither do mice.  My kittens for 
> dummies book recommends it instead of raw, to help avoid the 
> parasite risk.  I've never tried it, but am considering it for my 
> positive kitten.
> 
> Regards,
> Beth 
> [EMAIL PROTECTED]

Re: raw food

[jenmeyer]

I've also fed raw in the past...Nature's Variety frozen raw chicken and
turkey patties...just thaw and serve!  I never had a problem with anyone
getting sick, etc., but I probably only fed it consistently for 3 or 4
months.  One of my boys really dug the stuff and would eat it whenever
it was available (he was FeLV+), but the others, like with any food I
give them, got bored with it and I had to switch to something else. 
You'd actually be surprised at the number of bacteria that's been found
on regular ol' dry food!  ;)



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Tuesday, June 20, 2006 6:55 pm
Subject: Re: raw food
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Okay, I'm going to throw my 2 cents in here.  I've posted it enough 
> for 
> everyone to know that feeding Gypsy raw food saved her life.  I was 
> also 
> as careful as I could be in selecting meat from a source, (I bought 
> it 
> at Whole Foods and paid a premium price for it), that told me it 
> was as 
> free from hormones and additives and that it had been handled in 
> the 
> safest manner possible before it got to my door.  Even with all my 
> precautions, there is a chance that it could have contained 
> parasites, 
> or contaminants that would have made Gypsy sick.  I didn't have a 
> lot of 
> options and when I made the decision to try it with Gypsy I did it 
> with 
> a prayer that it would be safe and help her recover.  Well, it did. 
> 
> We all have to make difficult decisions and we all have to live 
> with the 
> consequences of those decisions.  We do the best we can and support 
> each 
> other through it all.  I wasn't aware that freezing simply 
> "inactivates" 
> microbes, bacteria, yeasts and molds, (hardly little pests!), and 
> I'm 
> glad that Elisabeth took the time to research it and share this 
> info 
> with us.  It may be the medium of email communication, but the last 
> exchange seemed to be getting a tad testy.  This is the nicest list 
> I've 
> ever been on and I think one of the reasons it is, is because we 
> all 
> face the emotional turmoil that serious illness can stir up.  We 
> come 
> here to learn, share, comfort and support each other in an 
> atmosphere of 
> acceptance.  I for one would like to maintain the feeling of this 
> list 
> as a safe refuge from the pettiness of the outside world and 
> continue to 
> allow conflicting opinions without the fear of it leading to hurt 
> feelings or hostility.
> 
> Perhaps that's more than 2 cents worth,
> Nina
> 
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> 
> > why thank you - and i'm very glad you've had good results.
> >  
> > In a message dated 6/20/2006 4:12:24 P.M. Central Daylight Time, 
> > [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> >
> > I would hope none of us would let raw meat lay around, that 
> is not
> > the correct way to feed raw.
> > You can have your thought but I have the proof at home it works.
> >  
> > Roxane
> >
> 
>

Re: Severe congestion?--Michelle

[jenmeyer]

Thanks for that, Michelle!  I'm willing to try anything at this point to
give him a little relief...he hasn't eaten much today and I don't want
him to go on much longer w/ a poor appetite!  So there's only one orange
in the children's variety?



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Monday, June 19, 2006 8:07 pm
Subject: Re: Severe congestion?--Thanks!
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Triaminic, the orange version, is a children's cold remedy that 
> really helps 
> clear congestion. A vet told me to give .2 ml (that's point 2, not 
> 2) to 
> Ginger when she was too stuffed up to eat, and it really seemed to 
> make her feel 
> better and help her start eating.
> Michelle
> 
> In a message dated 6/19/2006 2:20:26 PM Eastern Standard Time, 
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> I wish I could be of more help with Chatty's impersonation of Darth 
> Vadar.  Starman, (my hulking FIV guy), was congested and breathing 
> the 
> same way when he showed up.  I wasn't thrilled about doing it, but 
> I 
> took my vet's advice and put him on Baytril.  It did clear it up 
> and so 
> far, it hasn't come back, (quick, say a prayer).  I don't have any 
> experience with the albuterol, let us know.
> Hugs,
> Nina
>

Re: Samantha's Prognosis

[jenmeyer]

You guys will certainly be in my thoughts!

I've gone through chemo with a couple of guys now and, honestly, I'm
torn as to whether or not I'd do it again.  The treatment gave us about
4 more months with our Ewok...I felt it was right at the time as he was
very agreeable to the treatments and the drive...but I'm still feeling
the impact to my wallet... :(  I've recently had to make a decision
whether or not I'd want to do it again with his brother (the test
results were still out as to whether or not he had cancer...fortunately,
he did not)...If he had cancer, though, I had made up my mind to forego
the chemo in favor of Michelle's steriod combo only because I felt it
would be the right decision for Sleepypants.  I just didn't get the
feeling from him that he'd want to go through the treatment program...I
don't know, it sounds a bit crazy, but I think the decision to go
through with chemo depends solely on the cat and you know Samantha best!

Take care and keep us posted!  You guys are in my thoughts!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: Julia Hagstrom <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Monday, June 19, 2006 3:38 pm
Subject: Samantha's Prognosis
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hi, all :(
> 
> Well, I have good news and bad news.  The good news is that 
> Samantha 
> doesn't have FIV or FIP, just FelV.  The bad news is that the tumor 
> in 
> her chest is definitely Mediastinal lymphoma, and it's in her lymph 
> nodes, unfortunately.  :(  I can give her chemo and radiation and 
> prolong her life for 3-4 months, or I can simply leave her be (they 
> gave her Prednisone, short-term chemo,  and something to keep her 
> from 
> having an allergic reaction to the chemo, today).  She is better, 
> and 
> they drained some more fluid out of her, to test it for lymphoma 
> cells, 
> as my regular vet hadn't done that, yet; she wanted to see what I 
> wanted to do, first.  I now have to decide whether to spend almost 
> $1700.00 and get her the radiation and chemo that will prolong her 
> life 
> for 3-4 months or just leave her be, and my inclination is to leave 
> her 
> be, and keep her home until she is suffering too much to do 
> anything 
> except let her go, with regular checkups from my regular vet, of 
> course.  I have meds to give her and they took her off the Lasix, 
> as 
> her body is producing more fluid than the Lasix can help her get 
> rid of 
> quickly, and all the other meds she was on except the antiobiotic, 
> and 
> they have me giving her one pill, once a day (don't remember what 
> it 
> is) and Children's Benadryl from the drugstore.  Please pray for 
> us, 
> and any advice you care to offer is gratefully accepted.  I need 
> all 
> the support and advice you care to give.  Thanks for all your support.
> 
> Julia Hagstrom
> 
>

Re: Severe congestion?--Thanks!

[jenmeyer]

Thanks, guys, for all your help!  Unfortunately, the local grocery
didn't have the Little Noses with Phenylephrine...so I just picked up
the saline drops and have been giving those a go!  Not a whole lot of
improvement...he's a little less "beow-y," but still sounds very much
like Darth Vadar...He's also still having difficulty smelling his food,
so I've resorted to syringing for the time being.  I can't believe how
agreeable he's been through all this...he's just so unbelievably sweet,
I don't know how anyone could abandon him!

So I'm going to try upping his dosage of interferon and have started
adding vitamin C to his food in an effort to get him over the hump. 
Thanks for all your help!  Also, is the albuterol mostly for chest
congestion?  Or will it work on upper respiratory, as well?

Thanks!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Sunday, June 18, 2006 7:48 pm
Subject: Re: Severe congestion?
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> What has helped my cats with congestion is nebulizing them with 
> albuterol.  I'm not sure about doing this with FELV+ cats, though.
> 
> - Original Message -
> From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> Date: Sunday, June 18, 2006 7:41 pm
> Subject: Re: Severe congestion?
> To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
> 
> > Many lists members in the past have suggested a children's 
> product 
> > called Little
> > Noses. I have no personal experience or dosage info.. I'm sure 
> > someone will pipe in
> > with that info though!
> > 
> > Phaewryn
> > 
> > PLEASE Adopt a cat from Little Cheetah Cat Rescue!!!
> > http://ucat.us/adopt.html
> > 
> > DONATE: We could really use a power saw (for construction), a 
> > digital camera (for
> > pictures) and HOMES for CATS!
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > -- 
> > No virus found in this outgoing message.
> > Checked by AVG Free Edition.
> > Version: 7.1.394 / Virus Database: 268.9.0/368 - Release Date: 
> > 6/16/2006
> > 
>

Severe congestion?

[jenmeyer]

I think this topic may have been covered recently...but was there any
consensus on a good decongestant for cats?  Long story short, we think
the herpes virus is wreaking havoc on poor Chatty (FIV+)...he was given
a steriod to help reduce the inflammation in his gums due to stomatitis,
and that was probably how the virus was able to get a good foot-hold! 
Anyway, I'm running out of ideas to give him some relief as antibiotics
(zithromax), interferon and lysine (up to 1000 mg/day) aren't cutting
it!  I've started calling him "Darth" and can't help but chuckle when he
"meows" as it sounds more like he's saying "be-ow."  ;)  He's fine
otherwise, although he's having a hard time smelling his food, so I've
had to resort to tuna and anything that gives off a strong odor.  I've
just put a humidifier in the room to see if that helps, but I'm quickly
running out of ideas!  Any suggestions?  I've never seen a cat this
congested!

Thanks, all!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

Re: Hello, new to Felvtalk

[jenmeyer]

Hi Gina!

What a little sweetheart!!  I'd certainly retest her in a few months as
there's a possibility that she may test negative next time around...in
the meantime, I'd make sure everybody's immune systems are good and
strong with an excellent quality food!

Such a cutie...Love the name!  We used to have a cat named "Piglet" (his
tail was kinked so that it wrapped itself in a loop like a little pig's
tail) but his name was later shortened to "Pips," one of my all-time
favorite names!

Don't be shy about questions...this is a wonderful and supportive group!
 I don't know what I'd do without them!  :)

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: Gina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Saturday, June 17, 2006 2:05 pm
Subject: Hello, new to Felvtalk
To: Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hi,
>   
>  I wanted to introduce myself and my kitten.  Her name Pippin.  
> She is about nine weeks old and had a faint positive result on her 
> first FeLV test on Thursday.  I've been frantically doing research 
> about the disease and I came across the felineleukemia.org support 
> group.  I am looking for others to talk with :)
>   
>  Pippin and our other cats have a website if you would like to 
> visit it: http://tiggerwiggins.com/tiggertales.html
>   
>  Thank you,
>  Gina 
> 
> 
> No heaven wil not ever Heaven be Unless my cats are there to 
> welcome me.--epitaph in a pet cemetery
>   
> -
> Yahoo! Messenger with Voice. PC-to-Phone calls for ridiculously low rates.

Re: Mama Kitty

[jenmeyer]

ADORABLE!!!  :)  I'm so happy to hear she's doing great!



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Saturday, June 17, 2006 1:54 pm
Subject: Mama Kitty
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Still fairly new to the list here -- but reading faithfully and 
> going  
> through it all with you guys. 
> 
> In review - Mama Kitty was FeVL+ symptomatic six weeks ago - had 
> lost  14% of 
> her body weight, was very anemic, and did not have a good prognosis 
> before I 
> began a five week treatment with acemannon tummy shots and 
> supplements  
> including colostrum. (initial treatment included ammoxi and short-
> acting  
> corticosteroid shot...) Since, she has gained weight - continues to 
> improve...plays 
> with her toys again and raced like a mad woman across the yard  and 
> more than 
> six feet up a big oak tree recently :0)
> 
> To be honest -- I don't know exactly where we stand now -- but this 
> morning  
> I asked Mama Kitty how she was feeling.  You can see from the 
> picture she  
> says, "I'm feeling pretty good right now!" 
> _http://www.trentdesigns.com/elizabeth/MVC-082F.JPG_ 
> (http://www.trentdesigns.com/elizabeth/MVC-082F.JPG)  
> 
> Just praying for good days and hoping to spread a little hope :0)   
> head 
> butts and kittie kisses  to you all.
> 
> 
> 
> 
>

Re: Need prayers for my Hannibal -getting blind

[jenmeyer]

Well said, Michelle!



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 6:28 pm
Subject: Re: Need prayers for my Hannibal -getting blind
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Praying for Hannibal's vision to come back.
> 
> I so hope it does, Hideyo, but if it does not, cats can learn to 
> live without 
> vision, but not without red blood cells.  You have made the right 
> decisions 
> for him.  he would not be here without the decisions you have made.
> 
> Michelle
>

Re: Need prayers for my Hannibal -getting blind

[jenmeyer]

You guys are certainly in my thoughts!



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: Hideyo Yamamoto <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Tuesday, June 13, 2006 4:16 pm
Subject: Need prayers for my Hannibal -getting blind
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hi, I would like to ask you all more prayers for Hannibal - he has 
> beenon epogen due to his low PCV.. now it caused his BP to be 
> high.. and he
> is getting blind - I noticed on Saturday and did not any better to 
> takehim to the vet right away (I did not know what's going one).. 
> he is on
> Norvasc to control BP, and if treated immediately there is 50/50 
> chancethat he can get his vision back.. please please please pray 
> for my baby,
> that his sight will come back!!!
> 
> 
> 
> Hideyo and Hannibal
> 
>

Re: Diagnosed Today-lysine powder

[jenmeyer]

Nice!  I may go ahead and place an order then...my last batch from the
health food store cost $19!  I love 'em, but I need to save all the cash
I can right now!  ;)



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: Belinda <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Tuesday, June 13, 2006 3:35 pm
Subject: Re: Diagnosed Today-lysine powder
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

>   Shipping is done by zip code to ship 3 day UPS to me in WA is 
> only 
> 4.26, not bad.
> 
> -- 
> 
> Belinda
> happiness is being owned by cats ...
> 
> Be-Mi-Kitties
> http://bemikitties.com
> 
> Post Adoptable FeLV/FIV/FIP Cats/Kittens
> http://adopt.bemikitties.com
> 
> FeLV Candlelight Service
> http://bemikitties.com/cls
> 
> HostDesign4U.com [affordable hosting & web design]
> http://HostDesign4U.com
> 
> 
> 
> BMK Designs [non-profit animals websites]
> http://bmk.bemikitties.com
> 
>

Re: Diagnosed Today-lysine powder

[jenmeyer]

This is the brand I've been able to find at a local health food
store...but the online price is pretty sweet...I pay twice that, but if
you don't buy anything else from iHerb, then shipping will probably even
everything out... ;)

http://www.papanature.com/store/ProductDetails.aspx?c=Herbs&pid=NOW-00240



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Tuesday, June 13, 2006 12:13 pm
Subject: Re: Diagnosed Today
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Anyone know where I can purchase lysine in powder form?
> I am so tired of grinding up pills.
> Thanks 
> Karen
>

Re: Diagnosed Today

[jenmeyer]

Hi Lisa!

You're certainly not alone here!  :)  That's wonderful that he's still
eating!  When Feleuk guys get sick, they often go off their food and it
can be a struggle just to get food into them, let alone address what's
going on illness-wise!

Might I suggest adding some L-lysine to his food?  500mg per day
(usually divided into two meals) is the dosage...it's a great anti-viral
and really brought one of our kittens back from the brink when he was
younger.  You can get it at the grocery store...usually in tablet form,
just crush it up and add to food.  There doesn't seem to be any adverse
taste...It's the one thing I can give to my guys that I know they won't
detect in their food!

You may also want to ask your vet about Interferon...also a great
anti-viral and immune system booster...it's a clear liquid that you give
orally (no taste).

Unfortunately, I've gotta run...but you'll get plenty of great advice
from this wonderful group!  Hang in there!  Give Chester a big hug from me!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Tuesday, June 13, 2006 11:55 am
Subject: Diagnosed Today
To: Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hi Guys-
> I hope I am posting this the right way.
> We just found out today that we are positive.
> Chester just turned a year old in April.  We got him after we was 
> weaned and 
> has been inside our house ever since.  I suspect that he got it 
> from his 
> mother (his mother was an indoor cat-or that's what we were told).  
> He 
> didn't show any signs until a few months ago.  He came down with a 
> cold and 
> has been given antibotics for that twice.  When he goes off of it 
> he still 
> is not normal.  Right now he has a sore throat and fever.  My major 
> concern 
> is his laying around which he never did as a kitten, he just seems 
> depressed.  Still eating and going to bathroom okay.  Doctor gave 
> me Baytril 
> and Prednisone.  Doctor said that he could last a few months but 
> will get 
> worse.  I also have another cat, Timmy 6 years old.  Timmy was 
> tested as a 
> kitten (negative) but not yet recently.  Still keeping both 
> together because 
> if Timmy were going to get it he'd probably already be infected.
> 
> I feel horrible.  I just need some support as I am new to this 
> whole thing.  
> Any ideas, suggestions?  What should I do?  Of course I want to 
> keep Chester 
> as long as possible but I don't want him to suffer.  I want to do 
> what's 
> best for the cat.  Any advice is appreciated.
> 
> Thanks,
> Lisa
> --
> WOW! Homepage (http://www.wowway.com)
> 
>

Re: Test results and an OT question

[jenmeyer]

Awesome news!  Though I have to say I'm not surprised she retested
negative!  ;)  I found it a little odd that her littermate was negative
as kittens are very susceptible to the virus...I suspected a false
positive, like Nina, but didn't want to put the cart before the horse,
so-to-speak!  I'm so glad to hear that that was the case!

Unfortunately, I don't know much about the genetic abnormalities that
you mentioned!  I did have one cat who had a murmur...but it never
affected him as far as I know...I used to give him 30 mg of CoQ10 every
day as it is supposed to be good for the heart muscle.  But I definitely
second the second opinion for your little one!  :)

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Saturday, June 10, 2006 2:12 pm
Subject: Test results and an OT question
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hi guys,
> 
> I took 5 kittens/cats in to be tested today.  The little girl who 
> previously tested pos tested negative today.  So did all her 
> littermates and the unrelated cat.  Very, very good news.  I still 
> don't understand how one who tested positive 3 days ago tested 
> negative today, but she did.
> 
> The vet at the clinic feels it is unnecessary at this point to have 
> cats in my home who have previously tested negative re-tested.  Do 
> you 
> agree?
> 
> Also, unfortunately, one little girl I took in was diagnosed with a 
> heart murmur, so they would not inoculate her.  The vet also stated 
> she had some genetic abnormalities - asymmetric pupils and teeth 
> that 
> curve in instead of going straight downI'm very worried about her 
> now 
> as she is the love of my life.  Do any of yall know of any good web 
> resources on heart murmurs?  I'm taking her in for a second opinion 
> next weekend.
> 
> I wanted to thank everyone for being there for me the last few 
> days.  
> You are an awesome group of people.  I learned a lot about this 
> disease, too.
> 
> Thanks so much,
> 
> Kelley
>

Re: Treatment

[jenmeyer]

Hi Julia!

I would get her to an oncologist as soon as you can...mediastinal
lymphoma (tumor in the chest cavity) is very responsive to chemo.  If
you can find an emergency vet that has vincristine in stock (one of the
chemo drugs), see if they will administer that to her...the longer her
chest fills with fluid, the harder it will be for her to breath...chemo
kicks in fast.  If you have to wait to see an oncologist, you can start
her on prednisone (a steroid) to help shrink the tumor in the
meantime...depo medrol is also another good steriod you can probably use
in an emergency until you can get her to an oncologist, as well!

You guys are in my thoughts!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: Julia Hagstrom <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Saturday, June 10, 2006 11:38 pm
Subject: Treatment
To: Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> I have a 9-month-old kitten who has been diagnosed with Feline 
> Leukemia.  She has fluid in her lungs and a mass in her chest.  
> What 
> can I do for her???
> 
> Julia Hagstrom
> [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> 
>

Re: MK Update

[jenmeyer]

Awesome news, Elizabeth!!


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Friday, June 9, 2006 4:34 pm
Subject: MK Update
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> We're back from the  vet's with another good report.  Mama Kitty 
> just had her 
> last  treatment of Acemannan and one more vitamin B12 shot.  She's 
> gained 
> more  weight -- she's just over 8lbs now...which is much better 
> than the 7.2lbs 
> she  weighed when I first took her in for treatment.  She still 
> seems  
> bright-eyed and perky - although occasionally her 3rd eyelid will 
> show  temporarily in 
> her right eye.  That still bothers me but I'm still working  with 
> her on 
> nutrition and supplements and keeping her environment stress free  
> and clean. 
> 
> My vet says we'll watch her to see how she  does.  He said he 
> thought he 
> might use this treatment on some other kitties  who test positive 
> also.  This 
> really made me feel good because so often  they just recommend 
> euthanasia without 
> making any recommendations - and if he  does this...then it will be 
> a 
> turn-around for him.  It's been a learning  experience for both of us!
> 
> Mama is sunbathing at the moment  and just got a handful of treats -
> - and so, 
> of course, everybody else did  too :0)
> 
> Thanks for being  there,
> Elizabeth, Mama Kitty, Phelix, Antonio,  Tiffany, Alexis, Othello, 
> Shakiti 
> and  Tori. 
>

Re: "Light" positive? Help!

[jenmeyer]

Please understand that FeLV is not like the flu or even a cold...it
can't be spread via the air...direct, prolonged contact is needed, and,
even then, it is still very hard for a healthy adult (over 6 months old)
to become infected.  I've personally mixed my positive and negative cats
for nearly 4 years...they sleep, eat, drink together and even groom each
other and the negatives have never become positive.  There's ALOT of
mis-information out there...you've come to the right place to get the
RIGHT information!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Friday, June 9, 2006 4:14 pm
Subject: Re: "Light" positive?  Help!
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> 
> 
> - Original Message -
> From: Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> Date: Friday, June 9, 2006 3:50 pm
> Subject: Re: "Light" positive?  Help!
> To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
> 
> > I'm sorry, I know how scared you are, but your description of 
> them 
> > all 
> > bolting for the open door brought a smile to my face.  The little 
> > scamps 
> > are just so darn cute!
> > Nina
> > 
> They are cute, but even with a sleeping pill I had problems 
> sleeping 
> last night, having nightmares of dead and dying cats and kittens, 
> and 
> I forgot to eat too.  And I have been crying all day, and I don't 
> even 
> know anything yet.  How am I going to handle it when I actually 
> know 
> something?
>

Re: For those who mix positive/negative

[jenmeyer]

Hi Noelle!

We had to make a similar decision when we found out our kittens tested
positive!  We just didn't have the heart to separate their adoptive dad
(he was negative) who had grown very attached to the babies!  So we got
him the FeLV booster and continue to do so every year (although I don't
know how necessary this is...he'd probably be fine with a booster every
2 or 3 years).  It's been almost 4 years, now, and Boots still tests
negative.  We've even added another negative to the bunch without any
problems!  And they share everything (food, water, litter...even groom
each other).

Flaco is about at that age where his immune system ought to be fully
developed...but irregardless, you may want to retest both babies in a
few months just to be sure!

I don't think Flaco and Loca could've found a more loving, wonderful home!!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: Noelle Ehrenkaufer <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Wednesday, June 7, 2006 2:33 pm
Subject: For those who mix positive/negative
To: Felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> As I mentioned before I have two kittens who were abandoned that I 
> took in. Both are about 5 months now. I found Loca when she was 
> only about 2 weeks, Flaco was probably 2.5-3 months when we found 
> him. They have always been together and are buddies. The vet 
> recently recommended testing for leukemia, Loca tested positive, 
> Flaco negative.
> 
> After researching the archives here and elsewhere and giving it a 
> lot of thought, I have decided not to separate them. Logistically 
> it would not be easy and I just can't bear to see Loca separated 
> from the others like that. We also have an adult cat who is like a 
> dad to them and 3 dogs that get along fine with the cats.
> 
> I am wondering what others do in this situation to minimize the 
> risk of transmission to Flaco. When they eat I always keep an eye 
> on them to keep them out of each others' plates, but there's really 
> nothing I can do about the water dishes. I try to discourage her 
> from grooming him if I see it. I usually pick her up and cuddle her 
> instead, which she loves. My vet also recommended giving the FeLV 
> vaccine to Flaco. Does anyone else have thoughts on this?
> 
> I just wanted to also share a comment from my Chilean boyfriend. We 
> live in Chile where there is even less information available about 
> this disease. He said that we are very lucky that I speak English 
> and was able to find this site. I have been sharing some of what I 
> have learned from this site and he was really impressed with the 
> wealth of knowledge here and the willingness of members to help others.

Re: FIV resources

[jenmeyer]

We've got an FIV guy here...the sweetest, most laid back little dude
I've ever met!  I didn't know much about FIV other than it was pretty
hard to spread it and that cats can live relatively normal lives with
the virus.  But what really set me straight was the attitude of my vet
who basically said, "No big deal, I've got one at my house who mingles
with all of my other cats!"  As much as I knew in my heart it was no big
deal, it really gave me a peace of mind hearing it from an "expert,"
so-to-speak!  :)

Education is probably the key, and having more vets out there to dispel
the "myths" would certainly come in handy (and this goes for FeLV, too)!

As an aside, is it true that FIV cats seem to be some of the coolest
cats around, or is it just me?  ;)



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Friday, June 2, 2006 8:37 am
Subject: Re: FIV resources
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> It's discouraging.  I have never placed an FIV+ cat.  I have 5 or 
> 6, 
> and they're wonderful.  Something to work on, I guess.
> 
> Gloria
> 
> 
> At 01:29 AM 6/2/2006, you wrote:
> >I have a couple of FIV+ cats of my own and a beautiful little 
> >Siamese mix foster who is FIV+  They take longer to place.  We 
> have 
> >to try harder.  We have to work at educating people.  But we have 
> to 
> >get the message out that FIV cats can live long happy lives and 
> are 
> >not furry little lepers.  Consider how language reflects mindset 
> and 
> >affects actions.  Does it really take longer to place an FIV cat 
> >than a senior or a special needs cat?  Or an all black cat?  Some 
> >take longer than others.
> >
> >[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> >I have one up for adoption too... they are hard to place.
> >
> >Phaewryn (was Jenn, changed name)
> >http://ucat.us
> >http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html
> >Adopt a cat from Little Cheetah (UCAT) Cat Rescue:
> >http://ucat.us/adopt.html
> >PLEASE DONATE TO THE TANGLE FUND:
> >Tangle is a cat in Greece that was severely injured when someone 
> >wrapped wire around his neck to strangle him,
> >Little Cheetah Cat Rescue is raising funds to bring Tangle to 
> >Vermont to find him a good home!
> >http://ucat.us/tangle-fund.html
> >DONATE: We could really use a power saw (for construction), a 
> >digital camera (for pictures), and more towels!
> >No virus found in this outgoing message.
> >Checked by AVG Free Edition.
> >Version: 7.1.394 / Virus Database: 268.8.1/354 - Release Date: 
> 6/1/2006>
> 
>

Re: Allergic-type reaction to EVO?--Nina

[jenmeyer]

Hi Nina!

I certainly don't want to dog EVO as, I believe, it's a step in the
right direction...but I will tell you, and please forgive my highly
scientific opinion... ;)  but when I opened the bag of Solid Gold, the
thing that really stuck in my mind was the smell...it just smelled
*good!*  EVO always smelled kinda heavy and greasy to me...maybe it's
the way they have to preserve it, or maybe it's the higher meat content,
I'm not sure.  But I've certainly noticed a difference in SP's
fur...it's not as greasy and there's much less dandruff than there used
to be.  But, like you, I'm only having an issue with a couple of the
kids...the others seem to tolerate EVO just fine (although I would argue
that I've seen an improvement with all of their coats since switching to
Solid Gold...everybody seems to be much softer)!  :)  I suspect that
Solid Gold might contain fewer allergens as the protein source is lamb
as opposed to beef or chicken...I was also wondering about Rosemary
extract as I c
ould've sworn that I had read somewhere that that can be an allergen
(which EVO has as a preservative), but I can't find that source
anywhere...Anyhoo, can you tell I have a little too much time on my
hands right now?  ;)

But I think I'll take your advice and just keep doing what I'm doing! 
Hope all is well with your gang!  How is Star doing besides the itchy
skin?  Chatty's made himself at home, but we're battling a nasty case of
stomatitis right now...fortunately, he's the perfect candidate to try
out my cat toothbrushing skills on (or lack thereof) as soon as the
inflamation starts subsiding!  :)

Take care,

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Thursday, June 1, 2006 11:28 am
Subject: Re: Allergic-type reaction to EVO?
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hello my dear Jen,
> Ya know, I mentioned briefly in my post to Lance about 
> fleas/advantage 
> that Star and Spence have been having extreme itchy skin problems.  
> I 
> have the house on EVO too and now I'm wondering if that could be a 
> contributing factor.  I'll switch them to Solid Gold and see if it 
> helps.  I don't know if food allergies can manifest as URI type 
> symptoms.  Usually I would suspect diarrhea, or skin problems if 
> it's 
> from food.  Do humans get URI symptoms with food allergies, or is 
> it 
> just inhalant type reactions?  If it were me and my guys were 
> showing 
> improvement, I wouldn't dare "test" it and switch them back to 
> either 
> the EVO or old litter!  As far as "suddenly" developing allergic 
> reactions to things they previously had no problems with, I know 
> that 
> happens with humans, so I suspect it's possible with felines too.
> 
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> 
> >Yeah, the vet and I had chalked it up to seasonal allergies...but 
> after>seeing the improvement in SP's coat, I have to think that 
> there's at
> >least a food link there...litter dust could be another factor that I
> >hadn't considered with Lola as I just switched litters, I think, just
> >before I noticed an improvement with her symptoms.  SP developed his
> >symptoms around late January which is still a little early for 
> seasonal,>but certainly not out of the question for Houston, TX!  ;)
> >
> >Perhaps there are two issues going on:  food allergies and
> >seasonal/litter (inhalant) allergies?  I'm having a difficult time
> >believing that the food would affect respiratory/eyes...so I'll 
> indeed>stick with the new litter I bought (also on a whim simply 
> because I
> >couldn't get to Sam's to get their usual litter)!  Can cats suddenly
> >develop allergies to things they've been exposed to most of their 
> lives?>
> 
>

Re: Allergic-type reaction to EVO?

[jenmeyer]

Yeah, the vet and I had chalked it up to seasonal allergies...but after
seeing the improvement in SP's coat, I have to think that there's at
least a food link there...litter dust could be another factor that I
hadn't considered with Lola as I just switched litters, I think, just
before I noticed an improvement with her symptoms.  SP developed his
symptoms around late January which is still a little early for seasonal,
but certainly not out of the question for Houston, TX!  ;)

Perhaps there are two issues going on:  food allergies and
seasonal/litter (inhalant) allergies?  I'm having a difficult time
believing that the food would affect respiratory/eyes...so I'll indeed
stick with the new litter I bought (also on a whim simply because I
couldn't get to Sam's to get their usual litter)!  Can cats suddenly
develop allergies to things they've been exposed to most of their lives?



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: Ashleigh Smith <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Thursday, June 1, 2006 9:39 am
Subject: Re: Allergic-type reaction to EVO?
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Bella didn't do so well on EVO either--runny, lethal poops when she 
> ate it.  I use California Naturals now, and she's thriving.  The 
> vet told me that she's one of the healthiest cats he's ever seen.  
> I also use a little Omega 3 supplement on her food.  (I am a big 
> believer in that stuff.  I take the human capsules, and I use some 
> Omega 3 that I got from the vet for Bella's food.  Her coat is 
> absolutely fabulous, especially considering the hot weather here.
>   
>  Have you considered that either seasonal allergies or an allergy 
> to cat litter dust might be the problem?
>   
>  ~Ashleigh
> 
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
>  Hi All!
> 
> As the title suggests, I'm wondering if anyone who uses Innova EVO dry
> has noticed any type of allergic-type reactions in their cats? I've
> been desperately trying to figure out what it is that is making
> Sleepypants so sneezy/watery-eyed/unable to breathe propery, etc.! I
> pretty much had chalked it up to inhalant allergies when, on a whim 
> (andwhy I didn't think of this sooner, I'll never know), I switched 
> out the
> cats' dry food to Solid Gold just for a change. About two weeks later,
> I noticed that SP's symptoms were lessening and now (after about 3-4
> weeks on Solid Gold) he's completely symptom-free! I also noticed that
> Lola, who also suffered a bit w/ watery eyes, has become symptom-
> free at
> about the same rate!
> 
> I'm not sure what to make of it as I always thought food allergies
> manifested themselves differently (itchy/flaky skin...although I have
> noticed that SP's fur has greatly improved over the slightly
> greasy/dandruffy coat he had while on EVO)...I'm trying to figure out
> whether or not something in the food can cause eye/nose/respiratory
> issues? I guess the only way to know for sure whether it was the food
> would be to try EVO again for about 6 weeks and see what happens...but
> SP and Lola just look so good, I don't want to stop whatever it is I'm
> doing right! ;)
> 
> So for a start, I'd like to ask around and see if anyone else has 
> had a
> problem with EVO?
> 
> Thanks, guys!
> 
> Jen
> 
> 
> "But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
> unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the 
> world; You
> become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
> Saint-Exupéry
> 
> "If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
> each other. If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
> whatyou do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
> Chief Dan
> George
> 
> "The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --
> Blade Runner
> 
> 
> 
> 
>   
> -
> New Yahoo! Messenger with Voice. Call regular phones from your PC 
> and save big.
>

Allergic-type reaction to EVO?

[jenmeyer]

Hi All!

As the title suggests, I'm wondering if anyone who uses Innova EVO dry
has noticed any type of allergic-type reactions in their cats?  I've
been desperately trying to figure out what it is that is making
Sleepypants so sneezy/watery-eyed/unable to breathe propery, etc.!  I
pretty much had chalked it up to inhalant allergies when, on a whim (and
why I didn't think of this sooner, I'll never know), I switched out the
cats' dry food to Solid Gold just for a change.  About two weeks later,
I noticed that SP's symptoms were lessening and now (after about 3-4
weeks on Solid Gold) he's completely symptom-free!  I also noticed that
Lola, who also suffered a bit w/ watery eyes, has become symptom-free at
about the same rate!

I'm not sure what to make of it as I always thought food allergies
manifested themselves differently (itchy/flaky skin...although I have
noticed that SP's fur has greatly improved over the slightly
greasy/dandruffy coat he had while on EVO)...I'm trying to figure out
whether or not something in the food can cause eye/nose/respiratory
issues?  I guess the only way to know for sure whether it was the food
would be to try EVO again for about 6 weeks and see what happens...but
SP and Lola just look so good, I don't want to stop whatever it is I'm
doing right!  ;)

So for a start, I'd like to ask around and see if anyone else has had a
problem with EVO?

Thanks, guys!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

Re: New to group/ Conflicting information

[jenmeyer]

Awww, what a sweetheart!  :)  I wonder if the "spasms" she's
experiencing aren't just a part of the healing process?  We have a girl,
Maggie, who showed up at my office emaciated and with an obvious injury
to her spine near her pelvis.  She could walk okay but climbing was out
of the question!  She had to pull herself onto surfaces and her tail was
limp.  The vet took x-rays which gave us an idea of what may have
happened...it was obviously an older injury...it looked as though she
may have been crushed under a garage door or perhaps hit by a car!  I
thought for sure her tail would have to be amputated, but 'lo and
behold, with good food, proper care and lots of love, she was able to
start lifting her tail after about a week or so!  She's also regained
all of her jumping abilities and thensome (I can't believe what she can
get herself on top of)!

But the reason I mention "healing process spasms" is because I noticed
as Maggie was healing that she was licking both sides of her spine near
the injury to the point that she had two little bald spots on her back!
 ;)  I couldn't help but wonder if the nerves were a little tingly and
that was bothering her...anyway, she stopped over time and is now
running/jumping circles around the others.  Her tail is still limp
towards the end, but she's able to fully lift the base which certainly
gives her a unique look!  :)

So to your question!  :)  I think the general consensus is that you wait
3 months and retest in case she was newly infected and hasn't had a
chance to show up on a test, yet.  I wouldn't be surprised, either, if
she turns up negative, again!  I don't think FeLV is as contagious as
once thought, especially among the healthy, adult cat crowd.  Kittens
seem to be the most susceptible as their immune systems aren't quite up
to par yet!

Hope this helps!  Give Angel a big smooch from me!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

Re: Subject: OT - Flower Essences (diatomaceous earth forflea control)

[jenmeyer]

Who can say?  :)  There hasn't been much scientific research in the area
of internal parasite control...my guess is that it may work (if it does
in fact work) by piercing the waxy protective surface of the parasite
much as it does to external parasites (the microscopic "shards" of DE
wouldn't seem large enough, in my opinion, to actually pierce any kind
of exo-skeleton)...but if that waxy surface is compromised, my guess is
that it would leave the worm/parasite susceptible to a pretty hostile
environment (digestive enzymes/bacteria?)...just my guess!  I would
assume, however, that the biggest benefit to cattle/grazers would be the
added mineral content of DE...



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: gary <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Friday, May 19, 2006 12:48 pm
Subject: Re: Subject: OT - Flower Essences (diatomaceous earth  forflea
control)
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> I've heard that using it for intestinal worms is just BS.  I 
> couldn't say 
> for sure but the explanation I've seen on how it supposedly works 
> would make 
> me think it is BS.  The claim is that the sharp edges of the earth 
> pierce 
> the exoskeleton of the worm (worms don't have exoskeletons) and 
> then the 
> worms die of dehydration (while swimming in a wet environment).  If 
> the 
> earth is sharp enough to cut the worms, why wouldn't it cut the 
> intestines?
> Gary
> - Original Message - 
> From: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> To: 
> Sent: Friday, May 19, 2006 12:38 PM
> Subject: Re: Subject: OT - Flower Essences (diatomaceous earth 
> forflea 
> control)
> 
> 
> You really don't want to inhale much of it, but I've used it before on
> carpets, etc. to kill fleas.  Farmers often give the food-grade DE to
> cattle to kill any intestinal parasites...also works well on fire 
> ants!  ;)
> 
> 
> 
> "But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
> unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the 
> world; You
> become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
> Saint-Exupéry
> 
> "If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
> each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
> whatyou do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
> Chief Dan
> George
> 
> "The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --
> Blade Runner
> 
> - Original Message -
> From: Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> Date: Friday, May 19, 2006 10:56 am
> Subject: Re: Subject: OT - Flower Essences (diatomaceous earth for 
> fleacontrol)
> To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
> 
> > Thanks Carla,
> > I bookmarked yours and Sandi's sites.  Thank you for all you and
> > your
> > friends are doing for the animals.  Does Sandi do personal
> > recommendations?  Another good site for holistic/homeopathic care
> > is
> > Darla's:  http://www.kitsnk9s.com/NatCAREHome.htm
> >
> > Sandi has diatomaceous earth for sale on her website.  I think I'm
> > going
> > to try using it for my feral colonies, (on the ground, not in their
> > food, I didn't even know it was ingestible).  We're having a
> > terrible
> > time with fleas this year and I'm hoping it might help.  I've heard
> > of
> > it before, but I'd forgotten about it.  Phaewryn has posted about
> > it
> > before.  I can't remember if there's any down side to it.  Does
> > anyone
> > know if there are special precautions for using it?  I guess I
> > better
> > Google it!
> > Nina
> >
> > Carla Shoppe wrote:
> >
> > >Nina
> > >
> > >Hi go to my website www.pawsnj.petfinder.com
> > >I have on the left hand side it has "links" click on and it
> > >will bring you to my link for Holistic pets supplies to Sandi's
> > >site. I
> > >get my Austrailian
> > >Flowers from her she is nice and her prices are fair, she will
> > >mix what ever you need I have used her for a few years and love
> > >her service.
> > >
> > >You can email her tell her I recommanded her and she can mix up
> > >FE also to suit
> > >your purposes!
> > >
> > >Carla
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
> 
> 
> __ NOD32 1.1454 (20060321) Information __
> 
> This message was checked by NOD32 Antivirus System.
> http://www.nod32.com
> 
> 
>

Re: Subject: OT - Flower Essences (diatomaceous earth for flea control)

[jenmeyer]

I think that precaution only applies to when you are actually applying
the stuff!  It's dusty, but quickly settles...heck, I've even doused a
few cats with it with no ill effect...as long as you get the
agricultural grade (not swimming pool grade) DE, it's okay for the cats
to ingest it!


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

Re: Subject: OT - Flower Essences (diatomaceous earth for flea control)

[jenmeyer]

You really don't want to inhale much of it, but I've used it before on
carpets, etc. to kill fleas.  Farmers often give the food-grade DE to
cattle to kill any intestinal parasites...also works well on fire ants!  ;)



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

"The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long..." --Blade Runner

- Original Message -
From: Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Friday, May 19, 2006 10:56 am
Subject: Re: Subject: OT - Flower Essences (diatomaceous earth for flea
control)
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Thanks Carla,
> I bookmarked yours and Sandi's sites.  Thank you for all you and 
> your 
> friends are doing for the animals.  Does Sandi do personal 
> recommendations?  Another good site for holistic/homeopathic care 
> is 
> Darla's:  http://www.kitsnk9s.com/NatCAREHome.htm  
> 
> Sandi has diatomaceous earth for sale on her website.  I think I'm 
> going 
> to try using it for my feral colonies, (on the ground, not in their 
> food, I didn't even know it was ingestible).  We're having a 
> terrible 
> time with fleas this year and I'm hoping it might help.  I've heard 
> of 
> it before, but I'd forgotten about it.  Phaewryn has posted about 
> it 
> before.  I can't remember if there's any down side to it.  Does 
> anyone 
> know if there are special precautions for using it?  I guess I 
> better 
> Google it!
> Nina
> 
> Carla Shoppe wrote:
> 
> >Nina
> >
> >Hi go to my website www.pawsnj.petfinder.com 
> >I have on the left hand side it has "links" click on and it 
> >will bring you to my link for Holistic pets supplies to Sandi's 
> >site. I 
> >get my Austrailian
> >Flowers from her she is nice and her prices are fair, she will 
> >mix what ever you need I have used her for a few years and love 
> >her service.
> >
> >You can email her tell her I recommanded her and she can mix up 
> >FE also to suit
> >your purposes!
> >
> >Carla
> >  
> >
> 
>

Re: o/t help--injured bird!

[jenmeyer]

You may want to check for wildlife rehabilitators in your area!  I 
found one in our area online after we found a sick young bird in our 
back yard...



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be 
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; 
You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine 
de Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know 
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
Chief Dan George

- Original Message -
From: Kerry MacKenzie <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Saturday, May 13, 2006 6:56 pm
Subject: o/t help--injured bird!
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Help--does anyone have any advice on helping injured sparrow I 
> just found on my porch? Should I take it to emergency services? I 
> leave town tomorrow morning so have no way to look after him/her 
> after that.
>

Re: OT: sedative before flying (ACE)

[jenmeyer]

Heh, I'd be more inclined to take the sedative myself and let the little
one be!  ;)

In all seriousness, the little guy should be okay without it...I picked
up our Marvin (FeLV+ Siamese) in New Jersey and flew him back to Houston
with me in the cabin...other than the strange looks from passengers
wondering where that soft (or not so soft if you've ever had a Siamese
;)  ) "meow" was coming from, we didn't run into any issues...Even
taking him out of the carrier for the metal detector, he clung to me
like there was no tomorrow!  I also had one of those soft-sided carriers
with flaps to cover the sides in case the outside world got to be too
much...but Marvie did just great!



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Thursday, May 11, 2006 3:20 pm
Subject: OT:  sedative before flying (ACE)
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hey folks,
> 
> I'm flying to Minneapolis on Saturday, a 2.5 hour flight from 
> LIttle 
> Rock, and taking a sweet, energetic young Siamese kitty to his 
> owner.  Kitty will ride in the cabin with me.   I've never taken a 
> kitty on board with me before, so a new experience.
> 
> The vet gave me a sedative, ACE., and am pondering whether to use 
> the 
> sedative or not.  Someone said that another option would be 
> Benadryl, 
> along with Rescue Remedy.
> 
> Any experiences with taking kitties on flights?  With ACE?  Think 
> the 
> dosage was 1/2 tablet followed by 1/4 if needed.
> 
> Thanks much!
> 
> Gloria
> 
>

Re: Mixing FeLVs and FIVs?

[jenmeyer]

No, you got it right!  :)  I know that there is sometimes a little
confusion with the two "Jens" on the list!  :)  I just have the one "n"
whereas Jenn has two which I'm attributing to the double duty and then
some that she does for Rescue!  Jenn never ceases to amaze me in what
she does for our furry friends who need all the help they can get!  :)

I just wanted to thank everyone for their replies!  You've given me alot
to think about...I've also joined the FIV list on Yahoo!  Thanks for
that tip, Becca!

Jenn--that was the question I posed to my vet, but she never gave me a
clear answer as to who was more susceptible...perhaps I didn't word my
question very clearly to her as my mind was, of course, spinning with
the diagnosis!  It all happened so fast, they took the blood, then
minutes later someone was in the room with me looking for a retrovirus
pamphlet...I actually thought the pamphlet was for someone else!  My vet
didn't seem surprised at all that he tested positive for FIV and went
about her regular routine as if he just had a little cold!  ;)  This is
not to knock my vet, of course, she knows that I'll care for him
none-the-less...it's a relief having a vet who doesn't assume that these
viruses are an automatic death sentence!

She did, however, give him the FeLV vaccine...I'm not up-to-date on the
current thinking as far as FIV and vaccines...but I'm sure I'll learn
alot from the FIV list!

But it's like Jenn said, for me, it's quality not quantity...a life
separated or outdoors is no life for Chatty.  He wants to be inside next
to a warm body for whatever time he has left here (the vet guesses his
age at 9 years).  He is such a mellow guy...I don't anticipate any
problems on his end as far as biting is concerned.  I think I'll go back
to giving everyone interferon as I had stopped in order to have it as a
back-up in case anyone got sick.  But someone or something brought him
to our doorstep...so I'm counting on that individual to watch over us in
the meantime!  ;)

Thanks so much guys...I really appreciate the advice!

Jen



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: Becca DuBose <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Thursday, April 27, 2006 6:44 pm
Subject: Re: Mixing FeLVs and FIVs?
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> I think I addressed my last message to the wrong person - sorry!
> 
> Just wanted to add that little Angel Paassht did not contract FIV+ 
> despite living under the same roof with Angel TorTor.  I wouldn't 
> bring Buddy in as long as we had Paassht so I suspect she "pre-
> approved" him and set everything up a couple of weeks ago.
> 
> Becca
> 
> 
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: A FIV+ cat is several times more likely to get 
> FELV than a negative cat, they have
> about the same chances as kittens in catching FELV (or any cat with 
> a weak or
> undeveloped immune system).
> 
> That being said, you have to go by quality of life. Even IF he does 
> get FELV from
> mixing with your crew, would that be a worse fate then being left 
> out on the streets,
> or where-ever he came from to begin with?
> 
> There's very little risk to you FELV cats, if that was more of the 
> question. FIV is
> ONLY spread through deep penetrating bite wounds. So long as you 
> aren't getting any
> cat fights there, then your FELV cats wont be in any danger of 
> getting the FIV from
> him.
> 
> Jenn
> http://ucat.us
> http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html
> Adopt a cat from Little Cheetah (UCAT) Cat Rescue:
> http://ucat.us/adopt.html
> PLEASE DONATE TO THE TANGLE FUND:
> Tangle is a cat in Greece that was severely injured when someone 
> wrapped wire around
> his neck to strangle him,
> Little Cheetah Cat Rescue is raising funds to bring Tangle to 
> Vermont to find him a
> good home!
> http://ucat.us/tangle-fund.html
> DONATE: We could really use a power saw (for construction), a 
> digital camera (for
> pictures), and more towels!
> 
>

Mixing FeLVs and FIVs?

[jenmeyer]

Hi Guys!

I'm so sorry I haven't been able to keep up with list as much as I would
like...seems I can't get a break lately!

I just have a quick question for those who care for both FeLVs and
FIVs...I just found out that a stray guy that we took in a bit ago is
FIV+!  This actually wasn't surprising to me as he seemed to have a few
health issues that just weren't clearing up!  He's been hanging out in
our spare room w/ all the amenities but I'd like to let him join the GP,
if that is at all possible!  My vet wasn't at all concerned...she
actually has a FIV guy who mingles with her crew...but she says that she
separates food and water dishes as a precaution.  Well, I don't know how
easy that would be for me...food is left out round the clock and
everybody shares the water bowl!

So I guess I'm just looking for a little advice from those who care for
both...do you mix?  It would be some time before he'll join the gang as
we need to address his health issues first (bad stomatitis for which he
has a "dental" scheduled next week--I wouldn't be surprised if a few
teeth need to be pulled!)...But all-in-all, he's the sweetest guy...so
mellow and only asks that you pet him 24/7... ;)

Thanks so much, guys!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

Re: Jen: OT: New journey-laying tile!!!

[jenmeyer]

With the vinyl, we just pulled the top layer off and left the bottom
layer with the glue attached to the floor.  I was afraid the mortar
wouldn't stick to the glossy surface of the vinyl.  It should separate
pretty easily and it's alot faster than trying to scrape all the glue
off the floor!

That's a good tip about the straws!  I wish I had known that when I
replaced both of our toilets!  ;)



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Monday, April 3, 2006 11:44 am
Subject: Re: Jen: OT:  New journey-laying tile!!!
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> I'm confused...did you pull the vinyl/laminate up and
> then lay tile, or did you just lay tile over the
> vinyl?  I know what you mean about the toilet thing. 
> The guy at Home Depot just gave me a pointer.  He said
> that when replacing wax seals on toilets, which is
> really easy to mess up, put two straws on top of those
> two bolts on either side to guide the toilet down, so
> you don't mess the wax seal up by trying to find them.
> That way, your toilet won't rock like ours does now
> after we fixed it!  lol.  Neat tip...
> 
> --- [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> 
> > Hee, hee!  I know what you mean about doing it
> > yourself!  With internet
> > access, I have just enough "do-it-yourself"
> > knowledge to make me
> > dangerous... ;)  I, too, embarked on a toilet
> > fixer-uper...basically,
> > the toilet was rocking so I figured, "How hard can
> > it be to fix?"  BTW,
> > you can replace the "fix" in that last sentence with
> > just about anything
> > else I've tried:  lay tile?  install laminate
> > flooring?  replace ceiling
> > fixtures?  install electric wall sconces?  put in
> > new sinks?  :)
> > 
> > Anyway, a simple "fixer-uper" with the toilet turned
> > into having to
> > replace the entire gasket which turned into having
> > to buy a hammer drill
> > and cement to afix the gasket because we have cement
> > sub-flooring!  It
> > took a whole d*mn weekend, but I fixed the rock,
> > darn it!  :)
> > 
> > As for the sub-flooring for the tile, we didn't have
> > to do anything to
> > ours as it was already pretty level...I know you can
> > buy some kind of
> > cement to spread over low spots...and you can also
> > buy sheets of some
> > kind of sub-flooring if the floor is really bad, but
> > I'm not sure how to
> > install those!  The video, I think, covers most of
> > that!  Our kitchen
> > and bathrooms had that vinyl sheet flooring (very,
> > very old judging by
> > the pattern).  :)  The video actually recommended
> > just tiling over any
> > old vinyl flooring as the glue underneath could have
> > asbestos.  So we
> > just pulled up the shiny part and tiled right over
> > the old glue!
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > "But if you tame me, then we shall need each other.
> > To me, you will be
> > unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique
> > in all the world; You
> > become responsible, forever, for what you have
> > tamed..." --Antoine de
> > Saint-Exupéry
> > 
> > "If you talk to the animals they will talk with you
> > and you will know
> > each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not
> > know them, and what
> > you do not know you will fear. What one fears one
> > destroys." --Chief Dan
> > George
> > 
> > - Original Message -
> > From: wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> > Date: Monday, April 3, 2006 11:01 am
> > Subject: Jen: OT:  New journey-laying tile!!!
> > To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
> > 
> > > P.S.  I think I will go pick up that video today
> > so
> > > that my husband can watch it.  Thank you for
> > offering
> > > to send it-that is very sweet!  You should have
> > seen
> > > my husband when I tried to convince him we could
> > fix a
> > > leaky toilet when we first married two years ago. 
> > He
> > > had never done any handy work before, and what
> > should
> > > have been a simple job involved having to go buy
> > the
> > > tool to open the water hole to turn off the water
> > to
> > > the whole house outside and then fixing several
> > leaks.
> > > lol.  He just wanted to call the plumber, but I'm
> > > cheap and if I can do it myself, I will.  We ended
> > up
> > > fixing it, but it really was a pain in the butt
> > and
> > > not the first handy job I would have picked to
> > warm my
> > > husband up to fixing things around the house. 
> > LOL.
> > > 
> > > :)
> > > Wendy
> > > 
> > > __
> > > Do You Yah

Re: Jen: OT: New journey-laying tile!!!

[jenmeyer]

Oh!  One more tip!  When you start laying tile, I'd start in a bathroom
or hallway...you know, some place small and out of the way!  It's not
easy to screw up tile...you've got all kinds of time to fix it until the
mortar sets, but best to get the feel for it somewhere where it won't be
noticable!  :)



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Monday, April 3, 2006 11:01 am
Subject: Jen: OT:  New journey-laying tile!!!
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> P.S.  I think I will go pick up that video today so
> that my husband can watch it.  Thank you for offering
> to send it-that is very sweet!  You should have seen
> my husband when I tried to convince him we could fix a
> leaky toilet when we first married two years ago.  He
> had never done any handy work before, and what should
> have been a simple job involved having to go buy the
> tool to open the water hole to turn off the water to
> the whole house outside and then fixing several leaks.
> lol.  He just wanted to call the plumber, but I'm
> cheap and if I can do it myself, I will.  We ended up
> fixing it, but it really was a pain in the butt and
> not the first handy job I would have picked to warm my
> husband up to fixing things around the house.  LOL.
> 
> :)
> Wendy
> 
> __
> Do You Yahoo!?
> Tired of spam?  Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around 
> http://mail.yahoo.com 
>

Re: Jen: OT: New journey-laying tile!!!

[jenmeyer]

Hee, hee!  I know what you mean about doing it yourself!  With internet
access, I have just enough "do-it-yourself" knowledge to make me
dangerous... ;)  I, too, embarked on a toilet fixer-uper...basically,
the toilet was rocking so I figured, "How hard can it be to fix?"  BTW,
you can replace the "fix" in that last sentence with just about anything
else I've tried:  lay tile?  install laminate flooring?  replace ceiling
fixtures?  install electric wall sconces?  put in new sinks?  :)

Anyway, a simple "fixer-uper" with the toilet turned into having to
replace the entire gasket which turned into having to buy a hammer drill
and cement to afix the gasket because we have cement sub-flooring!  It
took a whole d*mn weekend, but I fixed the rock, darn it!  :)

As for the sub-flooring for the tile, we didn't have to do anything to
ours as it was already pretty level...I know you can buy some kind of
cement to spread over low spots...and you can also buy sheets of some
kind of sub-flooring if the floor is really bad, but I'm not sure how to
install those!  The video, I think, covers most of that!  Our kitchen
and bathrooms had that vinyl sheet flooring (very, very old judging by
the pattern).  :)  The video actually recommended just tiling over any
old vinyl flooring as the glue underneath could have asbestos.  So we
just pulled up the shiny part and tiled right over the old glue!



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Monday, April 3, 2006 11:01 am
Subject: Jen: OT:  New journey-laying tile!!!
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> P.S.  I think I will go pick up that video today so
> that my husband can watch it.  Thank you for offering
> to send it-that is very sweet!  You should have seen
> my husband when I tried to convince him we could fix a
> leaky toilet when we first married two years ago.  He
> had never done any handy work before, and what should
> have been a simple job involved having to go buy the
> tool to open the water hole to turn off the water to
> the whole house outside and then fixing several leaks.
> lol.  He just wanted to call the plumber, but I'm
> cheap and if I can do it myself, I will.  We ended up
> fixing it, but it really was a pain in the butt and
> not the first handy job I would have picked to warm my
> husband up to fixing things around the house.  LOL.
> 
> :)
> Wendy
> 
> __
> Do You Yahoo!?
> Tired of spam?  Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around 
> http://mail.yahoo.com 
>

Re: OT: New journey-laying tile!!!

[jenmeyer]

Almost forgot!  I would also invest in a good tile cutter!  You can rent
them from Home Depot for around $30-$50 a day...but since you're going
to be doing alot of tiling, I think you can buy one for about
$150...trust me, they're worth it!  They save *alot* of time!  I
originally bought just a cheap tool to score the tile then you were
supposed to be able to snap it...didn't work!  After messing with that
tool for 1/2 hour, I went to Home Depot and rented a tile cutter...so
much faster!  :)



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Monday, April 3, 2006 10:02 am
Subject: OT:  New journey-laying tile!!!
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hey guys,
> 
> My husband and I have decided to go with the tile in
> replacing our carpet in the living room, hallway and
> one bedroom, plus we figure we might as well replace
> the kitchen and master bath linoleum while we're at it
> as it needs replacing too. We're going to move on this
> in the next two weeks, since I'm having foot surgery
> on the 25th of April and would like it completed by
> then.  There is some beautiful tile out there.  What
> stinks is that the labor costs twice as much as the
> tile.  So if you have a 10x10 room, and the tile is 2$
> per square foot (on average), it's going to cost you
> $200 for just the tile.  But the labor is another
> $3.25 (HD) or $3.50 (Lowe's) per square foot, so what
> we could do for $200 will end up costing us $525-550. 
> That's a lot!  And when you're talking about 800
> square feet, it gets expensive.  Plus, sealing the
> tile is extra (we will for sure do that ourselves),
> and tearing up the carpet is extra (we'll do that
> too), and floor prep is extra (probably do that
> too!!!).  LOL.  So we might possibly lay the tile
> ourselves with help from a few friends who have
> already done it.  My husband is scared to do it-he
> doesn't want to mess our house up.  I am more the
> do-it-yourself type, so I'm all for it.  Anyone out
> there ever lay tile?  Any thoughts or advice?
> 
> :)
> Wendy
> 
> 
> 
> __
> Do You Yahoo!?
> Tired of spam?  Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around 
> http://mail.yahoo.com 
>

Re: OT: New journey-laying tile!!!

[jenmeyer]

Hey Wendy!

Tiling isn't all that difficult, just a little time-consuming!  :) 
We've done our kitchen and 2 bathrooms ourselves...first thing that
comes to mind:  invest in those knee-pad thingys they sell at Home Depot
or Lowes!  It's alot of hard-work on the knees!  And I think I just
picked up a tiling video from Home Depot for, maybe, $10...it gives you
a good visual of what to do.  Just be sure to mix up your mortar every
once in awhile to keep it soft and easy to spread!

Actually, if I can dig up that video tape, I'll send it to ya, if you like!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Monday, April 3, 2006 10:02 am
Subject: OT:  New journey-laying tile!!!
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hey guys,
> 
> My husband and I have decided to go with the tile in
> replacing our carpet in the living room, hallway and
> one bedroom, plus we figure we might as well replace
> the kitchen and master bath linoleum while we're at it
> as it needs replacing too. We're going to move on this
> in the next two weeks, since I'm having foot surgery
> on the 25th of April and would like it completed by
> then.  There is some beautiful tile out there.  What
> stinks is that the labor costs twice as much as the
> tile.  So if you have a 10x10 room, and the tile is 2$
> per square foot (on average), it's going to cost you
> $200 for just the tile.  But the labor is another
> $3.25 (HD) or $3.50 (Lowe's) per square foot, so what
> we could do for $200 will end up costing us $525-550. 
> That's a lot!  And when you're talking about 800
> square feet, it gets expensive.  Plus, sealing the
> tile is extra (we will for sure do that ourselves),
> and tearing up the carpet is extra (we'll do that
> too), and floor prep is extra (probably do that
> too!!!).  LOL.  So we might possibly lay the tile
> ourselves with help from a few friends who have
> already done it.  My husband is scared to do it-he
> doesn't want to mess our house up.  I am more the
> do-it-yourself type, so I'm all for it.  Anyone out
> there ever lay tile?  Any thoughts or advice?
> 
> :)
> Wendy
> 
> 
> 
> __
> Do You Yahoo!?
> Tired of spam?  Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around 
> http://mail.yahoo.com 
>

Re: New arrival--Moon Pie

[jenmeyer]

Karen--please, please, please let me know if you need transport for Moon
Pie!  I haven't heard anything and am beginning to worry!  :(

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Wednesday, March 29, 2006 8:51 pm
Subject: New arrival
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> With my last felv passing in 2003 I now have a new arrival.
> Bobby cat was pulled from a tiny kill shelter here in Texas tested 
> positive  
> then did the IFA and was confirmed felv positive. prayers for a 
> long life with 
> me from all you guys will help
> So I better stop lurking and start paying attention to what you 
> guys have  
> learned in 2003.
> Bobby cat is a handsome yellow and white tabby friendly as can be.
> Still working on moon pie coming up from Houston so he will have a  
> playmate.I'M BACK
> Karen
>

Re: Jackson Co Shelter, MI selling pets for research?

[jenmeyer]

I guess one of my problems with animal reasearch (aside from the
obvious) has to do with the under-lying assumption that humans are
somehow "superior" just because we can add 2 and 2 and, therefore, a few
petty conveniences or a couple of years on our lives is worth the
"inconvenience," torture, or even deaths of "a few measly animals." 
Need I point out that if we don't learn PDQ how to live in harmony with
our surroundings (as animals have been literally dying to show us for
some time now), all the 2 + 2s in the world aren't going to save our
collective butts!  Perhaps if we were held responsible for every single
piece of trash that left our homes instead of forgetting all about it
once it left our curbs, we'd think twice about our indulgent, disposable
lifestyles...but I digress... :)

Bottom line, we wouldn't even be having this discussion if the subjects
in question were orphaned *children* being sold to research facilities.
 But these are just animals, right?  Animals that are going to die
anyway, right?  When one needs to rationalize the action, that should be
a huge red-flag that perhaps the action just isn't right...many German
citizens turned their backs on their own Jewish neighbors because, hey,
"What can I do about it?"  Thank God for the few who stood up and said,
"This isn't right."  But, then again, we're talking about *people*
right?  Animals, living, breathing beings, forfeit their right to be the
masters of their own destiny because they can't add 2 and 2.  A
so-called "necessary evil" is still, by definition, "evil."

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: Tad Burnett <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Monday, March 27, 2006 12:17 pm
Subject: Re: Jackson Co Shelter, MI selling pets for research?
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> The fact of the matter is they will get animals some where any way...
> Now, most of them come from back yard breeders that breed animals
> for just that market
> Perhaps if more shelters sold to research the animals that they are 
> going to PTS
> that would put some of the back yard breeders out of business
> 
> If the business arraignment is to sell animals that have a chance 
> for 
> adoption
> than I too have a problem with that but if these are animals among 
> the 6 
> million
> per year that are out of time and going to be PTS and the money is 
> spent 
> at the
> shelter so that they can do more good work than what is wrong with 
> that ???
> 
> And again, most research is done so the manufactures can back up their
> claim the their product is the best...NOT that their product causes 
> the most
> suffering... They want the results to be a happy ending...
> Not all tests are successful but for the most part they aren't 
> going to 
> waste
> their time and money on a test that they aren't pretty sure will 
> work... 
> Even if its testing for a cure for a disease and they infect they 
> animaland then try to cure it or put to sleep and examine you are 
> still talking
> about animals that were going to be PTS earlier anyway...
> 
> Tad
> 
> TenHouseCats wrote:
> 
> > i do NOT admit to be totally up-to-date on this
> >  
> > i have to agree that not ALL research is inherently bad. however, 
> in 
> > this case, there's a BUSINESS arrangement between the shelter and 
> one 
> > Class B Dealer--as far as i know, the shelter couldn't care less 
> where 
> > the animals end up, they just sell them to the dealer there 
> have 
> > all been any number of hearings, public demonstrations, etc 
> through 
> > the years--the MI county that i am in was embarrassed out of 
> selling 
> > their animals to a similar dealer a few years back.
> >  
> > i can most probably get updates on where the fight stands now, 
> and who 
> > is doing what--i'm sorry to say that i have NOT kept on top of it 
> > because i can only fight so many fights at one time. but i do 
> have 
> > local contacts with far more information and expertise than i do
> >
> >  
> > On 3/27/06, Tad Burnett <[EMAIL PROTECTED] 
> > > wrote:
> >
> > PLEASE...Some specific eye witness examples that other can 
> visit and
> > bring attention to the local
> > sheriff will do .
> > What are they testing for 
> > What treatment are they doing that is so bad
> > compared to being kept in a small cage with no
> > outside windows for years...(many no kill shelters)
> >
> > Tad
> >
> > [EMAIL PROTECTED]  wrote

Re: Maizee Grace

[jenmeyer]

Oh, Sherry...I'm right there with ya... :(  I've had several "missing my
baby boy" cries since Ewok passed.  Just when I think I'm doing okay,
I'll suddenly miss him like he had just died 2 hours ago.  I've never
mourned like this before...like someone else said, "Time heals all
wounds, but I'm not so sure..."

Just before I left the room at the vet's office after we let him go (he
was to be cremated), I tied a red ponytail holder around his paw...he
loved playing with those things and would beat me into the bedroom and
wait on the bed for me to toss ponytail holders in the air so that he
could catch them.  Anyway, just the other night, I was reading on the
couch when our little Lola came running out of the garage with something
in her mouth...she jumped up on the couch with me and dropped her "gift"
near my feet...a red ponytail holder.  I couldn't help but smile and ask
her if it was from "Burboy" (Ewok) as I hadn't seen any red ponytail
holders around the house for some time.  The red ponytail holder is now
the only one I wear...but I'd give anything to toss it to Ewok one more
time...

Please take care of yourself and know that I'm crying with you!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: Sherry DeHaan <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Sunday, March 26, 2006 7:05 pm
Subject: Maizee Grace
To: Felvtalk 

> Hi all,I just needed to tell someone that I am having a really bad 
> missing my baby girl cry.This happens every so often but not as 
> much as it used to.I knew EVERYONE here would understand. She has 
> been gone almost 5 months and it still hurts so much. I have had 
> many cats in my life come and go,but I don't ever remember hurting 
> this much for this long.If it were not for you wonderful caring 
> people, I don't know how I would have made it through the toughest 
> times.sorry to unload this sadness onto you,I just knew you would 
> understand. Thanks
>  Sherry
> 
>   
> -
> New Yahoo! Messenger with Voice. Call regular phones from your PC 
> and save big.

Re: TESTING--Jen--water garden!

[jenmeyer]

Heehee!  The little pond actually started out as just a fountain with a
couple of fake flowers...I was getting tired of cleaning it out every
week because of the algae growth (and couldn't use an algae killer
because a couple of the neighborhood cats like to use the fountain as
their own personal "watering hole"... ;)  )!

Anyhoo, I was at Home Depot and discovered they had live water lilies
for sale!  Well, that jump-started my curiosity as to what else I could
put in the little pond!  I found a great website:

http://familyfun.go.com/parenting/learn/activities/feature/famf010302_summer/famf010302_fishpond.html

It explained how to build your own little inexpensive, self-sustained
water garden!  I'm surprised by how obsessed I've become with it!  ;) 
It really is a treat...fortunately, our front window sits close to the
ground, so I put the pond just in front of it for all to see!  So
whenever I'm working on my computer (which is right next to the window)
and start getting stressed, I can just look over at the little goldfish
and space out for a moment!  :)



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Wednesday, March 22, 2006 10:12 am
Subject: Re: TESTING--Jen
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Hey Jen,
> 
> Very cool about adopting Lucy.  I bet Oscar was
> probably as happy about it as Lucy was!  I think
> petfinder.com is awesome.  I am checking it every day
> for the little kitten that I want to adopt.  I guess
> if it's meant to be, it will be.  Your water garden
> sounds really neat.  Where did you get the idea for
> it?
> 
> :)
> Wendy
> 
> __
> Do You Yahoo!?
> Tired of spam?  Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around 
> http://mail.yahoo.com 
>

Re: IN Houston - Bengal cat 'Moon Pie' FELV--transport

[jenmeyer]

Please let me know if you work anything out as I would be thrilled to
bring him to you!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Wednesday, March 22, 2006 4:21 pm
Subject: Re: IN Houston - Bengal cat 'Moon Pie'  FELV
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Gloria and all,
> 
> ok I only read about a quarter of all the emails sorry.
> So we have a Bengal in Houston tested positive on IFA? I am in the 
> dfw area  
> is transport available?
> Who is the contact please let me see what I can do. I may have an 
> adopter  
> who just found out yesterday her rescue kitty is positive. Does 
> anyone have a  
> pic?
> Again I am sorry I only read the posts once in a while. 
> see our  available orphans at:
> _http://members.petfinder.org/~TX418/index.html_ 
> (http://members.petfinder.org/~TX418/index.html) 
> Karen  817-453-4888
>

Re: IN Houston - Bengal cat 'Moon Pie' FELV

[jenmeyer]

God, I wish I could...we've just taken in another guy and yet another
may be on the way...I'd be more than happy to help out with any kind of
transport, though!!

Jen, wishing she had a bigger home... :(


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Wednesday, March 22, 2006 3:20 pm
Subject: IN Houston - Bengal cat 'Moon Pie'  FELV
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Just checking again - are there any of the Texas folks out there 
> who 
> can help this FELV purebred Bengal, 1 year old...?
> 
> Gloria
> 
> 
> At 11:10 AM 3/21/2006, you wrote:
> >This kitty is in Houston.  If anyone is interested at all if you 
> >will email me individually 
> >([EMAIL PROTECTED]) I will send 
> >consolidated.net>
> >Subject: Fw: Bengal cat 'Moon Pie'
> >Date: Tue, 21 Mar 2006 10:36:27 -0600
> >
> >- Original Message - From: "MORSE, ROY F" 
> ><[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> >To: "Janet Cain" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> >Sent: Tuesday, March 21, 2006 10:21 AM
> >Subject: Bengal cat 'Moon Pie'
> >>
> >>Janet,
> >>
> >>Just got the results back from the IFA and organ tests...Bad
> >>news...the IFA was positive...good news...his organs seemed
> >>to be in good shape.  The Vet said Moon Pie could stay the
> >>rest of the week at the discounted boarding fee and
> >>indefinitely at the regular price.  The office staff said he
> >>was adjusting well to being handled and was less panicked
> >>with his surroundings.  I have been visiting twice daily to
> >>pet and talk to him and it seems to help.
> >>
> >>Moon Pie is such a sweet cat and deserves so much more than
> >>what he started with.  Some foster family would be lucky to
> >>get to know this lovable feline.  Let's make this wish come
> >>true.
> >>
> >>Janet, if you would, please forward this update to all
> >>interested parties in your email list.
> >>
> >>Thanks for all your concern and help.
> >>Karen
> 
>

Re: TESTING--Wendy

[jenmeyer]

Congrats on the new addition!!  I know what you mean about a companion!
 We felt so bad for our dog, Oscar, as he was getting a little older
(from puppyhood) and had no one to play with!  He tried "playing" with
the cats...but large, floppy puppy feet weren't the cats' idea of "a
good time."  So we took him to Petsmart where a local rescue group was
adopting out their cats and dogs...I had seen a wonderful dog on
petfinder.com that the group was caring for...she fit all my criteria: 
an adult, a girl, *house-trained* (I wasn't going through that again! 
;)  ), and, most importantly, good with cats!  When Oscar met Lucy, it
was love at first site and they haven't been separated for more than a
few minutes since!  And Lucy is just such a wonderful dog...it's so hard
to believe that someone could abandon her!  :(  We take the dogs with us
for the 1200 mile journey home to Chicago for X-mas...whenever I talk to
my mom beforehand, she always mentions how excited she is to see Lucy
 (I have to remind her that *I'm* coming home, too!  ;)  ).

And the water garden has quickly become my new obsession!  Just a few
goldfish, some snails and a few plants (I've got a beautiful flowering
plant...kinda like bluebonnets, and a gorgeous water lily), a little
japanese bamboo water spout and *poof* instant mini-ecosystem!  :)  It's
a great stress-reliever!

Oh!  And I wouldn't be surprised if the little one-eyed cat is waiting
for you when she's ready for adoption!!  What a little sweetheart!  My
mom has a one-eyed girl...depth perception was an issue initially, but
once Willie got the hang of it, she's just like all the others!  :)



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Wednesday, March 22, 2006 8:42 am
Subject: Re: TESTING
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> What a great idea Jen.  I agree, no news is good news
> here!  
> 
> Everything is going well here in Dallas.  We just got
> two days of serious rain, which was BADLY needed.  My
> husband and I went to the animal shelter Saturday, in
> the rain, to adopt another Akita for the one we
> rescued in the fall.  We felt he needed a companion
> since we're at work all day.  They get along famously.
> We also brought in to the shelter a little brown
> Chihuahua that had followed us home two weeks ago.  He
> was a really good dog, but deserved to be an inside
> dog, and plus, our Akita was really too big to play
> with him.  We made a report at the pound, called all
> the local vets, and checked postings at the two pet
> stores, but couldn't find the owner.  We think he
> belonged to one of the two families that just moved
> out of our neighborhood.  The lady there assured us
> that he would be adopted out immediately since people
> were constantly looking for little dogs.  He was
> adopted an hour after we left the shelter.  
> 
> While I was at the shelter, I fell in love with this
> kitten.  She looks almost like my Cricket that I lost
> in November, black with a long, fluffy tail, and very
> playful.  She was really sweet.  When I took her out
> of the cage, she wrapped her little arms around my
> neck and just purred like crazy.  She was SO loving. 
> Unfortunately, she had to have her right eye removed
> due to what the shelter believes was one of those cat
> in the car engine accidents.  I gave them my number,
> and they're going to call me as soon as her stitches
> are out and she's posted for adoption.  If she doesn't
> get adopted out within a week or so, I am going to get
> her.  I told my husband.  He doesn't want another cat
> in the house, as we already have three, but I know
> when he sees her (he was playing with the dogs when we
> were there Saturday and didn't get to see her), he
> will understand.  She's a love.
> 
> I hope everyone is doing well here.  And of course,
> all their furbabies.  We all deserve a break from the
> chaos that is illness.  
> 
> :)
> Wendy
> 
> __
> Do You Yahoo!?
> Tired of spam?  Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around 
> http://mail.yahoo.com 
>

Re: TESTING

[jenmeyer]

Hey guys!

I believe the list has just been slow these past few days!  Hopefully,
no news is good news!

How is everyone doing?  I just finished setting up a goldfish pond in a
half whiskey barrel outside my front window...the cats love it and, so
far, all fish have been accounted for each morning!  ;)

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: Paolo <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Wednesday, March 22, 2006 0:41 am
Subject: TESTING
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> I am not receiving any message from the list... TESTING 1 2 3...
> 
> Paolo
>

Re: Lucy is bored

[jenmeyer]

Oh, dear!...might have to check my email settings!  Looks like several
people haven't gotten messages from me...:(  I wonder if something is
going on with my server?  Or I just neglected to push "send"...I have
been known to do that on occasion!

Let me check to see if I still have the message!  I'm so sorry about
that, Nina!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Friday, March 10, 2006 11:10 am
Subject: Re: Lucy is bored
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> I had written to you after the report to see if SP was still having 
> periodic trouble breathing.  I don't remember if hearing from you.  
> Does 
> this mean you haven't seen him breathing hard again?
> Nina
> 
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> 
> >OMG!  Yes!!  I'm so sorry, I thought I had cc-ed you in the email I
> >wrote!  I took SP to the specialist on Monday for an ultrasound...and
> >she couldn't find a thing wrong with his chest cavity!!!  His heart
> >looked good and no suspicious masses...So we're going with feline 
> asthma>for now...I'm going to taper him off the pred and then just 
> keep an eye
> >on him!  I seriously could've planted a big ol' kiss on the 
> specialist>when she couldn't find anything wrong with him!  I told 
> her I've never
> >had good news when it came to the FeLV guys and she said, "Well, we
> >usually don't have much good news to give out!"  :)  So it was a good
> >morning all around!  I'm so happy my boy is going to be around for a
> >little while longer!  I think he knows he's stuck with us, 
> too...so he's
> >just decided to make the best of it!  :)  Thanks, again, for all your
> >help...I seriously don't know what I'd do without this wonderful 
> group!!>
> >Jen
> >
> >
> >"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you 
> will be
> >unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the 
> world; You
> >become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
> >Saint-Exupéry
> >
> >"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
> >each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, 
> and what
> >you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
> Chief Dan
> >George
> >
> >- Original Message -
> >From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> >Date: Friday, March 10, 2006 8:50 am
> >Subject: Re: Lucy is bored
> >To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
> >
> >  
> >
> >>Jen, how is Sleepypants doing? Clinically and, also, did you get 
> >>test  
> >>results? Do you know what's going on with him, and what did you 
> >>decide to do  
> >>treatment-wise? I am so glad to hear he is feeling ok.
> >>Michelle
> >>
> >>In a message dated 3/10/2006 9:44:46 A.M. Eastern Standard Time,  
> >>[EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> >>
> >>I know  what ya mean...Sleepypants hasn't quite been himself 
> since his
> >>brother,  Ewok, died!  He's beginning to come around, but for 
> several>>weeks I  seriously thought he was hiding out waiting for 
> death to take
> >>him!  I  distracted him by taking him outside on his harness to 
> >>have a
> >>look  around...he loves being outside, and I would joke with him 
> >>when we
> >>came  back inside, "See?  There are things worth living for!"   ;)
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >
> >
> >
> >  
> >
> 
>

Re: Lucy is bored

[jenmeyer]

OMG!  Yes!!  I'm so sorry, I thought I had cc-ed you in the email I
wrote!  I took SP to the specialist on Monday for an ultrasound...and
she couldn't find a thing wrong with his chest cavity!!!  His heart
looked good and no suspicious masses...So we're going with feline asthma
for now...I'm going to taper him off the pred and then just keep an eye
on him!  I seriously could've planted a big ol' kiss on the specialist
when she couldn't find anything wrong with him!  I told her I've never
had good news when it came to the FeLV guys and she said, "Well, we
usually don't have much good news to give out!"  :)  So it was a good
morning all around!  I'm so happy my boy is going to be around for a
little while longer!  I think he knows he's stuck with us, too...so he's
just decided to make the best of it!  :)  Thanks, again, for all your
help...I seriously don't know what I'd do without this wonderful group!!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Friday, March 10, 2006 8:50 am
Subject: Re: Lucy is bored
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> 
> Jen, how is Sleepypants doing? Clinically and, also, did you get 
> test  
> results? Do you know what's going on with him, and what did you 
> decide to do  
> treatment-wise? I am so glad to hear he is feeling ok.
> Michelle
> 
> In a message dated 3/10/2006 9:44:46 A.M. Eastern Standard Time,  
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> 
> I know  what ya mean...Sleepypants hasn't quite been himself since his
> brother,  Ewok, died!  He's beginning to come around, but for several
> weeks I  seriously thought he was hiding out waiting for death to take
> him!  I  distracted him by taking him outside on his harness to 
> have a
> look  around...he loves being outside, and I would joke with him 
> when we
> came  back inside, "See?  There are things worth living for!"   ;)
> 
> 
> 
> 
>

Re: Lucy is bored

[jenmeyer]

I know what ya mean...Sleepypants hasn't quite been himself since his
brother, Ewok, died!  He's beginning to come around, but for several
weeks I seriously thought he was hiding out waiting for death to take
him!  I distracted him by taking him outside on his harness to have a
look around...he loves being outside, and I would joke with him when we
came back inside, "See?  There are things worth living for!"  ;)

I think, just like us, they need to work through their grief and sudden
change...Sleepypants is beginning to fall back into his old routine and
I can see it in his eyes that he is okay...I guess he's decided that
being here with us and without his brothers isn't such a bad deal
afterall... ;)

You guys are such wonderful "cat-parents!"  I'm sure Lucy will be
okay...she obviously has no problem letting you guys know what she
needs!  :)  I'm sure a little extra play-time is a much needed
distraction for her...even if it is at 2 o'clock in the morning!

Jen



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Thursday, March 9, 2006 8:27 pm
Subject: Lucy is bored
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> Lucy has been going nuts with boredom since Ginger died, and I am 
> not sure  
> what to do for her.  This happened when Ginger was with my mom for 
> a month  
> too.  Although Lucy always acted like she did not like Ginger, 
> Ginger  definitely 
> kept her occupied and entertained. When Ginger was at my mom's, 
> Lucy  figured 
> out how to get out of the cat fence-in, after 2 years of never even 
> trying 
> to, and got out of the yard constantly (at our old house). Here, 
> since  Ginger 
> died, she runs around trying to play with things (but unable to 
> entertain  
> herself as well as Ginger did) and meowing-- last night she meowed 
> and meowed  
> until I got out of bed and went and played with her, and when I 
> tried to go back 
> to bed she did it again. Gray finally went in the other room and 
> slept there 
> to  be near her (our negative, Quincy, lives in our bedroom so she 
> can't come 
> in).  We have cat trees, catnip, etc. We both work, though we are 
> each home a 
> couple  days a week. But even when we are home she seems bored.
> 
> Does anyone have any suggestions? Tonight I am here without Gray 
> and am  torn 
> between Quincy, who was totally alone all day while I was at work, 
> and  Lucy, 
> who is going nuts. I keep going back and forth between them, but 
> want to  go 
> to bed.  I worry about the stress of boredom on Lucy, as she is  
> positive.  
> 
> Lucy does have Patches, another positive, but does not seem at all  
> satisfied 
> with her company. The only time they interact is when they fight. I 
> have 
> feliway diffusers and spray and use both.
> 
> Thanks for any suggestions,
> Michelle
>

Re: Angel Paassht

[jenmeyer]

Oh, Becca...I'm so sorry to hear about Paassht...I know exactly what you
mean about the photos...I busted out the video camera a few days before
Ewok died.  And while I got the moments that I had hoped for (he liked
to do laps in the water bowl...swish his paw around and lap up the water
off of it), I also got the moments where he was starting to fade.  Every
moment was precious, though...and some day I'll be able to watch them
all...for now I'm just happy to know that down the road, I will be able
to see him as he was, physically, whenever I want.

Take care of yourself...I'm crying with you...

The Last Battle

If it should be that I grow frail and weak
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then will you do what must be done,
For this -- the last battle -- can't be won.
You will be sad I understand,
But don't let grief then stay your hand,
For on this day, more than the rest,
Your love and friendship must stand the test.
We have had so many happy years,
You wouldn't want me to suffer so.
When the time comes, please, let me go.
Take me to where to my needs they'll tend,
Only, stay with me till the end
And hold me firm and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time you will agree
It is a kindness you do to me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
>From pain and suffering I have been saved.
Don't grieve that it must be you
Who has to decide this thing to do;
We've been so close -- we two -- these years,
Don't let your heart hold any tears.

-- Unknown 


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: Becca DuBose <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Wednesday, March 1, 2006 2:12 pm
Subject: Re: Angel Paassht
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> I bought a digital camera about two weeks ago and I'm so glad I 
> did.  I 
> already had lots of pictures but I wanted to get more, and make 
> sure 
> they were good, before she had to leave us.  I was also able to 
> make a 
> short video of her playing with Da Bird on Monday.  I ordered some 
> new 
> Birds by mail and they came just in time...she was still able to 
> enjoy 
> them.  I only posted some of the better pictures.  I have others 
> showing 
> how thin she was and the vacant look she was starting to have.  The 
> camera recorded the truth I did not want to see.
> 
> Becca & Angel Paassht
> 
> wendy wrote:
> 
> >Becca,
> >
> >I am s glad you have pictures of Paassht.  She
> >is ADORABLE.  What a precious angel.  
> >
> >:)
> >Wendy
> >  
> >
>

Re: Paassht

[jenmeyer]

Hee, hee!  I love talkative cats!  We've got a couple who talk in a
kinda sing-songy voice...you can almost hear words in their voices,
like, "What are you doing?" or "I'm here!  I'm here!" or "Hello?  Where
is everybody?"  :)

Becca, I'd almost place money on intestinal lymphoma...but I'm sure
that's what you're expecting, as well...I just lost a guy to intestinal
lymphoma, although that's not what got him into the oncologist's office
originally...He had mediastinal lymphoma which responded wonderfully to
chemo...but then developed a tumor in his belly.  The oncologist said he
sees it all the time, you treat one tumor and another one pops up
elsewhere that is even more resistant to drugs.  The tumor responded
briefly to Elspar and CCNU and finally, a strong steroid combo
(dex/depo).  We were never able to get the diarrhea under control as the
cancer was quickly rendering his intestinal tract useless...Is Paassht's
diarrhea really, really watery?  Especially after she's given fluids? 
Again, I don't mean to scare you...there are definitely options that
can't hurt at this point...But be sure to listen to Paassht, too!  You
certainly know her best...I'm hoping for good news at the specialist's
office
!  Be sure to keep her well hydrated until then...that kind of diarrhea
will dehydrate her quicker than anything!  And if given the option I
would certainly try chemo...especially Elspar.  Cats typically don't
have the same reaction to chemo that we do...and Elspar is
well-tolerated and its effects are quickly noticable.  Again, if that
doesn't work ask about the steroids...Michelle Lerner from this list can
give you the specifics!

Hope this helps...you guys will certainly be in my thoughts!

Jen



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: Becca DuBose <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Monday, February 27, 2006 5:36 pm
Subject: Re: Paassht
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> So does she!  I've never had another cat who loved his/her name as 
> much 
> as Paassht seems to.  It makes a great sound.  One of the things 
> we've 
> been missing is her running from anywhere in the house when called, 
> chirping all the way in response.  Her vocabulary is almost all 
> chirping 
> and she's been known to carry on some very long conversations.
> 
> Paassht has had no bloodwork done since she was tested in 1999, not 
> even 
> to be retested.  Her current vet has been checking her heart and 
> resp 
> rate and gum color at each visit.  She isn't vomiting but she does 
> have 
> terrible diarrhea.  I wish I'd been educated enough to get a second 
> opinion back when she first tested positive.  I've wanted to have 
> her 
> retested for several years, but I really trusted the vet she was 
> seeing.
> I talked to a second specialist between posts and I think we've 
> found a 
> winner.  She said what we're already doing sounds reasonable and 
> she 
> probably wouldn't have much to add, but at the same time didn't try 
> to 
> discourage me from bringing Paassht in if she starts to feel 
> better.  
> She mentioned single-agent prednisone therapy as an option and told 
> me 
> she could call a colleague at UT (we're in Nashville, so that's the 
> closest vet school) for advice on treatment protocols.  The first 
> place 
> didn't put the doctor on the phone with me.  They could see Paassht 
> sooner, but I doubt if one day would make a difference at this 
> point...the right doctor will be more important.
> 
> Becca & Paassht
> 
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> 
> >Becca, did they do bloodwork on Paassht (love that name, by the 
> way!) to
> >rule out anemia, as well? How's her breathing?  Rapid or normal?  Are
> >her gums pale?  If there is, in fact, cancer within her intestinal
> >walls, she will have a difficult time absorbing nutrients and water
> >(which would account for the dehydration) which will in turn cause
> >lethargy (is she vomiting?  diarrhea?)...but best to know that anemia
> >isn't also an underlying culprit, too!
> >
> >Intestinal lymphoma is notoriously harder to treat than, say,
> >mediastinal lymphoma (tumor in the chest cavity)...that's not to say
> >there aren't exceptions, but if you go the chemo route and it doesn't
> >work, another option is steriods.  Large doses of steriods.  They're
> >certainly no cure, but they offer a good quality of life when all 
> else>fails.  I'm certainly not trying to discourage you or bring 
> your hopes
> >down, I'm just trying to make you aware of some of the options out 
> there!>
> >Plea

Re: Paassht

[jenmeyer]

Becca, did they do bloodwork on Paassht (love that name, by the way!) to
rule out anemia, as well? How's her breathing?  Rapid or normal?  Are
her gums pale?  If there is, in fact, cancer within her intestinal
walls, she will have a difficult time absorbing nutrients and water
(which would account for the dehydration) which will in turn cause
lethargy (is she vomiting?  diarrhea?)...but best to know that anemia
isn't also an underlying culprit, too!

Intestinal lymphoma is notoriously harder to treat than, say,
mediastinal lymphoma (tumor in the chest cavity)...that's not to say
there aren't exceptions, but if you go the chemo route and it doesn't
work, another option is steriods.  Large doses of steriods.  They're
certainly no cure, but they offer a good quality of life when all else
fails.  I'm certainly not trying to discourage you or bring your hopes
down, I'm just trying to make you aware of some of the options out there!

Please keep us posted!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: Becca DuBose <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Monday, February 27, 2006 4:43 pm
Subject: Re: Paassht
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

> She is so tired...she got up to eat and drink a little.  I found 
> her 
> resting on the floor after she used her litterbox, so I put her 
> back in 
> her bed and now she's resting there, not sleeping, just resting 
> with her 
> eyes open.  I called one of the vets in the phone book and we're 
> going 
> to take her in for a consult.  The earliest we can go is Wednesday.
> 
> Becca & Paassht
> 
> 
> Marylyn wrote:
> 
> > I'd make the drive to a specialist.  It is worth the peace of 
> mind.  
> > If it helps, I've made a 3 hour (one way) drive more times than I 
> can 
> > count.  Just having someone in the field say what he/she thinks 
> is 
> > important.  However, the ones I have gone to often argue for 
> > aggressive treatment.  You need to talk to Paassht and see what 
> she 
> > wants to do re chemo, radiation etc if this proves to be the case 
> with 
> > her.
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > If you have men 
> who 
> > will exclude any of God's creatures
> > from the shelter 
> of 
> > compassion and pity, you will have men who
> > will deal 
> likewise 
> > with their fellow man.
> >  
> St. 
> > Francis
> > - Original Message - From: "Becca DuBose" 
> > <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> > To: 
> > Sent: Monday, February 27, 2006 3:27 PM
> > Subject: Fwd: Paassht
> >
> >
> >> Hi,
> >>
> >> I've just been lurking and reading for a few weeks.  My little 
> one, 
> >> Paassht, is 7-1/2 and tested positive for FeLV in 1999.  She was 
> very 
> >> healthy with nothing more than occasional URIs until September 
> '05, 
> >> when she started losing weight.  It has been a bit of a roller 
> >> coaster ride since then, back and forth to the vet, on and off 
> >> antibiotics etc.  About 10 days ago I took her in because she 
> seemed 
> >> dehydrated and they gave her some fluid SQ.  Within 36 hours or 
> so 
> >> she was almost back to her old self but we went back this 
> morning 
> >> because the fatigue returned and I suspected she was dehydrated 
> >> again.  She is eating very well but not regaining any weight.  I 
> have 
> >> been afraid it was cancer and sure enough, she has a palpable 
> >> intestinal mass.  The vet doesn't believe she will recover and 
> so has 
> >> recommended comfort care only.  I had them give her fluids again 
> >> since that helped her feel so much better last week.  The vet 
> also 
> >> sent us home with very low dose prednisone to try PRN and we are 
> >> continuing her amoxicillin.  I'd like to get a second opinion 
> but our 
> >> phone book lists no specialists on veterinary oncology or 
> internal 
> >> medicine, just a handful of clinics advertising cancer care (all 
> of 
> >> which are a 30-45 minute drive away).  There are some others 
> billing 
> >> themselves as cat specialist but they are a similar distance 
> away.  
> >> The closest option is to take her to see another generalist.  
> She 
> >> does OK in the car, but I don't want to drag her all over town 
> if it 
> >> won't really help her.  Even with the fluids this morning I had 
> to 
> >> ask myself was it for her, or for me?  What would you do if 
> Paassht 
> >> were your kitty?
> >>
> >> B

Re: Ginger is gone

[jenmeyer]

Oh, Michelle...I have no words...I am so sorry to hear about Ginger!  I
tracked down the email that my dad sent me shortly after Ewok
died...Again, I don't consider myself much of a Christian, but his words
gave me alot of comfort...it's what I believe in my heart whether you're
Christian, Buddhist, Taoist, Islamic, etc...

"I am sorry to hear about Ewok.  Somewhere in the Bible it says that at
the end of time all of creation (and all creatures) will be saved and
renewed in God's Kingdom. It also says that a sparrow does not fall to
the ground without God taking notice of it.  Bottom line.  Ewok will be
with you again.  He is with God and St. Francis now and probably gave
you that dream to let you know about it.  I will put his name on the
prayer list at church with those who have died (those who are in the
nearer presence of God)."

Take care of yourself...I know you will see Ginger again someday.

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Wednesday, February 22, 2006 10:15 am
Subject: Ginger is gone
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org

>

Re: Belinda--Elspar

[jenmeyer]

I think Elspar is the one Michelle is thinking of!  Ewok did well on
that one and Ceenu or CCNU when the other chemo drugs stopped working. 
But I believe the oncologist started him on Elspar first thing just to
get the tumor to shrink and then we started the regular protocol. 
You'll know pretty quickly if it works or not...and if it doesn't, I
would definitely do the steroid combo that Michelle suggested...it works
unbelievably fast and gave Ewok a good week in between treatments (and
he was close to the end)!



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Friday, February 3, 2006 2:00 pm
Subject: Re: Belinda

> 
> Belinda,
> 
>Dexamethasone and Depomedrol are much more powerful than  
> prednisolone.  
> Buddy, Josephine, and Simon were all on pred initially (Jo  and 
> Buddy at 20 
> mg/day for a while), but it did not make anywhere near the kind  of 
> difference 
> as the dex/depo shots did.  I believe the same was true for  Jen's 
> Ewok. I 
> would try them.  I seriously would also ask to try the first  of 
> the chemo drugs, 
> again can not remember the name but starts with E, because  it can 
> not hurt, I 
> do not think, and if it helps you will know it is probably  
> lymphoma and can 
> treat as such.
> 
>No, Simon did not waste away much. He started to, but  when he 
> rebounded 
> from the steroids and chemo he actually started gaining  weight. 
> But he had 
> multicentric lymphoma in his bone marrow and liver, and it  did not 
> really 
> affect his appetite accept when he was jaundiced, and did not  
> cause much muscle 
> wasting either. Jo and Buddy both had terrible weight loss and  
> muscle wasting. 
> Jo had lymphoma in her kidneys and intestines. Buddy was never  
> definitively 
> diagnosed-- he had no masses anywhere, and at the time I did not  
> know how to 
> humanely go about finding if there was cancer in any of his organs, 
> so we just 
> treated him with steroids. In the beginning Buddy was actually 
> eating  
> normally but still losing weight.
> 
> Michelle
> 
> 
> In a message dated 2/3/2006 1:54:55 P.M. Eastern Standard Time,  
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> 
> Hi Michelle,
> No it isn't time for considering letting him go, I just  don't know 
> what else we can try, the prdnisolone is the thing that is  suppose 
> to 
> help with this anemia and from what I can tell so far it  isn't.  
> he did 
> just get over the diarrhea yesterday so he had that  for a long, 
> long 
> time and I'm sure that has really drained him.  It's  the shape his 
> body 
> seems to be in that really has me worried.  Every  cat I have ever 
> had 
> get cancer looked exactly like this, bony even when  getting enough 
> food 
> and acting fairly normal, Buddie was like this when  she had cancer 
> and 
> she was having a very good quality of life, just  bony.
> 
> He has no energy although he is out in the room, instead of  laying 
> in 
> the carrier all the time.  He has been out in the open  since 
> yesterday 
> and coincidentally also when the diarrhea was for the most  part 
> gone (he 
> had one bowel movement that was mostly solid but had some  runny at 
> the 
> end of it yesterday or this morning, I can't even  remember).  HIs 
> bottom 
> is still alittle red and inflamed but so much  better than it was.  
> He 
> gets his epogen tonight which will make 4  complete weeks.
> 
> Was Simon wasting away, in the photos he looked pretty  good?
> 
> 
> 
>

Re: Bailey Update

[jenmeyer]

Oh, Belinda...my heart is breaking all over again!  :(  Could Baily have
cancer in his bowels?  I'm no vet, but Ewok's situation is fresh on my
mind...I will certainly keep you two in my thoughts...

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: Belinda Sauro <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Thursday, February 2, 2006 11:51 pm
Subject: Bailey Update

> Bailey is not doing very good, he is getting 200ccs of food a day 
> but is 
> still wasting away.  He is still getting epo 3X a week, and 20mg of 
> prednisolone split into 10mgs twice a day.  His diarrhea is for the 
> most 
> part gone, although he did just tonight have a mixture of a solid 
> and 
> runny bowel movement.  He is sooo bony and his muscle is all 
> but 
> gone on him, he is wasting away and I am starting to think there is 
> cancer somewhere that we haven't found.  He has that cancer look 
> (wasting away).  He potties wherever he wants and still just lays 
> around.  I'm really worried about him, he seems so depressed.  We 
> are 
> suppose to do bloodwork in a week but I don't know that I want to 
> wait 
> that long.  Our last option is to add leukeran to the prednisolone 
> he is 
> getting.
> 
> He will be laying somewhere and when he gets up there is usually a 
> little poop there, so it is still coming out of him involuntarily, 
> he 
> doesn't seem to have any control over it sometimes.  Anyone know 
> what 
> may be causing this???
> 
> Prayers are really needed, my baby is slipping away from me and I 
> don't 
> know what to do ...
> 
> -- 
> Belinda
> Happiness is being owned by cats ...
> 
> Be-Mi-Kitties ...
> http://www.bemikitties.com
> 
> Post Adoptable FeLV/FIV/FIP Cats/Kittens
> http://adopt.bemikitties.com
> 
> FeLV Candle Light Service
> http://www.bemikitties.com/cls
> 
> HostDesign4U.com  (affordable hosting & web design)
> http://HostDesign4U.com
> 
> ---
> 
> BMK Designs (non-profit web sites)
> http://bmk.bemikitties.com
> 
>

Re: Here's the Poem I wrote after losing Tidge for those who wanted to see it.

[jenmeyer]

Thank you Michelle!  What a wonderful poem...you've certainly got a
gift!  I tried to tell myself that I wouldn't cry before reading
it...but by the time I got to the end, my lap was full of kleenex! 
Thank you, again...you've expressed so well what I feel in my heart!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Sunday, January 15, 2006 1:12 pm
Subject: Here's the Poem I wrote after losing Tidge for those who
wanted to   see it.

> Poem for Little  Tidge
> 
> We found  each other wandering - I gave you shelter from the storm
> The  misfortunes life had dealt you left you frightened and  withdrawn
> Our lives combined, our love grew strong, and you knew  that you 
> were saved
> >From past neglect and heartache when love was all you  ever craved
> 
> Now I’m left in turmoil, trying hard to  comprehend
> The reasons why god took away my very special  friend
> I know you had to leave me and that was meant to  be
> And I hope that in the place you are, from pain you will  stay free
> I look around each day for you in hope that you’ll  appear
> It hurts so much to face the truth that you’re no  longer here
> 
> Your unexpected passing left me broken and  destroyed
> When your cruel unfair departure left an overwhelming  void
> Not a day goes by when I don’t pray to keep you safe from  harm
> Then I pray your spirit finds me to help me calm my inner  storm
> My late departed friend, I don’t think I’ll ever  understand
> Why you, still young and innocent, were taken from this  land
> 
> I know that you would not desire me harbour such  dismay
> So forgive my times of weakness but you are in my heart  to stay
> My life must now continue much in the way it did  before
> Though without you here beside me, for a while I will  feel poor
> Despite these dismal feelings I can recall how rich I’ve  been
> Because the day I found you wandering was when my heart  began to beam
> 
> Please know how much I love you, and I’m glad our paths  did cross
> The short time that we shared will never be a  loss
> And friend I ask please wait for me for one day I’ll  return
> To comfort and protect thee - but for now our hearts must  yearn
> Heaven and earth may hinder until my time is  done
> But with togetherness our future, our souls are destined  to be one
> 
> 
> Michelle  Lomax (April 2005)
> 
> It's  amazing how creativity comes out with emotion but writing the 
> poem 
> whilst  painful was also cathartic. I guess much of the poem 
> applies to all of us  
> at some point.
> Hope  you enjoy it xx Michelle, Buddy, Minstrel & Angel  Bramble
>

Re: Ducky & Sweet Angel Sam & Ewok

[jenmeyer]

Please, Michelle...I would love to read your poem!!  I have a feeling I
will have to bust out a new box of Kleenex...so many losses...I wish I
knew why so many little angels are being called home?  :(



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Friday, January 13, 2006 5:46 pm
Subject: Ducky & Sweet Angel Sam & Ewok

> Oh I'm so sorry to hear of Sweet Angel Sam and Ducky crossing to 
> Rainbow  
> Bridge - so many losses lately yet again - this blasted disease is 
> so  
> heartbreaking but on the other if our kitties had been in the hands 
> of others  their 
> short lives may have been much worse so I'm sure they would rather 
> have  the life 
> they had full of love and care with FeLV than an alternative minus  
> FeLV. I 
> know given the chance I choose the former. God bless you and 
> everyone  else for 
> giving these kitties the life they deserve. The important thing is  
> their 
> life was full of love and care and it certainly was.
> 
> I have just been crying reading Jen's latest message - you will 
> seek  
> reminders for a while. When Tidge passed I found sanity in creative 
> arts after a  
> couple of weeks if anyone wants to see the poem I wrote then let me 
> know and  
> I'll post it. It helped me at the time to get it out on paper. 
> 
> Jen I do believe Ewok was letting you know he's ok by being in your 
> dreams  I 
> have had sightings of bramble since he died and also when I was in 
> Crisis 
> with  Bramble I saw Tidge in my dream ssaying don't give up yet - 
> and Bramble had 
> another 2 months with me after that. 
> 
> Michelle, Buddy, minstrel, & Angel Bramble
>

Re: Feeling of family ongroup--Thank You!

[jenmeyer]

I just wanted to thank each and everyone of you...Joan, Susan, Terrie,
Michelle, Michelle L., Kerry, MC, Sherry, Wendy Carla, Hideyo, Kerry R.,
Del, Marylyn, Tonya, Gloria, Patti and Nina (oh, I hope I didn't miss
anyone!!) for your thoughts and prayers...I don't know what I would've
done without ya'll these past few days...you guys have been a wonderful
distraction and a welcome source of strength...I hope someday to meet
you all in person (and to be eating cheesecake on that day too!)...I
wish I could express that gratitude I feel, so I hope a Thank You, Thank
You, Thank You will do...

Love,

Jen



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Friday, January 13, 2006 4:46 am
Subject: Feeling of family ongroup

> I know that my kitties are not symptomatic at the moment so I am 
> not very active on group but I do always read the posts and 
> I just wanted to pick up on something Kerry wrote to Jen when she 
> said "I'm crying with you". 
> 
> It's true that everytime one of our fur babies is ill or crosses to 
> the bridge it hurts us all but none more than the parent of the 
> furbaby. The support here is magnificent each and every furbaby 
> here puts it's footprints in your heart despite the fact we may 
> never have met them. So when one is sick or has to cross over it's 
> like losing one of our family and you do get the physical and 
> emotional symptoms of shock and feeling loss. We all know the pain 
> of our own furbabies being sick or crossing over and that is always 
> personal and very intense but we genuinely also feel worry and loss 
> of all the furbabies in the group and it is lovely to be a part of 
> a group of such wonderful genuinely caring people.
> 
> Michelle, Buddy, Minstrel & Angel Bramble
> 
>

Re: We said good-bye to Ewok this morning

[jenmeyer]

Oh, Nina...I was holding it together fairly well until I read your
email!  :)  Thank you so much for all of your support for the past few
months...it means the world to me, I only wish you were closer so that I
could give you a big hug!

I rather enjoyed working from home up until now... ;)  The constant
reminders of his physical presence are sometimes too much to bear!  He
was/is so special to me...I've had others break my heart by their
departure...but none quite like this!  I'm driving his brother,
Sleepypants, crazy right about now!  :)  Every time I need a little
"pick-me-up," I bury my face in Sleepypants' fur because he smells just
like Ewok...actually he smells more like Ewok dipped in oil because
Sleepypants' favorite sleeping spot is on a table in the garage... ;)

I know Ewok is okay, though...I saw him in a dream last night...I was
rounding a corner in my house and there he was, standing there and
looking at me.  I knelt and called him to me and he ran over and rubbed
himself on my legs...to say that I was ecstatic is an understatement! 
He then went into the garage, and when he returned my sister was there
(she's still among the land of the living, of course...)...she said, "I
don't see what the big deal is!"  I took that to mean that *Ewok* didn't
understand what all of the fuss was about...He's still with me, he's
right here, so why am I so upset??  Perhaps I didn't explain to him very
well that human beings are a little quirky sometimes... :)

Oh, well...I know the pain and emptiness will subside, it always
does...I was able to call up the pet memorial place that is cremating
his body...I ordered a wonderful little ceramic cat urn...very Egyptian
and statuesque and very much in the spirit of my Fuss (it's actually
been kinda strange calling him "Ewok"...of course, that was the name
given to him shortly after birth...but it was a generic name as we had
homes lined up for most of the kittens...when we found out they had
leukemia, we kept them all...wow, I never thought about this...but if he
hadn't had leukemia, I probably would never have gotten to know my sweet
little boy!  Anyway, all of their names started to morph into something
more personal...Ewok became "Baby Boy" because he was the
youngest...that name morphed into "Burboy" for short...he also became
Fuss Fuss because of his, um, "refined" sensibilities...if I did
something not to his liking, I heard about it!).  Anyhoo, probably more
than you wanted to know... ;)  But I appreciate having your ear...  :) 
I've sent a couple of emails out now to group members and have a good
chronicle of his life started!

Thanks, again, Nina...I feel so humbled to have such a wonderful, caring
person like you in my life!

Lots of Love,

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Friday, January 13, 2006 11:00 am
Subject: Re: We said good-bye to Ewok this morning

> Hello Jen,
> I'm so sorry that you and Ewok have lost your fight.  I've been 
> away 
> from the computer for the last week because of back problems, but 
> you 
> and the other kitties on the list have never left my thoughts and 
> prayers.  Bless you and your sweet little Ewok, your love gave him 
> a 
> taste of what Heaven is like right here on earth.  I'm so sorry, I 
> know 
> how much it hurts and what a terrible void he's left.  Please try 
> to 
> think of him as having left the room, just out of eyesight, but 
> still 
> with you.  He is you know.  Except now, he feels no more pain, no 
> more 
> discomfort.  Except now, he understands the 'whys' of it all.  He's 
> free 
> from all our earthly strife, free to enjoy his brothers and fur 
> Momma 
> again.  He made the right choice when he chose you for a friend and 
> guardian.  What a blessing that he and his wonderful little family 
> found 
> you, what a blessing that you recognized him and held him to your 
> heart.  So much love and commitment, what more could any of us wish 
> for?  I know the lessons you learned together are worth the pain, 
> I'm 
> just so sorry that our growth has to come at such a high, high price.
> Blessings and love to you and your family,
> Nina
> 
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> 
> >More later as the pain is a little too fresh, right now...But I just
> >wanted to thank you all for all of your advice and warm wishes.  
> Ewok is
> >now with his Mom and brothers Pips, Charlie and Chinney catching 
> up on
> >old times!
> >
> >Lots of Love,
> >
> >Jen
> >
> 
>

We said good-bye to Ewok this morning

[jenmeyer]

More later as the pain is a little too fresh, right now...But I just
wanted to thank you all for all of your advice and warm wishes.  Ewok is
now with his Mom and brothers Pips, Charlie and Chinney catching up on
old times!

Lots of Love,

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

Re: Michelle--Should I give Ewok pred?

[jenmeyer]

Hi Michelle!  Thanks for that...so far, so good...I actually took him to
the vet's office for the shot and fluids only because he still had the
catheter in (fortunately, we live just around the corner from the
vet...literally 2 minutes away...and he is as comfortable as he can be
there.  Everybody knows him, so he always gets the "royal treatment"...
;)  ).  He's eaten a fair amount since he's been home (including a fly
that he caught shortly after coming home!).  He seems much more at ease
as opposed to last night...but that may be because he hasn't received
any more cypro!  He's resting comfortably and keeping his food
down...that's all I can ask for right now!

The vet mentioned that she felt his tummy earlier this afternoon and, to
her, the tumor felt smaller...so, hopefully, we're doing something
right!  Fingers crossed that he's got a few good days ahead of him!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Tuesday, January 10, 2006 8:35 pm
Subject: Re: Michelle--Should I give Ewok pred?

> 
> No, don't give him the pred. The dex should be enough for the next 
> 24 hours  
> or so, and the depo should start kicking in after that. How is he 
> doing? If he 
> perks up and then falls again before the depo kicks in, or if he 
> does not 
> perk  up at all, I would probably try giving him some. But you are 
> not supposed  
> to.
> 
> Has he responded at all to the combo shot? Were you able to give it 
> to him  
> at home?
> 
> Michelle
> 
> In a message dated 1/10/2006 8:21:12 P.M. Eastern Standard Time,  
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> 
> Hi  Michelle!
> 
> Hopefully you're online!  I forgot to ask my vet  this...but should I
> give Ewok pred tonight (he did get the combo shot this  afternoon)? 
> I'm
> guessing no as I think I recall you saying that the  depo replaces
> pred...but I just wanted to be  sure!
> 
> Thanks,
> 
> Jen
> 
> 
> 
>

Michelle--Should I give Ewok pred?

[jenmeyer]

Hi Michelle!

Hopefully you're online!  I forgot to ask my vet this...but should I
give Ewok pred tonight (he did get the combo shot this afternoon)?  I'm
guessing no as I think I recall you saying that the depo replaces
pred...but I just wanted to be sure!

Thanks,

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Tuesday, January 10, 2006 12:59 pm
Subject: Re: What to do next for Ewok

> 
> As close together as they are needed.  Towards the end it will be  
> every few 
> days.  But he might not need them that close together yet, or he  
> may need the 
> combo shot now and a dex booster in a few days and not need depo  
> for a week. 
> It kind of just depends on how he is doing. Basically, I would give 
> it to 
> him as far apart as you can with him still eating.  When he stops  
> eating, I 
> would give him more, either a dex shot if that helps on its own or, 
> if  it's been 
> a few days and he seems really bad, I might try another combo  shot.
> Michelle
> 
> In a message dated 1/10/2006 10:12:24 A.M. Eastern Standard Time,  
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> 
> Agreed...we actually just talked about this being a "hospice  
> situation"yesterday!  I'm hoping that she will just do up the shot  
> for me and let
> me go pick it up and I'll do it myself (I imagine she  will).  How far
> apart can the combo shots be given,  again?
> 
> 
> 
>

Re: What to do next for Ewok

[jenmeyer]

Agreed...we actually just talked about this being a "hospice situation"
yesterday!  I'm hoping that she will just do up the shot for me and let
me go pick it up and I'll do it myself (I imagine she will).  How far
apart can the combo shots be given, again?


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Tuesday, January 10, 2006 9:04 am
Subject: Re: What to do next for Ewok

> 
> Yes, 1/2 cc of each. That is what the vet who taught me about it 
> does. But  I 
> think the oncologist gave Simon 1 cc of each, since 1 cc is the 
> normal dose  
> for giving each individually, and it certainly did not hurt him. 
> But I think I 
> would try 1/2 cc of each first, especially since he just got dex  
> yesterday. 
> You can always do another shot of 1/2 cc each later if he needs  
> more. 
> It seems like you have a good relationship with your vet. I would 
> talk to  
> her about this being hospice care at this point, that others have 
> had success  
> with giving a lot of steroids near the end, and ask her if, when he 
> needs  
> another, she will give it to you to give him sub-q at home rather 
> than having to  
> keep bringing him in, in order to keep him as happy and stress-free 
> as  
> possible.
> 
> Michelle
> 
> In a message dated 1/10/2006 10:01:54 A.M. Eastern Standard Time,  
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> 
> Thanks,  Michelle...I had the same reservations about the cypro as I
> haven't had  much luck with it in the past...I, too, thought that
> steroids would be  enough to stimulate his appetite (and they did, 
> he ate
> well before the  cypro kicked in)!  Okay...I'll give my vet a call and
> ask for the  combo shot and see where that takes us!  It's 1/2 cc of
> each,  right?  Thanks, again...
> 
> Jen
> 
> 
> 
> 
>

Re: What to do next for Ewok--steriod combo

[jenmeyer]

Michelle--I forgot to ask you about this last time...but when my vet
first gave him the combo shot, she asked what strength the depo was when
you administered it (I guess depo comes in two strenghs and our vet uses
the stronger of the two so she can use less...I guess it stings a
bit!)...so Ewok got 1/2 mL of dex and 1/4 mL of 40mg/mL depo (I'm
guessing that this concentration of depo is twice as strong as the
weaker concentration...hence, only the 1/4 mL)...any thoughts?

Thanks!


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Tuesday, January 10, 2006 8:50 am
Subject: Re: What to do next for Ewok

> 
> I absolutely think it is safe to give him the combo shot. The depo 
> will not  
> actually kick in for a couple of days, and I know from experience 
> with Simon  
> that you can give a dex shot two days in a row (I think I gave it 
> to him three 
> days in a row when I thought he was dying the first time).  
> 
> Cypro can make them restless. How much did you give him? You can 
> try giving  
> half the dose. The good thing about giving a lot of steroids, 
> though, is that 
> it  stimulates appetite even better than cypro, usually, so you may 
> not need 
> to give  that at all if you give him the combo shot.
> 
> If the vet will not give him depo, I would seriously suggest upping 
> his  pred 
> dosage. I know you can give 20 mg/day to a cat with cancer, and 
> someone  
> posted last night that her cat was on 40 mg/day.  
> 
> Sorry you are going through this,
> Michelle
> 
> In a message dated 1/10/2006 9:45:29 A.M. Eastern Standard Time,  
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> 
> Well, we  had a few good hours last night just after he came home from
> the vet's  (that's when I took that picture of him).  The vet had 
> givenhim cypro  and I believe this may have affected him negatively 
> as he
> became restless  as the evening went on.  This morning he is up and
> about, but his walk  is stiff and he still seems to be a little 
> restless,though not as much as  last night.  There was a glimmer of 
> hope when he
> went to the dry food  dish and bent over to try to eat (he hasn't 
> eatendry food in some  time)...but he just couldn't bring himself 
> to actually
> eat (he tried a  couple of times).  I'm going to syringe a little food
> into him and see  how he tolerates that, would it be safe to give 
> him the
> combo shot,  Michelle?  I guess it's just touch-and-go, right 
> now...I'mlooking for  signs from him as to what he wants to  do...
> 
> Jen
> 
> 
> 
> 
>

Re: What to do next for Ewok

[jenmeyer]

Thanks, Michelle...I had the same reservations about the cypro as I
haven't had much luck with it in the past...I, too, thought that
steroids would be enough to stimulate his appetite (and they did, he ate
well before the cypro kicked in)!  Okay...I'll give my vet a call and
ask for the combo shot and see where that takes us!  It's 1/2 cc of
each, right?  Thanks, again...

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Tuesday, January 10, 2006 8:50 am
Subject: Re: What to do next for Ewok

> 
> I absolutely think it is safe to give him the combo shot. The depo 
> will not  
> actually kick in for a couple of days, and I know from experience 
> with Simon  
> that you can give a dex shot two days in a row (I think I gave it 
> to him three 
> days in a row when I thought he was dying the first time).  
> 
> Cypro can make them restless. How much did you give him? You can 
> try giving  
> half the dose. The good thing about giving a lot of steroids, 
> though, is that 
> it  stimulates appetite even better than cypro, usually, so you may 
> not need 
> to give  that at all if you give him the combo shot.
> 
> If the vet will not give him depo, I would seriously suggest upping 
> his  pred 
> dosage. I know you can give 20 mg/day to a cat with cancer, and 
> someone  
> posted last night that her cat was on 40 mg/day.  
> 
> Sorry you are going through this,
> Michelle
> 
> In a message dated 1/10/2006 9:45:29 A.M. Eastern Standard Time,  
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> 
> Well, we  had a few good hours last night just after he came home from
> the vet's  (that's when I took that picture of him).  The vet had 
> givenhim cypro  and I believe this may have affected him negatively 
> as he
> became restless  as the evening went on.  This morning he is up and
> about, but his walk  is stiff and he still seems to be a little 
> restless,though not as much as  last night.  There was a glimmer of 
> hope when he
> went to the dry food  dish and bent over to try to eat (he hasn't 
> eatendry food in some  time)...but he just couldn't bring himself 
> to actually
> eat (he tried a  couple of times).  I'm going to syringe a little food
> into him and see  how he tolerates that, would it be safe to give 
> him the
> combo shot,  Michelle?  I guess it's just touch-and-go, right 
> now...I'mlooking for  signs from him as to what he wants to  do...
> 
> Jen
> 
> 
> 
> 
>

What to do next for Ewok

[jenmeyer]

Well, we had a few good hours last night just after he came home from
the vet's (that's when I took that picture of him).  The vet had given
him cypro and I believe this may have affected him negatively as he
became restless as the evening went on.  This morning he is up and
about, but his walk is stiff and he still seems to be a little restless,
though not as much as last night.  There was a glimmer of hope when he
went to the dry food dish and bent over to try to eat (he hasn't eaten
dry food in some time)...but he just couldn't bring himself to actually
eat (he tried a couple of times).  I'm going to syringe a little food
into him and see how he tolerates that, would it be safe to give him the
combo shot, Michelle?  I guess it's just touch-and-go, right now...I'm
looking for signs from him as to what he wants to do...

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

Re: RE: Thoughts for Ewok--Hideyo

[jenmeyer]

Thank you, Hideyo, you are right!  I have let the big "C" word get me
down on more than one occasion...although my Dad is actually a cancer
survivor (lung cancer), I lost a good friend about a year ago (human) to
lymphoma (she was only 25 years old).  But your optimism is so catchy,
Hideyo!  I admire the passion you put into everything you do...I won't
give up hope, either!  :)

And congratulations on your court proceedings!  I've been doing the best
I can to keep up...and it sounds like a big win could be in your future!
 I'm pulling for you here in Texas!

Thanks, again!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: Hideyo Yamamoto <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Monday, January 9, 2006 6:07 pm
Subject: RE: Thoughts for Ewok--Michelle

> Jen - another important thing to remember is that -- don't let the 
> disease itself you intimidate you --- I just have to tell you this 
> because I know some amazing story --- I have a sister in Japan 
> whose dog has had lymposarcama (?) for the past 10 years, and the 
> vet had given her only six months to live, which was 10 years 
> ago,,, and she is still with us, happily - she outlived all of her 
> sisters and brothers.. I consider it to be a miracle,, and she does 
> have cancer all over her body, but she is living happily  and 
> this story always make me think of focusing on the presence and not 
> let any name of the disease intimate us too much!
> 
> -Original Message-
> From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:Felvtalk-
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> Sent: Monday, January 09, 2006 5:04 PM
> To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
> Subject: Re: Thoughts for Ewok--Michelle
> 
> Agreed!  He's home now and already feeling much better (even ate some
> deli turkey!).  I'll have to check the receipt, but I think he only 
> gotdex today...so I'm tempted to give him pred tonight?  I gave him 
> somefish oil (heard that Omega 3 helps slow growth in some tumors) 
> and will
> basically look into the things that I was afraid to give him while he
> was on chemo...but I also believe that steriods are our best bet for
> quality time from here on out...
> 
> I can't thank you enough for all of your advice, Michelle...you and 
> themembers of the list have been a huge comfort for me when I feel
> absolutely lost and alone in all of this...I know how hard it is to 
> readabout the failing health of any of our fur-kids...it's been 
> unbearablefor me at times...but I just wanted to tell you how much 
> I appreciate
> your thoughts and prayers...
> 
> I'll keep you guys updated!  Right now, Ewok is scarfing down Fancy
> Feast... :)
> 
> Jen
> 
> 
> "But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
> unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the 
> world; You
> become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
> Saint-Exupéry
> 
> "If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
> each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
> whatyou do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
> Chief Dan
> George
> 
> 
> 
>

Re: Thoughts for Ewok--pic!

[jenmeyer]

Sorry, forgot to mention that there is a picture of Ewok that I just
took with my webcam in that last email I addressed to Michelle if anyone
wants to put a face with the name!  :)

Thanks to everyone who replied to my email so quickly!  Your love and
support means the world to me (and Ewok!)...I just can't find the words
to express how grateful I am...thank you, thank you, thank you!!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Monday, January 9, 2006 3:42 pm
Subject: Thoughts for Ewok

> Hi All...
> 
> Well, it appears we've exhausted all of our possibilities with the
> different chemo drugs...the tumor in his belly is winning out, so I'm
> guessing it's only a matter of days, now... :(  We've gone to stronger
> steriods in the hopes that I can give him a few goods days to make up
> for the crappy weekend he just had...it just sucks as he's so 
> healthy in
> every other way, I just can't believe we're running out of
> options...Please keep my little sweetie boy in your thoughts...
> 
> Jen
> 
> 
> "But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
> unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the 
> world; You
> become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
> Saint-Exupéry
> 
> "If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
> each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
> whatyou do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
> Chief Dan
> George
> 
>

Re: Thoughts for Ewok--Michelle

[jenmeyer]

Agreed!  He's home now and already feeling much better (even ate some
deli turkey!).  I'll have to check the receipt, but I think he only got
dex today...so I'm tempted to give him pred tonight?  I gave him some
fish oil (heard that Omega 3 helps slow growth in some tumors) and will
basically look into the things that I was afraid to give him while he
was on chemo...but I also believe that steriods are our best bet for
quality time from here on out...

I can't thank you enough for all of your advice, Michelle...you and the
members of the list have been a huge comfort for me when I feel
absolutely lost and alone in all of this...I know how hard it is to read
about the failing health of any of our fur-kids...it's been unbearable
for me at times...but I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciate
your thoughts and prayers...

I'll keep you guys updated!  Right now, Ewok is scarfing down Fancy
Feast... :)

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George


<>

Re: Thoughts for Ewok

[jenmeyer]

Hi Belinda!

Elspar was actually what he got on Friday (it was the second time he'd
gotten it)...and the tumor is no longer responding to it... :(  He also
did great with CCNU, but the effects were also only temporary.  I'm
starting to look into holistic options to keep him comfortable...do you
know of any off-hand?

Thanks,

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: Belinda Sauro <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Monday, January 9, 2006 3:59 pm
Subject: Re: Thoughts for Ewok

> Jen,
>   Has Ewok had elspar?  It has pulled many kitties from the edge?  
> It 
> is known on the Feline Lymphoma Caregivers website as the rescue 
> chemo!!  Have you gone to the chemo protocal page and looked over 
> the 
> many chemo options, and variations of standards used?  Just wanted 
> to be 
> sure you are aware of all the information out there.
> 
> Chemo Protocals
> http://felinelymphomacaregivers.org/docs/ChemoProtocols.html
> 
> Variations of Standard Chemo Portocals
> http://felinelymphomacaregivers.org/docs/GulfCoastChemoProtocols.html
> 
> Here are some actual case studies of kitties with the same type of 
> cancer and the protocal/s (some had to try more than one) they used.
> 
> Jean Luc
> http://felinelymphomacaregivers.org/jeanluc.html
> (large cell more agressive cancer)
> 
> Drew
> http://felinelymphomacaregivers.org/drew.html
> (small cell, slower growing cancer)
> 
> I wanted to give you a sample of each since the treatments are 
> different 
> if it is large cell or small cell.
> 
> I'm sorry I haven't followed Ewok's story more closely, I'm can't 
> remember what you have or haven't tried.  Prayers for you both.
> 
> -- 
> Belinda
> Happiness is being owned by cats ...
> 
> Be-Mi-Kitties ...
> http://www.bemikitties.com
> 
> Post Adoptable FeLV/FIV/FIP Cats/Kittens
> http://adopt.bemikitties.com
> 
> FeLV Candle Light Service
> http://www.bemikitties.com/cls
> 
> HostDesign4U.com  (affordable hosting & web design)
> http://HostDesign4U.com
> 
> ---
> 
> BMK Designs (non-profit web sites)
> http://bmk.bemikitties.com
> 
>

Thoughts for Ewok

[jenmeyer]

Hi All...

Well, it appears we've exhausted all of our possibilities with the
different chemo drugs...the tumor in his belly is winning out, so I'm
guessing it's only a matter of days, now... :(  We've gone to stronger
steriods in the hopes that I can give him a few goods days to make up
for the crappy weekend he just had...it just sucks as he's so healthy in
every other way, I just can't believe we're running out of
options...Please keep my little sweetie boy in your thoughts...

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

Re: Chandra-- how is Buddha doing?

[jenmeyer]

Oh, Chandra...I'm so sorry to hear about Buddha!  We're battling
lymphoma here, too, and the emotional roller-coaster is really starting
to take its toll.  I'm ecstatic beyond belief one moment when I can see
his old inquisitive, mischievious self in his eyes...and bawling the
next when I imagine a future without him.  Please know that you are in
my thoughts...may Buddha find his way home swiftly...

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: chandra simms <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Friday, January 6, 2006 11:55 am
Subject: Re: Chandra-- how is Buddha doing?

> Michele and all the wonderful members of this group,
> 
> I am sorry I have not written in a while, but it was a
> very hard holiday and I haven't really had the
> emotional strength to post until now.  
> 
> The last time I posted, Buddha was having his best
> week since being diagnosed with lymphoma at the
> beginning of December.  He was back to his old self
> and acting as if he was feeling fine, however four
> days before Christmas he took a serious turn for the
> worst.  The tumor behind his eye quickly began to
> cause the eye to bulge and protrude out of the socket
> and the pressure it put on his little brain began to
> effect his other neurological functions.  He
> completely lost his appetite, the ability to see in
> either eye, and to walk.  Although he was conscious,
> he was fairly catatonic and had pretty much completely
> checked-out by that point.  We talked to the vet and
> she said that there was no getting better from that
> point and also that the eye would soon either pop out
> on its own, or we would have to have it removed, which
> we did not want to him to have to go through.  So on
> the 23rd we made the excruciating decision to help him
> let go.  
> 
> My mother lives about 45 minutes away in Denton, so we
> buried him in the yard at her house and decided to
> just spend the week there.  Neither Julian or I were
> anxious to get home and begin the process of packing
> away Buddha's things.  Having all the visiting family
> in town really helped to provide a slight distraction,
> especially since I couldn't go much more than five
> minutes without crying for the first 2 days.  
> 
> Although I knew this time would eventually come and I
> was able to gather so much strength from all the
> advice and good wishes from this group over the past
> month, I was completely unprepared for the amount of
> grief I felt.  Since he lived so long without any
> symptoms I think I was in denial that the day would
> ever actually come.  
> 
> I am almost ashamed of how lucky I feel to have had
> him in my life for 14 years, and my heart truly bleeds
> for those of you who lost your friends sooner and
> didn't have as much time together as we did.  
> 
> I will be forever grateful to all the members of this
> list and honestly don't think I could have endured the
> pain that the last month brought without you.  
> 
> I don't know how to go about it or if it is too late,
> but I would like for Buddha's name to be added to next
> Monday's candle light memorial service.  If it is
> still possible that is.  
> Could someone please tell me who I should contact for
> that.
> 
> Once again, on behalf of Buddha, Julian and myself, 
> thank you all so much!
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> --- [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> 
> > Thinking of him and hoping he is still feeling
> > better. Please give us an  
> > update when you get a chance.  Having been through
> > the rollercoaster  of lymphoma 
> > several times, I really feel for you and Jen, who
> > has Ewok, and  think about 
> > Buddha and Ewok multiple times throughout the day. 
> > I hope he  is still 
> > feeling well, but know there are so many ups and
> > downs.  Please  let us know how he 
> > is when you get a chance.
> > Thinking of the two of you,
> > Michelle
> > 
> 
> 
> Love is not necessary to life, but it is what makes life worth living.
> 
> 
>   
> __ 
> Yahoo! DSL ? Something to write home about. 
> Just $16.99/mo. or less. 
> dsl.yahoo.com 
> 
>

Re: Jen and Michelle

[jenmeyer]

Oh, dear!  How did you hurt your back, Nina?  These days I'm injuring
myself just getting out of bed in the morning...Take care of yourself
and thanks for the email!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Thursday, January 5, 2006 7:58 pm
Subject: Jen and Michelle

> Hello Ladies,
> I'm so pleased to hear how well Ewok, Lucy and Patches are doing!  
> I've 
> pulled my darn back so I'm not able to keep up with emails, just 
> wanted 
> you to know how thrilled I am to hear your guys are doing well.  
> Michelle, besides your concerns about the poor turkey, I wouldn't 
> worry 
> too much about feeding raw.  I'm sure you are going to be 
> purchasing the 
> best quality, freshest meats you can find and will be careful of 
> how 
> they are stored and served.  There shouldn't be any worries about 
> contamination under those circumstances.
> Nina
> 
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> 
> > Jen,
> >  
> >   SO glad to hear Ewok is still doing well!!  Simon responded 
> very 
> > well to the CCNU also. After that he got Adriamycin, which he did 
> not 
> > respond well to, and I wished I had asked the oncologist to give 
> him 
> > more CCNU instead. I think the oncologist was afraid that without 
> > switching the drugs each time he would become resistant.  But I 
> think 
> > they take longer to become resistant to CCNU.
> >  
> >As for the steroids, is he still getting pred pills?  The Depo 
> shot 
> > is instead of the pred pills, or should be I think. The 
> oncologist 
> > should know when the right time is to give another Depo shot if 
> Ewok 
> > keeps looking good and does not seem to need it badly.
> >  
> > Patches is feeling better from antibiotics and prednisone and 
> is 
> > scheduled to have her two canines and possibly (but hopefully 
> not) 
> > other teeth pulled next Wednesday morning. So please say a prayer 
> or 
> > thought or whatever strikes you best for her!  Lucy is tapering 
> off 
> > the pred herself and seems to be doing ok-- fairly solid stool, 
> though 
> > still not entirely normal.
> >  
> > As for feeding raw meat, I am actually about to start feeding 
> > mine, or at least Lucy and maybe Patches, a raw diet. It is 
> > recommended for cats with chronic loose stools, on the feline IBD 
> list 
> > serve. I ordered a supplement mix to put in with ground raw meat 
> and 
> > organs. Being a vegan this is all very difficult for me (I had a 
> > nightmare last night that I had to have Lucy killed to be fed to 
> an 
> > animal who needed to eat her to be healthy, which I think is my 
> guild 
> > and discomfort at buying a dead turkey to help Lucy).  But I 
> think raw 
> > is ok, and maybe better, for them. The liver shake uses raw liver 
> in 
> > it, and most people on this list feed that to cats when they are 
> > sick.  All that said, I am totally nervous about starting the raw 
> diet 
> > because I have read in some places that it is not good for 
> > immune-compromised cats. But I figure neither is inflamed 
> intestines 
> > or struvite crystals, which raw is supposed to fix in many cats.
> >  
> > Thanks for the update, and may he keep going strong!
> >  
> > Michelle
> >  
> > In a message dated 1/5/2006 1:17:50 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, 
> > [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> >
> > Hi Michelle!
> >
> > So far, so good...the CCNU seems to be working!  His appetite 
> is up
> > (although he's still not eating as much as I'd like to see him
> > eat...he's put on a little weight, but he's still probably only
> > around 9
> > lbs--he weighed around 14 before this all started) and his 
> energy> level
> > or "old-self-self" is back...he even felt good enough to 
> wrestle a
> > little with his buddy (Hermes--who has been waiting patiently 
> for Ewok
> > to feel up to playing) yesterday for the first time in about 
> a month!
> > I'm still watching him like a hawk as the oncologist won't be 
> able to
> > give him another treatment until next Friday.  Ewok didn't eat
> > much this
> > morning (although he eagerly scarfed down some raw turkey--I 
> know> raw is
> > probably a no-no, but I'm just thrilled to see him eat 
> anything on his
> > own).  He's out and about, though...not hiding in the closet 
> like he
> > usually does when he's not feeling well.
> >
> > I haven't used dex or the combo shot since Christmas...but I 
> know my
> > regular vet is just around

Re: Jen-- How is Ewok?

[jenmeyer]

Thanks, Michelle!

Yep, Ewok is on daily pred...I actually took him to the oncologist this
morning (his next appointment wasn't until next week) because he wasn't
feeling well and (I believe) vomited last night... :(  The tumor in his
belly is crazy aggressive...the oncologist gave him a round of elspar as
he responded well to that one before X-mas...but now that I think about
it (as he wants to see Ewok in 2 weeks), the only reason Ewok was able
to go two weeks between visits was because I gave him a dex shot when he
started feeling bad about a week after the elspar shot...good thing I
didn't cancel his appointment for next week!  ;)

So I asked the oncologist what I should expect as it would seem (to me,
anyway) that the abdominal tumor will eventually win out as Ewok can
barely make it a week between treatments.  He surprised me by saying he
isn't any more pessimistic than he was a few months ago (although I
would have felt better if he had said "less optimistic"... ;)  )...The
oncologist still has a few tricks up his sleeve, so as long as Ewok is
game, I'll continue to tote his skinny little butt back and forth
between appointments.  Ewok is just so cute, he's so used to the car by
now...he sits shot-gun and watches the tree-tops go by...man, I'm going
to miss this little boy!!  :(

Warm thoughts to Lucy and Patches!!  Good luck with the raw!  Several of
my guys really enjoy it and I do think it's better for them...I always
try to repay the favor that the chicken or turkey did for my guys by
rescuing any critters (except for palmetto bugs...can't bring myself to
rescue them just yet) that the cats may corner (mostly lizards and
snakes)...Maggie got her paws on a lizard last week and I had to remind
her that the turkey she just ate gave its life so that that little
lizard could lead a long, fruitful life!  :)

Take care,

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Thursday, January 5, 2006 12:25 pm
Subject: Re: Jen-- How is Ewok?

> 
> Jen,
> 
>  SO glad to hear Ewok is still doing well!!  Simon responded  very 
> well to 
> the CCNU also. After that he got Adriamycin, which he did not  
> respond well to, 
> and I wished I had asked the oncologist to give him more CCNU  
> instead. I 
> think the oncologist was afraid that without switching the drugs 
> each  time he 
> would become resistant.  But I think they take longer to become  
> resistant to 
> CCNU.
> 
>   As for the steroids, is he still getting pred pills?  The  Depo 
> shot is 
> instead of the pred pills, or should be I think. The oncologist  
> should know 
> when the right time is to give another Depo shot if Ewok keeps  
> looking good and 
> does not seem to need it badly.
> 
>Patches is feeling better from antibiotics and  prednisone and 
> is 
> scheduled to have her two canines and possibly (but hopefully  not) 
> other teeth 
> pulled next Wednesday morning. So please say a prayer or  thought 
> or whatever 
> strikes you best for her!  Lucy is tapering off the  pred herself 
> and seems to be 
> doing ok-- fairly solid stool, though still not  entirely normal.
> 
>As for feeding raw meat, I am actually about to  start feeding 
> mine, or 
> at least Lucy and maybe Patches, a raw diet. It is  recommended for 
> cats with 
> chronic loose stools, on the feline IBD list serve. I  ordered a 
> supplement mix 
> to put in with ground raw meat and organs. Being a  vegan this is 
> all very 
> difficult for me (I had a nightmare last night that I had  to have 
> Lucy killed 
> to be fed to an animal who needed to eat her to be healthy,  which 
> I think is 
> my guild and discomfort at buying a dead turkey to help  Lucy).  
> But I think 
> raw is ok, and maybe better, for them. The liver shake  uses raw 
> liver in it, 
> and most people on this list feed that to cats when they  are sick. 
> All that 
> said, I am totally nervous about starting the raw diet  because I 
> have read in 
> some places that it is not good for immune-compromised  cats. But I 
> figure 
> neither is inflamed intestines or struvite crystals, which  raw is 
> supposed to fix 
> in many cats.
> 
> Thanks for the update, and may he keep going strong!
> 
> Michelle
> 
> In a message dated 1/5/2006 1:17:50 P.M. Eastern Standard Time,  
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> 
> Hi  Michelle!
> 
> So far, so good...the CCNU seems to be working!  His  appetite is up
> (although he's still not eating as much as I'd like to see  him
> eat...he's put on a

Re: Jen-- How is Ewok?

[jenmeyer]

Hi Michelle!

So far, so good...the CCNU seems to be working!  His appetite is up
(although he's still not eating as much as I'd like to see him
eat...he's put on a little weight, but he's still probably only around 9
lbs--he weighed around 14 before this all started) and his energy level
or "old-self-self" is back...he even felt good enough to wrestle a
little with his buddy (Hermes--who has been waiting patiently for Ewok
to feel up to playing) yesterday for the first time in about a month! 
I'm still watching him like a hawk as the oncologist won't be able to
give him another treatment until next Friday.  Ewok didn't eat much this
morning (although he eagerly scarfed down some raw turkey--I know raw is
probably a no-no, but I'm just thrilled to see him eat anything on his
own).  He's out and about, though...not hiding in the closet like he
usually does when he's not feeling well.

I haven't used dex or the combo shot since Christmas...but I know my
regular vet is just around the corner in case I need anything...I'm
hoping the steroid shots will be an option if Ewok starts feeling bad
again before his oncologist's appointment!  Fingers crossed that he
remains happy and active for awhile!  :)

How are Patches and Lucy?  Sorry, I'm still trying to catch up!  :)

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Thursday, January 5, 2006 11:13 am
Subject: Jen-- How is Ewok?

> Hi, Jen. I have been reading your posts to others and wondering how 
> Ewok is  
> doing. Has he reacted, good or bad, to the CCNU? Has he needed 
> additional dex  
> shots?  I don't remember when you did the combo shot, but he could 
> possibly  
> need another depo shot as well at some point I am hoping that 
> no news 
> means  good news!
> Michelle
>

Re: Bailey is anemic

[jenmeyer]

Hi Belinda!

I'm trying to catch up with the list and just wanted to let you know
that you and Bailey are in my thoughts!!  Bailey has always been my
kitty role model, too...knowing that he has beaten the odds has always
given me hope when there's so little of it to go around with this virus,
sometimes... :(  Give Bailey a big hug and kiss from Ewok and me!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: Belinda Sauro <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Thursday, January 5, 2006 9:26 am
Subject: Re: Bailey is anemic

> Hi Kerry,
>Yes I did join the anemia group and am going to get the folic 
> acid 
> you mentioned.  Bailey gets alot of the things you mentioned 
> already.  
> My vet also feels Bailey's anemia is non regenerative and if Fred 
> Meyers 
> ever gets my procrit or epogen (procrit is on back order) I will 
> get him 
> started, he is also suppose to get it 3x a week, and then we will 
> do a 
> count recheck.
> 
> My biggest problem now is weight loss, he is losing weight and even 
> though it is extremely stressful for him I am going to step up the 
> syringe feeding.  He is down to 8lbs 4oz, yesterday he was 8lbs 
> 8oz.  It 
> isn't going to do either of us any good if he gets HL on top of 
> this.  I 
> just pray the stress doesn't put him over the edge.  He is 
> extremely 
> sensitive.
> 
> If my epo or procrit doesn't come in today there is going to be 
> news of 
> a crazy lady in the Fred Meyers in Washington state, I'm really on 
> the 
> verge of losing it.  It seems like everything I am trying is 
> getting 
> blocked or messed up and I am barely holding it together.  I lost 
> my 
> baby Frankie to anemia back in 1995 (my then vet didn't know hardly 
> anthing about FeLV and how to treat anything).   He was at 6 (his 
> count), still eating and looking good, he still weighted about 
> 17lbs., 
> the only reason I took him in was because he had changed his 
> nightly 
> routine and his breathing seemed labored that day.  I just had a 
> gut 
> feeling something was wrong.  My vet was amazed he was still alive. 
> She 
> wanted me to euthanize him right then and I told her no way.  He 
> did 
> pass that night at home.
> 
> So this is really scaring me ...
> 
> -- 
> Belinda
> Happiness is being owned by cats ...
> 
> Be-Mi-Kitties ...
> http://www.bemikitties.com
> 
> Post Adoptable FeLV/FIV/FIP Cats/Kittens
> http://adopt.bemikitties.com
> 
> FeLV Candle Light Service
> http://www.bemikitties.com/cls
> 
> HostDesign4U.com  (affordable hosting & web design)
> http://HostDesign4U.com
> 
> ---
> 
> BMK Designs (non-profit web sites)
> http://bmk.bemikitties.com
> 
>

Re: Need your help with Stretch

[jenmeyer]

Hi Wendy!

I'm trying to catch up on posts (I read everything I can...just haven't
had much time to post!)...I just wanted to drop you a quick note and let
you know that I hear ya about the financial situation!!  I've already
broken down and used those damn checks that credit card companies send
you (they've obviously become savvy to the fact that I've cut up a few
cards after paying them off!  :) ) to help pay for Ewok's chemo
treatments...but I agree very much with Michelle...steroids are an
inexpensive way to help shrink the tumor (one dex shot that lasted about
a week for Ewok was $17).

Stretch, you and your nephew will certainly be in my thoughts!  I know
how it feels to lose two babies so close together (as many on this list
do)...We had to say goodbye to two of Ewok's brothers within a week of
each other (one to mediastinal lymphoma and one to anemia) a few years
ago.  I'm sure Stretch knows that you are doing everything you can (it's
all any of us truly know what to do when it comes to this damn virus). 
Perhaps sit quietly with Stretch for awhile and ask him what he wishes
to do...I know how frustrated you probably feel...it absolutely sucks
that we have to make these kinds of decisions based on money (our
Sleepypants--Ewok's brother--hasn't been feeling well these past few
days...he's been throwing up his food with *alot* of hair...fortunately,
he's been able to keep his food down for the past 24 hours...so I'm
hoping he's just passing a "hair clog"...but with abdominal cancer in
the back of my mind, I had to think ahead and wonder what I would do if
we found out that he did have cancer...and the thought was grim...we
just can't possibly afford to treat two cats with cancer...I guess I
just have to keep the faith that everything will work out as it should
and that I can avoid therapy, if at all possible... :)  ).

Anyhoo, this has turned into my own rant!  :)  My long way of letting
you know I'm there with ya!  Take care and keep us posted!

Jen



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Tuesday, January 3, 2006 10:49 pm
Subject: Re: Need your help with Stretch

> I know.  When Simon needed to go into the hospital, they would not 
> admit him 
> without me paying half the estimate, and there was not enough room 
> on our 
> credit card for it.  Luckily my mom was able and willing to give me 
> her credit 
> card number for it.  It was  very scary feeling, though, until she 
> did.  I wanted 
> to shoot the damn receptionist in the head, me standing there with 
> my sick 
> baby and her saying if I did not have a credit card to put it on 
> they would not 
> even see him.  What about someone who had no relative with a 
> working credit 
> card they were willing to lend?
> 
> If it is lymphoma, I am not sure there is anything that can make 
> him go 6 
> months without chemo.  But the vet who told me about the steroid 
> combo I am 
> always recommending (1/2 cc dexamethasone and 1/2 depomedrol, given 
> periodically 
> when they go downhill) said that she had some cats with lymphoma go 
> 6 months on 
> these shots alone, with good quality of life.  If nothing else 
> seems to help, 
> you might want to try this.  Did the dex shot help at all? If it 
> did, you 
> might want to try the combo shot. It is not expensive, though you 
> will probably 
> need to go to the vet to get it. The shots can be given sub-q, but 
> most vets 
> will not give clients the shots to take home.
> 
> But it might not be lymphoma.
> 
> Michelle
> 
> 
> In a message dated 1/3/2006 10:58:15 PM Eastern Standard Time, 
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> 
> >Hi Michelle,
> >
> >Thank you for the info.  I am going to give another
> >day or two to see how things go before taking Stretch
> >back to the doc.  Frankly, we are tapped out on money.
> > We are not wealthy by any stretch of the imagination,
> >and after spending hundreds of dollars trying to save
> >Cricket, and with Christmas just passed, we are a bit
> >broke.  I had to put the $85 visit to the vet
> >yesterday on a credit card that didn't have $85
> >dollars on it.  I will do all I can for Stretch, but
> >if it's cancer, I am not going to draw it out.  We
> >just can't afford the treatments.  I feel so
> >frustrated right now.  I don't want Stretch to go
> >through this.  I don't want my nephew to go through
> >losing his cat; he's been through so much as it is. 
> >And my attitude isn't it's normal hopeful self after
> >losing Cricket.  I feel it's too

Ewok update!

[jenmeyer]

Hi All!

Hope everybody's holiday was a good one!  Santa apparently heard my 
wish...Ewok did so well while we were at my Mom's house!  I don't know 
what I would have done without that dex shot...I can't remember when I 
posted last, but I gave him the extra cytoxen I had last weekend along 
with the dex shot...I couldn't believe how quickly it kicked in!  He 
went from vomiting to scarfing down food (and keeping it down) and 
near full play mode within 45 minutes!  He remained this way all week 
and now we are back home in Houston.  We had an oncologist's 
appointment this morning...there is still something going on in his 
belly, so the doctor has switched to a drug called Ceenu (Michelle, 
I'm guessing that this is the same as CCNU?).  Hopefully, the tumor in 
his belly will respond...

I absolutely loved having my sweet boy home with me for X-mas...his 
curiosity knows no bounds!  :)  Although a few moments were 
bittersweet, ironically, when he was at his best and being super-
sweet...as I smiled I couldn't help but think how badly I will miss 
this little boy when he's gone...I try to keep those thoughts short 
and remind myself how special all of the good moments are!

Thanks, everyone, for all of your thoughts and prayers!  I'll try to 
keep ya'll updated as we go along!

Jen & Ewok


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be 
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; 
You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine 
de Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know 
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
Chief Dan George

Re: Jen-- how is Ewok doing?

[jenmeyer]

LOL!  He does have the personality of an orange tabby, doesn't 
he!  :)  I've got two orange (girl!) cats who are just little 
firecrackers!  Ewok is a black-and-white guy, very handsome, if I do 
say so myself... ;)

I had a kind of "epiphany" the other day when I had taken your info to 
my regular vet...she thanked me for the info and told me that she's 
learned alot through me (I, of course, had to defer to this list and 
the wonderful, collective knowledge here!)...Anyhoo, it occurred to me 
later that perhaps future cats (and dogs) may be helped because of 
Ewok's situation and, in a way, he'll go on (even in memory) as a 
result much like Simon has very much lived on through his experience 
and the way it's helped others like Ewok!  I don't know if that makes 
any sense...but I just sensed a real "beauty" in the way our cats' 
lives are interconnected even though they're miles apart!

And I didn't realize how difficult dex can be to obtain on good 
faith!  That info makes me all the more grateful for my vet!  I'll 
have to be sure to thank her, again, for all she's done for me and my 
boy...speaking of the devil, :) Ewok just emerged from his jaunt 
around the house...he wants to know everything about everything and it 
kinda brings a tear to my eye that we've got this time together thanks 
to you and Simon!  I will definitely bring up CCNU (sp?) the next time 
I talk to my oncologist...but, for now, I'm just taking it one day at 
a time!  :)



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be 
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; 
You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine 
de Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know 
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
Chief Dan George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Wednesday, December 21, 2005 12:51 pm
Subject: Re: Jen-- how is Ewok doing?

> Oh, and he reminds me of Simon so much! Simon was adventurous and 
> curious  
> too, and would have found a vacation interesting and fun.  Not 
> many cats  are 
> like that!  Ewok does not happen to be an orange tabby boy, does 
> he? I  somehow 
> remember not.  Anyway, I have to say, following Ewok and Buddha's  
> progress 
> makes me relive what happened with Simon and my others a little-- 
> I  feel like I 
> am on a smaller version of the emotional rollercoaster just 
> thinking  about 
> what you are going through.  It is amazing how long these things 
> stay  with us.
> Michelle
>

Re: Jen-- how is Ewok doing?

[jenmeyer]

Hi Michelle!

Thanks for the email!  The last few days have been a whirlwind...I'm 
not sure when I updated last, but Ewok got a shot of Elspar last 
Friday and actually ate a few bites of food on his own later on that 
evening!  The next day, I took him into our regular vet's with your 
email about the steriods in hand...she went ahead and gave him the 
shots in addition to more fluids...by the time we left about noon, she 
could tell he was already feeling a little better...and by that night 
he was eating a little on his own!  The weekend went well, and by 
Sunday he was playing with the feather wand like his old self!  So, 
Monday rolls around and we have a decision to make because we were 
supposed to leave a few days earlier to head home to Chicago for X-
mas!  I called the oncologist and updated him on Ewok's condition...he 
suggested we take him with us (we were driving) as he preferred that 
he be with us as opposed to our vet's office if he were to take a turn 
for the worse.  I said, "Great!" and then called our regular vet to 
update her...we both agreed that taking another shot of dex with us 
wouldn't be a bad idea if something were to happen.

Anyway, we made it to Chicago late last night with two dogs and Ewok 
in tow!  He was such a good boy throughout the 24 hour drive!  He's 
still doing great...eating on his own and acting like his old 
self!  :)  I'm just enjoying whatever time I've got left with him...I 
really love having him here with me...and, fortunately, he's an 
adventurous, social guy...so he's very curious about his new 
surroundings!

Keep your fingers crossed that his remission lasts just a little bit 
longer!  Michelle--thank you so much again for all of your advice!

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be 
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; 
You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine 
de Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know 
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --
Chief Dan George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Tuesday, December 20, 2005 7:52 am
Subject: Jen-- how is Ewok doing?

> I have been thinking about him. Symptoms any better?   Did  the 
> vet try the 
> steroid shots? Any talk of using CCNU? Did the last chemo shot  
> (the one that 
> starts with E, can't remember the name) do anything?
> 
> I am hoping for the best, but worried that things are bad since 
> you have  not 
> written. Please let us know how he is when you get a chance.  We 
> are  all 
> pulling for him, and for you.
> 
> Love,
> Michelle
>

Re: Jen-- how is Ewok doing?--Update

[jenmeyer]

Hi Michelle (and All)!

Well, Ewok is at the vet's right now...Michelle, our vet is going to try
the steroid protocol that you suggested.  There was a small glimmer of
hope last night...Ewok at a couple of tablespoons of baby food on his
own (and kept it down)!  Unfortunately, he didn't want anything this
morning...so it's hard, for me, to tell what's going on...but my vet
seems to think the elspar helped.

Fingers crossed that my boy will start feeling better soon...


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Friday, December 16, 2005 5:26 pm
Subject: Re: Jen-- how is Ewok doing?--Another tumor

> 
> You can do it either way. I would do it in one shot just to stick 
> him less,  
> but other than that i do not think it matters.
> Michelle
> 
> In a message dated 12/16/2005 6:25:17 P.M. Eastern Standard Time,  
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> 
> Are the  two
> administered separately (separate injections)?  Or are they  
> combined and
> then injected in one shot?
> 
> 
> 
>

Re: Jen-- how is Ewok doing?--Patti

[jenmeyer]

Thanks, Patti!  I hope so too!


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Friday, December 16, 2005 11:23 pm
Subject: Re: Jen-- how is Ewok doing?--Another tumor

> Jen~
> My thoughts and prayers are with you and Ewok.
> I was so saddened to hear the news regarding the tumor.
> I pray little Ewok will get some relief with new treatments  
> pursued...Big hugs to both of you!
> Love,
> Patti
> 
>

Re: Jen-- how is Ewok doing?--Nina

[jenmeyer]

Hi Nina!

Thanks so much for your email...it truly makes a huge difference knowing
there are others out there who know exactly what you're going through! 
Right now, I have half a mind (which half? I don't know...it's hard to
tell the sane half from the not-so-sane half right now... ;)  ) to march
right over to the mall, elbow my way through a line of 5 year olds, plop
myself down on Santa's lap and tell him that all I want for Christmas is
for my baby to get well...then, I'd tell the photographer to get several
good shots of the "crazy cat lady" for my Christmas cards... :)  Can you
tell I need a little sleep and/or a stiff drink?  LOL!

Anyway, thanks for the hug...I needed that right about now!  :)

Jen


"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Friday, December 16, 2005 4:41 pm
Subject: Re: Jen-- how is Ewok doing?--Another tumor

> Aw Jen,
> I just caught up on the posts between you and Michelle about Ewok.  
> I 
> feel like there's a tumor in my belly :( .  I'm so sorry.  My 
> thoughts, 
> concerns and prayers are with you guys.  I wish there were 
> something 
> else I could say or do.  I hate this damn disease.  I'm sending you 
> all 
> my love to comfort you.  My arms are wrapped around you both,
> Nina
> 
> [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> 
> >Damn!  I should have checked my email before I left...thanks for 
> that,>Michelle...I'm going to keep that one in mind!  Ewok and I 
> just got back
> >from the oncologist's and it's as we all pretty much expected: a 
> mass in
> >his intestines (a lymph node I believe, but I'm so tired I can't 
> think>straight right now...).  So he was actually given a round of 
> elspar to
> >see if the tumor responds...I guess we'll know in the next 24-48 
> hours.> Please continue to send out those healing vibes!
> >
> 
>

Re: Jen-- how is Ewok doing?--Another tumor

[jenmeyer]

Hi Michelle!

Thanks so much...I'm going to be taking Ewok into his regular vet
tomorrow morning for fluids and to pull the catheter that's been in his
arm since Monday...I spoke with our vet just a few minutes ago and
mentioned the combo shot...she hadn't heard of the two being used in
combo, but she's willing to try anything for Ewok, so if the chemo
doesn't do any good, we'll give the steroids a shot.  Are the two
administered separately (separate injections)?  Or are they combined and
then injected in one shot?



"But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be
unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You
become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed..." --Antoine de
Saint-Exupéry

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what
you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys." --Chief Dan
George

- Original Message -
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Friday, December 16, 2005 3:22 pm
Subject: Re: Jen-- how is Ewok doing?--Another tumor

> oh, and they can be administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly. 
>  The 
> oncologist gave them to Simon intramuscularly, and I gave the 
> follow-up dex  
> shots subcutaneously. IM is faster than sub-q in terms of 
> absorbtion rate.
> Michelle
>