Opinions appreciated
I have been learning ALOT from this group in the past few weeks. I wondered if I again might ask your opinion on something? I thought since the outcome of our 14 cats testing negative for FELV was so wonderful that I would share the news with the humane society. I had emailed them asking if any of them would be willing to innoculate our cats for a donation. (The answer was no - that it needed done by a vet.) Anyhow I thought maybe sharing the outcome might help save other cats from unnecessary suffering. Below is my email and following is the response. After reading it let me know what you think. I was aggravated by the response. Our cats are VERY well taken care of. Wondered if it was just me reading it wrong, but I found it insulting. Luckily we do not live in the county they mention. Subject: Good News Importance: High Just thought I would email and let you know we had all 14 of our cats tested for FELV. Not a single one was positive. They were then all inoculated. The vet thought that our cat Elsa that we took to West Milton's vet may have been a false positive. If Elsa was FELV positive than the other cats and her lived together over 2 years, ate from the same bowls and used the same litter boxes. I just thought I would share this news with you. I have been in contact with people from http://www.felineleukemia.org - They offer A LOT of good information on the disease. You may want to check it out. Regards Debbie Morton Congrats. I still would add no other cats to the group in that you have over the allotted number for Miami County laws. Adding more will increase your financial liability as well as compromising the health of the cats you have made a commitment to. Tres Lynn
RE: ovaban
Ovaban goes way back -- about 25 years ago is when I first used it - it was prescribed as a behavior modifier for a cat who peed everywhere -- back before the days of amitriptylline and Prozac. The downside was that it could cause breast cancer; and that it did, in my little April. Now it is used as an appetite enhancer. Somewhere along the line I got the idea - don't know if I dreamed it or if someone told me - that it was originally used for canine birth control. Gloria B. Lane [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I've used it, but will have to remember who for and what for! Gloria At 09:13 PM 3/8/2007, you wrote: It's a hormone pill -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Thursday, March 08, 2007 9:45 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: ovaban personally, I've never heard of it at all. Phaewryn http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html Special Needs Cat Resources -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.446 / Virus Database: 268.18.7/711 - Release Date: 3/5/2007 9:41 AM -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.446 / Virus Database: 268.18.7/711 - Release Date: 3/5/2007 9:41 AM
Re: Opinions appreciated
Hi Debbie, I do not think they are chastising you. I personally do not intend to add cats, until after Junior passes and I an sure the other eight cats stay clean of the virus. Although things happen. A cat showed up during the middel fo my crisis similiar to yours last fall. He was emaciated and starving. He joined the group and it saved his life. Ok for the rest of the group, Junior got back from the vet today. I was so hoping to see Dr. Staunton, but she took the week off. Dr Larrick is good but very conservative. Junior has swollen lymph nodes behind his ears and his back legs. Junior otherwise is stable. The Dr suggest we wait and see because his weight is good and no other symptoms. He said the lymph system may be doing what it is supposed to do fight infection. I decided against further vaccinations. What do yall think. Money is always an issue. He is on a good diet he gained back the weight he lost, he gets Petinic, CoQ10, lysine and Transfer Factor Plus. This has seemed to stabilize him. Thanks, Sally On 3/9/07, Debbie [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I have been learning ALOT from this group in the past few weeks. I wondered if I again might ask your opinion on something? I thought since the outcome of our 14 cats testing negative for FELV was so wonderful that I would share the news with the humane society. I had emailed them asking if any of them would be willing to innoculate our cats for a donation. (The answer was no - that it needed done by a vet.) Anyhow I thought maybe sharing the outcome might help save other cats from unnecessary suffering. Below is my email and following is the response. After reading it let me know what you think. I was aggravated by the response. Our cats are VERY well taken care of. Wondered if it was just me reading it wrong, but I found it insulting. Luckily we do not live in the county they mention. Subject: Good News Importance: High Just thought I would email and let you know we had all 14 of our cats tested for FELV. Not a single one was positive. They were then all inoculated. The vet thought that our cat Elsa that we took to West Milton's vet may have been a false positive. If Elsa was FELV positive than the other cats and her lived together over 2 years, ate from the same bowls and used the same litter boxes. I just thought I would share this news with you. I have been in contact with people from http://www.felineleukemia.org - They offer A LOT of good information on the disease. You may want to check it out. Regards Debbie Morton Congrats. I still would add no other cats to the group in that you have over the allotted number for Miami County laws. Adding more will increase your financial liability as well as compromising the health of the cats you have made a commitment to. Tres Lynn -- Junior needs your help with his care fighting Feline Leukemia. Our story www.geocities.com/dmyllas/sally_page.html please help us if you can https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclickbusiness=puttyrat%40k6az.com
Re: Opinions appreciated
Thanks Sally. We never intended having the ones we have. Actually they all arrived at the same time. Seven (2 different litters) were found in a trash dumpster. A lady I worked with brought them to work - she couldn't keep them because she was allergic. We hand raised all seven. I refuse to walk past a suffering animal though. I think that is cruel. I just felt that the humane society lady had no right to quote a law to us. Our 14 cats are all spayed/ neutered, clean, well groomed, have all their shots, don't fight, etc. You would tell someone they were over on the limit of kids they have, so why pets? I realize I'm probably being too sensitive, but if you don't know how someone lives I don't belive you should assume they have too many pets. I hope Junior improves. Sounds like you are taking good care of him. -Original Message- From: Sally Davis <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>Sent: Mar 9, 2007 11:00 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Opinions appreciated Hi Debbie, I do not think they are chastising you. I personally do not intend to add cats, until after Junior passes and I an sure the other eight cats stay clean of the virus. Although things happen. A cat showed up during the middel fo my crisis similiar to yours last fall. He was emaciated and starving. He joined the group and it saved his life. Ok for the rest of the group, Junior got back from the vet today. I was so hoping to see Dr. Staunton, but she took the week off. Dr Larrick is good but very conservative. Junior has swollen lymph nodes behind his ears and his back legs. Junior otherwise is stable. The Dr suggest we wait and see because his weight is good and no other symptoms. He said the lymph system may be doing what it is supposed to do fight infection. I decided against further vaccinations. What do yall think. Money is always an issue. He is on a good diet he gained back the weight he lost, he gets Petinic, CoQ10, lysine and Transfer Factor Plus. This has seemed to stabilize him. Thanks, Sally On 3/9/07, Debbie [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I have been learning ALOT from this group in the past few weeks. I wondered if I again might ask your opinion on something? I thought since the outcome of our 14 cats testing negative for FELV was so wonderful that I would share the news with the humane society. I had emailed them asking if any of them would be willing to innoculate our cats for a donation. (The answer was no - that it needed done by a vet.) Anyhow I thought maybe sharing the outcome might help save other cats from unnecessary suffering. Below is my email and following is the response. After reading it let me know what you think. I was aggravated by the response. Our cats are VERY well taken care of. Wondered if it was just me reading it wrong, but I found it insulting. Luckily we do not live in the county they mention. Subject: Good NewsImportance: HighJust thought I would email and let you know we had all 14 of our cats tested for FELV. Not a single one was positive. They were then all inoculated. The vet thought that our cat Elsa that we took to West Milton's vet may have been a false positive. If Elsa was FELV positive than the other cats and her lived together over 2 years, ate from the same bowls and used the same litter boxes.I just thought I would share this news with you. I have been in contact with people from http://www.felineleukemia.org - They offer A LOT of good information on the disease. You may want to check it out.RegardsDebbie MortonCongrats.I still would add no other cats to the group in that you have over the allotted number for Miami County laws.Adding more will increase your financial liability as well as compromising the health of the cats you have made a commitment to.Tres Lynn -- Junior needs your help with his care fighting Feline Leukemia. Our story www.geocities.com/dmyllas/sally_page.html please help us if you canhttps://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclickbusiness=puttyrat%40k6az.com
Re: Questions and concerns - nervous hair pulling cats
Hi Debbie, First let me say HURRAY! for the neg results on all your cats. Your story has now been added to so many others on the list in confirming that mixing doesn't seem to be as big a concern as the veterinary community would have us believe. Such wonderful news for you and your babies. Michelle, one of our list members has a cat that pulls and rends at her fur over nervous tension. She uses a benadryl compounded transdermal (made into a cream to apply to the inside of the ear tip) that seems to work wonders. You could try using an otc antihistamine like benadryl or Chlorpheniramine to see if it calms them enough to stop the behavior. I use Chlortabs periodically for my 20lb FIV boy, Starman, when he gets to chewing on himself (2 to 4mg or .5 to a whole tab daily) and it seems to keep whatever is making him itch under control. I would strongly suggest that you figure out a way to deal with whatever is making them so ill at ease environmentally though. Is there any way to give these guys their own space? I've used screen doors to separate guys that are afraid of being in general population so they can slowly be re-acclimated. That's another long discussion though :-) . I read your email to your local Humane Society and their reply to you. I can understand why you are feeling like they don't appreciate your efforts and why you are upset at their not being more supportive. My first thought was that they were less nasty then I would have expected. Just to play devil's advocate... People at shelters and rescues deal with such horror day in and day out, that they can become overwhelmed and stuck in their ways of dealing with it. When they hear of someone with more than a few pets they probably worry that the situation will escalate into a hoarder situation, or, because they don't know you, think that somewhere down the line, they will have to step in and deal with things should they become overwhelming to you. You can see how quickly that can happen when you have a big heart and not enough resources to deal with all those in need. I stay far away from any sort of governmental organizations and NEVER give out my number to anyone that might cause trouble for me and mine, (that includes all strangers). I think it's commendable that you wanted to let them know that their views on felv are outdated, but sometimes it's next to impossible to change a shelter's policies about giving these guys a fighting chance. You have to remember that they destroy so many healthy, friendly, adoptable animals everyday. Killing those that have less of a chance at finding a forever home might be the lessor of two evils in their minds, even if it is a subconscious rationalization. If I were you and someone from the shelter was aware of my numbers, I'd write back to them thanking them for their concern and let them know that I fully intended to adopt out as many as I could and that I would not be taking in anymore animals until my numbers were lessened, (whether that was my intention or not). You don't want those guys sniffing around your house and you don't want to make enemies of them, no matter what the local ordinances are, they can make trouble for you if they are so inclined. Finally, I want to thank you for all you do for those in need around you. I'm glad you found the list, not only for what we might be able to give to you in support, but because it's always affirming to learn of others out there that are as committed as we are to our fur babies. Bless you and your entire family, Nina Debbie wrote: As far as nervous chewing - our vet prescribed ovaban tablets. They seem to work but another vet says they can cause diabetes. What is this groups opinion on this? I recall years ago they also gave ovaban to me for male cat I had adopted. He was aggressive and they said it would calm him down. We have 3 cats out of the 14 that have skin problems. Sneezy pulls fur out on her hind quarters, Frodo has dandruff real bad, and then there is Cassie - she has licked the hair from her hind legs. All were fixed fairly young, except the Sneezy, the one who chews her hind quarters. She is also Cassie's mother. Frodo, the one with dandruff is very heavy and he seems to have allergies. Long haired and was bottle fed. Any ideas?
Sally and Junior
Hi Sally, I don't understand why your vet would suggest a wait and see approach with a felv pos cat. Aggressive, immediate vet care is always something that I recommend for all felv positive kitties. Their immune systems are weakened and don't work as efficiently as cats without the virus. Expecting that Junior's immune response will be enough to combat swollen lymph nodes of unknown origin seems foolhardy and down right dangerous to me. As far as further vaccinations... I wouldn't even consider inoculating Junior for ANYTHING. If it were me, I wouldn't consider inoculating Junior EVER. I may have my facts wrong, but it seems he's been fighting infections since you joined the list, he doesn't need the stress of vaccinations added to whatever else is going on with him. I'm very pleased to hear he has gained back his weight, that's wonderful news. You do have to figure out why his lymph nodes are still swollen though. If you can afford it, I'd take him to a board certified internist, a specialist that might be able to get to the bottom of his problems and help him get better. I'd ask Dr. Staunton, (since this seems to be the vet you trust), for a referral asap. My prayers are with you guys, Nina Ok for the rest of the group, Junior got back from the vet today. I was so hoping to see Dr. Staunton, but she took the week off. Dr Larrick is good but very conservative. Junior has swollen lymph nodes behind his ears and his back legs. Junior otherwise is stable. The Dr suggest we wait and see because his weight is good and no other symptoms. He said the lymph system may be doing what it is supposed to do fight infection. I decided against further vaccinations. What do yall think. Money is always an issue. He is on a good diet he gained back the weight he lost, he gets Petinic, CoQ10, lysine and Transfer Factor Plus. This has seemed to stabilize him. Thanks, Sally
Re: False positive and negative?
Hi Lori, Thanks so much for posting your story about Nebs. Thank goodness you were strong enough to follow your heart and not take the advice of your vet! Hopefully your story will help educate your vet, (is this your ex-vet now?), and save more lives in the future. I would suggest that you have Nebs tested using an IFA next time. You could run an in house ELISA again, but an IFA would be better confirmation of his status at this point. How long has it been since he was last tested? I would wait at least 90 days before the re-test to give him the chance to clear the virus, (if that's indeed what was going on). Please keep us informed and welcome to the group, Nina Lori S wrote: I have seen a lot of you post that your cats posted negative, positive, negative. Is this common? Do some cats get over it or are the tests errored? My beloved Nebs was diagnosed two weeks ago just after his fourth birthday. I took him to the vet with a very bad case of the runs and no appetite. The vet, one I had not been to before, told me Nebs was felv positive and would be dead in a matter of days. He told me his kidneys were huge and the virus had destroyed them. He recommended that I put him down right away. I couldn't do it. He was too special and deserved a chance. He told me nothing would help. I asked him to do what another vet had done for another cat once, an injection of fluids for dehydration. He gave him that, but refused any medication, saying it wouldn't do any good. The next day, I begged him for some antibiotics and he gave me them but told me not to get my hopes up. I gave Nebs the medicine, and some Pet-tonic. The next day he was eating again. In two days, he was eating like a hog. In 3 days, his runs were gone. It's now been 2 weeks, and instead of being dead as the doctor predicted, he's practically back to normal! He's gained almost all his weight back and has his swagger again. His third eyelid, present for almost a year, is also gone. His stools are more normal than they've been in ages. I am wondering if maybe he'd had a severe kidney and intestional infection, and when that was cleared up, he was all right. I don't know if he's really felv positive or not, I'll get him retested at another vet soon, but even if he has it, his immune system was not as 'shot' as the vet said it was. So my questions are, are the tests sometimes wrong, and can a cat go in and out of good health while being infected? I had always heard the first sickness would basically be the last. I also want to say, please do not give up on your kitty if the vet says to put him down, he's going to die. You know your pet better than anyone, and if you feel he isn't at his end, don't do it. I am so glad I gave Nebs another chance when the vet didn't.
Re: ovaban and other stuff....
In a message dated 3/8/07 7:30:48 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: So no one here has heard much about the use of ovaban for itching and calming them down? Debbie I had to give a male cat ovaban for his urinating (outside of box, ANYWHERE!!!). But, the poor boy was traumatized, owner was fleeing town after we had the Three Mile Island incident here [Sorry, my memory stinks, but I KNOW it was early '80's, at least I think]. She was just going to dump him in a KILL-SHELTER! And, at the time, I did have one of his sisters, so, regardless of that fact, he came home - to me He DID calm down, used box ALL the time, BUT. That was my Mr. Chow - [my very first encounter w/ Felv.].. And, to make matters worse, when he got older and sickly, he was diagnosed w/ cancer... Upon necropsy [something I detest], his lymphosarcoma was due to being Felv+. (Keep in mind, this was prior to Snap or Elisa testing..) I was devastated... I still wonder about just how they were able to diagnose Felv. () And, he lived w/ me my furbabies MANY years, and all his friends lived to a ripe [healthy] age. On the subject of amytryptilline, we used that at the shelter on many stressed-out cats. And, Blossom [See? I CAN remember some things!], used to chew her fur terribly PRIOR!!! Her nickname was Bald Blossom. After giving her the meds, she was Beautiful Blossom! And, as far as I know, which lately isn't too much, she is a healthy senior w/ lots of fur What dosage were you RX'ed? Improper dosage can lead to many problems. And, don't ask me what we had our Blossom on. that memory is gone I know I am rambling am even going to switch topic, but. For vitamins, yes, PetTinic is very good, but we also used Fela-Vite[sp?]. It's a flavored gel, I even think it's made by the same mfg. as Laxatone. () Just don't quote me on that.. And, since I'm changing topic, I also want to say that I am seriously contemplating having my Buster put on amytryptilline.. He was Cornelius's best friend (the rest of my gang are snooty, AND THAT'S PUTTING IT MILDLY). I rescued Buster shortly after Cornelius, and when Corny passed, well, I was really concerned about Buster. And, he is also a Maine Coon, but now he is a DSH!!! And, he is perfectly healthy, according to my vet. He's on a good [great] diet, no fleas, no allergies... What's a Mom to do And, I DO have to go back to vet, as soon as I figure out a way to get dear Charity into a carrier.. For those of you not familiar w/ my Charity, she's the feral I've been looking after [spayed, tested, vaccinated, plus food shelter], who led me to Black Bart, another REALLY, REALLY mean feral tom [in a BLIZZARD!!!] when he was so ill... They both put their trust in me that night.. Sadly, for Bart it was too late. :( But, Charity allowed me to carry her back to house, and she's been inside ever since In a large crate, but until I ever get her to vet, I don't want to expose her to my other babies I even have Timmy, her baby.Who I had to bottle feed 'cause the j*rk that dumped them, put them in a cardboard box Of course, Mom got out, but I had her 2 teeny babies The other baby, Thomas, was adopted, but Timmy won't have any of that [He did get adopted while I was in hosp., thank heavens for adoption contracts!!! He made it purr-fectly clear that this was his home] I'm rambling [again], back to CharityWe DID have a vet appt., BUT..., upon seeing another human, she went ballistic (I can't drive among other handicaps after MVA), so when my rescue buddy came to get us, there was NO way to get her in carrier! I knowmy fault, should have already had her in carrier. But, she has to be at least semi manageable for vet appt. And, she does not like any person but me!!! And, at least prior to MVA I could draw blood. Now...FORGET IT!!! My room mate even asked why I brought the EVIL CAT in (Her house is in my laundry room and she freaks whenever he goes in there!!!) So just how can I expect a vet staff to handle her??? With me, she's a mush She allows me to stroke her, even PURRS!!! And, sometimes when she pretends to scratch me, she doesn't even have her claws out!!! I just don't know what to do.. Living in a crate is MUCH better than life outside in this weather here. Suggestions, anyone Debbie everyone, sorry I rambled so much. Can you tell I don't get out much? Patti her gang BRBRBR**BR AOL now offers free email to everyone. Find out more about what's free from AOL at http://www.aol.com.
Re: Questions and concerns - nervous hair pulling cats
Nina, We must have been responding at same time. But, I am SO glad you reminded me about the Chlor-Tabs. Since Buster is very healthy, I just will have to start him on that! And, he's another love-muffin - VERY pillable! (Unlike CharityDon't have the nerve to even try pilling her!!!) Gonna go, give Buster some Chor. Wish me luck!!! Hugs, Patti her gang BRBRBR**BR AOL now offers free email to everyone. Find out more about what's free from AOL at http://www.aol.com.
Re: ovaban and other stuff....
Hi Sweetie, I was just thinking about you this morning, it's so nice to see you posting. About Charity... I have a feeling that once you get her in the carrier and to the vet things will go more smoothly than you suspect. As you know, I too have an overabundance of recalcitrant, formally feral friends. My delighted experience has been that if they are treated with calm, loving, respectfulness at the vet they do much better than expected. I have a particular vet, (of course she's expensive, far away and difficult to get an appt with!), that is very understanding about scaredy cats. I give them a towel to hide under in the carrier and drape a larger towel over the carrier. When we're at the vet's office we weigh them while still in the carrier, (sorry no taking temp unless absolutely necessary), put the carrier on the exam table and while simultaneously lifting the top of the carrier off, cover the nervous cat with the larger towel. I keep them mostly covered, exposing only those areas being examined, and leave them in the bottom of the carrier throughout the exam. Coo to them and hold them gently, but firmly. Tell them that they will be safe as long as they stay very still. It's nerve wracking for everyone, but so far, as long as they trust me, (as Charity does you), they've all done really well. I tell them exactly what will be happening and talk to them the entire time about how good they are to let us help them. I also douse everything with feliway and if I can, put RR on their ear tips. I don't know if it helps, but it can't hurt. Good luck with sweet Charity. Let us know how she does. I'm looking forward to hearing she's out of her cage! Nina [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: For those of you not familiar w/ my Charity, she's the feral I've been looking after [spayed, tested, vaccinated, plus food shelter], who led me to Black Bart, another REALLY, REALLY mean feral tom [in a BLIZZARD!!!] when he was so ill... They /both/ put their trust in me that night.. Sadly, for Bart it was too late. :( But, Charity allowed me to carry her back to house, and she's been inside ever since In a large crate, but until I ever get her to vet, I don't want to expose her to my other babies I'm rambling [again], back to CharityWe DID have a vet appt., *BUT...*, upon seeing another human, she went ballistic (I can't drive among /other /handicaps after MVA), so when my rescue buddy came to get us, there was NO way to get her in carrier! I knowmy fault, should have already had her in carrier. But, she has to be at least semi manageable for vet appt. And, she does not like /any /person but me!!! And, at least prior to MVA I could draw blood. Now...FORGET IT!!! My room mate even asked /why/ I brought the *EVIL CAT *in (Her house is in my laundry room and she freaks whenever he goes in there!!!) So just how can I expect a vet staff to handle her??? With me, she's a mush She allows me to stroke her, even PURRS!!! And, sometimes when she /pretends/ to scratch me, she doesn't even have her claws out!!! I just don't know what to do.. Living in a crate is MUCH better than life outside in this weather here. Suggestions, anyone Patti her gang
Fwd: Questions and concerns
*This message came from Kathleen Bowers... she is trying to join the group, but in the interim I wanted to forward her email so she can start getting responses. I told her she found the best group around!!* *Leslie =^..^=* -- Forwarded message -- From: KATHLEEN BOWERS [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Mar 9, 2007 1:31 PM Subject: Re: Questions and concerns To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] I have a 13 year old *indoor* *only* female cat who was tested for feline leukemia as a kitten and was neg. She was vac. for a few years in a row Then the vet said this is not necessary since she is 100% indoors, so we stopped. I had her to the vet in Nov. 2006 for a routine physical- all was ok , healthy 17 lbs. At that visit she was the second pt. of that particular day. Pt. #1 was severely ill and the owner was crying uncontrollably. It was weighed on the same scale but unknown of further contact by the same staff members. I even said to the weighing person if she cleaned that scale after the sick cat and she got defensive and said that they clean the scale after each weigh (I wonder about that now) Now it is March and my cat is positive for feline leukemia. We are devastated!! I can't stop crying. She is now 12.5 lbs. weak and can't eat or drink much. She tries but can't eat much she even cries out because she would love to eat. We try to give her Prednisone and an antibiotic but she fights taking it and we dread putting her through it all. Will these drugs really help much? How did this happen to my baby??? who is only indoors. I have another healthy cat also who is indoor only 14 yrs. old and same story tested- neg early and no longer gets vac. I'm terrified for her also. How and when do you decide to end the life of your baby? It is so heart breaking to see her sick and know she won't get better. My husband and I are half out of our minds knowing what is to come. -- Leslie =^..^= To leave the world a better place - whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or an improved social condition - that is to have succeeded. That only one life breathed easier because you lived - that is success. ---Ralph Waldo Emerson
For Nina
Thanks for your comments Nina. It is appreciated. We were so relieved when our babies tested negative. Although now I wonder if Elsa who was put to sleep was actually positive. We have tried to eliminate things that might make the scratchy ones less itchy. I use advantage on them and that seems to help quite a bit. Even though they have no fleas. The vets have suggested steroid shots but said they don't like to use them very often. We live on 3 acres in the country so anything could be causing it. There's alot of crops, trees, and pollen. It only started after we had them spayed/ neutered. It also seems to be a certain personality type (high strung). We don't have enough room to give them all their own space. We have one, Tigger, who we let go in the bathroom alot. He is a bully at times but once he gets some alone time he seems better. Sneezy and her daughter Patches we keep in our bedroom. They are both high strung. Sneezy used to be mean to some of the others and once we got her fixed the tables turned. Now they all hate her and she dislikes most of them. She growls when anyone even looks at her. She LOVES people though. We are thinking about building an outside enclosure for some for the summer. Just for short periods of time, so they can enjoy the outdoors. I don't worry much about the Humane Society, but I was somewhat apalled by their remarks. I have been around animals all my life and I have seen my fair share of suffering, but it would never harden my heart to the degree that I would be willing to look the other way when an animal needed help. I also get angry about it because I have asked for their help before with injured and/ or stary animals and every time they tell me to take them to the pound! I have actually got that response from 2 different county orgs. We live in the countryside and in a different county than the society that I had contacted. They assumed I was in the same area because the town near by is split down the center into to counties. As far as hoarding goes - well, I have 2 opinions on that. I realize how easy it could be to fall into such a thing, but I also think that instead of society critisizing these people for trying their best to help - they themselves should help more. Debbie -Original Message- From: Nina [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Mar 9, 2007 12:19 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Questions and concerns - nervous hair pulling cats Hi Debbie, First let me say HURRAY! for the neg results on all your cats. Your story has now been added to so many others on the list in confirming that mixing doesn't seem to be as big a concern as the veterinary community would have us believe. Such wonderful news for you and your babies. Michelle, one of our list members has a cat that pulls and rends at her fur over nervous tension. She uses a benadryl compounded transdermal (made into a cream to apply to the inside of the ear tip) that seems to work wonders. You could try using an otc antihistamine like benadryl or Chlorpheniramine to see if it calms them enough to stop the behavior. I use Chlortabs periodically for my 20lb FIV boy, Starman, when he gets to chewing on himself (2 to 4mg or .5 to a whole tab daily) and it seems to keep whatever is making him itch under control. I would strongly suggest that you figure out a way to deal with whatever is making them so ill at ease environmentally though. Is there any way to give these guys their own space? I've used screen doors to separate guys that are afraid of being in general population so they can slowly be re-acclimated. That's another long discussion though :-) . I read your email to your local Humane Society and their reply to you. I can understand why you are feeling like they don't appreciate your efforts and why you are upset at their not being more supportive. My first thought was that they were less nasty then I would have expected. Just to play devil's advocate... People at shelters and rescues deal with such horror day in and day out, that they can become overwhelmed and stuck in their ways of dealing with it. When they hear of someone with more than a few pets they probably worry that the situation will escalate into a hoarder situation, or, because they don't know you, think that somewhere down the line, they will have to step in and deal with things should they become overwhelming to you. You can see how quickly that can happen when you have a big heart and not enough resources to deal with all those in need. I stay far away from any sort of governmental organizations and NEVER give out my number to anyone that might cause trouble for me and mine, (that includes all strangers). I think it's commendable that you wanted to let them know that their views on felv are outdated, but sometimes it's next to impossible to change a shelter's policies about giving these guys a fighting chance. You have to remember
Re: Fwd: Questions and concerns
I am new to this group but I would try another vet for a second opinion. -Original Message- From: Leslie Lawther <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>Sent: Mar 9, 2007 2:01 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Fwd: Questions and concerns This message came from Kathleen Bowers... she is trying to join the group, but in the interim I wanted to forward her email so she can start getting responses. I told her she found the best group around!! Leslie =^..^=-- Forwarded message --From: KATHLEEN BOWERS [EMAIL PROTECTED]Date: Mar 9, 2007 1:31 PMSubject: Re: Questions and concernsTo: [EMAIL PROTECTED] I have a 13 year old indoor only female cat who was tested for feline leukemia as a kitten and was neg. She was vac. for a few years in a row Then the vet said this is not necessary since she is 100% indoors, so we stopped. I had her to the vet in Nov. 2006 for a routine physical- all was ok, healthy 17 lbs. At that visit she was the second pt. of that particular day. Pt. #1 was severely ill and the owner was crying uncontrollably. It was weighed on the same scale but unknown of further contact by the same staff members. I even said to the weighing person if she cleaned that scale after the sick cat and she got defensive and said that they clean the scale after each weigh (I wonder about that now) Now it is March and my cat is positive for feline leukemia. We are devastated!! I can't stop crying. She is now 12.5 lbs. weak and can't eat or drink much. She tries but can't eat much she even cries out because she would love to eat. We try to give her Prednisone and an antibiotic but she fights taking it and we dread putting her through it all. Will these drugs really help much? How did this happen to my baby??? who is only indoors. I have another healthy cat also who is indoor only 14 yrs. old and same story tested- neg early and no longer gets vac. I'm terrified for her also. How and when do you decide to end the life of your baby? It is so heart breaking to see her sick and know she won't get better. My husband and I are half out of our minds knowing what is to come. -- Leslie =^..^=To leave the world a better place - whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or an improved social condition - that is to have succeeded.That only one life breathed easier because you lived - that is success. ---Ralph Waldo Emerson
Re: Questions and concerns - nervous hair pulling cats
okay, i promised to look this up this was from last week's Chat Week chat with Marty Becker, DVM (of ABC-TV and Chicken Soup... fame) *handsmom:* I have an Abby and she has gotten a large bald spot from constantly licking. What can I do? *DrMarty_nr: *handsmom, the first thing is to go to your vet and rule out things that aren't obvious. We always have to be careful not to just go a knee-jerk reaction and go to what we think it is, we need to do a complete physical exam and diagnostic testing to confirm what it is, and not just what we think it is. There are three probabilities, one is flea allergy dermatitis. It only takes one flea bite, you don't have to see them crawling all over the cat if the cat is sensitive it just takes one bite Number two is what we call atopy. Atopy is an allergic reaction, humans sneeze, cats scratch or lick. Typically they'll do one spot- they'll just constantly go to that one spot right down to the bare skin or the sub layers of the skin.* *The lucky thing about that is there is a new drug out called Atopica from Merial that's really working wonders on dogs and cats with atopy. Even pets who have suffered from that for years. MC -- Spay Neuter Your Neighbors! Maybe That'll Make The Difference MaryChristine AIM / YAHOO: TenHouseCats MSN: [EMAIL PROTECTED] ICQ: 289856892
Re: Questions and concerns - nervous hair pulling cats
Dear MC, Thanks for this info. I am going to research this further. Sounds promising though. Debbie -Original Message- From: TenHouseCats <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>Sent: Mar 9, 2007 3:27 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Questions and concerns - nervous hair pulling cats okay, i promised to look this up this was from last week's Chat Week chat with Marty Becker, DVM (of ABC-TV and "Chicken Soup..." fame) handsmom: I have an Abby and she has gotten a large bald spot from constantly licking. What can I do? DrMarty_nr: handsmom, the first thing is to go to your vet and rule out things that aren't obvious. We always have to be careful not to just go a knee-jerk reaction and go to what we think it is, we need to do a complete physical exam and diagnostic testing to confirm what it is, and not just what we think it is. There are three probabilities, one is flea allergy dermatitis. It only takes one flea bite, you don't have to see them crawling all over the cat if the cat is sensitive it just takes one bite Number two is what we call atopy. Atopy is an allergic reaction, humans sneeze, cats scratch or lick. Typically they'll do one spot- they'll just constantly go to that one spot right down to the bare skin or the sub layers of the skin. The lucky thing about that is there is a new drug out called Atopica from Merial that's really working wonders on dogs and cats with atopy. Even pets who have suffered from that for years. MC-- Spay Neuter Your Neighbors!Maybe That'll Make The DifferenceMaryChristineAIM / YAHOO: TenHouseCatsMSN: [EMAIL PROTECTED]ICQ: 289856892
Re: Questions and concerns - nervous hair pulling cats
Thanks MC, it's going in the file. Nina TenHouseCats wrote: okay, i promised to look this up this was from last week's Chat Week chat with Marty Becker, DVM (of ABC-TV and Chicken Soup... fame) *handsmom:* I have an Abby and she has gotten a large bald spot from constantly licking. What can I do? *DrMarty_nr: *handsmom, the first thing is to go to your vet and rule out things that aren't obvious. We always have to be careful not to just go a knee-jerk reaction and go to what we think it is, we need to do a complete physical exam and diagnostic testing to confirm what it is, and not just what we think it is. There are three probabilities, one is flea allergy dermatitis. It only takes one flea bite, you don't have to see them crawling all over the cat if the cat is sensitive it just takes one bite Number two is what we call atopy. Atopy is an allergic reaction, humans sneeze, cats scratch or lick. Typically they'll do one spot- they'll just constantly go to that one spot right down to the bare skin or the sub layers of the skin.* *The lucky thing about that is there is a new drug out called Atopica from Merial that's really working wonders on dogs and cats with atopy. Even pets who have suffered from that for years. MC -- Spay Neuter Your Neighbors! Maybe That'll Make The Difference MaryChristine AIM / YAHOO: TenHouseCats MSN: [EMAIL PROTECTED] mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] ICQ: 289856892
Re: Sally and Junior
Hi Nina, I wish Dr Staunton had been there today. I had many questions, she knows Junior better than Dr Larrick. Junior has had the swellings for almost two months now and everything is the same. Actually overall he is better than two months ago especially with the weight gain. I decided against vaccinations. Dr Larrick was ok with that. I have another cat right now who has mild symptoms of a URI. ALthough I do my best to keep them apart. Their is bound to be some small exposure. Junior has not caught whatever Silver has. I think this is a good sign that he has some defenses left. I will have to see if I can get a hold of Dr Staunton next week to get her opinion. She is the Junior vet at this practice. My guess is right out of vet school. I will say that Dr Larrick felt that were it Lymphoma Junior would be displaying other symptoms. Junior at least feels well enough to be lovey dovey these days. I am glad for that. Thanks, Sally On 3/9/07, Nina [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi Sally, I don't understand why your vet would suggest a wait and see approach with a felv pos cat. Aggressive, immediate vet care is always something that I recommend for all felv positive kitties. Their immune systems are weakened and don't work as efficiently as cats without the virus. Expecting that Junior's immune response will be enough to combat swollen lymph nodes of unknown origin seems foolhardy and down right dangerous to me. As far as further vaccinations... I wouldn't even consider inoculating Junior for ANYTHING. If it were me, I wouldn't consider inoculating Junior EVER. I may have my facts wrong, but it seems he's been fighting infections since you joined the list, he doesn't need the stress of vaccinations added to whatever else is going on with him. I'm very pleased to hear he has gained back his weight, that's wonderful news. You do have to figure out why his lymph nodes are still swollen though. If you can afford it, I'd take him to a board certified internist, a specialist that might be able to get to the bottom of his problems and help him get better. I'd ask Dr. Staunton, (since this seems to be the vet you trust), for a referral asap. My prayers are with you guys, Nina Ok for the rest of the group, Junior got back from the vet today. I was so hoping to see Dr. Staunton, but she took the week off. Dr Larrick is good but very conservative. Junior has swollen lymph nodes behind his ears and his back legs. Junior otherwise is stable. The Dr suggest we wait and see because his weight is good and no other symptoms. He said the lymph system may be doing what it is supposed to do fight infection. I decided against further vaccinations. What do yall think. Money is always an issue. He is on a good diet he gained back the weight he lost, he gets Petinic, CoQ10, lysine and Transfer Factor Plus. This has seemed to stabilize him. Thanks, Sally -- Junior needs your help with his care fighting Feline Leukemia. Our story www.geocities.com/dmyllas/sally_page.html please help us if you can https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclickbusiness=puttyrat%40k6az.com
Re: Opinions appreciated
Hi Debbie, Where I live outdoor cats are all considered ferals. They don't count them as part of the household. I found this interesting. A vet told me that. I have always know we don't own cats they own us. My cats for the most part have picked me out. The last one literally showed up under my porch. He knew I would help him and he is now an inside cat. I have found with my limited exposure to rescue groups and I would assume the same with humane societies, the tend to be a bit strongly opinionated if not even being accusing. I am sure it comes from what they see. They do not know us at all, but it tends to put one off. I had a bad experience with a rescue group when I was trying to place a dog that I had not adopted but my mom did and she gave the dog to me after my dad died. I was not at home most of the time, I did not have a fenced yard and what this dog required was attention that I could not give her. Well you would have though I had committed a crime the way I was treated and no good solutions were offered other than I should crate her. I know now that it would have helped but was not the solution. Casey came up with her won solutions. She found a family with kids who lived nearby. She would go there and play. I later found where she was going. They offered to keep her for the weekend while I was away. When I came back I asked if they wanted her and they said yes. It was the best thing that happend to her. gotta go my boyfriend just fell, blames me for it. Another story Sally On 3/9/07, Debbie [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thanks Sally. We never intended having the ones we have. Actually they all arrived at the same time. Seven (2 different litters) were found in a trash dumpster. A lady I worked with brought them to work - she couldn't keep them because she was allergic. We hand raised all seven. I refuse to walk past a suffering animal though. I think that is cruel. I just felt that the humane society lady had no right to quote a law to us. Our 14 cats are all spayed/ neutered, clean, well groomed, have all their shots, don't fight, etc. You would tell someone they were over on the limit of kids they have, so why pets? I realize I'm probably being too sensitive, but if you don't know how someone lives I don't belive you should assume they have too many pets. I hope Junior improves. Sounds like you are taking good care of him. -Original Message- From: Sally Davis Sent: Mar 9, 2007 11:00 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Opinions appreciated Hi Debbie, I do not think they are chastising you. I personally do not intend to add cats, until after Junior passes and I an sure the other eight cats stay clean of the virus. Although things happen. A cat showed up during the middel fo my crisis similiar to yours last fall. He was emaciated and starving. He joined the group and it saved his life. Ok for the rest of the group, Junior got back from the vet today. I was so hoping to see Dr. Staunton, but she took the week off. Dr Larrick is good but very conservative. Junior has swollen lymph nodes behind his ears and his back legs. Junior otherwise is stable. The Dr suggest we wait and see because his weight is good and no other symptoms. He said the lymph system may be doing what it is supposed to do fight infection. I decided against further vaccinations. What do yall think. Money is always an issue. He is on a good diet he gained back the weight he lost, he gets Petinic, CoQ10, lysine and Transfer Factor Plus. This has seemed to stabilize him. Thanks, Sally On 3/9/07, Debbie [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I have been learning ALOT from this group in the past few weeks. I wondered if I again might ask your opinion on something? I thought since the outcome of our 14 cats testing negative for FELV was so wonderful that I would share the news with the humane society. I had emailed them asking if any of them would be willing to innoculate our cats for a donation. (The answer was no - that it needed done by a vet.) Anyhow I thought maybe sharing the outcome might help save other cats from unnecessary suffering. Below is my email and following is the response. After reading it let me know what you think. I was aggravated by the response. Our cats are VERY well taken care of. Wondered if it was just me reading it wrong, but I found it insulting. Luckily we do not live in the county they mention. Subject: Good News Importance: High Just thought I would email and let you know we had all 14 of our cats tested for FELV. Not a single one was positive. They were then all inoculated. The vet thought that our cat Elsa that we took to West Milton's vet may have been a false positive. If Elsa was FELV positive than the other cats and her lived together over 2 years, ate from the same bowls and used the same litter boxes. I just thought I would share this news with you. I have been in contact with people from http://www.felineleukemia.org - They offer A LOT of
Re: ovaban and other stuff....
When I had a feral, Gigi Sue, she was in a kitty condo cage (2' x 3' x 4') and safe, learned to be happy, too. I could not just reach in a pick her up. She had an igloo or pyramid bed she loved to hide in. When she needed to go to the vet I put a towel over the front of her igloo, lifted it out with her inside and pushed it into a carrier big enough for the igloo. At the vet she was very afraid but could be handled somewhat. Later when she was out of the cage, she lived under my bed (except at night when she happily roamed the house without the humans in her way). Again the igloo was handy ... closed the bedroom door, shooshed her into the igloo and towel over the front of it ... have to admit that often took an hour+ and she and I were very wornout by then. An idea to work with though. Del - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Friday, March 09, 2007 12:25 PM Subject: Re: ovaban and other stuff In a message dated 3/8/07 7:30:48 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: So no one here has heard much about the use of ovaban for itching and calming them down? Debbie I had to give a male cat ovaban for his urinating (outside of box, ANYWHERE!!!). But, the poor boy was traumatized, owner was fleeing town after we had the Three Mile Island incident here [Sorry, my memory stinks, but I KNOW it was early '80's, at least I think]. She was just going to dump him in a KILL-SHELTER! And, at the time, I did have one of his sisters, so, regardless of that fact, he came home - to me He DID calm down, used box ALL the time, BUT. That was my Mr. Chow - [my very first encounter w/ Felv.].. And, to make matters worse, when he got older and sickly, he was diagnosed w/ cancer... Upon necropsy [something I detest], his lymphosarcoma was due to being Felv+. (Keep in mind, this was prior to Snap or Elisa testing..) I was devastated... I still wonder about just how they were able to diagnose Felv. () And, he lived w/ me my furbabies MANY years, and all his friends lived to a ripe [healthy] age. On the subject of amytryptilline, we used that at the shelter on many stressed-out cats. And, Blossom [See? I CAN remember some things!], used to chew her fur terribly PRIOR!!! Her nickname was Bald Blossom. After giving her the meds, she was Beautiful Blossom! And, as far as I know, which lately isn't too much, she is a healthy senior w/ lots of fur What dosage were you RX'ed? Improper dosage can lead to many problems. And, don't ask me what we had our Blossom on. that memory is gone I know I am rambling am even going to switch topic, but. For vitamins, yes, PetTinic is very good, but we also used Fela-Vite[sp?]. It's a flavored gel, I even think it's made by the same mfg. as Laxatone. () Just don't quote me on that.. And, since I'm changing topic, I also want to say that I am seriously contemplating having my Buster put on amytryptilline.. He was Cornelius's best friend (the rest of my gang are snooty, AND THAT'S PUTTING IT MILDLY). I rescued Buster shortly after Cornelius, and when Corny passed, well, I was really concerned about Buster. And, he is also a Maine Coon, but now he is a DSH!!! And, he is perfectly healthy, according to my vet. He's on a good [great] diet, no fleas, no allergies... What's a Mom to do And, I DO have to go back to vet, as soon as I figure out a way to get dear Charity into a carrier.. For those of you not familiar w/ my Charity, she's the feral I've been looking after [spayed, tested, vaccinated, plus food shelter], who led me to Black Bart, another REALLY, REALLY mean feral tom [in a BLIZZARD!!!] when he was so ill... They both put their trust in me that night.. Sadly, for Bart it was too late. :( But, Charity allowed me to carry her back to house, and she's been inside ever since In a large crate, but until I ever get her to vet, I don't want to expose her to my other babies I even have Timmy, her baby.Who I had to bottle feed 'cause the j*rk that dumped them, put them in a cardboard box Of course, Mom got out, but I had her 2 teeny babies The other baby, Thomas, was adopted, but Timmy won't have any of that [He did get adopted while I was in hosp., thank heavens for adoption contracts!!! He made it purr-fectly clear that this was his home] I'm rambling [again], back to CharityWe DID have a vet appt., BUT..., upon seeing another human, she went ballistic (I can't drive among other handicaps after MVA), so when my rescue buddy came to get us, there was NO way to get her in carrier! I knowmy fault, should have already had her in carrier. But, she has to be at least semi manageable for vet appt. And, she does not like any person but me!!! And,
Re: ovaban and other stuff....
i think we too often impose OUR values onto them re: quality of life a cat who feels safe in a smaller room, or even for awhile in a condo cage, can clearly be LESS depressed or stressed than one who is hiding, terrified, in 3 feet while it has 3,000-sq-ft of luxury surrounding it. of course a condo cage, or a separate room may not be the IDEAL situation for a housepet, but not all the cats who adopt us are gonna be classic housecats--and their standards of what constitutes meeting their needs may not be the same as our's is. On 3/9/07, Del H. Daniels [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: *When I had a feral, Gigi Sue, she was in a kitty condo cage (2' x 3' x 4') and safe, learned to be happy, too. I could not just reach in a pick her up. She had an igloo or pyramid bed she loved to hide in. When she needed to go to the vet I put a towel over the front of her igloo, lifted it out with her inside and pushed it into a carrier big enough for the igloo. At the vet she was very afraid but could be handled somewhat. Later when she was out of the cage, she lived under my bed (except at night when she happily roamed the house without the humans in her way). Again the igloo was handy ... closed the bedroom door, shooshed her into the igloo and towel over the front of it ... have to admit that often took an hour+ and she and I were very wornout by then. An idea to work with though.* ** *Del* - Original Message - *From:* [EMAIL PROTECTED] *To:* felvtalk@felineleukemia.org *Sent:* Friday, March 09, 2007 12:25 PM *Subject:* Re: ovaban and other stuff In a message dated 3/8/07 7:30:48 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: So no one here has heard much about the use of ovaban for itching and calming them down? Debbie I had to give a male cat ovaban for his urinating (outside of box, ANYWHERE!!!). But, the poor boy was traumatized, owner was fleeing town after we had the Three Mile Island incident here [Sorry, my memory stinks, but I KNOW it was early '80's, at least I think]. She was just going to dump him in a KILL-SHELTER! And, at the time, I did have one of his sisters, so, regardless of that fact, he came home - to me He DID calm down, used box ALL the time, BUT. That was my Mr. Chow - [my very first encounter w/ Felv.].. And, to make matters worse, when he got older and sickly, he was diagnosed w/ cancer... Upon necropsy [something I detest], his lymphosarcoma was due to being Felv+. (Keep in mind, this was prior to Snap or Elisa testing..) I was devastated... I still wonder about just *how* they were able to diagnose Felv. () And, he lived w/ me my furbabies MANY years, and all his friends lived to a ripe [healthy] age. On the subject of amytryptilline, we used that at the shelter on many stressed-out cats. And, Blossom [See? I CAN remember some things!], used to chew her fur terribly PRIOR!!! Her nickname was Bald Blossom. After giving her the meds, she was Beautiful Blossom! And, as far as I know, which lately isn't too much, she is a healthy senior w/ lots of fur What dosage were you RX'ed? Improper dosage can lead to many problems. And, don't ask me what we had our Blossom on. that memory is * gone* I know I am rambling am even going to *switch* topic, but. For vitamins, yes, PetTinic is very good, but we also used Fela-Vite[sp?]. It's a *flavored *gel, I even think it's made by the same mfg. as Laxatone. () Just don't quote me on that.. And, since I'm changing topic, I also want to say that I am seriously contemplating having my Buster put on amytryptilline.. He was Cornelius's best friend (the rest of my gang are snooty, AND THAT'S PUTTING IT MILDLY). I rescued Buster shortly after Cornelius, and when Corny passed, well, I was really concerned about Buster. And, he is also a Maine Coon, but now he is a DSH!!! And, he is *perfectly healthy,* according to my vet. He's on a good [great] diet, no fleas, no allergies... What's a Mom to do And, I DO have to go back to vet, as soon as I figure out a way to get dear Charity into a carrier.. For those of you not familiar w/ my Charity, she's the feral I've been looking after [spayed, tested, vaccinated, plus food shelter], who led me to Black Bart, another REALLY, REALLY mean feral tom [in a BLIZZARD!!!] when he was so ill... They *both* put their trust in me that night.. Sadly, for Bart it was too late. :( But, Charity allowed me to carry her back to house, and she's been inside ever since In a large crate, but until I ever get her to vet, I don't want to expose her to my other babies I even have Timmy, her baby.Who I had to bottle feed 'cause the j*rk that dumped them, put them in a cardboard box Of course, Mom got out, but I had her 2 teeny babies The other baby, Thomas, was adopted, but Timmy won't have any of that [He did get adopted while I was in
Re: Questions and concerns - nervous hair pulling cats
Just scanning some of these emails (meaning not reading as carefully as usual) - I'm a bit behind. My Phelix has this. I recently - on the recommendation of someone from this group - got a prescription for the compounding pharmacy to make up a transdermal gel of benedryl for him (apply to the inside of his ear every 4-6 hours as needed). Doesn't treat the cause but it really does give him some relief from itchy symptoms. Much better on his system than steroid shots. elizabeth On 3/9/07, TenHouseCats [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: okay, i promised to look this up this was from last week's Chat Week chat with Marty Becker, DVM (of ABC-TV and Chicken Soup... fame) *handsmom:* I have an Abby and she has gotten a large bald spot from constantly licking. What can I do? *DrMarty_nr: *handsmom, the first thing is to go to your vet and rule out things that aren't obvious. We always have to be careful not to just go a knee-jerk reaction and go to what we think it is, we need to do a complete physical exam and diagnostic testing to confirm what it is, and not just what we think it is. There are three probabilities, one is flea allergy dermatitis. It only takes one flea bite, you don't have to see them crawling all over the cat if the cat is sensitive it just takes one bite Number two is what we call atopy. Atopy is an allergic reaction, humans sneeze, cats scratch or lick. Typically they'll do one spot- they'll just constantly go to that one spot right down to the bare skin or the sub layers of the skin.* *The lucky thing about that is there is a new drug out called Atopica from Merial that's really working wonders on dogs and cats with atopy. Even pets who have suffered from that for years. MC -- Spay Neuter Your Neighbors! Maybe That'll Make The Difference MaryChristine AIM / YAHOO: TenHouseCats MSN: [EMAIL PROTECTED] ICQ: 289856892
Re: Opinions appreciated
She is simply quoting the fact that you are breaking a law in her county, she may be unaware you aren't in the same county. I don't think her reply is rude, just pointing out a legal fact. Phaewryn http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html Special Needs Cat Resources
Re: Opinions appreciated
Actually, there are two quite famous families that get lots of airtime on Lifetime that have over 12 CHILDREN in their home. They OFTEN get asked if they take proper care of them all, get accused of all kinds of things simply because they have more kids than society deems acceptable. So, it happens with kids too. Here's what they get in any typical outing with 10 or more kids in tow (and some suggested come backs maybe you could use for your cats too, LOL): http://www.plomp.com/largefam/comebacks.htm Phaewryn http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html Special Needs Cat Resources
Seattle vets
Still wondering about good progressive vets in the Seattle area ... thanks Kelly
