Asia
Asia is still in remission! (from lymphoma) Dianne
Re: Asia
ThanksI sure do know about how important it is to hear a shot of good news. This is a big one but even the small ones are important. Dianne and Asia - Original Message - From: Leslie Lawther To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, January 23, 2007 11:07 AM Subject: Re: Asia CONGRATULATIONS!! What wonderful news for you and for Asia!!! We can always use a shot of good news! Thanks for sharing!! Leslie =^..^= On 1/23/07, Dianne K Perry, Ph.D. [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Asia is still in remission! (from lymphoma) Dianne -- 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
Asia update
The Elspar from last week put Asia back in remission according to vet yesterday. However because Elspar was used/because Asia came out of remission, yesterday the used Adrianmycin in an IV drip of 4mg. So now I am researching to find out about that drug. Asia also has gained 7 oz. in weight, she is responding well it appears. I do need to add supplements but can only add a few right now due to financial issues. What would be the best supplements to add to enhance her treatment right now? Vit. C Vet also provided a written report and both x-rays for me yesterday. I scanned and sent to a friend who is a veterinary radiographer and am waiting to hear back from him. Dianne and Asia __,_._,___
Re: Asia update
Nina, No, Asia is not on CoQ10. I have not put her on any supplements due to the chemo and not having an opportunity to really talk with the oncologist. I changed our appointments to Friday mornings as the afternoons are so crazy that I don't get much chance to discuss things with the vet. Will explore all of this. Thanks Dianne - Original Message - From: Nina To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Saturday, December 30, 2006 11:26 AM Subject: Re: Asia update Oh Dianne what wonderful news! I'm so pleased to hear Asia is doing so well. I seem to remember you saying that Asia is on CoQ10, what else do you have her on? I'm not sure if Interferon is the best choice for her, you'd need to speak to your vet about it. I'd ask your vet about anything that boosts immune system response to make sure you're not inadvertently boosting the cancer cells as well. I know that Transfer Factor is suppose to be a immune regulator rather than an immune booster, you might want to look into that. Here's a paste of a post I wrote on it: Transfer Factor is suppose to be an 'immune balancer' that is taken from cow's colostrum, they also use something from chicken yolks. The idea is to educate an immature or imbalanced immune system to bring it into balance and help it ward off illness. I'm not even sure if it works, but according to the studies I've read, it hasn't had any ill effects, even when amounts used are many times higher than recommended. There have been good reports about general health, (shiny coat etc.) from some of the folks I know who are using it. There are several different formulas for people and animals. I use the animal stress formula. Here's a link to info about Transfer Factor: http://www.transferfactorinstitute.com Here's the ordering info: The phone number for the company is: (888) 454-3374. There's a website link below, you might want to check out, but they don't have their order page encrypted, so it's safer to order over the phone. The wholesale price on the products from the most recent list I have is: Transfer Factor Classic -- 90 caps/$37.95 Transfer Factor Advanced Formula -- 60 caps/$39.95 TF Plus Advanced Formula -- 60 caps/$54.95 TF Feline Complete -- 60 - 2 grm. servings/$35.95 Animal Stress Pack -- 7 - 2 oz.packets/$48.95 www.4life.com http://www.4life.com Dianne K Perry, Ph.D. wrote: The Elspar from last week put Asia back in remission according to vet yesterday. However because Elspar was used/because Asia came out of remission, yesterday the used Adrianmycin in an IV drip of 4mg. So now I am researching to find out about that drug. Asia also has gained 7 oz. in weight, she is responding well it appears. I do need to add supplements but can only add a few right now due to financial issues. What would be the best supplements to add to enhance her treatment right now? Vit. C Vet also provided a written report and both x-rays for me yesterday. I scanned and sent to a friend who is a veterinary radiographer and am waiting to hear back from him. Dianne and Asia __,_._,___
Re: Asia update
I heard that Vita-Cal and Nutri-Cal are full of sugar and that fuels cancer??? Regular vitamin C or is there a special cat Vit. C? Dianne - Original Message - From: Jennifer Phaewryn O'Gwynn To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Saturday, December 30, 2006 1:21 PM Subject: Re: Asia update I'd go with the vitamin C, and a good all around high calorie vitamin-mineral supplement, like Vita-Cal or Nutri-Cal, since she's doing chemo, she could probably use the additional easy to access calories. Neither of them are expensive. Phaewryn 12/24/06 Whitey Pictures: http://ucat.us/Whitey/WhiteyNewPics.html Whitey Models on Ebay: http://cgi.ebay.com/Cleos-Catnip-ORGANIC-2-ounces-cat-nip-KITTY-YUMMY_W0QQitemZ140067996154QQihZ004QQ
Re: How do yall do it?
Thank you for this. It reminded me of the day Asia was diagnosed with FELV, even before the Lymphoma I was down in the dumps and wondering why this again in my life(last year was horrible with the loss of 4 pets and a husband and a couple rescue dogs) anyway, it came to me that Asia picked me ...she did, there was no doubt about it when it happened last Dec. I knew, her foster parents knew, we talked about it. It came to me loud and clear that God had her pick me because I would take care of her to the very best of my ability and would not give up easily. Dianne - Original Message - From: TenHouseCats To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, December 26, 2006 2:09 PM Subject: Re: How do yall do it? the short answer? we do it because we can. we might not always THINK that we can, but clearly the creative force of the universe, by whatever name you choose to call it, believes that we can. these critters always manage to find us, no matter what we do. i have come to believe that, in order to complete their journeys, they come to us because there is something they need that only we can give them. and that there is something that we need to learn that only they can teach us. it never gets easier to deal with the difficulties of special-needs cats, but after the first few times they appear in our lives, i think we start to realize that we ARE supposed to be doing this work, and that it's not just some bad cosmic joke everyone does what they can. some of us can work with the elderly, the sick or dying; some can foster; some can give great amounts of time or money but are unable to physically take in additional animals. there are so many ways to help, and each path is valid... On 12/26/06, Kelley Saveika [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi guys, I don't have an FELV+ that I know of, but I do have a kitty with VSM (ventricular septal defect) - a heart condition. She could die at any time, or she could live for quite a while. (If you could add her to the prayer list, that would be great). Her name is Missy, and I love her more than anything in the world. She had an echocardiogram and was diagnosed with VSM this summer. I think I have cried every day since. Before she had the echo I thought she would be dead every day when I got home. Now I'm sure she will be. Nice as the heart list people are, I can't really read that list; it is too close to home. I can barely read this one, and I cry a lot here too. How do yall stand it? I don't think I am strong enough. Kelley -- Rescuties - Saving the world, one cat at a time. http://www.rescuties.org Vist the Rescuties store and save a kitty life! http://astore.amazon.com/rescuties-20 -- Spay Neuter Your Neighbors! Maybe That'll Make The Difference MaryChristine AIM / YAHOO: TenHouseCats MSN: [EMAIL PROTECTED] ICQ: 289856892
Re: How do yall do it?-- Asia
The vet said the tumor was gone 2 weeks ago, then last week said it was back and added the Elspar. Asia is breathing easily, moving around quite a bit and lapping up all the loving she can get. She is not as active as she was before getting sick, but she is much better than Thanksgiving week. I think she is not gaining weight as she should but will see on Friday when we go back to vet thanks for asking Dianne - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, December 26, 2006 3:01 PM Subject: Re: How do yall do it?-- Asia Dianne, How is Asia doing? Michelle In a message dated 12/26/2006 3:00:16 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Thank you for this. It reminded me of the day Asia was diagnosed with FELV, even before the Lymphoma I was down in the dumps and wondering why this again in my life(last year was horrible with the loss of 4 pets and a husband and a couple rescue dogs) anyway, it came to me that Asia picked me ...she did, there was no doubt about it when it happened last Dec. I knew, her foster parents knew, we talked about it. It came to me loud and clear that God had her pick me because I would take care of her to the very best of my ability and would not give up easily. Dianne
Re: How do yall do it?-- Asia
No we don't use adriamycin, but I will remember it in case we need to add it. She is such a loving kittyincredible little one... - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, December 26, 2006 3:19 PM Subject: Re: How do yall do it?-- Asia CCNU is another rescue drug like elspar that can help cats who have come out of remission. I think that it puts smething like 50% of cats with lymphoma back into remission after they have come out of it. Also, I don't remember, but I don't think your vet's protocol includes adriamycin, another strong chemo drug that wipes out a lot of lymphoma. another drug to ask about if the tumor is back again. hoping she stays feeling good, Michelle In a message dated 12/26/2006 3:17:35 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: The vet said the tumor was gone 2 weeks ago, then last week said it was back and added the Elspar. Asia is breathing easily, moving around quite a bit and lapping up all the loving she can get. She is not as active as she was before getting sick, but she is much better than Thanksgiving week. I think she is not gaining weight as she should but will see on Friday when we go back to vet thanks for asking Dianne
Re: Meowy Christmas
Thank you Sherry. Meowy Christmas to All Dianne and Asia, Dogs: Dakota, Princess, Sassy, Casey - Original Message - From: Sherry DeHaan To: Felvtalk Sent: Monday, December 25, 2006 8:37 AM Subject: Meowy Christmas I just wanted to say Merry Christmas to all of you and your familes and fur babies.!!! Sherry and my fur kids Rafferty,CousCous,Xander and Tristan __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
Re: Meowy Christmas
Joy, Happiness and Blessings to all who celebrate during this season whatever it may be Dianne and Asia and the rest of the gang - Original Message - From: Jennifer Phaewryn O'Gwynn To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Monday, December 25, 2006 11:25 AM Subject: Re: Meowy Christmas Same to you! And happy whatever to the others who don't do xmas on the list (we do both solstice and xmas here, we party and do ritual on solstice and we gift exchange and eat fancy food on xmas)! Phaewryn Donations Needed for Whitey's emergency Vet Care! http://ucat.us/Whitey.html DONATE VIA PAYPAL: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclickbusiness=seething%40vtlink%2enetitem_name=DONATION%20to%20Whitey%20Veterinary%20Bill%20Fund 12/24/06 Whitey Pictures: http://ucat.us/Whitey/WhiteyNewPics.html
Re: Tiny passed
Our deepest condolences on your loss of Tiny, so sorry to hear this. Dianne and Asia
Bandy in heaven
Our deepest condolences on the loss of Bandy. Dianne and Asia
Re: please add my Lizzie to CLS and prayer list
I am so sorry for your loss, prayers for you and Lizzie to have peace. Dianne and Asia - Original Message - From: Hideyo Yamamoto To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org ; [EMAIL PROTECTED] ; [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, December 18, 2006 6:20 PM Subject: please add my Lizzie to CLS and prayer list My little gentle soul, Lizzie passed away this morning - she is the sweetest and kindest and most affectionate soul I have ever counted - I have bottle fed her from the day one and it's been such a pleasure to have met her - I miss her just so terribly and I feel so empty all over... please pray for her peace.
Re: Please add Jimi Too Cool to the CLS
I am so sorry Sally. I have been following Jimi Too Cool's recent events. His wonderful name attracted me to read as you posted about him recently. I am sorry for your loss. I am so glad you scooped him up at that ATM machine and gave him a loving home. Dianne and Asia - Original Message - From: Sally To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Monday, December 18, 2006 8:52 PM Subject: RE: Please add Jimi Too Cool to the CLS I am truly sorry to hear about Jimi Too Cool. He sounds like he was a wonderful companion for you. Sally Davis -- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of anne Sent: Monday, December 18, 2006 7:55 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Please add Jimi Too Cool to the CLS Dear kind fellow cat lovers, Jimi Too Cool has passed over to the other side with the help of his favorite vet, Dr. Greene, at 11:30AM today. Things went pretty smoothly and Dr. Greene was very kind and sympathetic. Jimi had suffered from the side effects of feline leukemia for half of his 10 year lifetime. It started with painful stomatitis and travelled down the esophagus and beyond, making it very difficult for him to eat. In the last several months, he has gone downhill, becoming skin and bones, practically, even though he could eat well and a lot when his steroid shots kicked in. This last weekend, he became like the walking dead and cried out pitifully now and then. His eyes looked tired and sad and glazed. The tramadol that was added to his meds wasn't helping anymore, either, it seemed. I have been blessed to have my boy for so long, especially in light of his disease, so for that I am very grateful. He was a noble, silly, friendly, brave, loving, smart, quirky and beautiful boy. He has my heart. He was very much a COOL boy all his life, too, from the time I scooped him up from an ATM machine location on a busy, dangerous street, up to and including his death. At our first meeting at the bank, he just sauntered over and sat beside me calmly and resolutely and happily, making it known he was not leaving my side and that was how it stayed. Jimi liked to headbutt us often and with force. He also liked to hang upside down like a bat and he also did his camel imitation for our entertainment, making his back hump greatly, as he was a tall and solid boy with long lanky legs. He was also somewhat like a dog, following us on our heels often. Phaewry and Marylyn, thank you for your recent posts concerning Jimi. I want to answer them when I feel a bit stronger. Tamara, thank you, dear friend. Love and hugs to you, too, as always. I wanted to send the following poem along with this message because it reminded me so much of my boy, Jimi Too Cool, and helped me get through the euthanasia. Anne and Simms and Sophie and Jimi Too Cool, in spirit in my heart always A Parting Prayer Dear Lord, please open your gates and call St. Francis to come escort this beloved companion across the Rainbow Bridge. Assign him to a place of honor, for he has been a faithful friend and has always done his best to please me. Bless the hands that send him to you, for they are doing so in love and compassion, freeing him from pain and suffering. Grant me the strength not to dwell on my loss. Help me remember the details of his life with the love he has shown me. And grant me the courage to honor him by sharing those memories with others. Let him remember me as well and let him know that I will always love him. And when it's my time to pass over into your paradise, please allow him to accompany those who will bring me home. Thank you, Lord, for the gift of his companionship and for the time we've had together. And thank you, Lord, for granting me the strength to give him to you now. - © Brandy Duckworth, 1998 Jimi Too Cool Summer 1996 - Dec. 18th, 2006
Re: Emily is out of surgery, home and recovering
Thanks for the update. The photos are so cuteshe is a beauty! Healing thoughts sent her way Asia and Dianne - Subject: Emily is out of surgery, home and recovering Just an update on Emily, my friend Renee's girl with breast cancer. She had a total mastectomy,
Re: [feline-cancer] some good news
Thank you Gina. I met two women in the waiting room yesterday who also need prayers for their babies, both cats. One has the same thing as Asia and it was good for her mom to hear our good news. We had our own little support group meeting n thewaiting room. Both of the other women had driven over 50 miles to come to Dr. Ward. Dianne and Asia - Original Message - From: Gina WN To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Saturday, December 16, 2006 2:44 AM Subject: Re: [feline-cancer] some good news That is wonderful news! I will keep praying for her. Gina Dianne K Perry, Ph.D. [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Asia had her 4th chemo treatment today and another x-ray.the mass in her chest cavity is gone! I realize we will have more chemo for a couple weeks and then evaluate again and only the Lord knows what is ahead, but we are thankful and grateful for this Dianne and Asia __,_._,___ Visit my Tigger Tales site! __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
Re: [feline-cancer] some good news
Asia had her 4th chemo treatment today and another x-ray.the mass in her chest cavity is gone! I realize we will have more chemo for a couple weeks and then evaluate again and only the Lord knows what is ahead, but we are thankful and grateful for this Dianne and Asia __,_._,___
Re: OT:crying for help - serious side effect from antibiotics
Hi, I don't know about this antibiotic but when my shih tzu had idiopathic vestibular disease the vet had me give her over the counter sea sickness pills and in a few days I saw a difference in her. Don't know if this will work for Ghani or not, but you might want to ask vet. Has someone else had this experience? Dianne and Asia - Original Message - From: Hideyo Yamamoto To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org ; [EMAIL PROTECTED] ; [EMAIL PROTECTED] ; [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Saturday, December 09, 2006 9:10 PM Subject: OT:crying for help - serious side effect from antibiotics Hi, my Ghani was given aminoglycoside antibiotics to his ear due to the minor ear infection - since that day one, it changed his life. He stopped eating and can no longer walk due to vestibular disorders - I have been researching more about this - and it's fairly common in human as well - I would like to hear about anything you know about the treatment and prognosis and etc. I am so devastated and I am very desparate - thank you in advance.
Re: Dr. Ward's consult/Michelle
Thank you. With the size of Asia's tumor in her chest pressing on her lungs, she would not have been able to breathe for 15 months and maybe not even for a week longer. I was not willing to give up on her at this time and will always be glad for that decision. Thanks for your blessings! Dianne - Original Message - From: Marylyn To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, November 28, 2006 3:30 AM Subject: Re: Dr. Ward's consult/Michelle The Royal Princess Kitty Katt was diagnosed with cancer and I was told she would live (maybe) a couple of months without treatment--very harsh chemo. She and I opted not to do the chemo after a lot of soul searching and very in depth conversations with the vets and with a number (6) acs I know. She lived about 15 months and those were very high quality until about 2 weeks before she left. You never know ... Good luck and all the blessings to you and your family -- both 2 legged and 4 legged. 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: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Monday, November 27, 2006 9:01 PM Subject: Re: Dr. Ward's consult/Michelle I think that you have the perfect attitude, actually. And I am sorry for all you have been through. We have lost 9 animals in 5 years, plus a human, most after long illnesses, so truly understand what you are saying. At this point I freak out at the slightest sign of illness, fearing something terminal. But we also have a sheep who had acute kidney failure from copper poisoning and they did not think she would make it, and she not only made it but her kidneys have come closer to normal values than they said was even possible, knock on wood. And my dog Fern was given 2-6 months and lived 18 months with her sarcoma. So you really do never know. I am glad you are not upset with me. I was a bit tormented after I sent the email saying it is not curable, thinking maybe I should not have said that. But everything you said is right. I always think treatment that makes them feel good and extends their life is worth it, and something to be grateful for, and just hope for as much time as possible. Michelle In a message dated 11/26/2006 10:38:26 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Michelle, I have dealt with enough cancer in humans and dogs to know there are not guaranteesbut I always try to stay as positive as I can given any circumstances. I do have my down times and also try to be realistic. My goal for Asia is to give her the best life she can have for the longest she can have it, whatever it may be.I am just mostly happy at this stage that I thought it through and did some research before euthanizing and that we can do some treatments to assist her have some quality of life. I have done doggie hospice with 3 dogs since 2003, 2 of them last year and one was a cancerous tumor on his spine at C2 and one was Chronic Renal Failure that we treated for 2 yrs. these two were brothers and I had them since birth. I also had there mother and she had liver disease which I also treated for 2 yrs. along with heart disease. My cat that I had for 15 yrs was a diabetic the last 5 yrs. of her life and I gave her shots am and pm daily. Not that I want to do anymore hospice with any living thing but I have had the experience with dogs and also my father. My husband also had cancer and fought it for 2 yrs. My mother is a 4 time cancer survivor who is now 82 and going strong. I appreciate you wanting me to be informed and appreciate your honesty about the disease. I do lots of research on the diseases of my animals and my human family members and try to stay as informed as possible. I am also still grieving last years numerous deaths in my family so it was very difficult to euthanize Asia and it was also very difficult to face the possible caretaking again, but after a couple days of consideration and being sad, my decision was made to go forward with another opinion and treatment. So that is where I am with this, I will treat her as long as it is helping her, if she no longer has a quality of life then I will give her the loving peace of heaven. Thanks, Dianne
Re: Dr. Ward's consult/Michelle/Marylyn
Thanks Marylyn. Do you mean Animal Communicators? Yes, I do believe in them, although realizing some are better than others as in all things. I did not think you doubted my decision. I said that about always being glad of this decision as I have gone through so much in the past 3 yrs related to illness and death that have taught me much about who I am and what I think is right to do and how that can change so rapidly with terminal illness. If there is a chance for treatment and quality of a longer life, I will choose that if I am able to provide that for person or animal. Quality of life during treatment is so important, my dad lived one month to the day from a diagnosis of stage 4 cancer, 4 different kinds in his body and he refused treatment but his family was with him that last month and I am so grateful I could be with him in his final days. I remember so many little things we shared that month that bring me joy and laughter. Yet it was also painful and still is on some levelsI miss him much of course. Follow my heart is the best advice anyone can giveI recommend it to people often :) BTW, I love the St. Frances quote. Dianne - Original Message - From: Marylyn To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, November 28, 2006 5:19 AM Subject: Re: Dr. Ward's consult/Michelle I do not doubt your decisions. I just point out that no one knows the length of a being's life. The Royal Princess Kitty Katt had masses in her lungs and other organs. The decisions we made were right for us and she was a full partner in making them. I don't know if you believe in ACs or not. I asked 6 to talk to her and each came back with the same thing..no chemo, no vets, no traveling. I was very unsure of what I was getting from her. They confirmed all of it. I have no clue how she managed to hang on so long. Nor do the vets. She was running after Dixie Louise when the vets, after looking at lung x-rays, didn't think she could move very much. You are on the right track for you and for Asia. I am sure of this. Hang in there and follow your heart. 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: Dianne K Perry, Ph.D. To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, November 28, 2006 3:51 AM Subject: Re: Dr. Ward's consult/Michelle Thank you. With the size of Asia's tumor in her chest pressing on her lungs, she would not have been able to breathe for 15 months and maybe not even for a week longer. I was not willing to give up on her at this time and will always be glad for that decision. Thanks for your blessings! Dianne - Original Message - From: Marylyn To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, November 28, 2006 3:30 AM Subject: Re: Dr. Ward's consult/Michelle The Royal Princess Kitty Katt was diagnosed with cancer and I was told she would live (maybe) a couple of months without treatment--very harsh chemo. She and I opted not to do the chemo after a lot of soul searching and very in depth conversations with the vets and with a number (6) acs I know. She lived about 15 months and those were very high quality until about 2 weeks before she left. You never know ... Good luck and all the blessings to you and your family -- both 2 legged and 4 legged. 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: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Monday, November 27, 2006 9:01 PM Subject: Re: Dr. Ward's consult/Michelle I think that you have the perfect attitude, actually. And I am sorry for all you have been through. We have lost 9 animals in 5 years, plus a human, most after long illnesses, so truly understand what you are saying. At this point I freak out at the slightest sign of illness, fearing something terminal. But we also have a sheep who had acute kidney failure from copper poisoning and they did not think she would make it, and she not only made it but her kidneys have come closer to normal values than they said was even possible, knock on wood
Re: Dr. Ward's consult/Michelle/Marylyn
do you have contact names and numbers for some good ones? I am in the Sarasota area in Florida. We have some in area but Dianne - Original Message - From: Marylyn To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, November 28, 2006 5:53 AM Subject: Re: Dr. Ward's consult/Michelle/Marylyn Yes, I mean animal communicators and, with the Royal Princess Kitty Katt, I would not trust 1 or 2 or even 3. The decisions were to important. And some are good in certain areas and not others. Most will tell you this. If not, run... My own father made very realistic decisions about his health and life. It is very painful but, knowing the decisions were well thought out and being there, well.it helps. Sometimes. 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: Dianne K Perry, Ph.D. To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, November 28, 2006 4:34 AM Subject: Re: Dr. Ward's consult/Michelle/Marylyn Thanks Marylyn. Do you mean Animal Communicators? Yes, I do believe in them, although realizing some are better than others as in all things. I did not think you doubted my decision. I said that about always being glad of this decision as I have gone through so much in the past 3 yrs related to illness and death that have taught me much about who I am and what I think is right to do and how that can change so rapidly with terminal illness. If there is a chance for treatment and quality of a longer life, I will choose that if I am able to provide that for person or animal. Quality of life during treatment is so important, my dad lived one month to the day from a diagnosis of stage 4 cancer, 4 different kinds in his body and he refused treatment but his family was with him that last month and I am so grateful I could be with him in his final days. I remember so many little things we shared that month that bring me joy and laughter. Yet it was also painful and still is on some levelsI miss him much of course. Follow my heart is the best advice anyone can giveI recommend it to people often :) BTW, I love the St. Frances quote. Dianne - Original Message - From: Marylyn To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, November 28, 2006 5:19 AM Subject: Re: Dr. Ward's consult/Michelle I do not doubt your decisions. I just point out that no one knows the length of a being's life. The Royal Princess Kitty Katt had masses in her lungs and other organs. The decisions we made were right for us and she was a full partner in making them. I don't know if you believe in ACs or not. I asked 6 to talk to her and each came back with the same thing..no chemo, no vets, no traveling. I was very unsure of what I was getting from her. They confirmed all of it. I have no clue how she managed to hang on so long. Nor do the vets. She was running after Dixie Louise when the vets, after looking at lung x-rays, didn't think she could move very much. You are on the right track for you and for Asia. I am sure of this. Hang in there and follow your heart. 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: Dianne K Perry, Ph.D. To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, November 28, 2006 3:51 AM Subject: Re: Dr. Ward's consult/Michelle Thank you. With the size of Asia's tumor in her chest pressing on her lungs, she would not have been able to breathe for 15 months and maybe not even for a week longer. I was not willing to give up on her at this time and will always be glad for that decision. Thanks for your blessings! Dianne - Original Message - From: Marylyn To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, November 28, 2006 3:30 AM Subject: Re: Dr. Ward's consult/Michelle The Royal Princess Kitty Katt was diagnosed with cancer and I was told she would live (maybe) a couple of months without treatment--very harsh chemo. She and I opted not to do the chemo after a lot of soul
Re: Pepper died
Candace, I am new to the list, so don't know you yet. I do however, know about the loss of our beloved pets. My deepest condolences and may you have peace knowing your baby is pain free and in heaven now. Dianne - Original Message - From: Candace Doler To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Monday, November 27, 2006 10:18 AM Subject: RE: Pepper died Thank-you -- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Gussies mom Sent: Monday, November 27, 2006 8:53 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Pepper died So sorry about you loss. Beth Stamp -- Access over 1 million songs - Yahoo! Music Unlimited.
Re: Dr. Ward's consult/Michelle
Michelle, I have dealt with enough cancer in humans and dogs to know there are not guaranteesbut I always try to stay as positive as I can given any circumstances. I do have my down times and also try to be realistic. My goal for Asia is to give her the best life she can have for the longest she can have it, whatever it may be.I am just mostly happy at this stage that I thought it through and did some research before euthanizing and that we can do some treatments to assist her have some quality of life. I have done doggie hospice with 3 dogs since 2003, 2 of them last year and one was a cancerous tumor on his spine at C2 and one was Chronic Renal Failure that we treated for 2 yrs. these two were brothers and I had them since birth. I also had there mother and she had liver disease which I also treated for 2 yrs. along with heart disease. My cat that I had for 15 yrs was a diabetic the last 5 yrs. of her life and I gave her shots am and pm daily. Not that I want to do anymore hospice with any living thing but I have had the experience with dogs and also my father. My husband also had cancer and fought it for 2 yrs. My mother is a 4 time cancer survivor who is now 82 and going strong. I appreciate you wanting me to be informed and appreciate your honesty about the disease. I do lots of research on the diseases of my animals and my human family members and try to stay as informed as possible. I am also still grieving last years numerous deaths in my family so it was very difficult to euthanize Asia and it was also very difficult to face the possible caretaking again, but after a couple days of consideration and being sad, my decision was made to go forward with another opinion and treatment. So that is where I am with this, I will treat her as long as it is helping her, if she no longer has a quality of life then I will give her the loving peace of heaven. Thanks, Dianne - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Sunday, November 26, 2006 4:36 PM Subject: Re: Dr. Ward's consult It is curable in humans because they use more chemo, I think. I have heard of dogs being cured, and I have heard of cats years out, who could be called cured. It just is not very common with cats, and even less common with positives because their remissions are shorter. In positives, it is their compromised immune system that fosters the lymphoma-- FeLV+ cats are 600 times more likely to get lymphoma than negatives. I think that the remissions must be shorter because the FeLV that made the cat susceptible to lymphoma in the first place is still there and brings it back. I am sorry if I took hope away from you. I struggled with whether or not to say anything, because you seem so happy about her progress. But I think you should be happy about her progress, but just know that her time is probably limited, though hopefully not too limited. I think that it is reasonable to hope for a good 6 months to a year, and to hope for even more while knowing it may not happen. I did not want you to be shocked if she comes out of remission in a few months. Remember, though, that there are other drugs to try if/when she does, which can give her more time. Michelle In a message dated 11/26/2006 11:12:17 A.M. Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: no, I guess I did not know it was not curable. My mom had lymphoma and hers has been in remission since 1999. I have been reading about the various lengths of remission but did not really realize it was not curable. Dianne
Re: Dr. Ward's consult
Thanks Michelle. I thing the COP protocol is old but she has had good success with itso we will go with it for now. I have already joined the lymphoma group, thanks! She is doing great today! Eating, wandering around the house, on the computer desk now, been looking out the patio doors/they are closed, rubbing up against the doggies that are her friends, kissing me, meowing, purring She was NOT doing that stuff Tues and Wed not much of it Thurs eitherstarted today! I am encouraged. I know it is just the beginning and I am hopeful that we will have much more time together. Dianne - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Saturday, November 25, 2006 8:43 AM Subject: Re: Dr. Ward's consult I'm sorry about the mass, but glad you are seeing someone who will treat it. The COP protocol is an old protocol, I think. I think many oncologists use the Wisconsin protocol now. I don't know what Oncovin is. The Wisconsin protocol starts with Elspar, I believe. I highly recommend you join the feline lymphoma group as well, which I think is [EMAIL PROTECTED] I learned a tremendous amount about lymphoma and its treatments from them when my Simon had it. Michelle In a message dated 11/25/2006 1:00:31 A.M. Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Dr. Ward did an ultra sound immediately, saw a big mass near the heart. This is what was done today: Echo: Mediastinal Mass FNA: lymphoblasts Cx: Mediastinal lymphoma Tx: Oncovin o.05 mg IV Depo Mectol (?) 1 cmg Cytoxan 25 mg PO She gave that today and we go back next Friday. She says it is very treatable and I should see a different cat in 48 hrs. She said she likes to start with low doses so cat doesn't get so sick she won't eat again, we will up it as needed. She did ECHO and an x-ray, I was in room and saw the mass on the ECHO and then she showed me the x-ray too...we can use it to compare ... She also gave me an article she wrote : MEDVET, Columbus, Ohio Onocology and Hematology Proceedings of the 20thWaltham/OSU Symposium She prefers the COP Protocol. I will keep you posted about Ms. Asia's progress. Dianne and Asia
Re: Asia - new/additional diagnosis
Went back to the EVO todayalso bought no grain canned food in a variety of flavors for her, we will see what she will eat. Want to ask oncologist about supplements before I buy too many Dianne - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Saturday, November 25, 2006 8:47 AM Subject: Re: Asia - new/additional diagnosis I would DEFINITELY stay with EVO. Lymphoma thrives on carbs, so you should limit those. EVO does not have many carbs, as it is grain-free. Some people buy Essiac tea at the health food store and syringe a little of that every day. It is a holistic anti-cancer treatment. There is one amino acid that is supposed to fight lymphoma as well, but I can't remember the name. Hills or Walthams has a special lymphoma diet for dogs that is rich in that amino acid-- you can check, and then supplement Asia with it, as there is no commercial lymphoma diet for cats to my knowledge. The most important thing, though, will be the chemo and steroids that you are doing. I am so glad that you started him on that. Michelle In a message dated 11/24/2006 9:16:52 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Asia, me and my dear friend, Sue (Aunt Sue to Asia and my dogs) went to the veterinarian oncologist this afternoon for a consult. Ultra sound and x-ray later, Asia has a huge mass near her heart and lungs! She has lymphoma! We began treatment today, go back on next Friday. Dr. Ward said I should see a different cat within 48 hrs. Anything I can get in her to eat is fine, etc. Ok, so now what do all of you recommend for supplementation? I am going to get some nutrical as I know where to get that immediatelyand will order some of the good milk for supplementation for her. Not sure if I should go back to the Innova EVO or stay with Natural Balance, your advice please. Any other supplements recommended for lymphoma ? Thanks for your support! and of course she is FELV positive, 70% of the cats with lymphoma are. Dianne and Asia
Re: Two copies of every email?/late
mine too. Diane - Original Message - From: Kelly L [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Saturday, November 25, 2006 1:31 PM Subject: Re: Two copies of every email? At 06:09 AM 11/25/2006, you wrote: Mine are arriving 8 hour late, If I get them at all, Kelly L this is really scary, elizabeth--you sent this an hour before i sent my tongue-in-cheek response, but i didn't get it til hours AFTER i'd sent mine! On 11/24/06, ETrent [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I am - started last night. I am - started last night. elizabeth elizabeth In a message dated 11/24/06 20:41:05 Central Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Anyone else getting two copies of every email sent to the list tonight? Phaewryn VT low cost SpayNeuter, and Emergency Financial Assistance for cat owners: http://ucat.us/VermontLowCost.html Special Needs Cat Resources: http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html -- Spay Neuter Your Neighbors! Maybe That'll Make The Difference MaryChristine AIM / YAHOO: TenHouseCats MSN: [EMAIL PROTECTED] ICQ: 289856892 -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.409 / Virus Database: 268.14.16/551 - Release Date: 11/25/2006
Re: Dr. Ward's consult
I agree he should be ashamed of himselfI would like to see his face and know his mind when he reads the oncologist's report she is sending him! It will show him all he did not doand should have, he never checked to see what the fluid around the heart was for example... but it is ok now, I won't be going back to him with her...and if I do it will be convenience. He is less than a mile from my house and I can usually get in immediately and get a discount as I do rescue work. So there are some benefits there but I know he is not the best vet around. Actually there are not many in this area I am happy dealing with. Last year was a horrible year for me and my babies. I lost 3 Shih Tzu's and a cat from April to October, it is a horror story and a long one. Each pet had a different illness and 2 were prolonged and 2 were sudden. (all part of why I was so devastated when I got the first diagnosis...just went numb) All for now and good nightand good night...smile Dianne and Asia - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Saturday, November 25, 2006 6:05 PM Subject: Re: Dr. Ward's consult That's great!! I hope it continues for a long time, too. If at some point she stops responding, there are a few chemo drugs to ask about-- CCNU being one, Elspar being another if she is not using it now. But hopefully that will not be the case for a long time. Your old vet should be ashamed of himself. Unfortunately, vets like him are more the norm than the exception-- it is how they respond. I am hopeful about this changing, slowly, because I met an intern who told me that at least some vet schools are now teaching that FeLV is not a death sentence and cats can live a long time with it, and that cats with it should be treated for the problems that arise. Michelle
Re: Felv+/FIV+ policy for rescues
Here I have learned that the policy with rescue cat groups is that they test 1 in the litter of feral cats.my Asia did not get tested but her brother did.he tested negative but her paperwork states she was tested a year agoand was negative. When I called that vet yesterday I was told no we do not have a record of her being tested, we only test one in a litter and it was her brother that got tested, Pierre. I think the all should be tested. Dianne - Original Message - From: catatonya To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Saturday, November 25, 2006 7:06 PM Subject: Re: Felv+/FIV+ policy for rescues I would not test. I just haven't been on list lately. I wish testing had never started. Vaccinate and adopt is what I would do. FIV and Felv should be treated as any other illness a cat might come down with. t Kelley Saveika [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Wow, this is a lot of information to process. Thanks everyone! I know there are a lot of people who advocate NOT testing and was surprised to find no one spoke up on that angle. One of my favorite animal people, Nathan Winograd, does not test for FIV and only tests for FELV because the board insists. I know most of the well known feral cat groups do not test cats who appear healthy, but that's a different can of worms. I will say that all cats that come into rescue are initially tested, because that is what the shelters around here do. I have set up that I will require owner surrenders provide proof of negative combo test. I'm not sure about the statements about eventually having lots of FELV+ cats to deal with. In this area I know people who have been doing rescue for years and not come across a single case or maybe one or 2. What I don't want is for a foster to end up in the position I did, when I had a kitten test light + and no one, from the director on down, could tell me what to do, what was going to happen to the cats, etc. Fortunately she and the rest of that litter later tested negative. On 11/12/06, Kelley Saveika [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi guys, If you were establishing a rescue, what kind of felv/fiv testing policy would you use? If the cats were positive for either or both, what would you do? Thanks for your input. Kelley -- Vist the Rescuties store and save a kitty life! http://astore.amazon.com/rescuties-20 -- Vist the Rescuties store and save a kitty life! http://astore.amazon.com/rescuties-20
Re: new diagnosis
Wendy, Thanks for all the tips. Just a note: I live in Bradenton, use to live in Ft. Myers briefly. Originally from Michigan Dianne - Original Message - From: wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Friday, November 24, 2006 12:54 AM Subject: Re: new diagnosis Hi Dianne, Welcome to the FeLV group, and although I'm sorry Asia has tested positive for FeLV, you have found the best place to be while dealing with this unpredictable disease. I was surprised to read that Asia tested negative for FeLV last December. It's possible it was a false negative; they do happen. Has Asia been exposed to other cats since this test? As others have said, FeLV is not a death sentence. I like the way Phaewryn explained that FeLV isn't what's actually making kitty sick; it's what's stemming from her weakened immune system that needs to be addressed. It could be something simple like a cold; it could be anemia, which sometimes is treatable, but other times not; it could be lymphoma. No matter what it is, it's a VERY good sign that Asia is responding to the treatment she's been given so far and eating a little, drinking, and eliminating. Make sure Asia gets bloodwork done tomorrow, especially the red blood cell count, before you make any decisions. It might be Monday before you can get a full panel back, but they can do the RBC count on the spot, so get that done asap. If Asia is found to be anemic, which causes lethargy, make sure the vet gives her a (3 week I think) course of doxycycline, which is used to treat hemobartanella, a blood parasite. Hemobartanella is extremely hard to see on a test, so often times is missed and not treated, and left untreated, kitty is terminal. A course of the doxy will not hurt your baby but might save her as it has countless others from anemia. A great diet, supplements like Vitamin C and L-lysine (without additives, one of which causes blood issues in cats), and a stress-free environment are key to keeping the FeLV from affecting Asia's immune system. I have my kitties on Innova Evo food, dry and wet. It's a great food in my opinion. A lot of people here use it. No matter what, make sure you are getting food into Asia. Cats are not like other animals or people, who can go without food for two weeks or longer and still be alive. Cats, if they don't eat, get what is called Feline Lipidosis (fatty liver disease) and it is terminal if not treated. The fatter the cat, the quicker it can set in. Make sure you are getting food into her, even if you have to fight her. The A/D is GREAT stuff. I water it down some and make it creamy before syringe feeding. It has lots of calories. Keep fighting the good fight with the A/D. I hope the rest of your week gets better Dianne. I know it can be hard, the not knowing, but Asia will pick up on your panic and/or fear, so try to stay calm until you know what you're dealing with. Please keep us posted as to what happens tomorrow with the vet you choose for the second opinion. I would not waste any more money with the one who wanted to pts. Find one who is more up to date on FeLV. I called around and spoke with different vets to figure out who would work with me before I spent money on an office visit. Michelle's suggestion of an internist is a great idea. :) Wendy Dallas, TX P.S. I saw from your email addy that you're in Florida. My dad went to Fort Myers H.S. and they currently live in Naples. Do you Yahoo!? Everyone is raving about the all-new Yahoo! Mail beta. http://new.mail.yahoo.com
Asia, second opinion
Have an appointment today at 4 pm with an oncologist/internal medicine vet for evaluation of Asia. This is a relief just knowing I can get to Dr. Ward today. Been there before with dogs and she will tell me the blunt truth. Then I can decide what to do next. Have a friend in NY that is a cancer vet and radiologist who has now become involved and will send test results to him too. Dianne and Asia
Dr. Ward's consult
Dr. Ward did an ultra sound immediately, saw a big mass near the heart. This is what was done today: Echo: Mediastinal Mass FNA: lymphoblasts Cx: Mediastinal lymphoma Tx: Oncovin o.05 mg IV Depo Mectol (?) 1 cmg Cytoxan 25 mg PO She gave that today and we go back next Friday. She says it is very treatable and I should see a different cat in 48 hrs. She said she likes to start with low doses so cat doesn't get so sick she won't eat again, we will up it as needed. She did ECHO and an x-ray, I was in room and saw the mass on the ECHO and then she showed me the x-ray too...we can use it to compare ... She also gave me an article she wrote : MEDVET, Columbus, Ohio Onocology and Hematology Proceedings of the 20thWaltham/OSU Symposium She prefers the COP Protocol. I will keep you posted about Ms. Asia's progress. Dianne and Asia
new diagnosis
Hi, I just joined this list today, Thanksgiving Day. Yesterday my kitty was diagnosed with feline leukemia, she is just barely one year old and I have had her less than a year (by a few weeks). She has not been her usual self, not getting into everything, not eating, lethargic, breathing labored. Vet said the test results were strong and came back very quickly (a blue response in a little white tester almost like a home pregnancy test instrument), they administered fluids to her for dehydration and the spot where they inserted the needle bled alot, did not coagulate very well. Vet is recommending euthanasia and soon (tomorrow), she has responded today to probably the shot he gave her, she has gone to the bathroom and this am drank a small amount of catsmilk from Wisker's, licked some cat food off my fingers but not much. I am thinking of trying to get a second opinion tomorrow. I need some guidance here so I joined this list. Thanks for any help anyone can provide. Dianne
Re: new diagnosis
Kitty with new diagnosis is Asia, she is a beautiful blue gray cat, she was adopted from a local rescue group last Dec., she was born the end of Sept or first of Oct.I selected Sept. 29 for her birthdate as that is also my son's birthday. So she is 14 months old and she has been with me a little less than a year. I also rescue Shih Tzu's and think this young puppy that has been in the house 2 1/2 weeks may have brought the stress on her for this initial episode. She loves the other dogs in the house, especially the ones that were here when she came home with me, she played with them and so forth, they show their love to each other by nose touching/sniffing and rubbing up against each other. She is not playing now. However, she just got up in her cat tree in her room for the first time in a few days. She did eat some from my hand and will try that again before I go to my mom's for dinner and again when I come homeI figure if I can get her to eat a little every hour or so that will help her build her strength up. What are some of the other treatments that have been successful, not only the stuff the vet should use but also supplements I can give her to boost her immune system? I have heard of the pet tinic. I got lots of tears yesterday, cried alot, but did not want to do anything then as I know that I have to process the information and do my research. So glad I did. A night's sleep helpedand talking with animal friends and family members. Dianne and Asia - Original Message - From: ETrent To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Thursday, November 23, 2006 10:57 AM Subject: Re: new diagnosis Dianne, First of all -- welcome! You won't find a nicer, smarter group of people anywhere. We're glad you are here! Second - take a deep breath. FeVL+ is not always a death sentence. Euthanasia is standard operating procedures in some vet circles. Same thing happened to me last May when I took Mama Kitty in to the vet. She had lost a lot of weight and was so scary thin. She was extremely lethargic and not eating. Vet said she tested positive for FeVL and was very anemic and recommended putting her to sleep. I got big tears in my eyes and said - well I'm just not ready to say goodbye. He put Mama Kitty on antibiotics and gave her a steroid shot and put her on pet tinic (which she despises, but that's another story) That's when I became a google fiend and found this group. I read everything I could find and I decided to try Acemannan. My vet had never heard of it but said he would be willing to try it. He found out the protocols and procedures and I supplied him with a distributor. He got it within two days. It's a bit expensive..it was $300 for 5 shots - given once a week in the tummy...but to us, it was worth every penny. Within a few days, Mama Kitty began to get her appetite back. She visibly felt better. By the time she had her second and third shots - her coat was looking better and she was beginning to gain weight. By the fifth shot - she was playing with her toys! She has continued to improve and has for all practical purposes reverted to kittenhood. My neighbors have commented on the remarkable difference. I don't want to give you false hope. FeVL is an evil disease. Most of the cats who perish from it do so not because of the feline leukemia itself, but because their immune system is so weakened, they are more prone to infection and other diseases. There ARE treatments available, however, and people on this list have tried a number of things with success. Some cats live many, many years after testing positive. Most important is to start your baby on a good healthy diet and keep her stress-free...give her lots of love and remember that every day is precious. Third, love and prayers to you and your baby. What's kitty's name? How old is he/she? elizabeth In a message dated 11/23/06 08:32:02 Central Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Hi, I just joined this list today, Thanksgiving Day. Yesterday my kitty was diagnosed with feline leukemia, she is just barely one year old and I have had her less than a year (by a few weeks). She has not been her usual self, not getting into everything, not eating, lethargic, breathing labored. Vet said the test results were strong and came back very quickly (a blue response in a little white tester almost like a home pregnancy test instrument), they administered fluids to her for dehydration and the spot where they inserted the needle bled alot, did not coagulate very well. Vet is recommending euthanasia and soon (tomorrow), she has responded today to probably the shot he gave her, she has gone to the bathroom and this am drank a small amount of catsmilk from Wisker's, licked some cat food off my fingers but not much. I am thinking of trying to get a second opinion tomorrow. I need some guidance
Re: new diagnosis
Thanks Jennifer. I will get the other cat milk right away. He gave me prescription A/Dshe won't eat it...and fights the syringe. She did eat some fine pieces of chicken today. Here is a NEW DILEMMA: I just found her paperwork from when I adopted her last Dec. 14she was tested then for feline leukemia and tested negative so now what?? I am taking this paper to the vet tomorrow (even though he will not be there, his partner will be in)and see what they say. I agree about a CBC, he was going to do that but did the Feline Leukemia Combo test first and went no further. Dianne - Original Message - From: Jennifer Phaewryn O'Gwynn To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Thursday, November 23, 2006 4:29 PM Subject: Re: new diagnosis Hi Dianne, sorry you had to find us, but I am glad you did! Yes, you do need to find a more sympathetic vet! First off, JUST doing a FELV test is NOT really good enough to make such a drastic decision on. Your vet needs to pull a CBC (that's a full blood testing panel), or at least check her hemocrit (that's the amount of iron in the blood) and see if she's anemic. Anemia is the #1 cause of FELV+ cats feeling under the weather, and VERY OFTEN, it is totally treatable. If her hemocrit comes back below 10, you should do a blood transfusion. You should also have your vet test for Hemobartonella if she is anemic, as that is a major CURABLE cause of anemia in cats. You may also want to consider a course of Immunoregulin, and start her on oral Interferon, as an immune booster. You can find the info about those treatments on our treatment webpage. On your own, you can go ahead and start her on vitamin C supplements, and feed the VERY BEST food you can afford. Wellness, Innova, Chicken Soup, and California Natural are all very good cat food brands. The Whiskers brand cat milk is OK, but they do make BETTER liquid diets for cats, try Catsure, Formula V, Clinicare, or Rebound brands: https://secure.petag.com/products_details.asp?ItemID=1666CategoryID=2SubCategoryID=13 http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/Prod_Display.cfm?pcatid=14075N=2002+113617 http://www.allivet.com/Rebound-Feline-Liquid-Diet-p/12070.htm http://www.southernagriculture.com/southag/product.asp?dept_id=3028pf_id=PABBFKMPKIBH Your vet can also prescribe easy to digest and easy to mix with liquid canned food, called Prescription A/D. You can blend this with one of the liquid cat food diets, and syringe feed it to her using an oral syringe: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=3393Ntt=feeding%20syringeNtk=AllNtx=mode+matchallpartialNp=1N=2002Nty=1 Here's a few sites on WHY and HOW to syringe feed: http://www.assistfeed.com/FelineAnorexia.htm http://www.felinecrf.org/persuading_cat_to_eat.htm Phaewryn PLEASE SAVE WHITEY: http://ucat.us/Whitey.html Please adopt a cat from Little Cheetah Cat Rescue!!! http://ucat.us/adopt.html Low cost SpayNeuter services in VT, and Emergency Financial Assistance for cat owners: http://ucat.us/VermontLowCost.html Special Needs Cat Resources: http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html
