RE: Need your help with Stretch
Hey Hideyo, Well, so far, since Stretch had the course of Baytril, she has been fine. No problems at all, thank God!, and I have been watching her closely. I actually feel a little silly now because I feel I overreacted to Stretch's symptoms. They were scary though. I guess once a person has been through a kitty dying from one of the FeLV induced illnesses, life is never the same. Hideyo, you are so kind to offer to help financially with Stretch. Thank you. As far as I can tell though, she is fine, and will not need any further treatment, although I will be taking her and her sister Winnie to be tested for FeLV/FIP in the next couple of months. Will keep you posted on them. You're really a sweetheart! :) Wendy __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Wendy, I am exactly the same way. Thank God you did NOT take Stretch for further testing, as I probably would have given my own paranoias-- besides the money, it would have put her through a lot of unnecessary stress while she was already sick. I don't think you are silly at all for having worried, but I amso glad that you waited to see what the Baytril did before doing anything else. Michelle In a message dated 1/26/2006 2:21:52 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: I actually feela little silly now because I feel I overreacted toStretch's symptoms. They were scary though. I guessonce a person has been through a kitty dying from oneof the FeLV induced illnesses, life is never the same.
RE: Need your help with Stretch
I completely understand - I think most of us are that way,, every time when I saw a baby kitten throwing up, I thought oh my gosh,, s/he has a feline distemper, and every time, my young kitty get a real high fever, oh my gosh, s/he has FIP.. a good thing, I am not a vet ---I know you will never forget the end of the path of our loved one, don't we - I so still clearly remember, how Garfunkle, and George died.. and I did not even get to say good bye to Suzi when she passed.. we all know how fragile life can be and we are very fearful.. but I read this somewhere and I am going to repeat because it helps me to remember.. Fear is something that seems real and full of context.. but once you walk through it, you realize that it was just an illusion... I think that our babies are so stronger and sometimes, much stronger than we are or we give a credit for.. and I am so fortunate to be surrounded by such a solider --- I love coming home and see every each one of the face -- they bring me so much peace at the end of the day.. Please keep me posted with Stretch -- and please tell him that I am and we are all proud of him.. Again, if there is anything I can do to help, please don't hesitate to tell me.. Love and hugs, Hideyo -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of wendy Sent: Thursday, January 26, 2006 12:22 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: RE: Need your help with Stretch Hey Hideyo, Well, so far, since Stretch had the course of Baytril, she has been fine. No problems at all, thank God!, and I have been watching her closely. I actually feel a little silly now because I feel I overreacted to Stretch's symptoms. They were scary though. I guess once a person has been through a kitty dying from one of the FeLV induced illnesses, life is never the same. Hideyo, you are so kind to offer to help financially with Stretch. Thank you. As far as I can tell though, she is fine, and will not need any further treatment, although I will be taking her and her sister Winnie to be tested for FeLV/FIP in the next couple of months. Will keep you posted on them. You're really a sweetheart! :) Wendy __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
RE: Need your help with Stretch
Hi, Wendy, I am sorry that you and Stretch are having a difficult time right now, I sincerely hope that you and Strech are going to find a way to get through this.. again, don't focus on the worst situation just yet, as Michelle said, it might not be lymphoma --- Please find out what it is and how much it will cost for the treatment, Wendy, I don't have that much money, but I am also in the process of re-financing my mortgage so that I can get some cash out to take care of attorney's fee for my court case and pay some of the medical expense for my babies.. and I am going to see if I can help you pay some of the expense that you may need for Strech immediately.. I can also get a tax return pretty quickly here and see if I can dig money that way...if there's a hope to make him better, I would like to help.. Love and hugs to you and Stretch... Hideyo From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 9:49 PMTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSubject: Re: Need your help with Stretch I know. When Simon needed to go into the hospital, they would not admit him without me paying half the estimate, and there was not enough room on our credit card for it. Luckily my mom was able and willing to give me her credit card number for it. It was very scary feeling, though, until she did. I wanted to shoot the damn receptionist in the head, me standing there with my sick baby and her saying if I did not have a credit card to put it on they would not even see him. What about someone who had no relative with a working credit card they were willing to lend? If it is lymphoma, I am not sure there is anything that can make him go 6 months without chemo. But the vet who told me about the steroid combo I am always recommending (1/2 cc dexamethasone and 1/2 depomedrol, given periodically when they go downhill) said that she had some cats with lymphoma go 6 months on these shots alone, with good quality of life. If nothing else seems to help, you might want to try this. Did the dex shot help at all? If it did, you might want to try the combo shot. It is not expensive, though you will probably need to go to the vet to get it.The shots can be given sub-q, but most vets will not give clients the shots to take home. But it might not be lymphoma. Michelle In a message dated 1/3/2006 10:58:15 PM Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Hi Michelle,Thank you for the info. I am going to give anotherday or two to see how things go before taking Stretchback to the doc. Frankly, we are tapped out on money. We are not wealthy by any stretch of the imagination,and after spending hundreds of dollars trying to saveCricket, and with Christmas just passed, we are a bitbroke. I had to put the $85 visit to the vetyesterday on a credit card that didn't have $85dollars on it. I will do all I can for Stretch, butif it's cancer, I am not going to draw it out. Wejust can't afford the treatments. I feel sofrustrated right now. I don't want Stretch to gothrough this. I don't want my nephew to go throughlosing his cat; he's been through so much as it is. And my attitude isn't it's normal hopeful self afterlosing Cricket. I feel it's too soon after Cricket; Idon't think I can go through this again. I am prayingfor a miracle right now. If Stretch can just pullthrough this, and give us a little time, we will bebetter able to afford treatments in six months. Ihope that some of you understand being in this place. How do you guys afford expensive treatments when youjust don't have the money?Thanks,Wendy
RE: Need your help with Stretch
Wendy,I had a cat that was just plain hornery. He had to be sedated at the vet's a lot of times because he would growl, bite, etc... (and no, he wasn't feral, he was just mean! lol) Anyway, I could handle him much better at home than they could at the office.When I gave him sub-q he would try to walk around, squirm, etc... wouldn't get mad, just wouldn't be still and I didn't want to set him off. I would sit with a little can of treats and give him treats when I gave him fluids. That made him want to stay with me.Just an idea that might help.t"MacKenzie, Kerry N." [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Wendy, I'm barely keeping up with posts but see you're looking at giving fluids---believe me, if I can do it anyone can! I'm as clumsy and squeamish as they come! A housecall vet showed me last year without me asking otherwise I know I would never have asked/learned. I get the impression that any vet or tech worth their salt should be happy to demonstrate. (They know it's a tremendous waste of $$$ to have a vet/tech do it when you can do it yourself. Better to save the $$$ for everything else.)Like anything new, have someone experienced like eg a vet or tech or shelter volunteer show you how it's done. It really is very simple. It's not like a vein has to be found--the needles just goes under the skin--you just grasp the skin on either the left or right side of the cat, and pull it up into a "tent" shape---the demonstrator will show you where--insertthe needle, then unlock the water flow, and watch the numbers on the bag until the prescribed amount has been administered. I do it with my foster, Pookie, every 2 days, and it takes about 2 mins. It's actually quite a bonding experience, I feel. The experts say a dehydrated cat always feels immediately better. (I give Pookie a Feline Greenie treat immediately after, so that makes him feel good too. It also makes me feel good that I can do this for Pookie as I think maybe not all the shelter's foster parents have yet learned to give subQs.)Someone else on this list said recently they felt mortifiedby the early-day mistakes they made--not sure if this was in reference to subQs or something else. But that sure rang a bell with me. I either was not told at all, or it wasn't stressed, by the housecall vet that a NEW needle had to be used every time (for sharpness--just one use blunts the needle; and sterility reasons---when you withdraw a needle it hastissue on it. Someone else will put me right if I haven't quite explained this properly.) This is second nature to medical people but not necessarily to laypeople!! So I recall now with some anguish my sessions with poor Caramel, who being feral, was already stressed out by my having to catch him and pin him down (with help of friend) to give him fluids. I probably hydrated him 5 times and I don't believe I changed the needle once. This only dawned on me recently when I was being briefed by the shelter re Pookie.I felt and still feel terrible about poor Caramel. It took me a little while to get to a point with Pookie where I was only using one needle per session--sometimes I'd prick my own finger before even getting to him, which meant a change of needle was required. Or, he would move suddenly and the needle would slip out, again requiring a new needle. Something else I'll mention---the first time I had to change a bag, I was totally baffled afterdoing it because I couldn't see the fluid line in the bag, so there was no way to tell how much was being administered. The simple solution was to detach and reattach the "tubing" from the fluidbag--doing that introduced air, and that allowed the fluid line to become visible. But I'm no scientistsomeone had to tell me that. And by the time I found out what to do, I'd wasted half the bag in an effort to "find the fluid line"!Also, if everthe fluid seems not to be flowing I give the little oblong fluid reservoir a squeeze and that seems to solve that prob.What else? Well, it's a bit of a fiddle at the beginning endowed as we are with only 2 hands, but 3 areas to control---cat, needle and bag. But practice makes, if not entirely perfect, less imperfect!Good luck! It's def easier than learning to ride a bike! And a great skill for a cat mom/dad to have! Kerry PS One more thing---I hear from my shelter counsellor contact that fluids are much cheaper online. Needles too. I think I was ripped off by the housecall vet. I paid $41 for delivery of one bag.-Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of catatonyaSent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 9:21 AMTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSubject: Re: Need your help with Stretch Hey Wendy,Your vet will show you how to do it and tell you how much to give and how often. One bag holds 1000 mL and typically you give 100-200 mL throughout the day so a a bag will last a while.It IS hard when you first start, bu
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Hey Wendy,Your vet will show you how to do it and tell you how much to give and how often. One bag holds 1000 mL and typically you give 100-200 mL throughout the day so a a bag will last a while.It IS hard when you first start, but you build up your confidence as you go. Be prepared to stick yourself a few times too!twendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thanks Tonya. I think I will go that route if I don'tsee an improvement in eating/drinking very soon. It'sa little scary though. I've never stuck a needle intoanother living being, unless you count gettingsplinters out, so I am a bit nervous about tryingthis. Do you give the cat the whole bag? And whereand how do you stick the needle?Thanks,Wendy--- catatonya <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>wrote: Wendy, The fluid is already in the bags you buy. You don't fill them yourselves. I don't know what all is in them. I suppose electrolytes, fluids, maybe potassium? If you've got a decent vet a bag of fluid and the set up for sub q should be less than $10. t t wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>wrote: Hey Michelle, I can't imagine how you felt with them telling you to pay up front while you're holding your sick cat! That just sounds bad! I just started working a second job, so as soon as we get any money at all, then I will probably take Stretch in for the tests and if affordable, to get X-rays, and the fluid drained. Do X-rays show cancer tumors and/or fluid? Also, how often do you give the dex/depo shot (if it is lymphoma)? I could not really tell if the dex shot helped much. Stretch isn't breathing as heavily as she was, but her breathing is still somewhat labored. Also, where do you get the bags and needles to do sub-Q fluids? Is there anything else I need to do sub-Q? Do you just use water? Thanks, Wendy__ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
RE: Need your help with Stretch
Title: Message Wendy, I'm barely keeping up with posts but see you're looking at giving fluids---believe me, if I can do it anyone can! I'm as clumsy and squeamish as they come! A housecall vet showed me last year without me asking otherwise I know I would never have asked/learned. I get the impression that any vet or tech worth their salt should be happy to demonstrate. (They know it's a tremendous waste of $$$ to have a vet/tech do it when you can do it yourself. Better to save the $$$ for everything else.) Like anything new, have someone experienced like eg a vet or tech or shelter volunteer show you how it's done. It really is very simple. It's not like a vein has to be found--the needles just goes under the skin--you just grasp the skin on either the left or right side of the cat, and pull it up into a "tent" shape---the demonstrator will show you where--insertthe needle, then unlock the water flow, and watch the numbers on the bag until the prescribed amount has been administered. I do it with my foster, Pookie, every 2 days, and it takes about 2 mins. It's actually quite a bonding experience, I feel. The experts say a dehydrated cat always feels immediately better. (I give Pookie a Feline Greenie treat immediately after, so that makes him feel good too. It also makes me feel good that I can do this for Pookie as I think maybe not all the shelter's foster parents have yet learned to give subQs.) Someone else on this list said recently they felt mortifiedby the early-day mistakes they made--not sure if this was in reference to subQs or something else. But that sure rang a bell with me. I either was not told at all, or it wasn't stressed, by the housecall vet that a NEW needle had to be used every time (for sharpness--just one use blunts the needle; and sterility reasons---when you withdraw a needle it hastissue on it. Someone else will put me right if I haven't quite explained this properly.) This is second nature to medical people but not necessarily to laypeople!! So I recall now with some anguish my sessions with poor Caramel, who being feral, was already stressed out by my having to catch him and pin him down (with help of friend) to give him fluids. I probably hydrated him 5 times and I don't believe I changed the needle once. This only dawned on me recently when I was being briefed by the shelter re Pookie.I felt and still feel terrible about poor Caramel. It took me a little while to get to a point with Pookie where I was only using one needle per session--sometimes I'd prick my own finger before even getting to him, which meant a change of needle was required. Or, he would move suddenly and the needle would slip out, again requiring a new needle. Something else I'll mention---the first time I had to change a bag, I was totally baffled afterdoing it because I couldn't see the fluid line in the bag, so there was no way to tell how much was being administered. The simple solution was to detach and reattach the "tubing" from the fluidbag--doing that introduced air, and that allowed the fluid line to become visible. But I'm no scientistsomeone had to tell me that. And by the time I found out what to do, I'd wasted half the bag in an effort to "find the fluid line"! Also, if everthe fluid seems not to be flowing I give the little oblong fluid reservoir a squeeze and that seems to solve that prob. What else? Well, it's a bit of a fiddle at the beginning endowed as we are with only 2 hands, but 3 areas to control---cat, needle and bag. But practice makes, if not entirely perfect, less imperfect! Good luck! It's def easier than learning to ride a bike! And a great skill for a cat mom/dad to have! Kerry PS One more thing---I hear from my shelter counsellor contact that fluids are much cheaper online. Needles too. I think I was ripped off by the housecall vet. I paid $41 for delivery of one bag. -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of catatonyaSent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 9:21 AMTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSubject: Re: Need your help with Stretch Hey Wendy, Your vet will show you how to do it and tell you how much to give and how often. One bag holds 1000 mL and typically you give 100-200 mL throughout the day so a a bag will last a while. It IS hard when you first start, but you build up your confidence as you go. Be prepared to stick yourself a few times too! twendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thanks Tonya. I think I will go that route if I don'tsee an improvement in eating/drinking very soon. It'sa little scary though. I've never stuck a needle intoanother living being, unless you count gettingsplinters out, so I am a bit nervous about tryingthis. Do you give the cat the whole bag? And whereand how do you stick the needle?Thanks,Wendy--- catatonya <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>wrote: Wendy, The fluid is already in t
Re: Need your help with Stretch
In a message dated 1/5/06 11:09:04 A.M. Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Needles too. I think I was ripped off by the housecall vet. I paid $41 for delivery of one bag. Definitely~ The clinic could buy SEVERAL cases of fluids with all that $$$!!
RE: Need your help with Stretch
Title: Message I already planned never to use her again, and unless I get desperate, that's confirmed it. Thanks Pattie! -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 10:16 AMTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSubject: Re: Need your help with Stretch In a message dated 1/5/06 11:09:04 A.M. Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Needles too. I think I was ripped off by the housecall vet. I paid $41 for delivery of one bag. Definitely~ The clinic could buy SEVERAL cases of fluids with all that $$$!! =00IRS CIRCULAR 230 NOTICE. Any advice expressed above as to tax matters was neither written nor intended by the sender or Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw LLP to be used and cannot be used by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties that may be imposed under U.S. tax law. If any person uses or refers to any such tax advice in promoting, marketing or recommending a partnership or other entity, investment plan or arrangement to any taxpayer, then (i) the advice was written to support the promotion or marketing (by a person other than Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw LLP) of that transaction or matter, and (ii) such taxpayer should seek advice based on the taxpayers particular circumstances from an independent tax advisorThis email and any files transmitted with it are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager. If you are not the named addressee you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this e-mail.
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Another nice trick to be able to hang the fluid bag up high is to take a regular old wire clothes hanger and take the bottom part in the middle and stretch it completely out until the hanger looks like a long tube shape with the hang part at the top. The fold the tube part in half. You can hang the bag on the folded part and adjust the top hanging part by turning it where you need it to be albe to see the numbers on the bag. I then hang it on the ramp walk way across the kitchen counters we put up for the kitties and it is high enough that the fluids come out fairly quickly and it only takes a minute or maybe a little less to give Bailey his 100cc's. I can put up a picture if it would help to understand what I'm talking about. -- Belinda Happiness is being owned by cats ... Be-Mi-Kitties ... http://www.bemikitties.com Post Adoptable FeLV/FIV/FIP Cats/Kittens http://adopt.bemikitties.com FeLV Candle Light Service http://www.bemikitties.com/cls HostDesign4U.com (affordable hosting web design) http://HostDesign4U.com --- BMK Designs (non-profit web sites) http://bmk.bemikitties.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Way too much for fluids, but she probably charged you her regular housecall fee plus the price of the fluids. I pay $10.00 a bag with about 10 needles (still high), you can buy them online for about $3 something a bag and I think the line is an extra dollar or two. -- Belinda Happiness is being owned by cats ... Be-Mi-Kitties ... http://www.bemikitties.com Post Adoptable FeLV/FIV/FIP Cats/Kittens http://adopt.bemikitties.com FeLV Candle Light Service http://www.bemikitties.com/cls HostDesign4U.com (affordable hosting web design) http://HostDesign4U.com --- BMK Designs (non-profit web sites) http://bmk.bemikitties.com
RE: Need your help with Stretch
Yes, I heard it was about $3 online!! (The vet had her tech deliver to my workplace--not such a great distance. So still a rip-off!) -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Belinda Sauro Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 10:33 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Need your help with Stretch Way too much for fluids, but she probably charged you her regular housecall fee plus the price of the fluids. I pay $10.00 a bag with about 10 needles (still high), you can buy them online for about $3 something a bag and I think the line is an extra dollar or two. -- Belinda Happiness is being owned by cats ... Be-Mi-Kitties ... http://www.bemikitties.com Post Adoptable FeLV/FIV/FIP Cats/Kittens http://adopt.bemikitties.com FeLV Candle Light Service http://www.bemikitties.com/cls HostDesign4U.com (affordable hosting web design) http://HostDesign4U.com --- BMK Designs (non-profit web sites) http://bmk.bemikitties.com hr IRS CIRCULAR 230 NOTICE. Any advice expressed above as to tax matters was neither written nor intended by the sender or Mayer, Brown, Rowe Maw LLP to be used and cannot be used by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties that may be imposed under U.S. tax law. If any person uses or refers to any such tax advice in promoting, marketing or recommending a partnership or other entity, investment plan or arrangement to any taxpayer, then (i) the advice was written to support the promotion or marketing (by a person other than Mayer, Brown, Rowe Maw LLP) of that transaction or matter, and (ii) such taxpayer should seek advice based on the taxpayers particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor hr This email and any files transmitted with it are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager. If you are not the named addressee you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this e-mail.
RE: Need your help with Stretch
I hang it on the clothes hook on the back of the bedroom door. But your idea might be better as mine is a double hook and depending on which hook I hang it on (the bag slot isn't wide enough to fit over the double hook) the fluid level reading is different. Hanging it over the single hook probably makes the bag a bit uneven. -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Belinda Sauro Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 10:31 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Need your help with Stretch Another nice trick to be able to hang the fluid bag up high is to take a regular old wire clothes hanger and take the bottom part in the middle and stretch it completely out until the hanger looks like a long tube shape with the hang part at the top. The fold the tube part in half. You can hang the bag on the folded part and adjust the top hanging part by turning it where you need it to be albe to see the numbers on the bag. I then hang it on the ramp walk way across the kitchen counters we put up for the kitties and it is high enough that the fluids come out fairly quickly and it only takes a minute or maybe a little less to give Bailey his 100cc's. I can put up a picture if it would help to understand what I'm talking about. -- Belinda Happiness is being owned by cats ... Be-Mi-Kitties ... http://www.bemikitties.com Post Adoptable FeLV/FIV/FIP Cats/Kittens http://adopt.bemikitties.com FeLV Candle Light Service http://www.bemikitties.com/cls HostDesign4U.com (affordable hosting web design) http://HostDesign4U.com --- BMK Designs (non-profit web sites) http://bmk.bemikitties.com hr IRS CIRCULAR 230 NOTICE. Any advice expressed above as to tax matters was neither written nor intended by the sender or Mayer, Brown, Rowe Maw LLP to be used and cannot be used by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties that may be imposed under U.S. tax law. If any person uses or refers to any such tax advice in promoting, marketing or recommending a partnership or other entity, investment plan or arrangement to any taxpayer, then (i) the advice was written to support the promotion or marketing (by a person other than Mayer, Brown, Rowe Maw LLP) of that transaction or matter, and (ii) such taxpayer should seek advice based on the taxpayers particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor hr This email and any files transmitted with it are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager. If you are not the named addressee you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this e-mail.
RE: Need your help with Stretch
I am attaching the websites which may help you with different tips of giving fluid they are very helpful site. http://www.felinecrf.org/quick_summary.htm http://www.weirdstuffwemake.com/weird/stuff/pets/cats/sophia/catjuice.html From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of catatonya Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 8:21 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Need your help with Stretch Hey Wendy, Your vet will show you how to do it and tell you how much to give and how often. One bag holds 1000 mL and typically you give 100-200 mL throughout the day so a a bag will last a while. It IS hard when you first start, but you build up your confidence as you go. Be prepared to stick yourself a few times too! t wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thanks Tonya. I think I will go that route if I don't see an improvement in eating/drinking very soon. It's a little scary though. I've never stuck a needle into another living being, unless you count getting splinters out, so I am a bit nervous about trying this. Do you give the cat the whole bag? And where and how do you stick the needle? Thanks, Wendy --- catatonya <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>wrote: Wendy, The fluid is already in the bags you buy. You don't fill them yourselves. I don't know what all is in them. I suppose electrolytes, fluids, maybe potassium? If you've got a decent vet a bag of fluid and the set up for sub q should be less than $10. t t wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>wrote: Hey Michelle, I can't imagine how you felt with them telling you to pay up front while you're holding your sick cat! That just sounds bad! I just started working a second job, so as soon as we get any money at all, then I will probably take Stretch in for the tests and if affordable, to get X-rays, and the fluid drained. Do X-rays show cancer tumors and/or fluid? Also, how often do you give the dex/depo shot (if it is lymphoma)? I could not really tell if the dex shot helped much. Stretch isn't breathing as heavily as she was, but her breathing is still somewhat labored. Also, where do you get the bags and needles to do sub-Q fluids? Is there anything else I need to do sub-Q? Do you just use water? Thanks, Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
RE: Need your help with Stretch
Also, this is a site where you can buy all the fluid supplies at much much cheaper prices than you will get from your vet. http://www.bricomedicalsupplies.com/ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Hideyo Yamamoto Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 12:51 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: RE: Need your help with Stretch I am attaching the websites which may help you with different tips of giving fluid they are very helpful site. http://www.felinecrf.org/quick_summary.htm http://www.weirdstuffwemake.com/weird/stuff/pets/cats/sophia/catjuice.html From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of catatonya Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 8:21 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Need your help with Stretch Hey Wendy, Your vet will show you how to do it and tell you how much to give and how often. One bag holds 1000 mL and typically you give 100-200 mL throughout the day so a a bag will last a while. It IS hard when you first start, but you build up your confidence as you go. Be prepared to stick yourself a few times too! t wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thanks Tonya. I think I will go that route if I don't see an improvement in eating/drinking very soon. It's a little scary though. I've never stuck a needle into another living being, unless you count getting splinters out, so I am a bit nervous about trying this. Do you give the cat the whole bag? And where and how do you stick the needle? Thanks, Wendy --- catatonya <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>wrote: Wendy, The fluid is already in the bags you buy. You don't fill them yourselves. I don't know what all is in them. I suppose electrolytes, fluids, maybe potassium? If you've got a decent vet a bag of fluid and the set up for sub q should be less than $10. t t wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>wrote: Hey Michelle, I can't imagine how you felt with them telling you to pay up front while you're holding your sick cat! That just sounds bad! I just started working a second job, so as soon as we get any money at all, then I will probably take Stretch in for the tests and if affordable, to get X-rays, and the fluid drained. Do X-rays show cancer tumors and/or fluid? Also, how often do you give the dex/depo shot (if it is lymphoma)? I could not really tell if the dex shot helped much. Stretch isn't breathing as heavily as she was, but her breathing is still somewhat labored. Also, where do you get the bags and needles to do sub-Q fluids? Is there anything else I need to do sub-Q? Do you just use water? Thanks, Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
RE: Need your help with Stretch
Great info. Hideyo; thanks for the sites! I especially like the pictures. --- Hideyo Yamamoto [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I am attaching the websites which may help you with different tips of giving fluid - they are very helpful site. http://www.felinecrf.org/quick_summary.htm http://www.weirdstuffwemake.com/weird/stuff/pets/cats/sophia/catjuice.ht ml _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of catatonya Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 8:21 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Need your help with Stretch Hey Wendy, Your vet will show you how to do it and tell you how much to give and how often. One bag holds 1000 mL and typically you give 100-200 mL throughout the day so a a bag will last a while. It IS hard when you first start, but you build up your confidence as you go. Be prepared to stick yourself a few times too! t wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thanks Tonya. I think I will go that route if I don't see an improvement in eating/drinking very soon. It's a little scary though. I've never stuck a needle into another living being, unless you count getting splinters out, so I am a bit nervous about trying this. Do you give the cat the whole bag? And where and how do you stick the needle? Thanks, Wendy --- catatonya wrote: Wendy, The fluid is already in the bags you buy. You don't fill them yourselves. I don't know what all is in them. I suppose electrolytes, fluids, maybe potassium? If you've got a decent vet a bag of fluid and the set up for sub q should be less than $10. t t wendy wrote: Hey Michelle, I can't imagine how you felt with them telling you to pay up front while you're holding your sick cat! That just sounds bad! I just started working a second job, so as soon as we get any money at all, then I will probably take Stretch in for the tests and if affordable, to get X-rays, and the fluid drained. Do X-rays show cancer tumors and/or fluid? Also, how often do you give the dex/depo shot (if it is lymphoma)? I could not really tell if the dex shot helped much. Stretch isn't breathing as heavily as she was, but her breathing is still somewhat labored. Also, where do you get the bags and needles to do sub-Q fluids? Is there anything else I need to do sub-Q? Do you just use water? Thanks, Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL - Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com __ Yahoo! DSL - Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
RE: Need your help with Stretch
You are welcome - I was introduced them by CRF support group on line - they have so many people on the list who knows EVERYTHING about giving fluid and it's amazing and I learned so much from them, too! Good luck! And let me know if there is anything I can do to help! -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of wendy Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 2:01 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: RE: Need your help with Stretch Great info. Hideyo; thanks for the sites! I especially like the pictures. --- Hideyo Yamamoto [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I am attaching the websites which may help you with different tips of giving fluid - they are very helpful site. http://www.felinecrf.org/quick_summary.htm http://www.weirdstuffwemake.com/weird/stuff/pets/cats/sophia/catjuice.ht ml _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of catatonya Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 8:21 AM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Need your help with Stretch Hey Wendy, Your vet will show you how to do it and tell you how much to give and how often. One bag holds 1000 mL and typically you give 100-200 mL throughout the day so a a bag will last a while. It IS hard when you first start, but you build up your confidence as you go. Be prepared to stick yourself a few times too! t wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thanks Tonya. I think I will go that route if I don't see an improvement in eating/drinking very soon. It's a little scary though. I've never stuck a needle into another living being, unless you count getting splinters out, so I am a bit nervous about trying this. Do you give the cat the whole bag? And where and how do you stick the needle? Thanks, Wendy --- catatonya wrote: Wendy, The fluid is already in the bags you buy. You don't fill them yourselves. I don't know what all is in them. I suppose electrolytes, fluids, maybe potassium? If you've got a decent vet a bag of fluid and the set up for sub q should be less than $10. t t wendy wrote: Hey Michelle, I can't imagine how you felt with them telling you to pay up front while you're holding your sick cat! That just sounds bad! I just started working a second job, so as soon as we get any money at all, then I will probably take Stretch in for the tests and if affordable, to get X-rays, and the fluid drained. Do X-rays show cancer tumors and/or fluid? Also, how often do you give the dex/depo shot (if it is lymphoma)? I could not really tell if the dex shot helped much. Stretch isn't breathing as heavily as she was, but her breathing is still somewhat labored. Also, where do you get the bags and needles to do sub-Q fluids? Is there anything else I need to do sub-Q? Do you just use water? Thanks, Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL - Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com __ Yahoo! DSL - Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com __ Yahoo! DSL - Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Hey Nina, I think it's a combination of both the vet being mainly a routine care vet and that he knows how much we spent on Cricket, because when I took Stretch in, I didn't even say anything about money, and he told me that what he was doing that day would be the most help he could give Stretch while being the most cost effective for me. You are right though, he isn't as good as some vets that I have visited in my life. He is very close to home though, open to suggestions for alternative treatments, ie. the Immuno Regulin, which he'd never used before, and a good guy, which is why I still visit him. This morning, Stretch was outside with her sister instead of being in the garage lying down, so she must be feeling better. I am force feeding her A/D, so maybe that is helping. I am scared for her though. From what I have read about FIP, if it is FIP symptoms kicking in, then no matter what we do, she doesn't have a lot of time. Thank you for the encouragement; I could really use it right now. :) Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Hey Michelle, I can't imagine how you felt with them telling you to pay up front while you're holding your sick cat! That just sounds bad! I just started working a second job, so as soon as we get any money at all, then I will probably take Stretch in for the tests and if affordable, to get X-rays, and the fluid drained. Do X-rays show cancer tumors and/or fluid? Also, how often do you give the dex/depo shot (if it is lymphoma)? I could not really tell if the dex shot helped much. Stretch isn't breathing as heavily as she was, but her breathing is still somewhat labored. Also, where do you get the bags and needles to do sub-Q fluids? Is there anything else I need to do sub-Q? Do you just use water? Thanks, Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Thank you Patti. Your prayers and hugs are greatly appreciated. :) Wendy et. all --- [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Wendy~ My thoughts and prayers are with you and Stretch. I am so sorry that you and your nephew are faced with this. And, I understand about the financial situation... Years ago, I never had to worry. I cashed out my entire 401K plan when my first Rottie was diagnosed with AIHA. I've been fortunate to have worked at vets and have connections with the shelter... But, now I am retired and living on SSDI, and I understand all too well. I too am praying for a miracle for dear Stretch... Hugs, Patti __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Thank you Tonya for the kind words and for identifying with me. It makes me feel like less of a Scrooge, which I do kind of feel like. Although I do know you can't pull money out of a hat, right? Thanks again, Wendy --- catatonya [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Wendy, I am so sorry to hear about Stretch. Most of the time I have heard people discuss these kinds of symptoms it has not been good news. You do what you can, and that's all you can do. It is hard to accept, but most of us have been where you are. Sometimes you spend thousands and are able to buy some more time, sometimes you spend thousands and can't. And the problem is you can never 'know' for sure if treatments are going to help or not. Especially if you're talking about lymphoma. I have been in situations that I truly felt I was putting my cat through too much to try to save him when it was beyond hope, and had them turn around. One of my cats my vet insisted was at death's door lived for many years after his illness. Others who had a good prognosis I have lost. You just never know. You just have to do the best you can, and it's very hard not knowing what to do and it's hard to feel like money is governing your decisions. But money is a part of it. There's no way around that. I am so sorry you are going through all of this. I will keep you, your nephew and Stretch in my thoughts and prayers. tonya wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi Michelle, Thank you for the info. I am going to give another day or two to see how things go before taking Stretch back to the doc. Frankly, we are tapped out on money. We are not wealthy by any stretch of the imagination, and after spending hundreds of dollars trying to save Cricket, and with Christmas just passed, we are a bit broke. I had to put the $85 visit to the vet yesterday on a credit card that didn't have $85 dollars on it. I will do all I can for Stretch, but if it's cancer, I am not going to draw it out. We just can't afford the treatments. I feel so frustrated right now. I don't want Stretch to go through this. I don't want my nephew to go through losing his cat; he's been through so much as it is. And my attitude isn't it's normal hopeful self after losing Cricket. I feel it's too soon after Cricket; I don't think I can go through this again. I am praying for a miracle right now. If Stretch can just pull through this, and give us a little time, we will be better able to afford treatments in six months. I hope that some of you understand being in this place. How do you guys afford expensive treatments when you just don't have the money? Thanks, Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Hi Wendy! I'm trying to catch up on posts (I read everything I can...just haven't had much time to post!)...I just wanted to drop you a quick note and let you know that I hear ya about the financial situation!! I've already broken down and used those damn checks that credit card companies send you (they've obviously become savvy to the fact that I've cut up a few cards after paying them off! :) ) to help pay for Ewok's chemo treatments...but I agree very much with Michelle...steroids are an inexpensive way to help shrink the tumor (one dex shot that lasted about a week for Ewok was $17). Stretch, you and your nephew will certainly be in my thoughts! I know how it feels to lose two babies so close together (as many on this list do)...We had to say goodbye to two of Ewok's brothers within a week of each other (one to mediastinal lymphoma and one to anemia) a few years ago. I'm sure Stretch knows that you are doing everything you can (it's all any of us truly know what to do when it comes to this damn virus). Perhaps sit quietly with Stretch for awhile and ask him what he wishes to do...I know how frustrated you probably feel...it absolutely sucks that we have to make these kinds of decisions based on money (our Sleepypants--Ewok's brother--hasn't been feeling well these past few days...he's been throwing up his food with *alot* of hair...fortunately, he's been able to keep his food down for the past 24 hours...so I'm hoping he's just passing a hair clog...but with abdominal cancer in the back of my mind, I had to think ahead and wonder what I would do if we found out that he did have cancer...and the thought was grim...we just can't possibly afford to treat two cats with cancer...I guess I just have to keep the faith that everything will work out as it should and that I can avoid therapy, if at all possible... :) ). Anyhoo, this has turned into my own rant! :) My long way of letting you know I'm there with ya! Take care and keep us posted! Jen But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world; You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed... --Antoine de Saint-Exupéry If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know each other. If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and what you do not know you will fear. What one fears one destroys. --Chief Dan George - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Tuesday, January 3, 2006 10:49 pm Subject: Re: Need your help with Stretch I know. When Simon needed to go into the hospital, they would not admit him without me paying half the estimate, and there was not enough room on our credit card for it. Luckily my mom was able and willing to give me her credit card number for it. It was very scary feeling, though, until she did. I wanted to shoot the damn receptionist in the head, me standing there with my sick baby and her saying if I did not have a credit card to put it on they would not even see him. What about someone who had no relative with a working credit card they were willing to lend? If it is lymphoma, I am not sure there is anything that can make him go 6 months without chemo. But the vet who told me about the steroid combo I am always recommending (1/2 cc dexamethasone and 1/2 depomedrol, given periodically when they go downhill) said that she had some cats with lymphoma go 6 months on these shots alone, with good quality of life. If nothing else seems to help, you might want to try this. Did the dex shot help at all? If it did, you might want to try the combo shot. It is not expensive, though you will probably need to go to the vet to get it. The shots can be given sub-q, but most vets will not give clients the shots to take home. But it might not be lymphoma. Michelle In a message dated 1/3/2006 10:58:15 PM Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Hi Michelle, Thank you for the info. I am going to give another day or two to see how things go before taking Stretch back to the doc. Frankly, we are tapped out on money. We are not wealthy by any stretch of the imagination, and after spending hundreds of dollars trying to save Cricket, and with Christmas just passed, we are a bit broke. I had to put the $85 visit to the vet yesterday on a credit card that didn't have $85 dollars on it. I will do all I can for Stretch, but if it's cancer, I am not going to draw it out. We just can't afford the treatments. I feel so frustrated right now. I don't want Stretch to go through this. I don't want my nephew to go through losing his cat; he's been through so much as it is. And my attitude isn't it's normal hopeful self after losing Cricket. I feel it's too soon after Cricket; I don't think I can go through this again. I am praying
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Prayers for Stretch to pull out of this also, it's good that you are able to get food into her. This is the most difficult thing with bailey, he hates syringing, and I really suck at it. We keep plugging along thoug. -- Belinda Happiness is being owned by cats ... Be-Mi-Kitties ... http://www.bemikitties.com Post Adoptable FeLV/FIV/FIP Cats/Kittens http://adopt.bemikitties.com FeLV Candle Light Service http://www.bemikitties.com/cls HostDesign4U.com (affordable hosting web design) http://HostDesign4U.com --- BMK Designs (non-profit web sites) http://bmk.bemikitties.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Wendy,The fluid is already in the bags you buy. You don't fill them yourselves. I don't know what all is in them. I suppose electrolytes, fluids, maybe potassium? If you've got a decent vet a bag of fluid and the set up for sub q should be less than $10.ttwendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hey Michelle,I can't imagine how you felt with them telling you topay up front while you're holding your sick cat! Thatjust sounds bad! I just started working a second job,so as soon as we get any money at all, then I willprobably take Stretch in for the tests and ifaffordable, to get X-rays, and the fluid drained. DoX-rays show cancer tumors and/or fluid? Also, howoften do you give the dex/depo shot (if it islymphoma)? I could not really tell if the dex shothelped much. Stretch isn't breathing as heavily asshe was, but her breathing is still somewhat labored. Also, where do you get the bags and needles to dosub-Q fluids? Is there anything else I need to dosub-Q? Do you just use water?Thanks,Wendy__ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Thanks Tonya. I think I will go that route if I don't see an improvement in eating/drinking very soon. It's a little scary though. I've never stuck a needle into another living being, unless you count getting splinters out, so I am a bit nervous about trying this. Do you give the cat the whole bag? And where and how do you stick the needle? Thanks, Wendy --- catatonya [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Wendy, The fluid is already in the bags you buy. You don't fill them yourselves. I don't know what all is in them. I suppose electrolytes, fluids, maybe potassium? If you've got a decent vet a bag of fluid and the set up for sub q should be less than $10. t t wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hey Michelle, I can't imagine how you felt with them telling you to pay up front while you're holding your sick cat! That just sounds bad! I just started working a second job, so as soon as we get any money at all, then I will probably take Stretch in for the tests and if affordable, to get X-rays, and the fluid drained. Do X-rays show cancer tumors and/or fluid? Also, how often do you give the dex/depo shot (if it is lymphoma)? I could not really tell if the dex shot helped much. Stretch isn't breathing as heavily as she was, but her breathing is still somewhat labored. Also, where do you get the bags and needles to do sub-Q fluids? Is there anything else I need to do sub-Q? Do you just use water? Thanks, Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch-fluids
It's really easy, and no you definitely don't use the whole bag. There are some web sites that show pictures of how to do it, I'll have to look them up. Most people use a tube set with a needle on the end from the bag to the kitty, and watch how the fluids go down. In particular, a sick kitty doesn't mind. I use a 60cc syringe, that I load up and then stick. i also have a flexible tube that goes from the syringe to the needle and kitty. But think that flexible tube is hard to find. Vets charge different amounts for fluids too. My regular vet charges $20. We've found other vets here who charge $5 (yeaa!). I use Lactacted Ringers. Gotta watch and make sure you have the right fluids that your vet wants you to use, also. I'm sure you'll get good advice from others on the list too. Best of luck, Gloria On Jan 4, 2006, at 11:54 AM, wendy wrote: Thanks Tonya. I think I will go that route if I don't see an improvement in eating/drinking very soon. It's a little scary though. I've never stuck a needle into another living being, unless you count getting splinters out, so I am a bit nervous about trying this. Do you give the cat the whole bag? And where and how do you stick the needle? Thanks, Wendy --- catatonya [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Wendy, The fluid is already in the bags you buy. You don't fill them yourselves. I don't know what all is in them. I suppose electrolytes, fluids, maybe potassium? If you've got a decent vet a bag of fluid and the set up for sub q should be less than $10. t t wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hey Michelle, I can't imagine how you felt with them telling you to pay up front while you're holding your sick cat! That just sounds bad! I just started working a second job, so as soon as we get any money at all, then I will probably take Stretch in for the tests and if affordable, to get X-rays, and the fluid drained. Do X-rays show cancer tumors and/or fluid? Also, how often do you give the dex/depo shot (if it is lymphoma)? I could not really tell if the dex shot helped much. Stretch isn't breathing as heavily as she was, but her breathing is still somewhat labored. Also, where do you get the bags and needles to do sub-Q fluids? Is there anything else I need to do sub-Q? Do you just use water? Thanks, Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL – Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com __ Yahoo! DSL – Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Wendy~ Have a vet tech demonstrate.. It sounds rather frightening, but in fact it isn't bad. You pull up a "flap" of skin put the needle in the "tent". The amount of fluids administered depends on weight of cat, and how often it is done, Ix Day or 2X day. Fluids can be lactated ringers, which is basically sterile saline with electrolytes. Then there's Nacl, some with dextrose Vet will advise. Often, lactated ringers is used for re-hydration. Also, the cost should be very minimal. (A bag of fluids is usually 1000 ml.) Good Luck, Hugs, Patti
Re: Need your help with Stretch-fluids
In a message dated 1/4/06 1:02:29 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: My regular vet charges $20. We've found other vets here who charge $5 (yeaa!). Yes, that's because vets purchase aCASE of lactated ringers for under $20.00. It's a damn shame some vets have to "mark up" such necessary products..
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Wendy, Bailey is currently getting fluids it is fairly easy. It seems to make it less uncomfortable for the cat if you heat it to room temperature. I usually take my bag and lay it in the sink in fairly warm water for about 10 or so minutes. You can feel the water after you give the bag a few minutes to cool off, it should be tepid. I pinch the skin right behind Bailey shoulder blades, by pinch I mean pull it up kind of like when you are checking for dehydration, and put the needle in about half way. Bailey just lays there and purrs. You will feel a bulge build up in the area, that is the fluid going in. Bailey was initially getting 150cc's (the bag is divided into 10 sections of 100cc's each) he now gets anywhere from 50 to 100cc's depending on how well he seems to be feeling. He will usually eat a bit afterwards. There is a white wheel thing, not sure waht it is called but when you roll it up to the bigger end the fluids are stopped, once you have your needle in roll it down towards the smaller end and the fluids will start to flow, then just roll it back up when you have put in the amount you decide to give. I hope that isn't too confusing. -- Belinda Happiness is being owned by cats ... Be-Mi-Kitties ... http://www.bemikitties.com Post Adoptable FeLV/FIV/FIP Cats/Kittens http://adopt.bemikitties.com FeLV Candle Light Service http://www.bemikitties.com/cls HostDesign4U.com (affordable hosting web design) http://HostDesign4U.com --- BMK Designs (non-profit web sites) http://bmk.bemikitties.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Hi. X-rays canoften show tumors, though not always. Ultrasound can when x-rays can't, but is way more expensive. The dex/depo shot is given as needed. Depending on how early in the cancer you start, they can sometimes go a month in-between shots at first. It gets less and and less time in-between shots as they progress, and in the end is every few days, at least with the dex. Dex is out of the system within 24 hours, so she probably does not have any dex in her now, but may still be benefitting if she has a tumor and it shrank the tumor some. Prayers, Michelle In a message dated 1/4/2006 11:00:47 A.M. Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Hey Michelle,I can't imagine how you felt with them telling you topay up front while you're holding your sick cat! Thatjust sounds bad! I just started working a second job,so as soon as we get any money at all, then I willprobably take Stretch in for the tests and ifaffordable, to get X-rays, and the fluid drained. DoX-rays show cancer tumors and/or fluid? Also, howoften do you give the dex/depo shot (if it islymphoma)? I could not really tell if the dex shothelped much. Stretch isn't breathing as heavily asshe was, but her breathing is still somewhat labored. Also, where do you get the bags and needles to dosub-Q fluids? Is there anything else I need to dosub-Q? Do you just use water?Thanks,Wendy
RE: Need your help with Stretch
Dear Wendy I am sorry you are having to go through this pain, and so soon after losing your darling Cricket. Try to remind yourself Stretch knows that he is loved by you, that you have nothing but his welfare and best interests at heart, and that you will do whatever is within your means and power to help him and minimize his suffering. That's what I've always forced myself to remember when I've been in a similar situation (which sadly most of us on the list have been). How do you guys afford expensive treatments when you just don't have the money? We can only do what we can do, and it's a sad fact of life that the cost of the treatment is often what determines the next step. Over the last couple of years I've racked up my credit cards, used one of those credit card checks you get in the mail, and then last summer Flavia's treatment, and the subsequent euthanization and individual cremation costs for Flavia and Snowball, forced me to take a chunk of money from my paltry retirement fund. I can still hear the unspoken thoughts of the broker when I explained it was for vet fees...this woman is a total nut/loser. I told only one friend, and he was clearly shocked -- told me not to do anything stupid. I know I can't do it again, anyway, tho, because I won't be in a position to help any cat if I wind up destitute in my old age (which is not that far away!). Only you guys understand. And we surely understand the anguish you feel, Wendy, in not having a limitless budget for treatment. I would think most us are in much the same boat; and beating ourselves up because of it. That's what's so wonderful about this group--we realize we're not alone; everyone faces the same problems and heartache at one time or another. And everyone does whatever they can to help one another cope and do the best for their furbabies. Sending zillions of positive, healing vibes, Wendy, for sweet Stretch's recovery. love and hugs to you both Kerry -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of wendy Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 9:31 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Need your help with Stretch Hi Michelle, Thank you for the info. I am going to give another day or two to see how things go before taking Stretch back to the doc. Frankly, we are tapped out on money. We are not wealthy by any stretch of the imagination, and after spending hundreds of dollars trying to save Cricket, and with Christmas just passed, we are a bit broke. I had to put the $85 visit to the vet yesterday on a credit card that didn't have $85 dollars on it. I will do all I can for Stretch, but if it's cancer, I am not going to draw it out. We just can't afford the treatments. I feel so frustrated right now. I don't want Stretch to go through this. I don't want my nephew to go through losing his cat; he's been through so much as it is. And my attitude isn't it's normal hopeful self after losing Cricket. I feel it's too soon after Cricket; I don't think I can go through this again. I am praying for a miracle right now. If Stretch can just pull through this, and give us a little time, we will be better able to afford treatments in six months. I hope that some of you understand being in this place. How do you guys afford expensive treatments when you just don't have the money? Thanks, Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL - Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com hr IRS CIRCULAR 230 NOTICE. Any advice expressed above as to tax matters was neither written nor intended by the sender or Mayer, Brown, Rowe Maw LLP to be used and cannot be used by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties that may be imposed under U.S. tax law. If any person uses or refers to any such tax advice in promoting, marketing or recommending a partnership or other entity, investment plan or arrangement to any taxpayer, then (i) the advice was written to support the promotion or marketing (by a person other than Mayer, Brown, Rowe Maw LLP) of that transaction or matter, and (ii) such taxpayer should seek advice based on the taxpayers particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor hr This email and any files transmitted with it are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager. If you are not the named addressee you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this e-mail.
Re: Need your help with Stretch
I just noticed your reference to the expensive treatments. I really think that sometimes the home treatments, not so expensive, are as useful and effective as the expensive ones. Learning to do fluids, for example, is so helpful. Gloria On Jan 4, 2006, at 12:28 PM, MacKenzie, Kerry N. wrote: ... How do you guys afford expensive treatments when you just don't have the money? We can only do what we can do, and it's a sad fact of life that the cost of the treatment is often what determines the next step. Over the last couple of years I've racked up my credit cards, used one of those credit card checks you get in the mail, and then last summer Flavia's treatment, and the subsequent euthanization and individual cremation costs for Flavia and Snowball, forced me to take a chunk of money from my paltry retirement fund. I can still hear the unspoken thoughts of the broker when I explained it was for vet fees...this woman is a total nut/loser. I told only one friend, and he was clearly shocked -- told me not to do anything stupid. I know I can't do it again, anyway, tho, because I won't be in a position to help any cat if I wind up destitute in my old age (which is not that far away!). Only you guys understand. And we surely understand the anguish you feel, Wendy, in not having a limitless budget for treatment. I would think most us are in much the same boat; and beating ourselves up because of it. That's what's so wonderful about this group--we realize we're not alone; everyone faces the same problems and heartache at one time or another. And everyone does whatever they can to help one another cope and do the best for their furbabies. Sending zillions of positive, healing vibes, Wendy, for sweet Stretch's recovery. love and hugs to you both Kerry -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of wendy Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 9:31 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Need your help with Stretch Hi Michelle, Thank you for the info. I am going to give another day or two to see how things go before taking Stretch back to the doc. Frankly, we are tapped out on money. We are not wealthy by any stretch of the imagination, and after spending hundreds of dollars trying to save Cricket, and with Christmas just passed, we are a bit broke. I had to put the $85 visit to the vet yesterday on a credit card that didn't have $85 dollars on it. I will do all I can for Stretch, but if it's cancer, I am not going to draw it out. We just can't afford the treatments. I feel so frustrated right now. I don't want Stretch to go through this. I don't want my nephew to go through losing his cat; he's been through so much as it is. And my attitude isn't it's normal hopeful self after losing Cricket. I feel it's too soon after Cricket; I don't think I can go through this again. I am praying for a miracle right now. If Stretch can just pull through this, and give us a little time, we will be better able to afford treatments in six months. I hope that some of you understand being in this place. How do you guys afford expensive treatments when you just don't have the money? Thanks, Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL - Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com hr IRS CIRCULAR 230 NOTICE. Any advice expressed above as to tax matters was neither written nor intended by the sender or Mayer, Brown, Rowe Maw LLP to be used and cannot be used by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties that may be imposed under U.S. tax law. If any person uses or refers to any such tax advice in promoting, marketing or recommending a partnership or other entity, investment plan or arrangement to any taxpayer, then (i) the advice was written to support the promotion or marketing (by a person other than Mayer, Brown, Rowe Maw LLP) of that transaction or matter, and (ii) such taxpayer should seek advice based on the taxpayers particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor hr This email and any files transmitted with it are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager. If you are not the named addressee you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this e-mail.
RE: Need your help with Stretch
Kerry, It does make me feel so much better to know that many here have stressed over the financial aspect of caring for their furbabies. It doesn't seem fair to have to choose. I guess this just fuels the fire more for me to get out of debt. My husband and I just started doing Dave Ramsey's Total Money Makeover (it's a book), and hopefully will be debt free except for our house by the end of this year. I highly recommend his plan, btw, especially for those of you who are like me, broke. lol. I guess we'll just have to sit tight until then. I didn't even tell my husband that we spent $85 at the vet when he asked (not part of the plan, btw, lol). I said $50, which he freaked out on anyway. I can't blame him. He doesn't feel the same about the kitties as I do. Thanks for the kind words and encouragement Kerry. We'll do the best we can for Stretch, and I guess that's all we can do. I'll keep you posted. :) Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Thank you to everyone who is helping me learn about sub-Q fluids. All the information is invaluable. I shudder to think that I would have had to learn about the procedure from a book! --- Gloria Lane [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I just noticed your reference to the expensive treatments. I really think that sometimes the home treatments, not so expensive, are as useful and effective as the expensive ones. Learning to do fluids, for example, is so helpful. Gloria On Jan 4, 2006, at 12:28 PM, MacKenzie, Kerry N. wrote: ... How do you guys afford expensive treatments when you just don't have the money? We can only do what we can do, and it's a sad fact of life that the cost of the treatment is often what determines the next step. Over the last couple of years I've racked up my credit cards, used one of those credit card checks you get in the mail, and then last summer Flavia's treatment, and the subsequent euthanization and individual cremation costs for Flavia and Snowball, forced me to take a chunk of money from my paltry retirement fund. I can still hear the unspoken thoughts of the broker when I explained it was for vet fees...this woman is a total nut/loser. I told only one friend, and he was clearly shocked -- told me not to do anything stupid. I know I can't do it again, anyway, tho, because I won't be in a position to help any cat if I wind up destitute in my old age (which is not that far away!). Only you guys understand. And we surely understand the anguish you feel, Wendy, in not having a limitless budget for treatment. I would think most us are in much the same boat; and beating ourselves up because of it. That's what's so wonderful about this group--we realize we're not alone; everyone faces the same problems and heartache at one time or another. And everyone does whatever they can to help one another cope and do the best for their furbabies. Sending zillions of positive, healing vibes, Wendy, for sweet Stretch's recovery. love and hugs to you both Kerry -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of wendy Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 9:31 PM To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Subject: Re: Need your help with Stretch Hi Michelle, Thank you for the info. I am going to give another day or two to see how things go before taking Stretch back to the doc. Frankly, we are tapped out on money. We are not wealthy by any stretch of the imagination, and after spending hundreds of dollars trying to save Cricket, and with Christmas just passed, we are a bit broke. I had to put the $85 visit to the vet yesterday on a credit card that didn't have $85 dollars on it. I will do all I can for Stretch, but if it's cancer, I am not going to draw it out. We just can't afford the treatments. I feel so frustrated right now. I don't want Stretch to go through this. I don't want my nephew to go through losing his cat; he's been through so much as it is. And my attitude isn't it's normal hopeful self after losing Cricket. I feel it's too soon after Cricket; I don't think I can go through this again. I am praying for a miracle right now. If Stretch can just pull through this, and give us a little time, we will be better able to afford treatments in six months. I hope that some of you understand being in this place. How do you guys afford expensive treatments when you just don't have the money? Thanks, Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL - Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com hr IRS CIRCULAR 230 NOTICE. Any advice expressed above as to tax matters was neither written nor intended by the sender or Mayer, Brown, Rowe Maw LLP to be used and cannot be used by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties that may be imposed under U.S. tax law. If any person uses or refers to any such tax advice in promoting, marketing or recommending a partnership or other entity, investment plan or arrangement to any taxpayer, then (i) the advice was written to support the promotion or marketing (by a person other than Mayer, Brown, Rowe Maw LLP) of that transaction or matter, and (ii) such taxpayer should seek advice based on the taxpayers particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor hr This email and any files transmitted with it are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager. If you are not the named addressee you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this e-mail. __ Yahoo! DSL
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Kitty's x-rays showed the cancer. They maybe less expensive than some of the tests. Level with your vet re money. He knows you are a caring person. - Original Message - From: wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, January 04, 2006 10:00 AM Subject: Re: Need your help with Stretch Hey Michelle, I can't imagine how you felt with them telling you to pay up front while you're holding your sick cat! That just sounds bad! I just started working a second job, so as soon as we get any money at all, then I will probably take Stretch in for the tests and if affordable, to get X-rays, and the fluid drained. Do X-rays show cancer tumors and/or fluid? Also, how often do you give the dex/depo shot (if it is lymphoma)? I could not really tell if the dex shot helped much. Stretch isn't breathing as heavily as she was, but her breathing is still somewhat labored. Also, where do you get the bags and needles to do sub-Q fluids? Is there anything else I need to do sub-Q? Do you just use water? Thanks, Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL - Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
It is very easy to do the sub q's but get your vet to show you. And they do not appear to feel a thing (honest). - Original Message - From: wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Wednesday, January 04, 2006 11:54 AM Subject: Re: Need your help with Stretch Thanks Tonya. I think I will go that route if I don't see an improvement in eating/drinking very soon. It's a little scary though. I've never stuck a needle into another living being, unless you count getting splinters out, so I am a bit nervous about trying this. Do you give the cat the whole bag? And where and how do you stick the needle? Thanks, Wendy --- catatonya [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Wendy, The fluid is already in the bags you buy. You don't fill them yourselves. I don't know what all is in them. I suppose electrolytes, fluids, maybe potassium? If you've got a decent vet a bag of fluid and the set up for sub q should be less than $10. t t wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hey Michelle, I can't imagine how you felt with them telling you to pay up front while you're holding your sick cat! That just sounds bad! I just started working a second job, so as soon as we get any money at all, then I will probably take Stretch in for the tests and if affordable, to get X-rays, and the fluid drained. Do X-rays show cancer tumors and/or fluid? Also, how often do you give the dex/depo shot (if it is lymphoma)? I could not really tell if the dex shot helped much. Stretch isn't breathing as heavily as she was, but her breathing is still somewhat labored. Also, where do you get the bags and needles to do sub-Q fluids? Is there anything else I need to do sub-Q? Do you just use water? Thanks, Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL - Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com __ Yahoo! DSL - Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
I will keep Stretch in my prayers. Yes, keep me posted. may
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Also, Stretch did not have a fever, surprisingly, and has not been eating or drinking that we can tell. __ Yahoo! for Good - Make a difference this year. http://brand.yahoo.com/cybergivingweek2005/
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Hi Wendy, My approx 8mth old boy, maurice recently had to be put down he had similar symptoms. He developed fluid in outside of his lungs. He was approx. 2mths when we found him on a track while kids were at track practice. He was tested around july found to have FELV +. He had done well until about 3wks ago, started throwing up breathing like retractions in his abdomen. I took him to another vet for 2nd opinion since the 1st one told me he had fluid in lungs when he felt was from the FELV and could not do anything else for him. He had been sleeping a lot last 3wks and not his usually self. The 2nd opinion vet in mesquite texas told me she felt he had thymus ca which was causing the fluid in his lungs. She could put his under to drawn off the fluid could not guarantee that he would wake up. Afterward if he made it he would need chemo. I did not want to put him thru all of that so decided to let them put him down. hope infor helps and hope your kitty gets better. may On Tue, 3 Jan 2006 08:04:50 -0800 (PST) wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Hi guys, I don't know if you remember me saying that my nephew, who turned 11 in Nov., came to live with us in May, and we took in his three kitties that his mom just left at their house when they moved out. Well, one of his kitties, Stretch, started breathing funny yesterday evening. You could put your ear to her stomach and hear almost like a loud heartbeat off and on; like something squishy moving around in her stomach. We also noticed that Stretch has lost some weight and hasn't been standing so strong as we are used to seeing her. She's not big, but has always seemed kind of muscular. I guess these kinds of changes that are slow and gradual you don't notice right away, and we finally put it all together yesterday on the way to the vet. Luckily, the vet was still there and said that either Stretch has fluid in her chest or some other part of her body, or the lymph node in her stomach (?) has enlarged and is putting pressure on her heart/lungs. (I might not be remembering all this exactly). He said she might have pneumonia or it could be symptoms of FIP or FeLV. I don't think it's FeLV as I have never heard anyone talk about these symptoms, but I read up on FIP in my cat books last night and one of the symptoms is fluid in the body. The vet gave her a dex shot and put her on Baytril and said to wait and see if she responds to the medicine in a couple of days. He also said we will want to test her in a couple of days for FIP/FeLV. Stretch and her sister, Winnie, were found by my sister at Trader's Village in Dallas on a trash can lid at like 3/4 weeks, maybe younger, and my sister bottle fed them until they were old enough to eat. (That's why it was so hard for me to believe that she just left them in the house; she has always loved animals). So considering where and how they were found, it's possible they could have been exposed or born with FIP or FeLV. My questions are these: 1) Has anyone here ever heard of these symptoms? 2) Does anyone have any advice for us? Thanks guys. My nephew and I really appreciate your time and suggestions. :) Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
It's not that it is a symptom of FeLV, but it can be a symptom of mediastinal lymphoma (lymphoma that starts in the lymph node in the chest), to which FeLV+ cats are prone (but other cats get it as well). The thing I do not like about what the vet did is that if it is mediastinal lymphoma, that tends to respond very well to chemotherapy, especially if the cat is not FeLV+ (some cats go into complete remission for years), but giving strong steroids before chemo is not recommended because it can reduce the effectiveness of chemo. I would take him to an internist at a clinic or hospital ASAP to get an actual diagnosis, which can be done by ultrasound and sometimes biopsy. Michelle
Re: Need your help with Stretch
May, Thank you for the information. I am sorry that Maurice had to be put down. Stretch is not looking too well. We force fed her tonight and she did great with that, but her breathing is still somewhat labored. I will keep you posted. :) Wendy P.S. You must not be too far from me; Mesquite is just up the road. --- [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi Wendy, My approx 8mth old boy, maurice recently had to be put down he had similar symptoms. He developed fluid in outside of his lungs. He was approx. 2mths when we found him on a track while kids were at track practice. He was tested around july found to have FELV +. He had done well until about 3wks ago, started throwing up breathing like retractions in his abdomen. I took him to another vet for 2nd opinion since the 1st one told me he had fluid in lungs when he felt was from the FELV and could not do anything else for him. He had been sleeping a lot last 3wks and not his usually self. The 2nd opinion vet in mesquite texas told me she felt he had thymus ca which was causing the fluid in his lungs. She could put his under to drawn off the fluid could not guarantee that he would wake up. Afterward if he made it he would need chemo. I did not want to put him thru all of that so decided to let them put him down. hope infor helps and hope your kitty gets better. may On Tue, 3 Jan 2006 08:04:50 -0800 (PST) wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Hi guys, I don't know if you remember me saying that my nephew, who turned 11 in Nov., came to live with us in May, and we took in his three kitties that his mom just left at their house when they moved out. Well, one of his kitties, Stretch, started breathing funny yesterday evening. You could put your ear to her stomach and hear almost like a loud heartbeat off and on; like something squishy moving around in her stomach. We also noticed that Stretch has lost some weight and hasn't been standing so strong as we are used to seeing her. She's not big, but has always seemed kind of muscular. I guess these kinds of changes that are slow and gradual you don't notice right away, and we finally put it all together yesterday on the way to the vet. Luckily, the vet was still there and said that either Stretch has fluid in her chest or some other part of her body, or the lymph node in her stomach (?) has enlarged and is putting pressure on her heart/lungs. (I might not be remembering all this exactly). He said she might have pneumonia or it could be symptoms of FIP or FeLV. I don't think it's FeLV as I have never heard anyone talk about these symptoms, but I read up on FIP in my cat books last night and one of the symptoms is fluid in the body. The vet gave her a dex shot and put her on Baytril and said to wait and see if she responds to the medicine in a couple of days. He also said we will want to test her in a couple of days for FIP/FeLV. Stretch and her sister, Winnie, were found by my sister at Trader's Village in Dallas on a trash can lid at like 3/4 weeks, maybe younger, and my sister bottle fed them until they were old enough to eat. (That's why it was so hard for me to believe that she just left them in the house; she has always loved animals). So considering where and how they were found, it's possible they could have been exposed or born with FIP or FeLV. My questions are these: 1) Has anyone here ever heard of these symptoms? 2) Does anyone have any advice for us? Thanks guys. My nephew and I really appreciate your time and suggestions. :) Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Hi Michelle, Thank you for the info. I am going to give another day or two to see how things go before taking Stretch back to the doc. Frankly, we are tapped out on money. We are not wealthy by any stretch of the imagination, and after spending hundreds of dollars trying to save Cricket, and with Christmas just passed, we are a bit broke. I had to put the $85 visit to the vet yesterday on a credit card that didn't have $85 dollars on it. I will do all I can for Stretch, but if it's cancer, I am not going to draw it out. We just can't afford the treatments. I feel so frustrated right now. I don't want Stretch to go through this. I don't want my nephew to go through losing his cat; he's been through so much as it is. And my attitude isn't it's normal hopeful self after losing Cricket. I feel it's too soon after Cricket; I don't think I can go through this again. I am praying for a miracle right now. If Stretch can just pull through this, and give us a little time, we will be better able to afford treatments in six months. I hope that some of you understand being in this place. How do you guys afford expensive treatments when you just don't have the money? Thanks, Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Wendy, I'm sorry to hear about Stretch losing weight and her breathing difficulties. Did your vet take any xrays? Did I understand you to say he thinks it's either fluid on her chest, OR an enlarged lymph node? I'm no vet, but they seem like two very different things to me. I guess the dex shot was to help with possible inflammation and he threw Baytril at it in case an antibiotic might help. I don't mean to disparage your vet, and maybe he's working this way for financial reasons, but he's not much of a diagnostician from what you describe. How can you treat her condition, when you don't know what it is? I think Michelle is right, you should ask for a referral to an internist and find out what's going on. I certainly pray it's not FIP, I have no personal experience with FIP, but from what I have heard, it scares the hell out of me. If her breathing doesn't improve dramatically, and very soon, you might need to get her to a vet that can drain the fluid, (if that's what it is) asap. I would be afraid of alarming you with all this, but I'm sure you're already very alarmed. I'm praying that Stretch responds to the steroid shot and/or the antibiotics and has a complete turn around. You and your family are in my thoughts, Nina wendy wrote: Hi guys, I don't know if you remember me saying that my nephew, who turned 11 in Nov., came to live with us in May, and we took in his three kitties that his mom just left at their house when they moved out. Well, one of his kitties, Stretch, started breathing funny yesterday evening. You could put your ear to her stomach and hear almost like a loud heartbeat off and on; like something squishy moving around in her stomach. We also noticed that Stretch has lost some weight and hasn't been standing so strong as we are used to seeing her. She's not big, but has always seemed kind of muscular. I guess these kinds of changes that are slow and gradual you don't notice right away, and we finally put it all together yesterday on the way to the vet. Luckily, the vet was still there and said that either Stretch has fluid in her chest or some other part of her body, or the lymph node in her stomach (?) has enlarged and is putting pressure on her heart/lungs. (I might not be remembering all this exactly). He said she might have pneumonia or it could be symptoms of FIP or FeLV. I don't think it's FeLV as I have never heard anyone talk about these symptoms, but I read up on FIP in my cat books last night and one of the symptoms is fluid in the body. The vet gave her a dex shot and put her on Baytril and said to wait and see if she responds to the medicine in a couple of days. He also said we will want to test her in a couple of days for FIP/FeLV. Stretch and her sister, Winnie, were found by my sister at Trader's Village in Dallas on a trash can lid at like 3/4 weeks, maybe younger, and my sister bottle fed them until they were old enough to eat. (That's why it was so hard for me to believe that she just left them in the house; she has always loved animals). So considering where and how they were found, it's possible they could have been exposed or born with FIP or FeLV. My questions are these: 1) Has anyone here ever heard of these symptoms? 2) Does anyone have any advice for us? Thanks guys. My nephew and I really appreciate your time and suggestions. :) Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL – Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Ask Stretch what she wants. I have not followed this line but I have a beautiful cat, Kitty, who has cancer. We determined that for sure in Feb. and she made it plain to me that she did not want the treatments offered. I asked some animal communicator friends I meet with regularly to talk to her and ask her what she wanted. She was very plain spoken about what she wanted and did not want. I have made every effort to honor her wishes (they are the same I would have in her position). A month ago I had the misopportunity to have her x rayed and the cancer has spread. In Feb. we were (we thought) looking at a very few good months. Kitty is still doing wonderfully. I am enjoying every minute I have with her. This is to say that all the treatments we sometimes inflict in the name of love and kindness and whatever may not be what the lovely being wants. Ask yourself what you would want. My very wish vet put it in terms of would you want to be miserable for 6 months to live a total of 7 months.or would you rather take the month or two you have and feel good I hope your little one has much more time. Kitty obviously does. Perhaps the goals should be to determine what she wants (she really should have something to say about this) and to provide her with a comfortable, loving life---no matter how long or short it is. Please know that I could and would have afforded any treatment Kitty needed and wanted and my vet knows this. Sometimes true love means choosing not to do something or choosing not to do what convention says demonstrates love. - Original Message - From: wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 9:30 PM Subject: Re: Need your help with Stretch Hi Michelle, Thank you for the info. I am going to give another day or two to see how things go before taking Stretch back to the doc. Frankly, we are tapped out on money. We are not wealthy by any stretch of the imagination, and after spending hundreds of dollars trying to save Cricket, and with Christmas just passed, we are a bit broke. I had to put the $85 visit to the vet yesterday on a credit card that didn't have $85 dollars on it. I will do all I can for Stretch, but if it's cancer, I am not going to draw it out. We just can't afford the treatments. I feel so frustrated right now. I don't want Stretch to go through this. I don't want my nephew to go through losing his cat; he's been through so much as it is. And my attitude isn't it's normal hopeful self after losing Cricket. I feel it's too soon after Cricket; I don't think I can go through this again. I am praying for a miracle right now. If Stretch can just pull through this, and give us a little time, we will be better able to afford treatments in six months. I hope that some of you understand being in this place. How do you guys afford expensive treatments when you just don't have the money? Thanks, Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL - Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
I wrote my reply to you before I got this one. I understand all to well the hardship of money concerns and vet care. I hate it when money is a factor, but sometimes it is. Having the fluid drained, (if that's what's going on), will make Stretch more comfortable and it's possible that it won't accumulate again. I'm very sorry sweetie. I know what you mean about not thinking you can take any more pain. You've got such a big heart, you can handle this, I'm just sorry you have to. Keep a close eye on Stretch, do the best you can for him under the circumstances. Remember, sometimes even with all the money in the world, we can't help them recover. Sometimes the best thing for all concerned is to love them, cherish the moments we have and help them transition before they suffer too much. Praying for a miracle too, Nina wendy wrote: Hi Michelle, Thank you for the info. I am going to give another day or two to see how things go before taking Stretch back to the doc. Frankly, we are tapped out on money. We are not wealthy by any stretch of the imagination, and after spending hundreds of dollars trying to save Cricket, and with Christmas just passed, we are a bit broke. I had to put the $85 visit to the vet yesterday on a credit card that didn't have $85 dollars on it. I will do all I can for Stretch, but if it's cancer, I am not going to draw it out. We just can't afford the treatments. I feel so frustrated right now. I don't want Stretch to go through this. I don't want my nephew to go through losing his cat; he's been through so much as it is. And my attitude isn't it's normal hopeful self after losing Cricket. I feel it's too soon after Cricket; I don't think I can go through this again. I am praying for a miracle right now. If Stretch can just pull through this, and give us a little time, we will be better able to afford treatments in six months. I hope that some of you understand being in this place. How do you guys afford expensive treatments when you just don't have the money? Thanks, Wendy __ Yahoo! DSL – Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
Re: Need your help with Stretch
I know. When Simon needed to go into the hospital, they would not admit him without me paying half the estimate, and there was not enough room on our credit card for it. Luckily my mom was able and willing to give me her credit card number for it. It was very scary feeling, though, until she did. I wanted to shoot the damn receptionist in the head, me standing there with my sick baby and her saying if I did not have a credit card to put it on they would not even see him. What about someone who had no relative with a working credit card they were willing to lend? If it is lymphoma, I am not sure there is anything that can make him go 6 months without chemo. But the vet who told me about the steroid combo I am always recommending (1/2 cc dexamethasone and 1/2 depomedrol, given periodically when they go downhill) said that she had some cats with lymphoma go 6 months on these shots alone, with good quality of life. If nothing else seems to help, you might want to try this. Did the dex shot help at all? If it did, you might want to try the combo shot. It is not expensive, though you will probably need to go to the vet to get it.The shots can be given sub-q, but most vets will not give clients the shots to take home. But it might not be lymphoma. Michelle In a message dated 1/3/2006 10:58:15 PM Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Hi Michelle,Thank you for the info. I am going to give anotherday or two to see how things go before taking Stretchback to the doc. Frankly, we are tapped out on money. We are not wealthy by any stretch of the imagination,and after spending hundreds of dollars trying to saveCricket, and with Christmas just passed, we are a bitbroke. I had to put the $85 visit to the vetyesterday on a credit card that didn't have $85dollars on it. I will do all I can for Stretch, butif it's cancer, I am not going to draw it out. Wejust can't afford the treatments. I feel sofrustrated right now. I don't want Stretch to gothrough this. I don't want my nephew to go throughlosing his cat; he's been through so much as it is. And my attitude isn't it's normal hopeful self afterlosing Cricket. I feel it's too soon after Cricket; Idon't think I can go through this again. I am prayingfor a miracle right now. If Stretch can just pullthrough this, and give us a little time, we will bebetter able to afford treatments in six months. Ihope that some of you understand being in this place. How do you guys afford expensive treatments when youjust don't have the money?Thanks,Wendy
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Wendy~ My thoughts and prayers are with you and Stretch. I am so sorry that you and your nephew are faced with this. And, I understand about the financial situation... Years ago, I never had to worry. I "cashed out" my entire 401K plan when my first Rottie was diagnosed with AIHA. I've been fortunate to have worked at vets and have connections with the shelter... But, now I am "retired" and living on SSDI, and I understand all too well. I too am praying for a miracle for dear Stretch... Hugs, Patti
Re: Need your help with Stretch
Wendy,I am so sorry to hear about Stretch. Most of the time I have heard people discuss these kinds of symptoms it has not been good news. You do what you can, and that's all you can do. It is hard to accept, but most of ushave been where you are. Sometimes youspend thousands and are able to buy some more time, sometimes you spend thousands and can't. And the problem is you can never 'know' for sure if treatments are going to help or not. Especially if you're talking about lymphoma.I have been in situations that I truly felt I was putting my cat through too much to try to save him when it was beyond hope, and had them turn around. One of my cats my vetinsisted was at death's door lived for many years after his illness. Otherswho had a good prognosis I have lost. You just never know.You just have to do the best you can, and it's very hard not knowing what to do and it's hard to feel like money isgoverning your decisions. But money is a part of it. There's no way around that.I am so sorry you are going through all of this. I will keep you, your nephew and Stretch in my thoughts and prayers.tonyawendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi Michelle,Thank you for the info. I am going to give anotherday or two to see how things go before taking Stretchback to the doc. Frankly, we are tapped out on money.We are not wealthy by any stretch of the imagination,and after spending hundreds of dollars trying to saveCricket, and with Christmas just passed, we are a bitbroke. I had to put the $85 visit to the vetyesterday on a credit card that didn't have $85dollars on it. I will do all I can for Stretch, butif it's cancer, I am not going to draw it out. Wejust can't afford the treatments. I feel sofrustrated right now. I don't want Stretch to gothrough this. I don't want my nephew to go throughlosing his cat; he's been through so much as it is. And my attitude isn't it's normal hopeful self afterlosing Cricket. I feel it's too soon after Cricket; Idon't think I can go through this again. I am prayingfor a miracle right now. If Stretch can just pullthrough this, and give us a little time, we will bebetter able to afford treatments in six months. Ihope that some of you understand being in this place. How do you guys afford expensive treatments when youjust don't have the money?Thanks,Wendy__ Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less. dsl.yahoo.com
