RE: life spans of positives
Michelle, You feel 4 years was short for a positive?? It's still all too fresh with me. It is sooo hard to loose kittens, especially my Leeloo, who was sweet beyond description. But, let me tell you how lucky you are to have had your positives for so long!! Of the litter of 4... Leeloo: 8 months 1 day Abby: 7 months Milo: 4 1/2 months Loki, at 8 1/2 months, is still healthy and going strong. Steve -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, February 08, 2005 5:59 AM To: felvtalk@vlists.net Subject: life spans of positives If it is not too hard, could people let me know the ages of their positives now, and the ages of positives who have passed? I keep being told that I was being unrealistic in my hope that Simon, and my others, would live longer than they did. I had heard of positives living as long as 14. My Jo died at age 3, Buddy at age 18 months, and Simon was around 4. My largest grief right now is about his suffering and what he went through, but I am also so grief-stricken at how short his life was. And it was short, very short, at 4 years old, when cats can live to 20. But I also feel like it was short for a positive, like I should have been able to help him live longer than that. I am trying to assess my expectations of this, regarding my remaining positives as well, and so just want to know what the age spans really are for positives who are well cared-for, so maybe I can be more honest with myself about what truly can be expected. Thanks, Michelle
RE: Simon near death, please pray/send energy
Michelle, I'm sorry to hear about Simon. It's very difficult to go through this, I know from all too recent experience. You are obviously very sensitive to Simons needs. I feel positive you will do the right thing for him, be it to leave him be or to help him along. A good caring human is all Simon needs, and he has it in spades. Sending good thoughts to Simon and you. Steve -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Saturday, February 05, 2005 9:51 AM To: felvtalk@vlists.net Subject: Re: Simon near death, please pray/send energy-- Kathy He actually has not gotten up at all for at least 6 hours now, maybe more. I don't think he can. every once in a while he meows and moves his back legs a little and my partner flips him over and he seems calm again. I put rescue remedy and benedry cream in his ears, don't know if that has helped. He still does not sleep much, sometimes has eyes almost but not quite closed and inner eyelid covering his pupils. His breathing is visible and audible, but still closed-mouthed. I have a tranquilizer shot that is for cats. I am not supposed to have it so do not want to post information about it. 2 units of it is supposed to knock them out completely in an anesthesia-like fashion, though their eyes stay open and they retain the ability to swallow. My cat Josephine got this shot when she went into respiratory distress, but instead of calming her it euthanized her, because she was so far along. Do you think at this point I ought to give him a small amount of that shot? It is an IM shot--can I give a small amount and then use it again later? Or should I wait until he is meowing consistently or screaming or panting or something? He lies very still for the most part. sometimes I think he is sleeping but am not sure. he is only 4 years old. I can not bear it. I know that the FeLV takes them young, but a few people on this list have had cats live to 6, 8, even 10 or older, and I always hoped he would live that long and felt he should since he was hardly ever sick. And then this. I can not imagine a world without silly Simon. Michelle
RE: Simon near death, please pray/send energy-- Kathy
When Leeloo couldn't move without being severely out of breath because of the anemia, I would help to turn her. I only did this when she indicated she needed something. She wouldlift her head and give purchase with her front paws. After I turned her, she was content lying down for maybe another 2hours. Our kitties find a way to tell us what they want. Steve -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]Sent: Saturday, February 05, 2005 11:07 AMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: Re: Simon near death, please pray/send energy-- Kathy When someone can't turn on their own, having someone turn them about every 2 hours (for humans) helps to keep them comfortable. That would probably be true for cats too - maybe go for once an hour or 1 1/2 hours.
RE: Simon passed away
Michelle, You did the best for Simon these past days and weeks and you have to know he knew that. I am so happy he did not suffer his last breaths. You knew just when to give the tranquilizer!!! I would have given anything to know the right time and to help Leeloo in that way. Standing from here, you did perfect by him. I am so so sorry that you lost him though. My heart goes out to you and Simon. He is at peace now. Steve -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Saturday, February 05, 2005 1:48 PM To: felvtalk@vlists.net Subject: Simon passed away I had given him 1/2 dose of the tranquilizer I had here about 3 hours earlier, maybe more. It was only supposed to last one hour, even at full dose. I think he was unconscious the whole time, though it was hard to tell because his eyes were open but they can be under this tranquilizer. About 1/2 hour ago, while waiting for Gray to get home with more steroids, which I had decided to try as a last resort since getting his blood test results from Thursday and finding out that he likely was having an auto-immune response and killing his own red blood cells. he had already gotten large doses of steroids, but there was a disagreement as to whether he should get 1/2 cc or 1 cc of depo and he had gotten only 1/2. So gray went and got another 1/2 cc from someone I know who had it. when he got back, Simon still seemed unconscious. I suggested I give him the dep and then we turn him over. I gave him the depo shot sub-q. he did not move, but a second later his stomach mildly convulsed twice and he stopped breathing and was gone. While gray was gone, after reading an email about this, I put my hands on Simon and told him it was ok to go if he needed to. That was probably about 10 minutes before he went. It was very peaceful and fast, but also kind of shocking as I would have thought he would have cried or had open-mouthed breathing before passing away, and he did not. I guess because he was tranquilized. I do not see how a sub q shot of steroids could have had any medical effect within a second or two, but it is hard not to think that my poking him with the shot made him pass away, as he did so immediately afterwards. I was trying to help him, but I was giving him more than the oncologist had recommended (I had done so a month ago also, and figured if I had not disobeyed instructions then he would not have rebounded) and it is hard not to feel it pushed him over the edge. Harder than that, though, is the thought that the last thing I did before he died was stick him with a needle. And that he had not crashed until I took him to the vet on Thursday, and crashed even more after his ordeal at the oncologist's on Friday. Had I known he really was going to die, I would never have put him through that. I had considered not going to the oncologist and just giving him steroids at home, and wish that I had. The oncologist had said there might be something they could do, that maybe a transfusion would help him or he might have a bleed that could be stopped, but all I did was torture him. His leg is all bruised from the vet on Thursday not being able to draw his blood, and I know he fought catheterization for the transfusion we tried to give him so hard that he needed to be given oxygen. I will never forgive myself for that. If he is somewhere, I hope that he forgives me. Thank you for all your prayers and support. if you believe Simon still is somewhere (I myself do not know), please pray that he is ok and happy. I have had a lot of cats, but he was possibly the most special. We called him our dog-cat, because he acted so much like a dog, but with a naughty cat's naughtiness. I will miss him so much and can not believe he is gone. Michelle
RE: Smokey...Boss Man
Terrie, Smokey last labored days are gone. He is at peace now. Goodness knows he had a fantastic and happy life under your care. What a luck boy. Take care of yourself and know he is in a good and peaceful place. Steve -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]Sent: Thursday, January 27, 2005 5:52 AMTo: felvtalk@vlists.net; [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED]Cc: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED]Subject: Smokey..."Boss Man" Morning everyone, This is to let you Smokey lost his battle a few hours ago. I tried to stay up with him as long as I could. When I feel into a deep asleep I heard some noises. I flew up and seen that Smokey had passed on. So he managed to go when he caught me off guard. It will be tough not having him around since he has been my friend and faithful companion for so many years. Nowhe is at the bridge where there is no sickness and all furangels are healthy again. The time will come when I will rejoin him with all my other furangels that have passed on. Thank you for all your kind words and thoughts :( Vote for my Rescue Siameses "KITTEN TRIO" it's a race please continue voting daily. Let's blow the doors off the dogs!http://www.pnwanimaladoption.com/contest.html Terrie MohrCheck site for available Siameses for adoption!More will be posted soon.http://www.tazzys-siameses-collies.petfinder.org/http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wasiameserescuehttp://hometown.aol.com/tatorbunz/index.htmlhttp://hometown.aol.com/tatorbunz/myhomepage/petmemorial.htmlTAZZY'S ANIMAL TRANSPORTSSIAMESE COLLIE RESCUEOwner/DriverPetfinder.comAdopt a Homeless Pet!http://www.petfinder.com/http://www.awca.net/index.htmhttp://www.felineleukemia.org/http://www.petloss.com/http://www.meezer.com/http://thesiamesestore.com/http://tx.siameserescue.org/adopt.htmlhttp://ca.siameserescue.org/http://co.siameserescue.org/http://va.siameserescue.org/ aks.jpglogobuttonsq.jpg
RE: Leeloo is at rest
Leeloo's smell was a revelation to me. But, now that I know some cats have a distinctive smell, it seems intuitive to me. Whoever thinks that is not possible is nuts! I'm telling you, Leeloo's smell was very pronounced and so beautifully fragrant. She smelled very feminine. Much different from her brother Loki. He smells like a boy! His smell isless strong and tends to smell a tiny bit earthy. That's a fine thing: some fine wines can be described as earthy. Here's to fragrant kitties! Steve -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of Cherie A GabbertSent: Thursday, January 27, 2005 9:07 PMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: Re: Leeloo is at rest Hear, hear NinaI told agirlfriend awhile ago about my 24 year old smell, and she said I was nuts, even though she loves cats she does not think one smells better than the other..she will learn ;-)) CherieNina [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Just the other day, I was breathing deep with my nose buried in Jazz's fur thinking, if anyone knew how much I love the way my kittens smell, they'd think I was crazy. That's one of the reasons I love this list; you make me feel less crazy.Nina[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thanks Steve, Dale had a unique odor when he was a kitten and had a liver shunt. I miss it now sometimes - because of the emotional stuff we went through back then, not because of what his odor meant. I would never wish what we went through on anyone, and I would prefer not to have to go through it again, but anytime I was going to be gone for more than 2 hours, Dale either went with me or went to a baby sitter along with a credit card and ER vet phone number and driving directions with inst! ructions to keep him warm and go there immediately if he had anything weird happen. He had an ammonia-ish kind of smell (because his body was using the respiratory system to get rid of the ammonia and other toxins his liver would've removed). Back then, I didn't have any FeLV+'s and I'd lay down in bed alone and wake up with 18 cats in bed with me. Because of Dale's odor, when he came up to snuggle in bed in the middle of the night, I could tell it was him even when it was pitch black in my room. In a message dated 1/24/2005 3:12:04 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Thanks you Kathy. It is very kind of you to light a candle. Your Sarah sounds beautiful too. We do all think our cats are physically beautiful, but I think it is a natural outcome of their unique personalities and how much we love them, just as it is with our human loved-ones. I didn't mention how sweet Leeloo smelled. I didn't know a cat could have such wonderful perfume!? She smelled much much different than Loki. I love your tag line. Steve Kathy "There is nothing so strong as gentleness, and there is nothing so gentle as real strength." ~ Sir Francis de Sates
RE: Belinda please add Levi to CLS
Kerry, I am so sorry for your lose. Any bit of pain that we cannot alleviate in our kitties, creates a lingering pain in us. We are not to blame. It still does linger for me with Leeloo. She went quickly, but the last painful breath was hard to see. Yet, she and Levi are at painless, peaceful rest now. It's just hard think about, and will be for some time. But Levi is completely free of those last trials of life. Your care of him and love for him was your lasting gift. Sending mywarmest thoughts to Levi and you. Steve -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of Kerry MacKenzieSent: Wednesday, January 26, 2005 9:56 PMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: Belinda please add Levi to CLS Belinda,could you please add my fearless little warrior Levi to the CLS. Levi was put to sleep on Wednesday evening1/25 at around 8pm. I was toldhis hemocrit had dropped to 7.5. and his mouth had many ulcers. It wasn't a peaceful passing and I feel distraught and anguished about how the poor little soul ended his life. I would like to explain it later and get feedback. I'm still processing it. I will miss him the little soul. I had already begun to miss his swiping me. He was the smallest and lightest of the crew, yet he was always the Great Protector of all of them---ready to bat me ifI dared to try touch any of them. Thank you everyone meantime for your thoughts and support. It's bleak enough, but it would beevenbleaker without your kindness and support. Please say a prayer for Levi, and all the furballs who are still fighting for their lives. Thanks, Kerry
RE: Update on Gypsy
Nina, I'm sending my thoughts and good vibes to you and Gypsy. You are doing all you can to get her past the eating issue. I hope she improves and starts to eat on her own. Take care, Steve -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Nina Sent: Friday, January 28, 2005 9:42 AM To: felvtalk@vlists.net Subject: Update on Gypsy First of all, thank you for letting me share Gypsy's story with you. She isn't FeLV+, but she is a casualty of the disease in a round about way, (because she contracted IBD when over-vaccinated to protect her from my +s). My new vet prescribed lots of supplements and a special diet for her, but she's refusing to eat. I thought the chicken and broth I made her was quite tasty; I guess she disagrees. Bruce and I were having fish tacos for dinner and she showed interest in the cod. I quickly poached her up some and she did eat it, not enough to keep a bird alive, but she did eat. This morning I screwed up my courage, wrapped her in a towel, and syringed her supplement, Flagil, Thuja, (which is suppose to be sublingual, but oh well...), and a bit of baby food down her. I got most of it on her chin, the towel and me, but some did go down her throat. I'm going to have to do this twice a day, give her Vita B12 shots twice a week and Methylpred shots every two weeks. Please say a prayer that after putting her through all this she starts to improve. Nina
RE: Leeloo is at rest
Even those smells that may not seems so nice, get a new found respect when they are attached to the ones we care about! Here's to Dale! Steve -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]Sent: Thursday, January 27, 2005 8:19 PMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: Re: Leeloo is at rest Thanks Steve, Dale had a unique odor when he was a kitten and had a liver shunt. I miss it now sometimes - because of the emotional stuff we went through back then, not because of what his odor meant. I would never wish what we went through on anyone, and I would prefer not to have to go through it again, but anytime I was going to be gone for more than 2 hours, Dale either went with me or went to a baby sitter along with a credit card and ER vet phone number and driving directions with instructions to keep him warm and go there immediately if he had anything weird happen. He had an ammonia-ish kind of smell (because his body was using the respiratory system to get rid of the ammonia and other toxins his liver would've removed). Back then, I didn't have any FeLV+'s and I'd lay down in bed alone and wake up with 18 cats in bed with me. Because of Dale's odor, when he came up to snuggle in bed in the middle of the night, I could tell it was him even when it was pitch black in my room. In a message dated 1/24/2005 3:12:04 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Thanks you Kathy. It is very kind of you to light a candle. Your Sarah sounds beautiful too. We do all think our cats are physically beautiful, but I think it is a natural outcome of their unique personalities and how much we love them, just as it is with our human loved-ones. I didn't mention how sweet Leeloo smelled. I didn't know a cat could have such wonderful perfume!? She smelled much much different than Loki. I love your tag line. Steve Kathy"There is nothing so strong as gentleness, and there is nothing so gentle as real strength." ~ Sir Francis de Sates
RE: Belinda - CLS - Grayson
Joan, You are so lucky, and Grayson is so lucky to have had you. 10 years is a goodlong age with sick kitties... and every day is a blessing. You gave him the best and he is resting more peacefully for it. Sending warm thoughts for Grayson and you, Steve p.s. thank you for your kind words for Leeloo -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of Joan DoljanSent: Tuesday, January 25, 2005 4:04 AMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: Belinda - CLS - Grayson Belinda, Please add my first cat and my first FIV+ cat, Grayson to the CLS. He died on Sunday morning on January 23rd during the blizzard. He was the most intelligent, sweetest, gentlest, happiest, lovingyoung man I had the pleasure to know. He was the alpha cat in my household and always ruled with a gentle paw. He will be sorely missed. He was losing weight and had an appointment today at the vet. I suspect he died of a heart attack. He was 10 years old. Except for dental work he had never been ill. Thank you, Joan
RE: Gypsy's going to the vet tomorrow
Good luck Nina, You know you hundreds of us sending good vibes. Steve -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Nina Sent: Tuesday, January 25, 2005 2:15 PM To: felvtalk@vlists.net Subject: Gypsy's going to the vet tomorrow Thank you everyone for your support with my Gypsy girl. After exchanging emails with all of you, I've decided to take her to the new vet I've heard about. She, (the vet) practices Western and Eastern medicine and I've been told is very intuitive and wonderful with the animals. At this point, we have nothing to lose and Gypsy's life to gain. Wish me luck, I'll bring lots of bandaids with me! Nina
Please add Abby to the Candle Light Service
Belinda, I mentioned Abby only briefly in one of my long emails. This was Leeloo's sister who died 1/02/05. My sister and nieces (Lynda, Alisha, Shawna), who cared for Milo, also saw Abby through her journey. Thank you for what you do. Steve -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of Cherie A GabbertSent: Monday, January 24, 2005 12:08 PMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: Re: Candle Light Service - Monday January 24, 2005 Belinda, I would like to get Snowball on her passed 01/03/05 and how can we get Leelo on? Thanks CherieBelinda Sauro [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi All, My deepest condolences to those who have lost a furchild. They are your special angels watching over you now. My prayers and positive, healing light for recovery to those with furkids struggling with health issues. Take care all :) FeLV Candle Light Service http://www.bemikitties.com/cls -- 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
RE: Candle Light Service - Monday January 24, 2005
Leeloo appeared in seconds! Could I have her date changed to Jan 21, 2005? She left us at 11:30 pm Pacific time.Thank you. Steve -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of Cherie A GabbertSent: Monday, January 24, 2005 12:08 PMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: Re: Candle Light Service - Monday January 24, 2005 Belinda, I would like to get Snowball on her passed 01/03/05 and how can we get Leelo on? Thanks CherieBelinda Sauro [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi All, My deepest condolences to those who have lost a furchild. They are your special angels watching over you now. My prayers and positive, healing light for recovery to those with furkids struggling with health issues. Take care all :) FeLV Candle Light Service http://www.bemikitties.com/cls -- 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
RE: The scent of cats (was Leeloo is at rest)
Michelle wrote: Simon smells sort of like cinnamon sometimes. Some cats do smell sweet. Cinnamon!!One of my favorites. Thanks for that thought Cherie. I hope so. If you were to cross the smell of a baby with perhaps a fragrant rose, and tone the whole thing down a bit, you would have what Leeloo smelled like. Steve -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of Cherie A GabbertSent: Monday, January 24, 2005 12:22 PMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: RE: Leeloo is at rest Smells are wonderful Steve, I still remember the way my 24 year old smelled, I have never smelled a kitty like her, she was so unique. Remember Leeloo and sometimes you can be sitting thinking about her and you are able to smell her once again, you will know she is watching you. CherieSteve Williams [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thanks you Kathy. It is very kind of you to light a candle. Your Sarah sounds beautiful too. We do all think our cats are physically beautiful, but I think it is a natural outcome of their unique personalities and how much we love them, just as it is with our human loved-ones. I didn't mention how sweet Leeloo smelled. I didn't know a cat could have such wonderful perfume!? She smelled much much different than Loki. I love your tag line. Steve -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]Sent: Sunday, January 23, 2005 3:38 PMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: Re: Leeloo is at rest Steve, (I'm late catching up here) I'm so sorry to hear Leeloo lost her fight. I have a longhaired red girl named Sarah - Leeloo must've been beautiful. My heart goes out to you. I'll light a candle for her tonight. Kathy "There is nothing so strong as gentleness, and there is nothing so gentle as real strength." ~ Sir Francis de Sates
RE: Smokey is hanging on....sorry so long
If I had known about this and had some valium, or could get it quickly, I would have given it to Leeloo. It happened sovery very fast, but I had a clear indication it was time. When her anemic labored breathing occurred non-stop, I would have done anything to lessen or stopthe pain I knew was to come soon. However, that was also the signal that she would not make the transportation to the hospital to help her along. The valium, or something similar, would have been my only option. Terrie, I hope so hard that you have a clear sign before Smokey is in any pain. Steve -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]Sent: Monday, January 24, 2005 8:33 AMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: Re: Smokey is hanging onsorry so long I am the one who wrote about the valium. I was not suggesting that I or anyone else do or should use it to euthanize at any point other than he final stages of death. I used it, and my mom used it, during the distress stage of natural death-- i.e. respiratory distress and inability to move. It just calmed them and, I think, helped them pass-- but I think it only helped them pass because they were already in the process of passing. I do not think that a valium pill would necessarily do that otherwise. I used one whole human pill, I am not sure of the dosage. I can try to find out. I am not sure it matters, since I think that any whole human pill is a very large dose for a cat. My mom used 3/4 of a pill, in subsequent doses of 1/4 pill, when our cat Arthur was passing. Have you tried sour cream with him? Michelle
RE: Please add Abby to the Candle Light Service
Belinda, Thank you on behalf of my sister, nieces and Abby. Steve -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Belinda Sauro Sent: Monday, January 24, 2005 2:53 PM To: felvtalk@vlists.net Subject: Re: Please add Abby to the Candle Light Service Hi Steve, I have added Abby too :)) -- 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 Vote For Us http://www.bemikitties.com/toplist/cgi-bin/topsites.cgi?id=1 --- Web Design Porfolio http://www.bemikitties.com/bmksamples.htm#portfolio
Leeloo is at rest
Thank you Terrie. Please light a special candle now. Tonight she has gone to a better place. She was the sweetest little spunky kitty. She was the lightest orange tabby, which made her very beautiful and had the softest fur I have ever touched and the largest most gorgeous tail. We loved her so much. Thanks to you all for your support. Steve -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]Sent: Friday, January 21, 2005 8:38 PMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: Re: Update on Leeloo Steve, Leeloo is in my thoughts and prayers. I have lit a candle for all the sick furbabies tonight. Vote for my Rescue Siameses "KITTEN TRIO" it's a race please continue voting. http://www.pnwanimaladoption.com/contest.html Terrie MohrCheck site for available Siameses for adoption!More will be posted soon.http://www.tazzys-siameses-collies.petfinder.org/http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wasiameserescuehttp://hometown.aol.com/tatorbunz/index.htmlhttp://hometown.aol.com/tatorbunz/myhomepage/petmemorial.htmlTAZZY'S ANIMAL TRANSPORTSSIAMESE COLLIE RESCUEOwner/DriverPetfinder.comAdopt a Homeless Pet!http://www.petfinder.com/http://www.awca.net/index.htmhttp://www.felineleukemia.org/http://www.petloss.com/http://www.meezer.com/http://thesiamesestore.com/http://tx.siameserescue.org/adopt.htmlhttp://ca.siameserescue.org/http://co.siameserescue.org/http://va.siameserescue.org/ aks.jpglogobuttonsq.jpg
RE: Leeloo is at rest
Leeloo went so fast. Just this morning she was drinking and eatingon her own a little again. I was so encouraged. But as the day went on, movement producedeven more labored breathing. Then I took her to the litter box,being very careful so that she didn't have to move on her own. After she peed she started breathing heavily and then made a horrible sound. This was the first time that she was in definite pain from the exertion. That about killed me. This evening, her breathing was laboring constantly. Blood cell production must have shut down entirely. She looked up at us and gave a tiny cry. It was time. I called the vet hospital at about 11 pm tonight to say I was coming. As I carefully lifted her, blanket and all, she tried to move, and that was it. She diedquickly with a few last breaths. I am glad is was so quick. My little angel is at peace. Thank you all for your help, support and kind words. Sincerely,Steve -Original Message-From: Steve Williams [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]Sent: Saturday, January 22, 2005 12:10 AMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: Leeloo is at rest Thank you Terrie. Please light a special candle now. Tonight she has gone to a better place. She was the sweetest little spunky kitty. She was the lightest orange tabby, which made her very beautiful and had the softest fur I have ever touched and the largest most gorgeous tail. We loved her so much. Thanks to you all for your support. Steve
RE: Leeloo is at rest
Gosh, all of you have sent so many kind emails. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for each and everyone of them. I haven't been back to answering email for awhile and...I needed the day. It is one of those somber surreal days. But, there is a lining of goodness that somehow comes from thinking about life and death... and receiving so many thoughtful messages from you all. I buried Leeloo this morning under a mid-sized oak tree in the backyard. It will forever after be Leeloo's oak tree... and Loki's if he ever goes. Yes, Leeloo was an especially sweet kitty. When she wanted to give and receive love, out of the blue she would run to you, quickly making her way to your chest to lay down and purrloudlyand kneed. She was a great one for playing with her favorite toys. She batted a plastic orange ball around the living room with speed and excitement. Loki was a bit slower and less coordinated so didn't take to is as well. But now he does. Leeloo showed Loki how it was done! Loki would also watch her light and dexterous jumping ability, and now he has a good deal of that as well.You wouldn't believe howlightly she toucheddownin perfect position upon the side-wing of my computer desk. I had a pillow for each of them on either side of my desk. They liked to be near me and I didn't want them right in front of my screen. Spoiled?... Oh, not at all :-) As many of you said, she will not be forgotten, and loving memory will replace the sadness. Warmest thought to all. Sincerely, Steve
RE: Leeloo is at rest
Sally, Thank you so much for your personal support. You are so good and kind to give so much attention to all of us. I agree with and am comforted by all that you have said here. Yes, she was a beautiful and loving spirit. I touched a little upon that in the other email to the list. And, yes I do feel blessed to have had such a beautiful soul come into my life. I just have to get past the sad and somber part so that my entire thoughts will be of the happiness and joy Leeloo gave me. Thank you very much for your candle. I'm sure your candle, as well as a few others, lit the way for her. Before she left us, I pictured in my mind for Leeloo all the things that she loved. Playing, laying at her favorite spots, giving and receiving loving attention, etc. I was hoping this would stick with her whichever direction she would go. I feel very warm for your words. Sometimes, it can be about comforting the ones left behind. You have done this for me so well. Steve -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Saturday, January 22, 2005 7:55 AM To: felvtalk@vlists.net Subject: Re: Leeloo is at rest Dear Steve... I started my previous message to you last night, then fell asleep and finished it when I woke up in the wee hours, but I should have checked my e-mail first and I would have known that Leeloo didn't make it through the night, so my message was so many unnecessary words. I am so sorry, but I think you knew the end for her was very near. She chose to pass on her own and spare you having to take her in for an assisted crossing in a strange place. Perhaps her knowing that is what you were prepared to do for her because you loved her so and didn't want to see her suffer gave her the resolve to hasten her crossing. Without a doubt, not only was Leeloo a beautiful kitty in the flesh, she has a loving and beautiful spirit. Not only was she blessed to have found you to be her human caretaker, it seems you were also blessed to have had such a sweet kitty soul to share your life, if only for a short while. We cannot always measure life in terms of its longevity. Sounds like Leeloo managed to put a lot of quality into a short amount of time, for both of you. I did light a candle for Leeloo last night...hope its light was shining brightly enough to warm and light her way and that she found her brother, Milo, and other loving kitty souls to greet and welcome her. She is in good company. Sharing your sadness... Sally in San Jose
RE: My Smokey's time is near....
Terrie, I now know how hard it is to go through this time. Thanks to your goodness and love, Smokey has lived an enormously wonderful life. You wouldn't be on this list if he wasn't the best loved baby on the planet and the "Boss Man"! He knows that. I am sure you will know--and he will tell you--when to let him go. Sending warmest vibes Smokey's way and your way. Steve -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]Sent: Saturday, January 22, 2005 12:23 PMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: My Smokey's time is near Hi all, I write this with a heavy heart and trying to keep from crying but it's hard. My eyes are blurry. My 19yr old Smokey (Russian Blue) health is starting to fail I've had him since he was a baby. He was a rescue from Irving, TX. He is negative for FELV. His health has been declining for the past month now. He is starting to not make it to his litterbox now due to being weak. His appetite is decreasing. I have been giving him supplements and whatever he wants to eat at all times. He is still eating and drinking some not enough food. I've tried force feeding him but he will gag almost throw up. He has always been a heavy water drinker so it's not his kidneys been checked out for that prior. His vision also is declining. His eyes are cloudy. He has drop from 23 pounds to 6 pounds now. He is having problems walking and I'm afraid by placing him on the furniture or beds he will break one of his legs. My Vets noted that he would be much happier at home and be stress free. They said that his body is old/tired and wouldn't be able to stand any treatments. My husband and I been talking that we want him to pass on here at home. My husband thinks he won't make it past the weekend. I will be putting him in one of my nice open crates in a bit to confine him but still be in the room with us. By doing so his food/water/litterbox will be right there with him. Let him come out whenever he wants when we are present. It makes it hard when I have other kitties roaming they think it's okay to go into the crate. Smokey doesn't appear to be in pain just weak and tired. He is doing alot of sleeping. His body is just worn out. He has seen alot of kitties come and go positives/negatives. Heis the "Boss Man" as my husband puts it. Now he is stepping down to let the next oldest to take over. I ask for all your thoughts, vibes, and prayers for a safe and quiet passing for my Smokey if this should be his time. Thanks to a wonderful and caring group of people! Vote for my Rescue Siameses "KITTEN TRIO" it's a race please continue voting. http://www.pnwanimaladoption.com/contest.html Terrie MohrCheck site for available Siameses for adoption!More will be posted soon.http://www.tazzys-siameses-collies.petfinder.org/http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wasiameserescuehttp://hometown.aol.com/tatorbunz/index.htmlhttp://hometown.aol.com/tatorbunz/myhomepage/petmemorial.htmlTAZZY'S ANIMAL TRANSPORTSSIAMESE COLLIE RESCUEOwner/DriverPetfinder.comAdopt a Homeless Pet!http://www.petfinder.com/http://www.awca.net/index.htmhttp://www.felineleukemia.org/http://www.petloss.com/http://www.meezer.com/http://thesiamesestore.com/http://tx.siameserescue.org/adopt.htmlhttp://ca.siameserescue.org/http://co.siameserescue.org/http://va.siameserescue.org/ aks.jpglogobuttonsq.jpg
Update on Leeloo
I took Leeloo to the vet yesterday and was prepared (well, not quite) to let her go, but was assured she wasn't in pain, so I continue. She had just gone down hill so quickly. It seemed as soon as a wrote an email to the list, she got even weaker. Just as some of you suggested, Leeloo was severely anemic. I told the doc I had been (trying) to syringe food and water, mostly water and explained that she fought it and got so out of breath from even the small syringed amount I gave her. He explained that the anemia was not letting oxygen get distributed through the body via the blood, so she was out of breath by even the smallest amount of exertion. He suggested I give here only a few drops of water, then wait, and repeat very very often. This worked SO MUCH better--I was feeling so bad at the struggle and exertion she was going through. I was so clueless about anemia and this little bit of info was so helpful to know. Her temp was also very low. The vet also gave me NutriCal to feed her. This morning, she actually will drink some water! This hasn't happened in about three days on her own. However, after a few laps of water, she goes into heavy breathing for 10 or 15 seconds. I wait, offer her the water again after a bit, and she drinks a little bit more. I also tried a very tiny amount of baby food, and she did lap at it! But once again, after a few laps... heavy breathing. I mixed a tiny bit of NutriCal in with the baby food and she ate the tiny bit, mostly off my finger. She pees, so her liver is still working, though sometimes pees on were she is lying. I have a nest built for her. I have a hot pad with a blanket on top formed into a nest, then a towel on top. I change the towel whenever she pees on it. Sometimes I time it right and carry her to the cat box and she will sometimes pee. I'm thinking at this point, I can give her enough water on constant vigil. Thank you very very much Sally from San Jose for offering to help with SubQ fluids, but I think I can do the water successfully as I am able to be with Leeloo all day long every day. I may call upon you yet for help (Sally lives probably 40 minutes away from me). So much for the water, but I feel giving Leeloo enough food may be a problem without over-taxing her system. I will try carefully and see what I can do. We have been having some beautiful warm sunny days here in the Santa Cruz, California area. Two days ago, I opened the door onto the deck and surprisingly Leeloo hopped out. She immediately started licking the wood deck (she couldn't hop out to the deck now though). I have been reading the Simon and Levi emails where Pica was mentioned... yet another confirmation of anemia. I asked the vet about getting blood work and he said I would have to go elsewhere to do it! He is a mobile vet and is very inexpensive and has other facilities where is does surgeries, spades/neuters. But, I guess you have to be affiliated with veterinarian hospital facilities? Anyway, I get the feeling if go down that road, things start to get very expensive. She has anemia, what else would the blood work tell me? Sally and others mentioned giving PetTinic or HiVite drops which have iron and B vitamins. How do I get this? Vet or store? Antibiotics won't do anything for anemia, right? The hind leg problem is in the background. The vet did check again and said that he does find something wrong. Whether she injured it then went into anemia because of the FELV and stress from injury, or the leg was a symptom of some other virus is of no matter at this point. Thanks everyone for all your support. Looks like I got carried away with this long rambling update. Steve
RE: Injured Leeloo not eating
Jo, Thanks for the further advice. It all helps. I'm able to get some water down her. I use a straw filled with water and hold my finger at one end, then release it. I'm doing what I can with everything else. Will visit vet tomorrow to see about the AD etc. Thanks everyone, Steve -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]Sent: Wednesday, January 19, 2005 9:24 AMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: Re: Injured Leeloo not eating Steve You've gotten wonderful advice already, and I'll vote for what you've heard so far and add a PS. This just doesn't all add up sound like a fracture. I've had kitties in casts and traction splints that still gobbled up their food. I could understand the first day or two after the injury, but after that their appetite should not be compromised. And the heavy breathing doesn't add up either. Again, the first day after the injury you could possibly chalk it up to pain, but not at this point. Dehydration, as you know, can be completely debilitating. I've been dehydrated myself a few times and can tell you first hand that it make you feel like you're going to die ... muscle aches, terrible cramps, even your hair hurts! You can get lactated ringers from your vet and ask them to teach you how to give them. If possible, they should show you and then have you give the first session in the vets office under guidance. Be sure to clarify how much and how often to give the fluids, and ask for a small gauge needle. The big needles (usually 18 gauge) go faster, but when you're first starting the smaller will hurt both of you less. And, of course Leeloo has to eat to survive this crisis..whatever it is. Cats can fall into "fatty liver" syndrome very quickly when they stop eating, and it can be deadly. Baby food is OK to get you thru the night, but its not nutritionally balanced for felines. Ask the vet for AD. In a pinch, you can use a good quality kitten food whichhas more fat and calories than regular (adult) cat food. I've used 2 methods successfully: syringe feeding and hand feeding. The vetshould have feeding syringes (I use a 30 cc) or you can find one in a PetSupermarket-type store. Look in the baby bird section as they're marketed for hand feeding baby birds. With hand feeding, you just break off a bit of food and slide it into the side of the mouth. (Its messy, so have a roll of paper towels and a wet washclothby your side.) There is also a good group on yahoo for assisted feeding (felines) and they can give you lots of hints. One last thing, for reference. Cats need about "27.5 calories per pound" to maintain weight. I'm sending a link which will show the calorie content of most common cat foods so you can get an idea of the calories per can. http://www.felinediabetes.com/cat_food_nutrition_canned.htm Hope some of this helps. Please keep us posted. Jo In a message dated 1/18/2005 3:58:21 PM Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Leeloo appears to have injured her leg. I took her to the vet and heindicated a probable fracture at left stifle. She slowed way down and atevery little, which the doc says is normal with an injury. Now, she is veryskinny and will hardly eat anything, is very week and hardly moves. We tryto feed her baby food and she eats a little, but not enough. I do not seeany signs of sores in the mouth or anywhere else. Just today, she peed forthe first time away from the litter box as it's too much effort to hop backthere in her weakened state. Last night she sometimes breathed a bit hard,but is fine today just staying in one place.I think I'm going to force feed her starting today. Any advice? A syringewith baby food is what I thought. Quantity? If I feel she needs more water(pinch of nap of neck not returning quickly), do I syringe also?Loki, the former runt, remains very strong and health with the exception oflingering URI.Thanks,Steve
RE: Injured Leeloo /loki
Title: Re: Injured Leeloo /loki Karen, A different Loki. Mine is is dark gray tiger with unusual strips. Leeloo is a beautiful light orange tab. I have been giving both L-Lysine for 4 or 5 months now. I started giving Vitamin C as well about a month ago. He's very slowly gotten better, but it has never gone away. Thanks, Steve -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of Karen OlioSent: Wednesday, January 19, 2005 3:59 AMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: Re: Injured Leeloo /loki Hi Steve, I just wondered if you are in IL and was Loki on Petfinder for a while? Earlier this year I saw a picture of a kitten on PetFinder call Loki who was Felv+ and looking for a home. I used to visit his picture frequently. The kitten was mostly white with with some grey/tabby spots. I was stuck as years ago we had a small sail boat named Loki, and also this little cat looked like the image of my beautiful Harry, our first (with his sister Abby) Felv+ cats, who were the love of my life. I hope he is the same, it would be wonderful to know that he has found such a wonderful home. If he still has a lingering URI try giving him lysine (an amino acid that you can get at the health food store and mix in his food). We've had wonderful luck with it. Good luck with Leeloo. Karen Harry's pics can be seen at http://www.kenpope.com/harry/index.php Abby's pics can be seen at http://www.kenpope.com/abby/index.php - Original Message - From: Steve Williams To: felvtalk@vlists.net Sent: Tuesday, January 18, 2005 5:02 PM Subject: RE: Injured Leeloo not eating-- Important It's a back left leg. We assumed and the vet assumed she injured herself as it happened overnight and the vet wrote "probable fracture at left stifle". I think it was hard for the vet to feel the injury since it was at the leg joint. I'm trying to get a hold of the vet. steve -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]Sent: Tuesday, January 18, 2005 1:53 PMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: Re: Injured Leeloo not eating-- Important Is it a front leg? Are you sure it is a fracture? Apparently there is some disease that kittens sometimes get that makes them limp on a front leg and they need a particular treatment-- I am not sure if it is an antibiotic. The woman who runs the shelter where my cats came from mentioned to me the other day that she euthanized a few kittens for this problem years ago before finding out it was a treatable condition. I thought you had known she injured herself. Michelle --
Injured Leeloo not eating
Hello all, You may remember my two kittens Leeloo and Loki and their sibs, Milo and Abby, who my sister had; all FELV+. Milo passed and was added to the candlelight service some time ago. May I ask that sister Abby be added also. She passed away last week the same way Milo did. Now, our two remain and the battle goes on. Leeloo appears to have injured her leg. I took her to the vet and he indicated a probable fracture at left stifle. She slowed way down and ate very little, which the doc says is normal with an injury. Now, she is very skinny and will hardly eat anything, is very week and hardly moves. We try to feed her baby food and she eats a little, but not enough. I do not see any signs of sores in the mouth or anywhere else. Just today, she peed for the first time away from the litter box as it's too much effort to hop back there in her weakened state. Last night she sometimes breathed a bit hard, but is fine today just staying in one place. I think I'm going to force feed her starting today. Any advice? A syringe with baby food is what I thought. Quantity? If I feel she needs more water (pinch of nap of neck not returning quickly), do I syringe also? Loki, the former runt, remains very strong and health with the exception of lingering URI. Thanks, Steve
RE: Injured Leeloo not eating
Thanks Michelle. I will try some of those things. The amount is helpful. Leeloo is about 8 months old now, but she is small for her age and now is very thin. I will call the vet (who I just visited with her on the 10th). He didn't feel it was alarming then. It sure is alarming now though. Thanks again. I appreciate it. Steve -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]Sent: Tuesday, January 18, 2005 1:05 PMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: Re: Injured Leeloo not eating Hi. I would do the following: 1. Try making the liver shake (the recipe has been posted but I can repost it if you don't have it) and warm some up for her. And try sour cream. Simon will eat these two things but not much else right now. You may need to get her started with each of them by putting a small touch of it on her lips to let her see how it tastes. 2. If you need to syringe her, I would get A/D prescription food from the vet's, which is a fatty vitamin-rich food for sick cats who are not eating much, and thin it a little by mixing in a tad of chicken baby food. Then syringe her by holding her in front of you, with you behind her, and opening her mouth with one hand and putting the syringe in with the other. Syringe at an angle, not straight down her throat, so you don't gag her, and let her swallow after every 1 cc. If she is eating nothing else, she will probably need to get at least 90 cc's a day to maintain weight, depending on how big she is. 3. For fluids, I would give her subcutaneous fluids. It is not hard once you are shown how. You should be able to get them from your vet and get a tutorial on how to do it from one of the vet techs. It is much more efficient and effective than syringing water and you can give a lot more. Hope that helps and good luck, Michelle P.S. You also might want to try an appetite stimulant like Cirproheptadine (but start with a small amount because some cats have a reaction to it), which you can get from your vet, or some steroids (but steroids can make healing slower, so may be contraindicated).
RE: Injured Leeloo not eating
Cherie, The tongue depressor and the nose(!) sounds worth a try. We don't have any idea how she injured herself. She is a house-only cat. One morning she just started limping. She eats less and less food and gets weaker and weaker as the days go by. Time to try to stop this. p.s. Now, if she moves at all, she gets s out of breath. A few steps and she has to recover for a long while. Thanks, Steve -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of Cherie A GabbertSent: Tuesday, January 18, 2005 1:11 PMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: Re: Injured Leeloo not eating Steve, Sorry to hear about you loss, as I am new to this group, I am glad you gave some back ground, when I had to force feed a cat a number of years ago, I would put food on a tounge depressor and put it on the roof of the mouth, that way they get it all. I also put it on the tip of the nose then it gets licked off, mind you this process takes awhile but, if you have the time it might be better on Leeloo. Again sorry about your recent loss, I am rooting for Leeloo. By the way how did she injure herself?CherieSteve Williams [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hello all,You may remember my two kittens Leeloo and Loki and their sibs, Milo andAbby, who my sister had; all FELV+. Milo passed and was added to thecandlelight service some time ago. May I ask that sister Abby be addedalso. She passed away last week the same way Milo did. Now, our two remainand the battle goes on.Leeloo appears to have injured her leg. I took her to the vet and heindicated a probable fracture at left stifle. She slowed way down and atevery little, which the doc says is normal with an injury. Now, she is veryskinny and will hardly eat anything, is very week and hardly moves. We tryto feed her baby food and she eats a little, but not enough. I do not seeany signs of sores in the mouth or anywhere else. Just today, she peed forthe first time away from the litter box as it's too much effort to hop back! there in her weakened state. Last night she sometimes breathed a bit hard,but is fine today just staying in one place.I think I'm going to force feed her starting today. Any advice? A syringewith baby food is what I thought. Quantity? If I feel she needs more water(pinch of nap of neck not returning quickly), do I syringe also?Loki, the former runt, remains very strong and health with the exception oflingering URI.Thanks,Steve
RE: Injured Leeloo not eating
Yes, dehydrated is probably the thing. Just two days ago she was fine as far as hydration. I'm on it. Thanks! Steve -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Belinda Sauro Sent: Tuesday, January 18, 2005 1:21 PM To: felvtalk@vlists.net Subject: Re: Injured Leeloo not eating Hi Steve, Leeloo is probably dehydrated and should probably be given fluids, you can get them from your vet and ask them to show you how to administor them (between the shoulder blades, one thing I found out from trail and error, if you heat them up to bady temperature kitties don't mind them nearly as much as when they are cooler, it is a shock to their system when the cool fluids hit them). Also not eating can be deadly very quickly, when you get the fluids maybe take Leeloo in and have the vet check for jaundice and yes strt syring feedin right away. I would get AD from the vet though it is much higher in calories and would be better than baby food. You can blend it in a blender so it is smooth and creamy and won't get stuck in the syringe. Prayers coming to Leeloo to start feeling better and get her appitite back. Not eating is a vicious cycle, when kitties don't eat they get dehydrated and don't feel good, when they don't feel good they don't want to eat, you can see where this is going ... -- 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 Vote For Us http://www.bemikitties.com/toplist/cgi-bin/topsites.cgi?id=1 --- Web Design Porfolio http://www.bemikitties.com/bmksamples.htm#portfolio
RE: Injured Leeloo not eating-- Important
It's a back left leg. We assumed and the vet assumed she injured herself as it happened overnight and the vet wrote "probable fracture at left stifle". I think it was hard for the vet to feel the injury since it was at the leg joint. I'm trying to get a hold of the vet. steve -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]Sent: Tuesday, January 18, 2005 1:53 PMTo: felvtalk@vlists.netSubject: Re: Injured Leeloo not eating-- Important Is it a front leg? Are you sure it is a fracture? Apparently there is some disease that kittens sometimes get that makes them limp on a front leg and they need a particular treatment-- I am not sure if it is an antibiotic. The woman who runs the shelter where my cats came from mentioned to me the other day that she euthanized a few kittens for this problem years ago before finding out it was a treatable condition. I thought you had known she injured herself. Michelle
Feral Cats, trapping, taming AND Milo (LeeLoo Loki's brother) has gone to rest
Thanks for everyone's comforting thoughts. It was helpful to have you all remind us, that Milo WAS loved and that he knew it. My sister had planned to talk to the lady down the hill who leaves bowls of food out forher 30+ feral cats. I think I briefly mentioned that our kittens came from one of her feral momma cats and that theshe abandoned the kittens. Well, perhaps Milo has left a wonderful legacy... My sister has re-doubled her determination to do something about the neighbors feral fleet of cats. She has talked to the lady about Milo's death from FeLVand that some of the other cats may have this horrible virus; that the food is attracting skunks and causing stink in the air on way too many occasions, not to mention dogs getting sprayed quite often; that kittens are being born all the time; cat and kitten skeletons have been found for several reasons, one of which is that the cats are attracting predators that do not normally hang out in the area; etc. Previous the lady said she could do nothing about the problem, since she couldn't approach them. My sister offered to trap them andbring them in to get fixed through a wonderprogram here called Project Purr (http://www.projectpurr.org/). The Project advocates TNR (Trap /Neuter/ Return)The ladyhas finally seen the light andhas agreed to pay the $25 fee to fix each cat that is trapped. Each cat will then be released back where they were found. Project Purr supplies the traps for the project. Something good has happened, pushed forward my Milo. Steve p.s. See here for kitten taming and feral cat trapping: http://www.projectpurr.org/links.htm
RE: Feral Cats, trapping, taming AND Milo (LeeLoo Loki's brother)has gone to rest
I didn't get the email that you are quoting Nina, but thanks for the words. I will pass this on to my sister, so the lady will know the additional benefits of TNR! Steve -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Nina Sent: Thursday, October 14, 2004 1:07 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: Feral Cats, trapping, taming AND Milo (LeeLoo Loki's brother)has gone to rest Steve, I'm so pleased that you and your sister were able to convince the lady who puts out food for the ferals to TNR! You could also let her know that it's the best solution to maintaining the colony, (better than trying to kill them in fact). When you spay/neuter the ferals they are much less likely to fight. If they have food and water, and are no longer motivated by mating, they have little reason for fighting. This will cut down the spread of disease. Also, they can at least have initial shots for rabies etc. What will end up happening is the colony will stop multipling, first because of course there won't be as many babies being born, but also the cats that are already there won't be attracting others for mating purposes. Cats are very territorial and they'll discourage the newcommers from joining the group. I've seen first hand the horrible suffering that kittens born in the wild have to endure. We have to spread the word that just because cats are resourceful it doesn't mean they are capable of taking care of themselves. We as humans are responsible for their plight and it's up to us do something about it. Sorry, I get pretty worked up on this subject. I know I'm preaching to the choir. Thanks again for making a difference! Nina
Milo (LeeLoo Loki's brother) has gone to rest
Hello all, I am back after attending my Grandfather's funeral in Kansas... only to find out that Milo has passed away. My sister and nieces did syringe feed him for several days, but he was too far gone. My 19 year old niece, Alisha, took Milo for her own and cared for him day and night. After he passed, she called her Mom from work crying; something you would not usually find in her nature to do. My sister and nieces (Lynda, Alisha, Shawna) are very sad to have lost him. Milo, a beautiful, lightly sandy, orange tabby kitten, died at 4 1/2 months old. He was the most laid-back, flexible, loving purr-box of the bunch. You never know when or which FelV+ kitty will go first. He was one of the largest and healthiest of the litter; his URI cleared up before the others and he had great strength. He will be missed. His sister, Abby, is healthy and continues to be lovingly cared for my my sister and nieces. LeeLoo and Loki, with me, are also healthy, happy and living the live of kings and queens. Steve
Leeloo and Loki's brother Milo on his last legs
Hi everyone, Thank you so much for your past support. I have been listening in the background faithfully. Your knowledge and encouragement have been a godsend. My Felv+ kittens, Leeloo and Loki, are growing, happy and seem like healthy kittens. They live in the most loving and stress-free environment possible. Loki has had a slightly swollen lip for awhile and I'll see what I can do about that. That's the update on my two. I am sad to say Leeloo and Loki's brother, Milo, has not been eating for the past few weeks. My sister and nieces have been trying to feed him baby food and he takes a small amount of it by licking it off of a spoon. They have been trying to get him to take water by bottle feeding with some success. However, he is skin and bones; is so week he cannot walk any longer; and is now almost not moving at all. My sister is thinking of taking him in to be put to sleep tomorrow. I'm thinking that this is the best. But, my question is, is there anything more we can do? I hate this so much and I'm not even a part of Milo's everyday life. My nieces are very sensitive, love their animals and can hardly think of letting one of their beautiful kittens die, but even they are acknowledging that maybe its time. Unless there is something we can do that will have an extraordinary effect, I think we have to let him go. Thank you in advance for your input. Steve
