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Mary | 7 years ago
I Have A Persian Cat 7 Yrs She Isn’t Breathing That Well. I Personally Think She …

I have a Persian cat 7 yrs she isn’t breathing that well. I personally think she is stuffed up or has something in her airway causing her to breathing problems. I’ve spent $2000 on testing with no results and I can’t continue to go bankrupt to fix her. Is there anyone in the San Tan Valley area who will give her a cat scan for reasonable price and cure my cat. Thanks.

1 Response

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  1. Krista Magnifico

    Hello,
    I would ask for a referral to a feline specialist and explain your financial concerns. I also think that even if you could scrape together the funds for a ct scan it is unlikely to cure your cat. It will just provide more information towards a diagnosis. It doesn’t treat them. Also talk about allergies, perhaps shaving your cat down and anything you can try medically and inexpensively to help improve her breathing like an antihistamine steroid or even a bronchodilator.

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Laura Tomaschefsky | 7 years ago
A Few Of My Co-workers And I Have Been Taking Care Of Some Feral Cats That …

A few of my co-workers and I have been taking care of some feral cats that hang around my office. Those co-workers have since moved on. So that leaves me with the expenses of food and such. I’m doing my best to keep up because I truly care for these cats. I would like to get some flea and tic medicine on them…. They do allow me to get near them and also pet them, just for a minute though! Anyone know where to find highly discounted meds for them?

4 Responses

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  1. Krista Magnifico

    If you have a hard time handling then then the best option might be comfortis. Otherwise the spray version of frontline is very affordable but not easy to apply.

    1. Laura Tomaschefsky Post author

      I may have to try the comfortis… does that prevent ticks, too? Do you ever have discounted meds at your facility? My work is a few miles down Norrisville.

  2. Sarah

    Good morning???? You might also want to contact local rescue organizations. They may have an in with a TNR group to get these cats fixed and help control the cat population from expanding. They also may be able to get you needed help in caring for this colony.

    1. Laura Tomaschefsky Post author

      Thank you. I did have them fixed about 3 years ago with a TNR group. Several of them… these are the only two left. It’s Momma and Daughter. But I will check to see if any local rescue groups offer any assistance. Thanks again!

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Delaney Donelson | 7 years ago
Just Noticed Fleas On Both Of My Cats.. What Is The Safest Treatment To Use?

Just noticed fleas on both of my cats.. what is the safest treatment to use?

2 Responses

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  1. Krista Magnifico

    Hello.
    There are lots of safe options these days. It is always best to talk to your vet about their preference and ideas as they know your car best. On mine I use either revolution or bravecto. But if you are looking for a good safe effective and affordable over the counter I like frontline too. It’s now available as a generic. Be really careful though lots of otc meds are very toxic to cats. They will be labeled as such. And make sure you treat all the pets in the household.

    1. Delaney Donelson Post author

      I ended up picking up Advantage because it was the only option at the store that didnt seem to have terrible reviews online. My vet is currently closed but i plan on calling them tomorrow to see if they would like to see them. I hadnt noticed them itching or licking excessively until now (about 3 hours after application), is that normal?

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Heather | 7 years ago
I Rescued A Box Of Kittens That Were Thrown In A Cardboard Box Wet To Die …

I rescued a box of kittens that were thrown in a cardboard box wet to die four years ago. My fiancé kept one that we named Stoker (a tuxie that reminded me of Bram Stoker). Three months ago he blocked. We got him in to the emergency vet and transferred him to our regular clinic. Over the last three months he has had nothing but complications from infections of the sutures outside, to irritation and swelling. We finally got the last two outer sutures out at the vet about a month ago and were not charged. However today temperatures soared and he has been panting nonstop. His body temp is 101.9, and I have been wetting him down with a wet wash rag. He then vomited nothing but hair and water (assume from over grooming because of heat). Finally got him in an a/c room and he vomited again. He is twitching in his hind end. I tried to insert a sterile curved syringe into the new opening and cannot get it further than 1/4” so instead of heat stroke I am now worried the hole may have healed over. We have no income as we have both become unemployed. I am desperate for help.

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  1. Heather Post author

    We let another cat that was a month younger in that box who had the same PU surgery and he had never had complications. He did have his within six months of age (he has Manx size and tail issues they said his urethra was smaller than it should have been and it was necessary or else he would have issues). So I am not a stranger to this surgery and recovery and I know everyone is different.

  2. Sarah

    Heather- I would make a phone call to your regular vet who is familiar with this cat and situation right away.

  3. Krista Magnifico

    Hello,
    Based on the temperature you took I don’t think the panting is due to fever. I would be worried about pain, stress etc. I often see cats pain with pain or stress. I am so sorry about all that has happened. I am also sorry to say that the only way to help your cat is with a vet. Someone needs to examine him. Call you vet and ask for help. Or find a car specialist to assist. Or call every shelter and rescue.

  4. Heather Post author

    I am at his primary vet now although the vet who has been handling his issues is off today. Praying they can help us.

  5. Heather Post author

    He had blocked again. They opened his new urethra and flushed him again. They also opened it a little more. He is fine now thankfully.

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Heather | 7 years ago
I Rescued A Box Of Kittens That Were Thrown In A Cardboard Box Wet To Die …

I rescued a box of kittens that were thrown in a cardboard box wet to die four years ago. My fiancé kept one that we named Stoker (a tuxie that reminded me of Bram Stoker). Three months ago he blocked. We got him in to the emergency vet and transferred him to our regular clinic. Over the last three months he has had nothing but complications from infections of the sutures outside, to irritation and swelling. We finally got the last two outer sutures out at the vet about a month ago and were not charged. However today temperatures soared and he has been panting nonstop. His body temp is 101.9, and I have been wetting him down with a wet wash rag. He then vomited nothing but hair and water (assume from over grooming because of heat). Finally got him in an a/c room and he vomited again. He is twitching in his hind end. I tried to insert a sterile curved syringe into the new opening and cannot get it further than 1/4” so instead of heat stroke I am now worried the hole may have healed over. We have no income as we have both become unemployed. I am desperate for help.

1 Response

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  1. Autumn

    Stoker is a very handsome boy! I sincerely apologize as this response in coming forth quite a while after, but I do hope you received the answers you were looking for. 101.9F is a pretty normal temp for our kitty friends. Please let us know if there is any thing we can help with or any questions you may have!

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Pam Brooks | 7 years ago
My Cat Was Taken In To The Vet In May To Treat Allergies, Difficulty Breathing…

My cat was taken in to the vet in May to treat allergies, difficulty breathing (snoring sounds) and a head tilt. Was given an anti inflammatory, antibiotic (convenia), vitamin b-12, ear drops, and an X-ray. Diagnosed with asthma brought on by allergies. Lungs ok. Three weeks later breathing and itching had improved, but third eyelid started showing.
Vet would not see him and said to go to a specialist.
Took the cat for a second opinion. That vet said we should check for nasal polyps. Was sedated and had an exam of ears and throat. No polyps were visible. Vet felt a small enlarged area under the soft palate, but could not confirm this was a polyp. Head tilting stopped after first visit. Recurred a few days ago. Not present now. Second vet recommended going to a specialist for ct scan. It is cost prohibitive and I’m not sure it is necessary. Third opinion from an online site recommended we try antibiotics for the respiratory issues. Started on one antibiotic today for ten days. And started on purina fortiflora.
Looking for any other advice or experience with issues like this. I’ve never had a cat with these problems.
Thanks.
#cats #nasal #headtilt #respiratory #polyps

9 Responses

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  1. Krista Magnifico

    Hello,
    This is a tough one. The problem really lies in the inability to localize and identify the lesion causing all of the clinical signs. I would look into Horners Syndrome and see a cat specialist. I also would consider a long discussion with a trusted vet on what is treatable and what isn’t based on most likely diagnosis. That’s really what you need. Help from someone who will talk about your case within your budget and comfort zone. I have to add one more thing. It really bugs the heck out of me to have a vet who won’t talk to you further after you discuss and confide in your inability to see a specialist (who will likely want a ct that you also can’t afford). Sorry. Soapbox moment.
    Keep me posted on your cats status please.

  2. Pam Brooks Post author

    Thank you. I just found your videos on removing nasal polyps on you tube. Was so hopeful yesterday that the second opinion vet who did the exam with Lucas under anesthesia would find a polyp in his throat and remove it. But instead she said she felt something kidney bean size under his soft palate. She wasn’t real confident of what it was. I went for the second opinion and told them I could not do the specialist route due to cost. Then I ended up being told I need to go see a specialist and spend 1-2 thousand for a CT. After that I could not pay for anymore treatment. So I searched around and had a vet online recommend the antibiotics. No one yet has given me options. Although the second vet said well he could live with polyps. I said but he is getting worse. The head tilt went away and came back. She said nothing else. I feel like I’m in an airport being moved through the system in the midst of storms that no on wants to discuss. And when I ask questions like can we give him steroids for inflammation – she says oh no I wouldn’t do that.
    I am scheduled for a consult with a vet from Cornell on Sunday. Maybe that will help.
    The other option I’m considering is just paying for a consult with a specialist – internal medicine I guess. When you call they won’t tell you what anything costs until you beg them. So I am leary of spending more money twith a specialist who may tell me they can’t do anything until I spend even more money on a ct.
    Sorry, frustrating week.

  3. Krista Magnifico

    Hello,
    I completely understand your frustration. For al of the reasons you mention we added a storyline section to this site. If you can please add a story of your experience at each vet you went to and include the prices of each visit. I hope it is a way for others to see what the cost of care is and even which bets are affordable and helpful. Stories are entered by service provider. So each visit is entered separately but reference that you added one for each. It is a new feature so let me know if you have any questions or problems. We really are working hard to help people like you. Keep us posted. Good luck. Ps I think Cornell is a great option.

  4. Pam Brooks Post author

    For more information on this subject please see these credible resource pages; ACVS Nasopharyngeal Polyps; https://www.acvs.org/small-animal/nasopharyngeal-polyps

    Dr Magnifico, this is the link you posted. Figure 5 sounds like what Lucas has – a small polyp under his soft palate. Is this a surgery that a general practice cat vet could perform. Or only a surgeon. Cost is an issue for me. But I want to help Lucas before things get worse. Thanks.

  5. Pam Brooks Post author

    It says the mass will regrow with the simple removal shown. But it would be some relief and I’m not sure how fast they grow. Thanks.

  6. Pam Brooks Post author

    Went to a new vet today. What a difference from the others! Quiet, calm environment. Cats only patients. The vet was so thorough. Spent a long time with Lucas. When Lucas got anxious, he allowed him to go back into his carrier and calm down. Then he continued the exam by removing the top of the carrier. Lucas stayed in the corner and was much calmer. Going to try a new antibiotic – to hit what might be a middle ear infection. Onward!

  7. Pam Brooks Post author

    Thanks Dr Magnifico,
    The consulting vet from Cornell recommended I find a good vet interested in pursuing what is going on with Lucas, and listening to me regarding my budget. That was the same advice you gave! By the way the Cornell consult was excellent. The vet was very familiar with nasal polyps – and did not feel like this is the problem.

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ow | 7 years ago
My Cat Has Thrown Up 3 Hairballs In The Past Week. This Started After We…

My cat has thrown up 3 hairballs in the past week. This started after we had began packing to move, he has also had a diet change. I noticed no other problems with him. Could this be due to stress or is it something bigger?

2 Responses

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  1. Sarah

    This could be a combination of stress from the move and all that goes along with it and the new food. Your cat may be grooming more often to sooth any stress they are feeling. I would keep an eye on him…maybe jot down how often he is grooming, when hairballd occur, what is going on just before or around the time they occur, and if it continues share this info with your vet. Best of luck!

  2. Stacey Harris

    My cats also went through a stage of throwing up hairballs; one of my cats was a domestic long-hair. I solved her issue by shaving her each summer in May and she stays short through December. Also, it made it much easier on her grooming habits, which would lead to hairballs each month. I switched both to a high fiber dry kibble, grain free and hairballs have almost completely been eradicated. I’m wary of highly “colored” kibbles found in the cheaper grocery stores that include many dyes and artificial flavors/colors. These caused both of my cats to vomit commonly. Finally the good news; my vet said the best place for a hairball is one that’s been thrown up. As violent as the act of expelling a hairball is, it beats the alternative of a colon obstruction. Hope this helps!

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Laurie Sites | 7 years ago
My Cat Recently Had A Bilateral Chain Mastectomy Following The Diagnosis Of An Adenocarcinoma In…

My cat recently had a bilateral chain mastectomy following the diagnosis of an adenocarcinoma in one of the chains. She came through the surgery well and all looked good at her follow up appointment. However, over the next few weeks I started to notice her stomach swelling. I took her into my vet 3 weeks after getting her stitches removed to check it out. She did an x-ray and tested the fluid and determined it was a seroma. She drained the fluid and started her on antibiotics. The seroma has returned (from what I’m reading here that’s not surprising) but it is firmer this time. Should I be concerned about that? Does anyone have recommendations on what to use for compression of the abdomen in a cat? I’m concerned the seroma will keep increasing in size. How do I determine how big is too big to just wait it out? Thanks!

3 Responses

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  1. Krista Magnifico

    Hello,
    Seromas are pretty typical after removing a large piece of tissue. The space removed has the potential to be the size of the subsequent seroma.

  2. Laurie Sites Post author

    Thank you! Can seromas be firm?
    This picture was before it was drained the first time. It’s come back but it’s not quite as big as it was yet

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Pawbly | 7 years ago
Our Outdoor Cat (1yr) Wasn’t Around During The Day, Like She Usually Is, For Lots…

Our outdoor cat (1yr) wasn’t around during the day, like she usually is, for lots of love. When she finally came around that night, we noticed the top of her tail seemed skinned on the bottom part (just meaty flesh), about 2.5inches. We went to our local farm store and bought a spray to keep infection out and help heal. She seemed to feel better a couple days later, eating and coming around more. Then we noticed the whole tail was looking abnormal, like skinned, with fur hanging. She became more herself, following us around property, wanting alot of love, moving easily, jumping up on things, eating well. 2.5 weeks since this first began, and today, the whole outer part came off! It was almost like a cacoon type looking, hollow inside! All the hair and everything is now gone, just about 4-5″ of completely bare flesh.
I have documented with video/pictures the whole time. We weren’t sure if an animal tried to bite her, or she had gotten it caught in a trap? We love her so much, my 5yr old has raised her after her mommy died 6wks after birth. We are a one income family, and my husband is about to have surgery that we have to pay for upfront, as well as coming up with the money the short term disability won’t pay for 6wks…we are at a loss?
First pic is how it has looked for about 2 weeks, then the other 3 pics are from today ?)

2 Responses

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  1. Krista Magnifico

    Hello,
    My guess is that the tail should be amputated to the point where there is viable skin to close the incision. I am worried that the hair will not grow back and she will be in constant discomfort to the point of self traumatizing. I don’t have any cheaper options for you. I’m sorry. I suppose there is a chance the tail might heal but any and all open wounds should be carefully monitored for infection and maggots. Please see a vet. At least for an exam and ask for guidance.

  2. Sarah

    I am soo sorry this happened. I know you’re on a tight budget, but I would definitely get her to a vet to examine it and get her some antibiotics at the very least. Explain to the. You’re financial situation up front and that you of course love this cat but have to take the most cost effective option at this point in time. As she is an outdoor cat, it is going to probably be a bit difficult to monitor her closely… having said that, I agree with Dr. Magnifico and really recommend getting to a vet to assess the situation and get advice. Best of luck!!??

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Joanne Tweit | 7 years ago
My Rescue Cat Of 5 Years Is Showing All The Symptoms Of Nasopharyngeal Polyp. He…

My rescue cat of 5 years is showing all the symptoms of Nasopharyngeal Polyp. He is my everything!
OH please I am begging for help here ! I am disabled and he is the center of world . I am on the south west coast of Washington State, my rescue cat Kiki presents with all these symptoms ( I come from a family of RN and Bachelor in Nursing ) I have called vest around here and ALL of them say they do not do this surgery because they dont have the scope, or they will not even discuss possible price or treatment without me coming in and the vet seeing them. They say they will diagnose and refer me to a specialty clinic not far away . The specialty clinic gave me a quote of $3,500-$5,000 !! If this is even what is wrong with him . I am devastated that no one will even discuss this with me without paying for a vet visit. It looks like i could spend hundreds in visits before i can find someone who is even willing to think about this surgery without referral to the very expensive specialty place . PLEASE HELP I CANNOT AFFORD THAT MUCH !! Meanwhile my poor sweet Kiki is slowly getting worse. I dont know what to do anymore !!!!!!!!

2 Responses

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  1. Krista Magnifico

    Hello,
    I’m sorry to hear about your kitty. I recommend that you keep calling and start with any of the small privately owned feline practices. Also call the vet school and all of the local rescues. Go to Facebook and Nextdoor.com and ask for help. Someone out there has to be able to look for you. And to do it affordably. I really wish you the best of luck.