10/23 Mugsy AMPS ? 1st day

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First of all, I can see my schedule needs new organizing!
**7:30 this morning got my supplies ready with bleary eyes. The overhead light at the counter is still stubbornly not working so, I'm working with two smaller, dimmer lights (no choice as it's still dark out).
**7:45 we started the testing. Five strips and even more punctures later we gave up! Not enough blood before the meter ran out of time (3 min.) or enough blood but, too much fight! Can't do ear pricks with his head like it is (would have oozing as well) so, am working with paws.
**8:00 gave first shot and squirted AB down his throat (most got down) and fed him. He's been throwing up early every morning - clear mucus or dry heaves - and decided he doesn't like cat food (canned) so, he's barely eaten in days except for the people food I've offered in desperation (pork roast pieces).
**8:15 my dear husband commented (as I waited on him) that I looked exhausted - I am! Did the rest of the morning chores and just got done re-reading the protocols, testing, and suggestions I saved from this site. This is no way to start a day! I'm not giving up - just frustrated.
Mugs just threw up again! Twice! I wonder if the AB is causing it? I don't dare not give it to him with his head like it is or if it's the AB and somewhat empty tummy? Anyone experience something like this? Any suggestions?
 
AB can cause nausea and vomiting for sure. What AB is he on? I know others have used Pepcid for nausea, but I have no personal experience with it. You can do a search for Pepcid for dosage, I don't know offhand. Hopefully others will chime in! Fortiflora or some other type of probiotic is a great idea to help with GI problems associated with AB. You can sprinkle on food 2 hours after AB so you don't interfere with AB action. Some people have skipped a dose of AB, and then resume, to help with GI problems.

First and foremost, cats need to eat. I don't want to scare you, but with a combination of not being regulated and an infection going on, not eating increases risk of ketones along with fatty liver, so give him whatever he will eat. You can try baby food, chicken or turkey, make sure there's no onion or garlic in it. Deli meat, rotissarie chicken (no skin), watch for added sugar and spices. Try tuna fish? I don't advocate dry food normally, but in a case like this, if that's all he will eat, give it to him. You can work on transitioning to wet gradually. He needs to eat, that trumps everything else.

Test for ketones at least daily...you need to keep a close eye on that with Mugsy's situation.

For BG testing...I know you have lots of tips already, not sure if anyone mentioned that you can scoop the blood drop onto your fingernail and test from there if he's fractious. If you're frustrated or anxious, take a break, calm down and try again..they feed off of our emotions, so being calm makes a big difference. Be sure to reward (treat) regardless of whether you get a test or not. You are not alone! It takes time and practice to get the hang of it...don't worry that it isn't going perfectly. Try to relax, it often takes a while for the testing to get easier even with a cooperative kitty. It WILL get easier...really! :YMHUG:

Keep us updated, ok?
 
Thanks for the feedback. Mugs is taking Biomox (pink pepsid-like liquid) bid. I had forgotten about Pepsid; thanks for the reminder. Right now I'm trying to get his head wound to drain then maybe we can try people tuna, again. Testing for keotones is nearly impossible since he is only using his box when he's sure I'm asleep - sneaky little devil. I was going to test at two (+6) but, between heaving and oozing I'm going to let it go untried. :YMSIGH:
 
HI Sally -

Laurie has given you great advice, not too much I can add to it. It just takes time to get the hang of testing down.There were more failures than successes for me when I first started. As Laurie said - they feed off of our emotions - if it's just not going to happen then just wait and try later. Eventually it will all be there for you, and Mugsy (love the name btw) It will be better too when his head wound is healed and you can ear test. So much easier. Good luck - and keep at it!
 
Laurie has covered the ground well. The only thing I would suggest, though, is to check with either your vet or a pharmacist regarding giving the antibiotic and Pepsid (1/4 of a 10 mg tablet of Pepcid AC -- NOT Pepsid complete). Some antibiotics require an acid environment in the stomach to work. You'll want to check about if you can give the two together or how much time to put in between.

If you get ForiFlora, many cats find it to be an appetite stimulant. My vet used to refer to it as "kitty crack."

If all else fails, there are prescription appetite stimulants -- mirtazepine and cyproheptadine. You might want to check with your vet and see if they can call in a prescription since these are "people" drugs and at least you can have them on hand, if you need something to spark Mugsy's appetite.
 
Thanks for the feedback friends. I got his head drained and there seemed to be less of a build up today, TG. I get worn out (he no doubt does too) fighting with him so much. It's a real battle (takes 2 of us) to drain his head or test him. I let him settle down again and tempted him with his favorite tuna but, all he did was drink the water from it - he left the tuna untouched. I'll try skipping the AB dose tonight, as suggested, and see if that helps at all. My ribs are sore from watching him heave! We missed the chance to test at 2 because of his wound draining and I'm not sure whether tonight is a good idea with all he's been through. We will see. Tomorrow should be better. Thanks for the warning about mixing the AB with Pepsid. That could defeat the purpose of giving it, for sure. He's stopped heaving briefly; I hope it lasts.
 
Hi Sally. I am an advice taker, not giver. I just wanted to say "hello", and hope the testing gets easier for you.
Poor little Mugsy, sure has had his problems. He is very lucky to have you to care for, and love him.
I know you posted on Health, but I haven't read it. I'm glad to see you here at LL.

Thank you for visiting our condo. :smile:
 
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