7/13 Latte AMPS-341 { She can walk!!! }

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carolynandlatte

carolynandlatte

Member Since 2009
yesterday:
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Latte pretty much stopped eating/drinking last night. I dont know if her tummy is just upset, if pain is causing a lack of desire to eat, constipation, or she is just done. Ive offered everything under the sun - she just turns her head away. If I push it she becomes upset. Im concerned about vomiting, because she could potentially aspirate if she cant sit up enough. Her amps was actually 266. I stalled and tried food, milk/water with no avail. She did take some treats. +12.5 went up to 341. So, I just took the fat off her dose. After her shot I did get her to eat some kibble wrapped in treats (about 10-15 pieces).

I have to be honest here. We are on day 5, and the only improvement is being able to sit up when she wants to. She actually seems less able to scoot (or maybe she has just given up trying). I did pick her up late last night to give her a moment off her side. She did not yelp anymore than she normally would when picked up, and Im certain she didnt like it...but I was able to do it. She is urine soaked on the one side. Had it not been spur of the moment I would have tried to clean it off a bit. I tried to let her put weight on her legs just a little, and she just fell over onto her right side in which she has been laying.

We have an appt for acupuncture today. Before we even get started, Im going to ask for an honest opinion about the possibility it could offer some positive effects in the first try. She is not going to make it like this for 3 sessions (3 weeks). I dont think she will make it even a few more days the way she is, especially if she will not eat. If there is little hope it will help today, I may opt to NOT do it. I will also see if her regular vet could see her (us) for a short time.

My heart is breaking and the tears have been flowing almost non stop since last night. I dont want to see her in so much pain and so helpless anymore. BUt I dont want to lose her. Ive been preparing myself for this loss over three years, as each disease she has acquired progresses. As ready as I thought I was...Im not.

I likely wont be able to update until much later this afternoon.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

((((Carolyn))))

Whatever you decide it will be the right decision. And we will be here for you, no matter what.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

Oh Carolyn. I'm so sorry. I wish I knew whether the acupuncture would do anything today.

We are never ready to let go of those we love so deeply, even if we tell ourselves we are prepared, our hearts are not.
It is ok to let her rest and give her peace, it is a kind and loving thing to do. I know you understand that but you just want a few more purrs, a few more hugs... a little more time. (((Carolyn)))

Look in her eyes and ask her and yourself if she needs to rest now or still wants to fight. No one can tell you the answer; it comes from within your two hearts. Such a difficult time, pain for her and pain for you.

We are here and love you too.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

((((Carolyn))))

I don't have first hand experience with acupuncture, but I can tell you that I read a book some years ago about a vet who was using acupuncture and chiropractic on his patients. At the time I had no faith in chiropractic, having had many friends that regularly went to chiropractors and seemed to have no long term progress. However, this book changed my mind: the results he had with the animals were amazing. Often on the first visit (both acupuncture and chiropractic) there would be a noticeable relaxation in the animal as they received some kind of relief. I think it's worth a try. I know when I go to my chiropractor (whom I love), I have a little bit of relief after the visit and then the next day or 2 I just feel better and better. It may work that way with Latte...

Oh - I just remembered! A friend of mine who had multiple back problems had either acupuncture or acupressure treatment. She said after the first treatment her back stopped hurting for the first time in years! And it lasted for a while - a week or longer...

I know you don't want to push her too far and you know her best... but you've tried everything else and if she's up to it, I think it might be worth it. On the other hand, if you get that feeling that she really doesn't want to go through anything more, I agree that it's ok to let her rest and have some peace. I know it's a tough call, but no one is ever going to think that you didn't do everything you could for her. You're the best mama bean!
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

(((((Carolyn))))

My heart goes out to you. You and Latte have been through so much together.For so long. And that is why only you will know when she is 'done'. For as long as YOU don't get that feeling, just keep doing what you've been doing or what you think is best. You can do no wrong. You love Latte too much to do wrong for her. She WILL let you know. You will know in your heart. We're never ready, but they let us know.

Carolyn, as everyone has said, you can never, EVER second guess that you didn't do all that you could, the best that you could, whatever you do for your baby girl for as long as your time together will last. You are the best mama ever. We all know that and Latte does too. She has always trusted that you would do what's best for her and you always have.That's why she loves you so.

We are all here for you ♥

Love and hugs~
Caryl, Alex & Jackson
 
((( Carolyn )))

There is no question of the love and the bond you share with Latte. The two of you have made this journey together and I pray the vet visit goes well for you both.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

Carolyn and Latte,

Thinking of you today and hope and pray that you get good results from the acupuncture. I know that it can work wonders!
I also think that Latte's being able to sit up is a definite improvement over the past five days. Slowly, but surely, often prevails! Paws and everything else here crossed for you!

Judy, Jake, & Civvie Boomer
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

(((Carolyn & Latte))) my prayers and thoughts are with you.
Sending eating
smiley-eatdrink022.gif
vines to Latte.
I hope the vet visit goes well.
I bet she will feel much better once her side is cleaned and/or shaved, too. Fingers crossed for accupunture miracles.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

Oh Carolyn I'm so sorry for your tears and confusion as to what is best for Latte cat_pet_icon only you two will know what is best. I do
hope that the acupuncture works for her :smile:
Enjoy today with Latte :smile:
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

(((((Carolyn))))) No matter how "prepared" we are, we are never ready to let our babies go. Whatever you decide today will be the right decision because you will be making it out of love. I am sending prayers for a miracle for Latte today.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

Carolyn you know that you are doing what Latte needs. You will know when she is ready. Worrying about it won't help you make the decision, but it will effect the quality of your time with her. Try whatever you need to, but not to the exclusion of simply being with her.
Healing vines and snowflakes for Latte, Hugs for you.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

no words of advice here ... just know that latte knows you are doing everything in your power to help her get better ... but just like humans, when the time comes, the time comes ... and the pain is only left for those here on Earth ...
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

((((Carolyn & Latte)))) I can offer hugs and support and only echo what everyone else has already said. I wish I could take away all the pain and hurt and confusion you both feel, but unfortunately, that is something I can not do. My heart aches for you. I know that you will do the right thing and you will do it with every bit of the love you have in your heart for Latte.
I also hope that the miracle you are looking for is in the form of the acupuncture.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

(((Carolyn))) and (((Latte))) My heart goes out to you. You have my thoughts and prayers and support, no matter what happens. Latte knows you love her, and always will.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

Just checking in looking for an update. I'm worried about you guys today.

Sending all the prayers, healing and postive energy I can. Along with love and support.....

cat_pet_icon Give my Princess Warrior a scritch from her aunty....
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

((((Carolyn & Latte)))) I hope the vet visit goes well… We are never ready to let them go… She will let you know somehow… You have done so much for her already, she knows you love her, you two share a very special bond… Hope and prayers for you and Latte.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

My heart hurts for you Carolyn--Sending snowflakes & healing prayers to Latte-((((Carolyn--Latte))))
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

Lots of healing prayer for you and Latte.

I haven't experienced any kitty back problems, but I did have some of my own last summer. No ruptured disc or anything, but I think either a bulging disc on a nerve or pinched nerve. For like 2 days, I literally could not bring myself to move and laid on the couch in a specific position. Then I could get up for short periods of time for about a week or so (long enough to get something to eat or go to the bathroom). I could kinda sit up, but when sitting up it was easier to accidentally put my back into the "bad" pain position. So, I would lay down most of the time. Often while walking, I would put pressure on my back "just right" and my knees would go out completely. After about a month, I was able to get around regularly. And had figured out, "the bad position" that made my legs go out. Took about 6 months for me to heal completely.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

Carolyn: All thoughts and prayers with you and Latte. I hope you tried the acupuncture. I have had great results with it as have my animals. Snowflakes your way.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

i am hoping acupuncture will help a lot. have heard very good things now from two fellow cat owners.

carolyn, my heart breaks for you. i do know some of what you're going thru. i don't want you or latte to suffer any more. hoping this does the trick for her and it's encouraging to hear acupuncture is not expensive.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

+6 or +7 (foggy here) - 91
PMPS- 409

I did go ahead with the acupuncture. I also spoke with Latte's vet for a while before and after. Somehow she managed to get out of her carrier when he came in and make it about 2 feet under a chair. When we looked at her right side (the one she has been laying on), we saw something I couldnt see the few short times I looked at it....blood. :YMSIGH: Yes, that likely means she has an infection (UTI). It just doesnt end, does it. I knew this would happen. We did not get a u/a for a few reasons. I have not noticed any blood on pee pads yet, but will keep an eye out. I think I might call tomorrow and ask for a prescription of orbax. Its a crapshoot, but it is one I can mix in food and possibly get in her. It also seems less likely to upset her tummy.

We talked a bit about QOL and choices. I got the sense he was understanding how serious the situation was, but he felt it was worth at least one acupuncture tx and increasing her pain meds A LOT. I doubled her afternoon dose to see how she would react. Still in the waiting phase. If she tolerates it, I will come close to doubling her overnight dose. I guess the potential reaction she has is worth the possibility that it could help more with her pain at this point.

The vet did not feel it was worth continuing the extra pred, due to the possible or potential infection. I agreed. So we are back down to 5mg. He also gave me permission to go above and beyond the maximum dose of pepcid when needed. She really needed more last night, but had already had the max. Im not to make a habit of it, rather use my best judgement and use it sparingly.

She did really well with the acupuncture, despite the continuous growling. I was surprised how small the needles were. The vet was very good and calm, which Im sure helped Latte a lot. I was told there is less than a 50% chance she will feel well enough to walk after first tx, but it should no matter what help decrease her pain. I felt it was worth it just for a little more pain relief, if thats all she got. If she gets lethargic, rests easier, etc in the first 24hrs then there is a good chance she will show improvement in the next 24hrs. She is already pretty lethargic so it may be hard to tell. I think she would feel much better if she slept. I dont think I have seen her with her eyes closed/sleeping more than 1 or 2 times since Friday...and that is iffy.

For those of you who have cats who get meowy, restless, want food/water badly when they drop...imagine your cat having those sensations and feelings without the ability to move. They know and see what they want, but they cant get there. Thats how it was for us as soon as we got home. She was nearly impossible to test and try to feed or give water too because she kept thrashing her head and trying to figure out HOW to get to where she needed to be. It was one of the most exhausting hours of my life (emotionally). I eventually got her to eat some baby food and vanilla yogurt (contains sugar). Then she just crashed, as did I. Im going to check in on her for some food soon, as she has only had a few treats since her shot (30 minutes ago). She is obviously bouncing, so hopefully I will have some time to persuade her to eat.

She went through another bout of restlessness about an hour after her bupe. I had run out to get something and was only gone 30 minutes. She managed to turn and scoot herself a little, and was obviously in distress. She is very bothered about peeing on the pee pads. She is obsessed with sitting as close to and facing her LB. She cries in distress before she has to pee. I picked her up this time and put her in the box to go. She had no complaints...except she apparently was not finished because 10 minutes later we had to do the same thing. I guess I will try to do this more often. Her vet felt, even if it was painful to pick her up...it was for her greater good to switch sides, put in LB, etc. She also had a poop right before we left for the vet (with assistance to the box).

I dont really know what Im doing or what Im suppose to do. I am so afraid of doing the wrong thing and letting this drag out. But terrified of cutting a life short if she still wants to be here and things can improve. My resources are becoming more limited, and dont know how much more I can stretch things (myself, emotions, finances, etc). I have been in touch with a friend who is a vet and about a year ago agreed to help Latte cross at home. I have not been the greatest friend (pretty much disappeared from all friends lately), so I wont blame her if she cant do it or wont go out of the way to help. But the call is out there to help ease my mind if that is a possibility whether it be tomorrow, next week, or maybe a little longer.

She tried cleaning her urine soaked side in the car, and some at home this afternoon. When I put her down after picking up she has been able to sort of sit both assisted and unassisted for about 30 seconds before starting to fall over. She is now laying on her LEFT side, to give the right a little break. After her shot she bit and rubbed the pink (now brown) catnip pillow Amy gave her a while ago. She is now laying calmly, hugging the pillow.

I called in sick for maybe the 2nd or 3rd time in 15yrs at my bartending job. It was not going to be a big show or money maker at all, so I dont feel too bad. Though it certainly would have been therapeutic for me to get out and be around my 'family', music, and get into the zen of bartending to keep my mind off things. Two more days until I have to go back to my other job. I suspect Latte will be coming to work with me there.

Sorry for the great length. And Im sorry for all the other kitties/beans out there struggling right now. There seem to be many.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

Words escape me now - you have so much on your shoulders - it is hard to fathom. I hope things turn around for Latte, she seems to want it to. It also hope that the acupuncture will make a difference. I think of the both of you often, you are never out of my thoughts. Hang in there - you will never regret any of this, nor will Latte. take care ~~ Michelle and Mannie
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

My keyboard wouldn't respond and I had to restart my computer, when I first read this. All I wanted to say was Thank God.
I hope the acupunture helps and she gets some good sleep, and you get some good sleep, too, Carolyn. :YMHUG: to you both.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

KB had acupuncture, I don't recall if he slept afterwards but I'm thinking the vet might have told me to expect that. I hope you both have a peaceful night and that the treatment helps her comfort level.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

Carolyn,

Thank you so much for the update. There are a bunch of people here, checking in on your condo looking for updates and we really appreciate you taking the time to let us know what's going on.

Hang in there - I know it's incredibly tough right now. I'm hoping she gets some relief from the acupuncture.

You know, back in May when I was dealing with Big Cat going downhill - I was torturing myself about knowing when it would be time to take the next step... people kept saying 'if he's not getting better, are you considering pts?' but it was so clear to me that it wasn't the right time - that it would be cutting his time short and I wasn't going to do that for convenience sake, you know? Just because it would be easier for me or for other people - I wanted to do what was right for HIM. But I have to tell you, when I woke up and saw him on 20 May and he was wheezing just the littlest bit, I just knew - even though he wasn't in obvious distress. I made the appt for the afternoon cuz that's when his regular vet was coming in. I went to work and told people that he wasn't coming home - I may have even posted it in my condo - I just knew. I can't tell you if he told me somehow or if there is just some primitive part of our brains that responds at times like that to let us know what our animals know - to let us know it's time to let go. Anyway - it turned out that Big Cat didn't come home again and there was something peaceful for me in that feeling of knowing that I had. Trust yourself - you will know when it's time. If you are struggling with it this much, it's not time yet. Don't beat yourself up about it.

Ok - that said, I'm sending thoughts and prayers and white light and healing vines and blizzards of cool, comforting snowflakes to ease Latte's pains and discomforts. She is surrounded by love.

We're here for you.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

Dear Carolyn, I have read and re-read your condo and words fail me. All I can say, from experience with our Alice, is that you will know when it is time to say farewell. Latte will help you and it will be loving and peaceful. I know that this is so. And whenever the time comes, Latte will not stop being with you. The special bond that you share will never be broken.
We think of you all the time and pray that you and your Latte will have a restful night tonight.
Many hugs to you both,

Ella & Stu
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

((Carolyn))
I can not even imagine what the 2 of you are going through now.
You and Latte have an enormous amount of strength and I am praying so
hard that little by little she will overcome this.
You know we are all supporting you and sending blizzards of snowflakes
and miracles.
Hopefully this treatment will ease some of her pain.
There have been several good signs that Latte is still fighting.
((hugs)) and prayers.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

Sending prayers and hugs. Latte knows you are there to take care of her. Whatever happens, it happens from love.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

SHE SLEEPS!
First time since last Thurs that I have seen eyes fully closed, typical twitching, not noticing me when I walk in the room...sound asleep! *sigh*

She really needs to eat...tho did have some rotisarre chicken about an hour ago.

Oh this must feel sooooo good to her.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

Hugs, good thoughts and prayers to you and Latte. Hope you have success with the acupuncture. So glad she is sleeping hope you can get some well deserved rest.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

carolynandlatte said:
SHE SLEEPS!
First time since last Thurs that I have seen eyes fully closed, typical twitching, not noticing me when I walk in the room...sound asleep! *sigh*

She really needs to eat...tho did have some rotisarre chicken about an hour ago.

Oh this must feel sooooo good to her.
Click to expand...

So wonderful to see this and I am praying the acupuncture helps sending support to you (((Carolyn))) hang in there I cannot even begin to imagine what you are going thru but I am praying for you two
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

Good, good news! Hope both Latte and you get some healing sleep tonight!
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

carolynandlatte said:
SHE SLEEPS!
First time since last Thurs that I have seen eyes fully closed, typical twitching, not noticing me when I walk in the room...sound asleep! *sigh*

She really needs to eat...tho did have some rotisarre chicken about an hour ago.

Oh this must feel sooooo good to her.
Click to expand...
let her sleep. sleep is healing. and yes, meowzi sleeps very deeply after acupuncture. she drinks a lot too, so be prepared to offer latte water when she wakes.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

Rest sweet girl, rest. I hope it is a very peaceful, painfree rest.
(((((Carolyn & Latte))))))
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

Sending love to you and Latte.....I can only hug you both across the miles and pray that you will both be okay. You are doing so well Carolyn....such a wonderful and loving Mama. Please give a kiss to Latte from us tonight, from us.. (((Latte))) Sleep peacefully sweet girl....
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

This is good news Carolyn,
Sending over lots of sweet dreams for Latte and you too.
Get to bed and rest.
((hugs))
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

What a huge sigh of relief I felt to read that she got some sleep and also sounds like some much appreciated relief. I can only imagine how much it must mean to you.

My thoughts are with you both that you continue with good results and improvement with the acupuncture.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

Angels & Prayers coming to your house to help your Latte Feel better soon both of you Hugsssssssss LOL kath
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

Sorry for the play by play, but thought you would all like to know...
Latte ate 3/4 can ff straight from the can. I tried taking pics as her entire face was shoved in there, but couldnt get good lighting.

I then took out the trash and when I came back in I almost fell over. Latte was laying upright by her water bowl. That was approx 3-4 ft scoot + about 2-3 inch drop from where she has been stationed the last 4-5 days.

She needed a little help sitting and staying in place to drink. She drinks out of a cottage cheese container...no other will do...so you can see how hard this may be.

Im wondering if anyone has suggestions for overnight. I do not want to take away the water, but she has already nearly knocked it over a number of times. Thats a great volume of water to wake up to on the floor. Not to mention a wet cat. Would it be mean to take away, but continue waking every few hrs to offer?

Another problem is getting to the litterbox quick enough. If she scoots around to explore and has to pee, well certainly she wont make it to the box.

Hmmmm....this may be a long night!

I hope this is a real sign of something miraculous!
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

Just wanted to pop in and say how much you and Latte are in my thoughts an prayers. I hate that you two are having to go through this and am still praying and hoping for a miracle. So glad to read that she is finally getting a restful sleep. She so needs it and so do you. Hang in there.
 
Re: 7/13 Latte AMPS-341

About the water tipping over ... if she MUST have that container, can you set it on a towel or set it on something that holds it stable and with little/less chance of tipping?
maybe you can lay something underneath also that can protect the floor from water - I put their water in a rubber boot tray so that any spillage stays in the tray.

What about limiting her just overnite in a small area, to curb her exploring, grouping the LB water and food all in a small area like bathroom or corner of kitchen or some place. It would be just for a few hours and hopefully she will be doing more of that needed sleep thing!
 
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