Cat in ICU (now out) 7/26 [bg broke 200's]

[Kris & Teasel]

I have my hands on him. Rolled through arby's and go him food, hopefully he will eat it

He has a lot of vocalizations that seem random. That is not the norm for him. That's concerning.

Were you sent home with a treatment plan? He's probably completely stressed and disoriented. He needs to be quiet in his familiar surroundings at home.

 

[MJW]

Why didn't they do the blood ketone test?
I am so sorry this has happened. I hope you are both feeling better soon at home.

 

[Olive & Paula]

HOG WASH!!!!!! All diabetic cats have the potential to throw ketones. That should be the 2nd test they do automaticaly when a cat is diabetic and sick. IMHO.

 

[apple]

I wonder if it might be helpful for you to seek out a good general practice vet to work with, someone you can relate to and have a collaborative relationship with. If your kitty has seen a variety of vet specialists in a university setting you likely can't get them talking to each other or to you very easily. They might have depth of expertise in their area but there's no substitute for a good general practitioner who's available to you when you need them, who can see the big picture, who will listen to your concerns and see you and your kitty as individuals.

I'm not sure if your kitty's treatment can be simplified somewhat under a general vet's care. Sometimes care can be overdone when there's a whole group of specialists involved. There's that old saying, "When you have a hammer, everything is a nail." That can happen with the myopia/tunnel vision of various specialties.

He has a boat load of vets. Each with their one s

This post is interrupted to say he urinated, pooped but refuses to eat. Opened some good mc ff gravy, but no go.

Gave 12mg Cerenia / .05ml bupe

Going to force feed ad. He's lost weight and muscle.

He's got neuro issues. Head and face are swollen, I don't think he has the same vision as before. He doesn't hold tail up, it drags behind him. He was always a boy with his tail in the air and a kink where it point to the side. Even the kink is gone. Also, neurologist said his head is in pain.

Eyes: hard to describe, he moves his while head to look at something instead of moving his eyes, he also uses his ears to see. Mannitol usually resolves this. I asked for it and was denied.

Bg was 130 when tested. I'm going with no lantus at this. Agree?

I've held and loved in him. Will keep up dating.

 

[apple]

Why didn't they do the blood ketone test?
I am so sorry this has happened. I hope you are both feeling better soon at home.

I asked if they would and was told no. His bg was too low (just under 400) for it to be an issue.

I was sent with strips to test.

 

[carfurby (GA)]

Sending more prayers.

 

[rhiannon and shadow (GA)]

sounds a lot like a stroke....
prayers that it wasn't, they should have told you that if they suspected such a thing.

try offering him anything that you know he likes....
ideas: - scrambled egg, cheese , lunch meat, human tuna

Sending a truckload of vines and prayers ....

 

[apple]

sounds a lot like a stroke....
prayers that it wasn't, they should have told you that if they suspected such a thing.

try offering him anything that you know he likes....
ideas: - scrambled egg, cheese , lunch meat, human tuna

Sending a truckload of vines and prayers ....

He was overdosed on the anesthesia for his CT. I don't know if he had a stroke. Right now I think the swelling is do to the manhandling of his head. It's been an issue when his head is handled anything other than gently, he gets edima and needs Mannitol.

I don't know how to get it across to them that they need to hear me. His quality of life is dependant upon them hearing and listening.

 

[rhiannon and shadow (GA)]

did they use this term? Negative pressure pulmonary edema

and for those reading and wanting know what mannitol does:
The presence of mannitol preserves renal function during the times of low blood flow and pressure, while the patient is on bypass. The solution prevents the swelling of endothelial cells in the kidney, which may have otherwise reduced blood flow to this area and resulted in cell damage.


Did they give mannitol? or furosemide?

It sounds like you know what he needs .

I hope you can find a regular vet who will work with you instead of against you.

 

[Squalliesmom]

Oh, poor boy! I know he has to feel better just to be back at home with his Mamabean. Prayers that he continues to improve, and regains full use of all faculties.

I sincerely hope they did not bill you. Did they give you his records?

 

[apple]

Eyes: I've figured out how to describe it. They don't move in their sockets. He moves his whole head, but I still am unsure that he sees
He seems to use his ears to see.

 

[rhiannon and shadow (GA)]

you can test that vision by dragging a string in front of him..... lightweight, won't make noise.....

 

[apple]

Oh, poor boy! I know he has to feel better just to be back at home with his Mamabean. Prayers that he continues to improve, and regains full use of all faculties.

I sincerely hope they did not bill you. Did they give you his records?

1. I was charged a pretty penny. This is a large university. Disagreeing about paying is more than just talking to the vet. They send the student with you to the cashier. The student has no power to change bill.

2. We are not home yet. Home is three states away. We are at a motel for the time being. I'm not ready to take him on a long ride.

3. Momma is so, so, so happy to hold him.

4. Have to get them to listen and give the Mannitol. That should work for his eyes.

5. I love him to bits.

6. Glad not to curl up in an exam room chair tonight.

Edit: I got all records except this visit. They wouldn't do this visit because it was still in progress.

 

[Squalliesmom]

1. If was charged a pretty penny. This is a large university. Disagreeing about paying is more than just talking to the vet. They send the student with you to the cashier. The student has no power to change bill.

2. We are not home yet. Home is three states away. We are at a motel for the time being. I'm not ready to take him on a long ride.

3. Momma is so, so, so happy to hold him.

4. Have to get them to listen and give the Mannitol. That should work for his eyes.

5. I love him to bits.

6. Glad not to curl up in an exam room chair tonight.

It's absolutely outrageous that they would charge you after they made a huge blunder with the anesthesia and meds! You should not have to pay for anything related to that.

Sorry home is still so far away, but I think you're very wise to stay close in case he needs to go back for any reason, and to give him time to settle into himself before a long trip. I can tell you love him to bits! I hope the two of you can curl up on the bed and snuggle, and get some well-deserved sleep!

 

[Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey]

My mind boggles at what you are going through. Sending vines and prayers.

 

[apple]

did they use this term? Negative pressure pulmonary edema

and for those reading and wanting know what mannitol does:
The presence of mannitol preserves renal function during the times of low blood flow and pressure, while the patient is on bypass. The solution prevents the swelling of endothelial cells in the kidney, which may have otherwise reduced blood flow to this area and resulted in cell damage.


Did they give mannitol? or furosemide?

It sounds like you know what he needs .

I hope you can find a regular vet who will work with you instead of against you.

I've not heard of that term.

The Mannitol for him would reduce fluid on the brain. He's a tender headed fellow. When he's handled roughly, he gets increased pressure and fluid on the brain. He holds his head still and /or presses to reduce the headache. Also, needs lots of bupe for the pain. His right side of his face is swollen.

I do know they said he had low blood pressure.

I've given him furosemide before while waiting to get to the u, as a short term thing. It doesn't cut it. Short term fluid reduction and hard on him. Also, vet (good local vet)said no when he went diabetic. I give the liquid.

He needs Mannitol. Since I've checked him out, on not sure how to get him treated. I don't want to go home and come back.

 

[Squalliesmom]

Where do you usually get your Rx filled? If you use a chain pharmacy and you have any refills left, you may be able to get it filled locally at one of the chain's branches. They can access the records.

 

[Squalliesmom]

Or you could contact the prescribing vet and ask him to call it in to a pharmacy local to your location.

 

[apple]

Or you could contact the prescribing vet and ask him to call it in to a pharmacy local to your location.

Ifyou are referring tho Mannitol, it must be given via iv/with pump over a series of hours. Mannitol is given once a Dr checks him into the icu.

Today his eyes are no different.

 

[Squalliesmom]

Yes, was referring to Mannitol - I was unaware of the delivery method. If there is no improvement I would take him back to the vets.

 

[Tracey&Jones (GA)]

I am not sure how you are holding this all together. I would be the most obnoxious, loudest ugliest client they ever met. My Scottish temper would be in full blown gale mode.


Hug to you and prayers for Apple.

 

[Olive & Paula]

I hope when things settle down, you compose a very detailed, graphic letter to the Veterinary Medical board and copy the Veterinary hospital and anesthesia board. I would include an itemized list of all expenses.

I'm glad you have Apple with you and hopefully you get home soon.

 

[Judy and Boomer]

Oh my......I have no words, just lots of hugs

 

[MJW]

Hugs for you and Apple.

 

[apple]

I am not sure how you are holding this all together. I would be the most obnoxious, loudest ugliest client they ever met. My Scottish temper would be in full blown gale mode.


Hug to you and prayers for Apple.

I've been told that I'm nearing being fired as a client. I don't have the luxury of disagreeing. I was also denied Mannitol for him. Told he's just fine.

 

[Olive & Paula]

I've been told that I'm nearing being fired as a client. I don't have the luxury of disagreeing. I was also denied Mannitol for him. Told he's just fine.

How dare they after their negligence. Can you regular vet do the mannitol?

 

[MrWorfMen's Mom]

I've been told that I'm nearing being fired as a client.

OMG! That's some cheek they've got. I once had the same experience with my Mother's physician and know what an impossible situation that feels like. They deserve to have the book thrown at them! I hope once you get through this ordeal, you will report all of this to whatever veterinarian boards/associations exist in your state. Have you asked to speak with the owner of the clinic? It sounds like they definitely are afraid of whatever they did or didn't do becoming public and are trying to make you into the bad guy to keep things under wraps.

Sending hugs and piles of healing vines for Apple.

 

[apple]

How dare they after their negligence. Can you regular vet do the mannitol?

No. Need the drug and equipment.

 

[apple]

OMG! That's some cheek they've got. I once had the same experience with my Mother's physician and know what an impossible situation that feels like. They deserve to have the book thrown at them! I hope once you get through this ordeal, you will report all of this to whatever veterinarian boards/associations exist in your state. Have you asked to speak with the owner of the clinic? It sounds like they definitely are afraid of whatever they did or didn't do becoming public and are trying to make you into the bad guy to keep things under wraps.

Sending hugs and piles of healing vines for Apple.

It's a university.

 

[Tanya and Ducia]

I've been told that I'm nearing being fired as a client

We were banned from a clinic once and denied emergency help there later on..I know the feeling . It turns out to the better, though - Ducia is now a patient at much, much better place which I would not found unless forced to . Perhaps you'll find sensible vet after that?
Many healing vines for Apple
and for you - stay strong

 

[MrWorfMen's Mom]

There has to be someone overseeing the veterinary school as well as someone else who deals with public relations. Both should have a Dean, Chancellor or such who should be made aware of the error and how the matter is continuing to be mishandled. They may also have an Ombudsman office through which you could formally complain and seek some conflict resolution.

 

[Tracey&Jones (GA)]

I've been told that I'm nearing being fired as a client.

Wow, just wow. Is there any other ER clinic in the place you are at that you can go to? Outside of all the bull pucky this U has thrown at you....your kitty needs care.

 

[Shoeskitty-GA]

So very sorry to hear about how you and your kitty have been treated! It's outrageous! Would you be able to share which facility has done this to you so that others will be forewarned as to using that facility?

 

[apple]

There has to be someone overseeing the veterinary school as well as someone else who deals with public relations. Both should have a Dean, Chancellor or such who should be made aware of the error and how the matter is continuing to be mishandled. They may also have an Ombudsman office through which you could formally complain and seek some conflict resolution.

Yep, I was waiting in an exam room. My bill had something not populate and they were working on it. The hospital director was sent to ask me to leave the exam room.

Edit: I'm not sure he would listen to the person he's asking to leave.

 

[apple]

We were banned from a clinic once and denied emergency help there later on..I know the feeling . It turns out to the better, though - Ducia is now a patient at much, much better place which I would not found unless forced to . Perhaps you'll find sensible vet after that?
Many healing vines for Apple
and for you - stay strong

This is a university and there is no other place to go.

 

[apple]

I don't know how to help him.

 

[TempestsMum]

I'm sorry I have nothing to offer but prayers, hugs and all the well wishes in the world.

 

[apple]

Vet said she'd give it to him if it was a pill, but won't because he's a difficult patient and putting him in icu would be stressful.

"If it was a pill, sure yeah, why not."

 

[MrWorfMen's Mom]

The director of the hospital is a nobody in the big scheme of things . I know you are upset and goodness knows with darn good reason. At this point in time though, Apple is the one who needs help and we know all know he is your main concern. As much as it pains me to say this, can you reason with anybody around there by being calm, cool and collected and even grovelling if you need to? I've been through this with my Mother and sometimes you just have to temporarily bite your tongue and manipulate idiots and go for the jugular later!

What University is this? Maybe we can find some info for you.

 

[apple]

The director of the hospital is a nobody in the big scheme of things . I know you are upset and goodness knows with darn good reason. At this point in time though, Apple is the one who needs help and we know all know he is your main concern. As much as it pains me to say this, can you reason with anybody around there by being calm, cool and collected and even grovelling if you need to? I've been through this with my Mother and sometimes you just have to temporarily bite your tongue and manipulate idiots and go for the jugular later!

What University is this? Maybe we can find some info for you.

I don't think I'm welcome there.

 

[MrWorfMen's Mom]

Do they have Apple or do you? If they have him, then you have every right to be able to wait in the waiting room and to receive regular updates on his condition.

 

[apple]

Do they have Apple or do you? If they have him, then you have every right to be able to wait in the waiting room and to receive regular updates on his condition.

We have left campus. I had him. We were in the exam room waiting for the bill. I couldn't pay because something had to post or populate. I was in the room waiting.

 

[Squalliesmom]

If they didn't have your bill ready they certainly cannot blame you! No other vets would have the mannitol or the equipment?

 

[apple]

If they didn't have your bill ready they certainly cannot blame you! No other vets would have the mannitol or the equipment?

None that I know of.

 

[Squalliesmom]

Hmmm. Maybe call around to some emergency clinics, or feline specialty practices? There has to be somewhere other than the university that would have/use it, I would think?

 

[apple]

Hmmm. Maybe call around to some emergency clinics, or feline specialty practices? There has to be somewhere other than the university that would have/use it, I would think?

I've never found anything locally.

I has to give him more bupe. He's in neck/head pain. His little head is still swollen and so is the right side of his face

 

[Squalliesmom]

Poor lil' guy. I feel so bad for him, and for you, too. Hope things start to look up for him.

 

[rhiannon and shadow (GA)]

wondering how he is today....

found this article about mannitol use in cats.
https://www.veteccsmalltalk.com/episode/22

it does sound like few places have the capability to administer this.
And by reading thru that article, there are often many reasons not to give it as it can exacerbate problems.
Since they aren't communicating with you of what's going on.

What happened previously to Apple that he has these head issues?
It sounds like you've been thru this before.

Do you have his head slightly elevated for the swelling? about a folded towel height?


I hope he is feeling better tonite.
What town are you in?

 

[apple]

wondering how he is today....

found this article about mannitol use in cats.
https://www.veteccsmalltalk.com/episode/22
it does sound like few places have the capability to administer this.
And by reading thru that article, there are often many reasons not to give it as it can exacerbate problems.
Since they aren't communicating with you of what's going on.

What happened previously to Apple that he has these head issues?
It sounds like you've been thru this before.

Do you have his head slightly elevated for the swelling? about a folded towel height?


I hope he is feeling better tonite.
What town are you in?

No better.
Now he's ravenous, drinking and sneezing. He's in pain. Head and neck hurt. Have to up the bupe.
He was previously manhandled by vet and got fluid in the brain. He's tender headed and gets fluid easily when his head is not treated gently.

The CT was not worth what happened to him. I'm wondering if he can't get help, what do I do for him.

 

[MrWorfMen's Mom]

There has to be a compassionate vet somewhere in your area who would be able to either assist or intervene with the university on your behalf. If you can tell us where you are located currently perhaps someone on the board can recommend a vet nearby. It's certainly worth a shot!