Question about bloodwork for Max

[Lynee and Max]

Hi guys. Wow - it has been so long since I have had to post here on Health. I remember a year ago posting here in desperation to save his life and you all did such a fantastic job helping me then . . . . so I'm back for some much needed advice.

Max has been OTJ for over a month now and is doing great. We have been having a few off days and some higher numbers yesterday so I set up an appointment for him with his favorite vetty bean in the world. He hasn't had a complete workup since he came home a year ago with the feeding tube in. He goes Friday at 2:00 and I don't want to miss a thing when we take him in so any advice as to exactly what I need to have done? I want to go in there armed with the appropriate tests that we need to have numbers on to make sure all is still well with him. HELP!!

 

[Jess & Earl]

Hi Lynee

Yes it seems like ages ago that little Max was in so much trouble, doesn't it??

A good senior workup includes a blood chemistry & CBC & T4. Also have a blood pressure done, preferably "by Doppler" (a human does it) rather than by machine.

 

[Lynee and Max]

Thanks Jess. I hear that it is also a little cheaper. My only concern with Max's blood pressure check is he does NOT like strangers. He was fine while he was at the vet so sick because . . . . well . . . . he was just to sick to care that there were strangers taking care of him so his BP and heart rate were always okay. However, I took him in the day after he pulled his feeding tube out and when she listened to his heart rate - it was so rapid - because here again he doesn't like strangers or strange places. So I know when I take him in - even though he knows these people - his heart rate will be very rapid. Is there anyway that I can check that at home before we go in so I can give her some info as to what his heart rate is when he's calm and not freaked out?

 

[Jess & Earl]

Hi Lynee

Most cats -- and a lot of humans -- have a higher heart rate when at the doctor's (it's called 'white coat syndrome') so it's expected. If you wanted to check it at home, you can check his femoral pulse (google femoral pulse cat and you should be able to find instructions) or you might be able to feel his heart beat in his chest, in between his front legs, almost in his left armpit.