Worried about Eating and Grooming for Smudge

[Smudge's Human Dave]

Smudge, who was diagnosed with FD last week, is having trouble eating and grooming.
This is not new, it's been getting worse over the last few weeks, and it's why I took him to the vet in the first place. He's not vomiting, nor does he have diarrhea. He has some appetite, but is having difficulty eating, and is not grooming himself.

The vet said he's got swollen gums, and probably needs a tooth or two extracted; however, she said that she wants to wait until we've got his diabetes sorted out before they put him under for the tooth extractions.

Could the eating/grooming issue be related to FD? My thought is that the teeth problems are causing the eating/grooming problems, and we happened to find the FD in the bloodwork by chance.

In any case, I will take him back to the vet in a couple days for a glucose curve. He's losing weight and stinks, but otherwise seems OK.

-Worried Dad

 

[Bron and Sheba (GA)]

It’s important that diabetic cats eat, so you need to get this sorted out.
If the teeth are the main problem, there is no need to wait to get the diabetes ‘sorted out’ first. We hear this all the time and if the teeth are the main issue causing problems, you would be unlikely to get the diabetes ‘sorted out first’.
I would ask for some ondansetron for nausea…he could well be nauseated and an appetite stimulant. But you need to give the anti nausea medication first before the appetite stimulant each time.

do you think it is the food he is objecting to? Try a few diff ent brands to see if that makes a difference.
And here is a link to STIMULATING A CATS APPETITE

 

[Sienne and Gabby (GA)]

Dave -

Can you do some research to see if there's a veterinary dentist in your area? This is a link to where to search. If Smudge isn't eating and his gums are swollen, it likely means he has gingivitis or one or more of his teeth are infected. Infection and/or inflammation will raise blood glucose levels to say nothing of the pain that can also add to his discomfort and higher numbers. A veterinary dentist will be far better able to address the dental issues than a general vet.