Fanny rechecked by Vet

Well, this morning (Saturday) at 9:30am, I took Fanny to the Vet to get rechecked. Here she is in the car, looking all calm and relaxed. She had received her pain medication around 2am, so I think it still had some effect on her.

Here she is, patiently waiting to be seen by the doctor. She already had her vital signs done and was still being "chill".

Here she is AFTER the exam. Not happy. The doctor palpating her back and legs increased her pain. 

The doctor was happy that I showed her videos of Fanny walking up her steps to the bed and her using the litter box. That gave her a better idea of her mobility at home, which is not that good. She barely puts any weight on her right leg, and it looks like her left leg may be getting weaker.

I explained to the doctor that she seems to have increased pain when she has a poop. Most likely it causes pressure on her lower back when she bears down and her poop is firm.

Here's what the doctor and I discussed and agreed upon as to Fanny's plan of care:

1) Giving her subcutaneous fluids (under the skin) since cats with renal disease tend to pee frequently and can get dehydrated. Even though she does drink from her fountain, it may not be enough.

2) Spot check her blood sugar with a little prick of her ear. It was normal. They check it due to her age and the renal disease.

3) Start her on Lactulose to soften her stools so she doesn't have to strain. It's liquid and I'll mix it with her food twice a day.

4) Cold laser treatment. A non-invasive way of reducing inflammation and swelling in cats with arthritis. Can be done once a week or as needed.

5) Get her Gabapentin changed to 50 mg mini pill form in case we need to board her or if someone else needs to give her the med at any time. Right now we could only get 100 mg capsules which I empty out and try to divide the powder in half and put in pill pockets. I don't trust anyone else to do that. I give it to her twice a day.

6) Continue the Buprenex (opiate) every 8-12 hrs as needed.

She did very well with the cold laser treatment and seemed to feel more comfortable, but she kept to herself more today after we came home. I think she was just upset with all the activity today. 

We'll see how she does with the new plan of care.

I'll keep you updated.

Always remember: Don't be afraid to have a two-way discussion with the Veterinarian. You are your pet's advocate.

Until next time.

Darlene