from:"Marissa"

Oh Sherry  You've had so many losses so close together!!  This disease is 
relentless!  
   
  I'm so sorry you have to go through this.  GLOW to you and to light Diesel's 
way to the bridge.  Slinky will have another new friend at the Bridge.  Hang in 
there!
   
  *Hugs*
   
  MJ

Sherry DeHaan <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
I am SO sorry to say that sweet little Diesel has joined the many fur 
angels that have been lost to this HORRIBLE disease.His throat was swollen so 
bad that it was impeding his windpipe and making it hard to swallow.It was a 
mistake that I even noticed it last night.But it may have saved him some 
suffering if it had gone unnoticed too long.This just breaks my heart once 
again to lose such a sweet innocent creature.
  Sherry

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"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears, one destroys." 
--Chief Dan George


"I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to 
protection by man from the cruelty of man The greatness of a nation and its 
moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mohandas 
Gandhi (1869-1948)
 
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Re: Third cat this week!

I agree with Beth...especially if you can't afford it.  I know it's a hard 
decision, but there are so many homeless out there already!
   
  Yay for you  I know how you feel about feeling like this is what you were 
meant to do.  I have yet to find a random stray...but I have this funny feeling 
that they'll start coming my way soon! lol  But I know that loving these babies 
and giving them a good home is my newest passion!!!
   
  They're lucky to have found you and you know we'll all support you, whether 
they're felv+ or not.  I know my new kitties won't be felv, but I plan on 
staying on this list...I wouldn't leave if you paid me! lol  We're here for 
support, info, and resources!  My family doesn't really get it either and I 
know I couldn't do it without everyone here!
   
  Anyway...yay for you and good luck with "Frosty"!  And don't worry about the 
name...she'll tell you her name when she's ready.  :)
   
  MJ

Gussies mom <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
As many kittens as are gassed in this country every day, I think spay-abort 
is the right thing.
  Congratulations on your new baby.
   
  Beth

Melissa Lind <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
You guys wont believe it! I went to the gas station todayand 
anther baby found me! I cant believe it! Ive rescued 3 cats in the last 10 
years and fostered 2. Now, Ive had 3 cats find me this week alone! I was much 
panicked at first, but I knew I had to do the right thing. I couldnt walk away 
from this one after doing right by two others this week. Theres always room 
for more in my heart and my home (well, for now anyway). 
   
  I lured this tabby (gray, white, brown) into my carpoor thing couldve 
gotten run over or kicked or who knows what. It was hanging out by the front 
door as people came in and out, and I couldnt bear the thought of people being 
mean to it during the day. It wanted love so badly! The gas station was full of 
men drinking coffee, gossiping, etc., which although I know there are 
cat-loving men out there (my husband is one), I also know that most men in my 
community (only 800 people in my town) are cat-haterswith a passion. I had to 
get her out of there fast!
   
  The vets office was surprised, but pleased, that I had the third one in this 
week. This new girl is so beautiful! Shes a bob tail, and Ive never been up 
close to one. Her fur is soft and silkynot much damage from scratching. I 
think she was a backdoor feeder or recently kicked out. No tags, so shes fair 
game for the new spay police (thats me). Unfortunately, she is pregnant 
(Ashley, stray #2 this week, was not). Im sad to say since shes not far 
along, she will have a kitty abortion, but Im trying to prevent the 
overpopulation, and even though I know her babies would be beautiful, I just 
cannot afford it. Please please dont admonish me for this choiceit was a 
tough one to make since all kitties are beautiful and deserve loving homes.
   
  One of the girls at the vets office wanted to take her home immediatelybut 
she wanted her as a barn cat. I said I wanted to find her an indoor home, but 
Id let her know if I didnt. Truth is: Ill keep her here in our house 
indefinitely before sending her back outside. Its a relief to have a fairly 
healthy kitty this week after the FeLV+ and sickly Ashley. However, I havent 
told my husband, so mums the word until next week. Hell fall in love her 
instantly, but he has to see her first. Hell think of the bills if he knows 
about her beforehand. Ive never kept secrets from my hubby, none, but this one 
might have to beits for his own good because he worries about money as much 
as I worry about kitties.
   
  I think Ill name her Frosty, but Im open to suggestions. I dont have a 
picture of her to share, but she has a frosted look to her fur. If you have any 
suggestions, throw them my wayIll know if they fit or not. Im not sure if 
Frosty is really the right nameit doesnt sound right, but it was the first 
thing I thought of when I found she was a girl. I originally named her Thomas 
on the ride to the vets office. Im 1-2 for guessing the genders this week!
   
  But, although I was panicked at first, Im now overjoyed. This is what I was 
meant to do, and I know you guys will give me the strength to do it. Im sorry 
this is not a FeLV issue (that I know of), but I just wanted to share with some 
people who understandmy family just shakes their heads.
   
  About the FeLV+ (Cassidy), hes finally figured out the litter box after I 
sniffed around the carpet and found his piddles. The crystal litter was too 
confusing to himso its back to old school clay until I can switch him over 
gradually. He hadnt had a bm until just nowI think he was waiting to be sure 
he went in the right place! Hes a lot more comfortable, I can tell.
   
  Again, I have a super long postthanks for listening! Now its onto the job 
searchgotta pay the vet somehow! Does anyone know of

Re: Diesel

Prayers and GLOW for you and Diesel Sherry!  Hope he's better soon.
   
  MJ

Melissa Lind <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
Sherry, You and diesel are in my prayers. I have to go to 
church today at 3:00Ill think the most about him while Im there. But all of 
you will be in my prayersIm so thankful to have found you!
  Melissa




"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears, one destroys." 
--Chief Dan George


"I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to 
protection by man from the cruelty of man The greatness of a nation and its 
moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mohandas 
Gandhi (1869-1948)
 
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Re: feline glaucoma-question for anyone with knowledge

Hi again Jenna.  I should mention that I'm hoping to adopt a litle blind kitten 
right now.  If the only risk is that the glaucoma could spread to his other 
eye, I wouldn't worry about that in the least!  From what I've heard, blind 
cats do just fine and will learn to navigate in no time.  
   
  I can understand your concern about the glaucoma affecting the rest of his 
health and his life span.  And only you cann know how much you can handle 
(emotionally and financially).  But if there's anything I've learned in the 
last few months, it's that cats (and probably all animals) are far more LIKE 
humans than they are different - even physiologically, emotionally, and 
socially.  I don't think I've ever heard of glaucoma in people affecting other 
than vision, so I kind of doubt it would in cats either.  But I don't know.  
I'd keep asking around and as long as it's not going to mean he'll die shortly, 
I'd definitely take him!  Especially since he's calling to you.  :)
   
  Satine will be so proud of you for loving this little one!  Good luck!
   
  MJ

Melissa Lind <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
Jenna,
  First of all, I agree with everyone elseif you wont help this poor soul, 
who will? Im new to the rescue business and special needs cats, but Im 
finding so much support and help. I know there will be heartbreak in my future, 
and Im often crying when reading everyones experiences on herebut just know 
that you are part of an amazing group of people whos hearts are so large and 
benevolent, that they can take almost anythingI know you can too!
   
  As for information, on another discussion board that Ive just recently 
joined (but not as focused as you all are on FeLV and special needs kitties), I 
think theres a lady with two blind kittiesCosmo and Cooper. Im not quite 
sure, but she has them as part of her signature. Her user name is Laura IMOM 
and the web address is 
http://www.imom.invisionzone.com/community/index.php?showforum=49
   
  This website is for people seeking financial assistance for their special 
needs animals. I just get advice hereso you dont have to be asking for money. 
But, you might be eligible with the new baby. Heres the link to a post with 
her name on itit was one of my topics that she responded too. 
http://www.imom.invisionzone.com/community/index.php?showtopic=2554
  Ill also post something for her and see if she responds. I can pass the info 
on to you if youd like
   
  Best wishes for you, and I hope you can take the poor thingbut youll know 
what to do and what is best for your situation. Just know that there are many 
people who would support you emotionally if you decided to take on this new 
kitty.
   
  Melissa




"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears, one destroys." 
--Chief Dan George


"I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to 
protection by man from the cruelty of man The greatness of a nation and its 
moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mohandas 
Gandhi (1869-1948)
 
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Re: feline glaucoma- question for anyone with knowledge

A!  :)  He's been busy!  He was playing in my dining room and knocking 
things over this morning!  ;)  I heard a crash and figured he must be visiting! 
lol  Thanks for thinking of him...he was such a precious boy!
  

Jenna <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  thanks

btw i was watching an old disney movie with a cat named winky and I thought 
about your beloved slinky. I guess that little angel visited me too.

Marissa Johnson <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:Hi Jenna.  I don't really know 
anything about this disease, but I would suggest that you repost this email 
with the words "feline glaucoma" in the subject...that way people who have some 
knowledge or experience will be more likely to read it and respond.
   
  Also, what I do know, is that when a cat steals your heart, there's almost 
nothing you can do to stop it!  :)  And I'm sure Satine has picked out a new 
kitty she wants you to have.  If this is the kitty, your heart will know and 
everything will work out.  I know all about that heart ache...I just lost my 
Slinky a little over a week ago.  It's harder than I ever imagined it could be 
and I know I couldn't go through it again right now.  But I know that giving my 
love to another kitty is the best way to honor Slinky's life.  I'm so glad 
you're considering this baby and opening your heart to new furkids who need a 
home!
   
  You're right...this is one of the kindest, most compassionate, and most 
knowledgeable groups of people on the web!  I'm sure someone will be able to 
help answer your question.  Just respost it with feline glaucoma in the subject 
line and I'm sure you'll get some info.
   
  Good luck figuring out what to do and keep us updated!!  Hang in there!
   
  *hugs*
   
  MJ and Angel Slinky  =^..^=

Jenna <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  Hello. Does anyone there know any about feline glacoma? I am looking at 
adopting one cat who had had one eye removed due to glacoma. She is very young- 
3. She is very sweet, but I am terrified that some people have told me not to 
get a cat with this type of problem, that it could effect the other eye and she 
could go blind, or have other medical problems. I am afraid to take this kind 
of risk because I just lost my baby Satine, and the heart ache hurts soo much. 
Does anyone out there know anything about this illness? You all are some of the 
nicest people on the web, and the most educated about cat biology- so I really 
need some imput. I can't stop thinking about this kitty.

Thanks in advance. 



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"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other. If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears, one destroys." 
--Chief Dan George


"I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to 
protection by man from the cruelty of man The greatness of a nation and its 
moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mohandas 
Gandhi (1869-1948)  
  
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"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears, one destroys." 
--Chief Dan George


"I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to 
protection by man from the cruelty of man The greatness of a nation and its 
moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mohandas 
Gandhi (1869-1948)
 
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Re: question for anyone with knowledge

Hi Jenna.  I don't really know anything about this disease, but I would suggest 
that you repost this email with the words "feline glaucoma" in the 
subject...that way people who have some knowledge or experience will be more 
likely to read it and respond.
   
  Also, what I do know, is that when a cat steals your heart, there's almost 
nothing you can do to stop it!  :)  And I'm sure Satine has picked out a new 
kitty she wants you to have.  If this is the kitty, your heart will know and 
everything will work out.  I know all about that heart ache...I just lost my 
Slinky a little over a week ago.  It's harder than I ever imagined it could be 
and I know I couldn't go through it again right now.  But I know that giving my 
love to another kitty is the best way to honor Slinky's life.  I'm so glad 
you're considering this baby and opening your heart to new furkids who need a 
home!
   
  You're right...this is one of the kindest, most compassionate, and most 
knowledgeable groups of people on the web!  I'm sure someone will be able to 
help answer your question.  Just respost it with feline glaucoma in the subject 
line and I'm sure you'll get some info.
   
  Good luck figuring out what to do and keep us updated!!  Hang in there!
   
  *hugs*
   
  MJ and Angel Slinky  =^..^=

Jenna <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  Hello. Does anyone there know any about feline glacoma? I am looking at 
adopting one cat who had had one eye removed due to glacoma. She is very young- 
3. She is very sweet, but I am terrified that some people have told me not to 
get a cat with this type of problem, that it could effect the other eye and she 
could go blind, or have other medical problems. I am afraid to take this kind 
of risk because I just lost my baby Satine, and the heart ache hurts soo much. 
Does anyone out there know anything about this illness? You all are some of the 
nicest people on the web, and the most educated about cat biology- so I really 
need some imput. I can't stop thinking about this kitty.

Thanks in advance. 



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"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears, one destroys." 
--Chief Dan George


"I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to 
protection by man from the cruelty of man The greatness of a nation and its 
moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mohandas 
Gandhi (1869-1948)
 
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Re: time between cats.

2007-04-04 Thread Marissa Johnson

Just to add to what's already been said...

  I talked to my vet just the other day about this situation (since I'm wanting 
to get new cats and Slinky recently died from felv).  I just wanted to get her 
take on it.  She confirmed what everyone else has said...that it does not live 
long outside the body and there's no need to wait (CERTAINLY not 3 months!  The 
longest I'd seen when searching online was one month).  She also said I could 
probably reuse his dishes and litter box after cleaning...but pointed out that 
I should probably replace them since I would probably worry about transmission 
even though it wouldn't happen (she knows me well)!  

  Just thought I'd share what she said.  

  MJ

Jennifer Madon <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  Thank you for this! I did tell my neighbor that if she does get this 
new kitten, she needs to make it an indoor cat. I had heard you needed 
to wait. I asked my vets office and the lady said 3 months. I thought 
that seemed excessive. Thanks for sharing.
Jennifer

[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> As long as it takes to wash and dry the litterbox and food and water dishes. 
> FELV
> dies almost instantly outside the cat's body, once the virus dries, it dies. 
> Bleach
> is not required to wash the litterbox or dishes, if they are dried well, that 
> will
> kill any remaining virus that could be in them. If you wish to be extra 
> careful, set
> them out in the sun for a few hours.
>
> Phaewryn
>
> http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html
> Special Needs Cat Resources
>
>
>
> 

"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears, one destroys." 
--Chief Dan George

"I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to 
protection by man from the cruelty of man The greatness of a nation and its 
moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mohandas 
Gandhi (1869-1948)

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Re: Lucinda Please add her to the CLS

2007-04-04 Thread Marissa Johnson

I'm so sorry Sherry.  GLOW to you and to light her way to the bridge.
   
  Sherry
   
  MJ

Sherry DeHaan <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
I am typing this through tears,I just recieved an e-mail from Dr. Jen that 
she had to let our sweet beautiful Lucinda go last night.She is now with her 2 
babies Mini and Max who we lost last year.
  Sherry

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"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears, one destroys." 
--Chief Dan George


"I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to 
protection by man from the cruelty of man The greatness of a nation and its 
moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mohandas 
Gandhi (1869-1948)
 
-
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 with theYahoo! Search movie showtime shortcut.

Re: To Cassandra: Re: Tomi's red blood cell count going down, any suggestions?

2007-04-04 Thread Marissa Johnson

Hey Cassandra.  What Tomi's going through sounds very similar to what Slinky 
went through (though his numbers were MUCH lower and his transfusion really 
didn't help him any).  I would probably keep him on the doxy...I don't think 
that would hurt.
   
  Re: Epogen (Erythropoetin)...I don't know how much you know, but I'll share 
my limited knowledge and experience.  Epogen is the hormone the kidneys produce 
that stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells.  It's typically 
given for kidney failure...which makes sense since it's there to replace the 
hormone the kidneys aren't producing.  Some people on this list said they have 
seen it work for cats with felv who are anemic.  It didn't really help Slinky 
at all.  The vet was willing to try it but didn't think it would do much since 
she said (like yours) that his kidneys were probably producing it like crazy 
but his bone marrow couldn't respond.  
   
  You can give Epogen at home yourself if you can get a scrip for it (it's 
given sub-q).  One thing to note, since it's a human drug, they can develop 
antibodies to it.  The numbers I've seen are that about 30-40% of cats will 
develop antibodies.  Most of what you'll see online will say that it's given 
about 3 times a week (sometimes more for severe anemia).  However, my vet (who 
I love and trust completely) did her own research and said that most people 
only give it once a week for felv cats.  The reasoning is that a) cats with 
felv tend to develop the antibodies more quickly (so if it was going to work, 
it won't once the antibodies are developed) and b) because the kidneys are 
probably producing the hormone, by giving an additional dose 3 times a week you 
can actually overload the bone marrow and make matters worse rather than better.
   
  Just some things to keep in mind.  Have you looked into anything like 
Interferon (alpha is the human drug, omega is for cats but is expensive and has 
to be ordered from another country) or Immuno Regulin?  I tried IR with Slinky, 
but it didn't help.  But it may have been that we started it too late.  I don't 
know.  There's some good info in the archives about both IR and Interferon.  
Someone also mentioned Dexamethasone to me for Slinky.  It's a stronger steroid 
that may help stop the body from destroying the RBC's...and could even help him 
develop more.  But since it's stronger, it can also further suppress the 
immmune system.  I dont know much about dex though, so you'd have to look into 
it first.
   
  That's all I know.  I hope you can sort everything out and find an effective 
way to treat Tomi.  I'll be praying for you both that he will get better!!  
Hang in there.
   
  *hugs*
   
  MJ and Angel Slinky

wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  Hey Cassandra,

Since the doxy is so important in treating the
hemobart, how long was Tomi on it? It doesn't seem
like he's had enought time on the doxy, especially if
he did test positive for hemobart.

Here is a good article on treating hemobartonella, but
it says three weeks for the doxy. I concur with
Phaewryn that the doxy might need to be given longer
to work with the surpressed immune system, but I can't
verify this over the Internet from the limited pages I
have seen. All pages say three weeks. Keep doing all
your supplements though, especially the lysine. Make
sure your lysine has no additives, especially
propylene glycol, which causes blood issues in cats.

I don't have any advice on trying the Epogen (can't
remember the name you wrote; it was something
similar). You might talk to an internal veterinarian
about this. 

I know it's hard Cassandra to deal with this on a day
to day basis. Just try to make every day you do have
the best so that you don't regret anything if Tomi
does leave you. And take pictures. They are
invaluable. It sounds like you are doing everything
you can for Tomi. I will pray for his regained
health, and for peace for you.

:)
Wendy

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the 
world: Indeed it is the only thing that ever has!" 
~~~ Margaret Meade ~~~





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"If you talk to the animals they will talk with you and you will know
each other.  If you do not talk to them you will not know them, and 
what you do not know you will fear. What one fears, one destroys." 
--Chief Dan George


"I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to 
protection by man from the cruelty of man The greatness of a nation and its 
moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mohandas 
Gandhi (1869-1948)
 
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Re: Hi Marissa

Thanks Wendy.  I first went to this shelter last week Thursday.  I already had 
Rufus in mind as well as a cally who had a hind leg amputated after a car 
accident.  However, the amputee wanted nothing to do with me...and apparently 
with any humans (they tell me he's not doing so well).  I hadn't seen Patience 
online (since shes' not listed as special needs), but when I saw her she just 
called my name!  And when I picked her up, she climbed right into my arms and 
wouldn't let go.  :)  I went back on Sunday afternoon and played with Rufus for 
about 30 minutes and held Patience twice (she can't go in the play rooms right 
now cuz she's on meds).  I went back again yesterday during the day and spent a 
little time with each of them.

  It's actually a really nice shelter...the "condos" (they say they're 
cageless) are made of some kind of durable plexiglass or something - not metal 
and have glass doors.  There's a whole wall of play rooms with cat trees and 
toys in each one.  The individual condos are climate controlled and include 
adjustable holes so they can give access to the next condo over, or close off 
access.  They even have classical music piped in and a large water fountain in 
the middle of the room with ledges on either side so the cats can sit and play 
with the water.  It's no-kill and they get TONS of animals from other shelters 
(Rufus and Patience both came from PA).  They also have a full vet hospital 
on-site, provide free spay/neuter to anyone in the metro area, and provide 
low-cost vet care to low-income families.  They even have an animal massage 
therapist on staff and do therapy with abused animals and those who've spent 
too much time in shelters.  If you're interested, it's
 www.warl.org.

  I'll keep you all updated.  I know I'll end up with the perfect kitties for 
me...in fact I'm sure Slinky's already picked them out!  :)

  MJ

wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  Marissa,

All of those furbabies look so precious!!! I can see
why Patience is popular. She definitely has a
heart-wrenching story to tell, but it's going to have
a beautiful ending, I know. Have you been able to
spend any time with your prospective furbabies? 
Hopefully, that will give you some encouragement in
choosing the right kitties (or them choosing you). We
completely understand your choice in not wanting
another FeLV+ kitty. It's so hard, and yes, the
reality is that how a cat fares can depend on it's
guardian's finances. You were wonderful to Slinky and
what a way to honor his memory by taking in two more
special needs babies. I am going to go home and hug
all mine as soon as I can.

:)
Wendy

--- Marissa Johnson 
wrote:

> Aw, thanks for asking Wendy!
> 
> I'm doing okay. The first several days after
> Slinky went to the bridge I really thought I was
> doing great! But the last few nights have been
> pretty rough. The guilt and "what-if's" started 2
> nights ago - "if I'd caught the UTI sooner, gotten
> him in sooner - and to a better vet, done more, paid
> closer attention, etc."... In my head I know that's
> not true, but as someone else said, grief is not
> logical...and neither is guilt! 
> 
> I really started mourning Slink when I first found
> out how sick he was...but I think at that point I
> was mourning the loss of a friend, a companion,
> someone to keep me company. Now I think I'm
> mourning the loss of SLINKY...his personality, his
> sweetness, the amazing bond we had. Those are the
> things I can't ever get back, despite being able to
> get new friends, etc. So...it's a process I guess I
> have to go through, but it's not fun! I cried
> myself to sleep twice this week - holding his
> favorite pillow and petting the stuffed cat that
> looks like him (tho he's way too small).
> 
> People have been fabulously supportive, though. 
> The vet sent me a card with a very sweet note
> shortly after our appointment, and yesterday I got
> cards in the mail from 2 friends. Everyone's been
> checking on me and MC and Barb have been talking to
> me almost 24/7 (THANKS GUYS). It's
> so great to have family and friends help you through
> these times.
> 
> Despite all the grief, I know Slink would not want
> me to be alone (he knows I need some babies to take
> care of me! lol) and I promised him I would give a
> good home to other cats. So I've begun looking for
> 2 new furbabes to adopt. I actually applied for 2
> at the Washington Animal Rescue League:
> 
>
http://search.petfinder.com/petnote/displaypet.cgi?petid=8110889
> 
> 
>
http://search.petfinder.com/petnote/displaypet.cgi?petid=8136096
> 
> When I went to visit them again yesterday,

Re: Hi Marissa

Aw, thanks for asking Wendy!
   
  I'm doing okay.  The first several days after Slinky went to the bridge I 
really thought I was doing great!  But the last few nights have been pretty 
rough.  The guilt and "what-if's" started 2 nights ago - "if I'd caught the UTI 
sooner, gotten him in sooner - and to a better vet, done more, paid closer 
attention, etc."...  In my head I know that's not true, but as someone else 
said, grief is not logical...and neither is guilt!  
   
  I really started mourning Slink when I first found out how sick he was...but 
I think at that point I was mourning the loss of a friend, a companion, someone 
to keep me company.  Now I think I'm mourning the loss of SLINKY...his 
personality, his sweetness, the amazing bond we had.  Those are the things I 
can't ever get back, despite being able to get new friends, etc.  So...it's a 
process I guess I have to go through, but it's not fun!  I cried myself to 
sleep twice this week - holding his favorite pillow and petting the stuffed cat 
that looks like him (tho he's way too small).
   
  People have been fabulously supportive, though.  The vet sent me a card with 
a very sweet note shortly after our appointment, and yesterday I got cards in 
the mail from 2 friends.  Everyone's been checking on me and MC and Barb have 
been talking to me almost 24/7  (THANKS GUYS).  It's so great 
to have family and friends help you through these times.
   
  Despite all the grief, I know Slink would not want me to be alone (he knows I 
need some babies to take care of me! lol) and I promised him I would give a 
good home to other cats.  So I've begun looking for 2 new furbabes to adopt.  I 
actually applied for 2 at the Washington Animal Rescue League:
  http://search.petfinder.com/petnote/displaypet.cgi?petid=8110889
   
  http://search.petfinder.com/petnote/displaypet.cgi?petid=8136096
   
  When I went to visit them again yesterday, one of the staff mentioned that 
they have a lot of apps in for Patience and that they were already leaning 
toward someone before I came along, so it sounds like I may not end up with 
her.  But she said there weren't many in on Rufus...because his condition is 
scarier.  I pointed out that I work in disability rights - it takes a lot to 
scare me! lol  They seemed to think this one (below) would be a good match for 
Rufus since he's pretty quiet.
   
  http://search.petfinder.com/petnote/displaypet.cgi?petid=8136115
   
  I've decided I definitely want special needs kitties...but I just can't do 
another terminal illness (such as felv) again right now.  I don't have the 
emotional resources...nor the financial.  And now that I understand the 
potential costs of treatments, etc. I don't think it would be very responsible 
of me to take in a + cat knowing I can't afford to pay for what they may 
(probably will) need.  It's beginning to seem, though, that the special needs 
kitties are fairly popular...so I'd be willing to take in a healthy, 
"middle-aged" cat who's having trouble getting adopted as well.
   
  I'll let you all know what happens with the applications...and I know you all 
will love them even if they're not positive!  ;)  
   
  Thank you all so much for being here!  This list has been my lifeline and I 
know I couldn't get through this stuff without you!!!  I hope all your 
furbabies are doing well!!!
   
  MJ and Angel Slinky  :)

wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  Hey Marissa,

How are you doing today? You sound pretty upbeat in
your posts, so I hope you're feeling good. Slinky is
probably so happy to see you doing well, watching you
from the top of his 'tree in the sky'. 

:)
Wendy

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the 
world: Indeed it is the only thing that ever has!" 
~~~ Margaret Meade ~~~





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Re: cls

Don't feel stupid!  It took me AGES to figure out what CLS was!!!  It's Candle 
Light Service - a website where there are memorials to our kitties who have 
gone to the bridge.
   
  I hope that helps...and this is one list where it's DEFINITELY okay to ask 
what might seem like "stupid" questions.  When I first got my Slink (who went 
to the bridge last week) I asked ALL KINDS of questions cuz he was my first 
kitty.
   
  Hope you're doing well!
   
  MJ

Debbie <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
body{font-family: 
Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:9pt;background-color: 
#ff;color: black;}I feel stupid, but could someone tell me what cls 
means? I assume it means someone's kitty has died, but just would like to know. 
I am fairly new to the lsit so I don't know all the abbreviations.   


  -Original Message- 
From: Gussies mom 
Sent: Apr 3, 2007 9:36 AM 
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org 
Subject: Re: Please add Hillman Waller to cls 

  So sorry you had to lose your baby. What a lucky guy he was to have you.
   
  Beth

JENI RECA <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  Hi,
We had to put Hillman Waller to sleep last night, it was a hard decision but 
best for him. He was a 1.5 years and was the sweetest cat ever! Positive 
as a kitten and also developed lymphosarcoma, but even with the surgery that 
took out most of it near his throat, we think it came back. He went into 
respiratory failure last night. But I take comfort in knowing not only is 
he with all the wonderful feluk kitties that have passed on, he is also with 
Papoose, that we lost last may.
Jeni

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Re: Please add Hillman Waller to cls

I'm so sorry for your loss Jeni!  It sounds like you made the right decision 
for him...even though it was a hard one!! 
  *hugs*
  Marissa

 
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Re: CLS Please add Thurston and Carmellia

Tad, so sorry for your losses...I can't imagine losing two!!!  Hang in there.
   
  GLOW to you.
  
MJ

wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  Tad,

I'm so sorry to hear about Thurston and Carmellia. 
Thurston sounds so precious. And it does sound like
Carmellia was letting you know she loved you before
she passed. I hate how this disease leaves us all
reeling. 

:)
Wendy

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the 
world: Indeed it is the only thing that ever has!" 
~~~ Margaret Meade ~~~





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Re: Margarita Please add to CLS

Sherry, so sorry to hear this news!  Hang in there.
   
  Hugs and GLOW coming your way.
   
  MJ

Sally Davis <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
Hi sherry
   
  So sorry to hear about Margarita.
   
  Hugs to you
   
  Sally

 
  On 4/1/07, Sherry DeHaan <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: Well we lost another 
little orange girl.Margarita wasn't with us long,she loved people but not other 
cats.She loved sitting in our laps and purring like crazy.Jen said she had her 
with her through the night and cuddled with her.I guess her abdomen filled with 
fluids.
  Sherry

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Re: Too much bad news

Oh Jennifer.  I am so sorry to hear your sad news  I just lost my 
Slinky...and I've been crying myself to sleep lately.  It's so hard when we 
lose their precious little souls.  I am clinging to the belief that I will see 
him at the rainbow bridge one day.  And I'm glad to know he has a new friend to 
keep him company and someone he can show around.  
   
  Hang in there...this list is great and we're all here for ya.  
   
  Marissa

Jennifer Madon <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  I hate to add to the bad news but I just want everyone to know that I 
lost Midnight over the weekend. He had started throwing up a lot on 
Thursday. He seemed a little slower than normal but he had no other 
symptoms. I woke up Sunday morning about 4 am to find him curled up 
beside me but he was gone. Thank you to everyone on this list. You 
have all been so great and helpful.
Jennifer Madon



 
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Re: Feline blood for transfusion available

Hideyo, I am so sorry for your loss!!!  That anemia is a HORRIBLE enemy

Jenna <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:  Hideyo- I am so sorry- you and your kitty are 
in my thoughts.

C & J <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:  @page Section1 {size: 8.5in 11.0in; 
margin: 1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; } P.MsoNormal {  FONT-SIZE: 12pt; MARGIN: 
0in 0in 0pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman" } LI.MsoNormal {  FONT-SIZE: 12pt; 
MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman" } DIV.MsoNormal {  
FONT-SIZE: 12pt; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; FONT-FAMILY: "Times New Roman" } A:link { 
 COLOR: blue; TEXT-DECORATION: underline } SPAN.MsoHyperlink {  COLOR: blue; 
TEXT-DECORATION: underline } A:visited {  COLOR: purple; TEXT-DECORATION: 
underline } SPAN.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {  COLOR: purple; TEXT-DECORATION: 
underline } SPAN.EmailStyle17 {  COLOR:   windowtext; FONT-FAMILY: Arial; 
mso-style-type: personal-compose } DIV.Section1 {  page: Section1 } I'm so 
sorry about Felix passing, that anemia is such a terrible thing.  I'm dealing 
with anemia with my Tomi as well.
   
- Original Message - 
  From: Hideyo Yamamoto 
  To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org ; [EMAIL PROTECTED] 
  Sent: Monday, April 02, 2007 3:07 AM
  Subject: Feline blood for transfusion available
  

Hi, my Felix passes away due to severe anemia, he had 4 transfusion during 
the past couple of weeks  I hae 2 more units of blood that I purchased form 
blood bank for my baby Felix available since Felix has gone to heaven  please 
let me know if anyone needs transfusion for your kitty  - its for feline A 
type..

  
  
-

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Re: Dry Food

2007-03-30 Thread Marissa Johnson

This is getting CRAZY!!  But the thing that really kills me is that the 
tainted ingredient is one that we shouldn't be feeding our animals in the first 
place!!!  Cats and dogs don't eat grains - especially wheat - in the wild!!!  

  When I first found out Slink was felv+, I did a bunch of research and then 
went to the natural pet food store near my house in somewhat of a panic because 
most of what I read contradicted itself.  The owner immediately said the most 
important thing was to buy things that were GRAIN FREE (confirming much of my 
research).  That's why she recommended Innova Evo (or nature's variety...I 
don't remember the name), but Slink only liked the Evo.  

  I would like to HOPE that by not having any wheat gluten in it at all (if, in 
fact, the labels are accurate) there is at least significantly less risk of 
contamination (even if it's manufactured on the same machinery it says it has 
to be present in high concentrations, so it probably wouldn't have 
enough...maybe).  This is one reason I switched Slinky to raw food.  I bought 
it pre-prepared and frozen (because human meat is handled to be cooked, so it's 
kept at warmer temps and bacteria can grow, whereas Nature's Variety stays 
frozen)...and it definitely didn't have any wheat in it.  

  It's hard to know what to do at this point, though!  Maybe preparing our own 
is the solution...then even if the contaminated wheat got into human food we 
can at least know we haven't put any wheat in the pets' food!

  I wonder how long the list will grow before this is over!  I have NO 
confidence in the FDA et al to keep us and our furkids safe!  Pretty sad.

  Hope you're all doing well.

  MJ

Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  It is driving me crazy that they, (the FDA, MF, Hills, who knows who 
else), is aware of this US distributor of the Chinese wheat gluten, but 
they won't "disclose" the information. Who the hell are they 
protecting? Certainly not us or our animals. All I can pray is that we 
are relatively "safe" by excluding all products, (wet, dry, or gravy 
style), that contain any wheat gluten whatsoever. At this point I can 
only pray that the damn labeling is accurate. It's so ironic that we 
just had a discussion about feeding less expensive types of food in 
order to make ends meet and provide for our charges as best we can. Who 
would have guessed that so much of the food we serve has it's ingredient 
origins in the same unreliable place, whether we thought it was 
"quality" or not? Should we be concerned about all forms of 
grain/rice? I don't have much confidence that our protectors at the FDA 
are on top of any of this, or if they are, that they would let us in on 
their findings.

Sorry for the rant, but I'm feeling so helpless.
Nina

Belinda wrote:
> Looks like some dry food is being recalled, this is getting 
> extremely scary, I think I'm going to have to start cooking for them 
> again. You know this is only the beginning.
>
> http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070330/ap_on_go_ot/pet_food_recall
>

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Re: In memory of Bagheera

2007-03-29 Thread Marissa Johnson

Oh!  What a SWEETHEART!!!  Thanks for sharing...I needed that smile!
   
  MJ

Debbie <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
body{font-family: 
Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:9pt;background-color: 
#ff;color: black;}  I was shifting thru pics the other day and found 
this one of Bagheera. I brought this fella home from the airport where I 
worked. We had a lot of temps working at that time and they were hitting at 
him, licking, etc... At the same time I had just got married and we bought a 
new home. I scooped Bagheera up and took him home. He lived with us for nearly 
2 years. He weighed 20+ pounds. He had been someone's pet because he had been 
neutered, however they also discovered a bb lodged in his skull where someone 
had shot him. He was the most lovable, gentle giant around. Unfortunately we 
believe a coyote may have got him. He went out one morning and never returned. 
Normally he never left the yard. We miss him dearly and he left his mark upon 
our hearts.
   
  
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Slinky - Please add to the CLS

Hi all.  I guess I need to complete the updates on Slinky, huh?  
   
  Yes, he went to the bridge last night.  I was having second thoughts all day 
yesterday...he, of course, perked up a bit, sat in the window sill again 
(hadn't done that in ages), and was still drinking, eating, and breathing fine. 
 I even started to wonder if his nose looked pinker.
   
  But I decided to go to the vet appointment and ask her what she thought - and 
that all important question, "what would you do if he were your kitty?"  
   
  Right before we left I think I finally understood that it really was time.  
It occurred to me that on Sunday he was very cuddly with me and initiating some 
cuddle time on his own.  But yesterday he didn't want anything to do with me.  
And when we left the vet on Monday, someone said he'd tell me when it was time, 
and I remember thinking, "I think he already has told me" but I didn't want to 
believe it.  I think his spirit left on Sunday...I think all that cuddling was 
him saying goodbye and beginning to get ready for the journey.
   
  So we went to the vet and I asked her if she thought his nose looked pinker.  
She looked at his gums, etc. and assured me that they were not.  I was tempted 
to have her do another CBC, but that seemed like just adding to the torture 
he'd already been through.  Without my even asking, the vet said, "If this were 
my cat, this is what I would be doing.  Not only is he not getting any better, 
but he's actually getting steadily worse...and he's just going to suffer if we 
wait much longer."  She of course pointed out that I had the option of waiting, 
but that seemed like it would just drag out the inevitable.  He was so weak the 
last couple days that he couldn't even get back on the bed once he'd gotten 
down.
   
  The vet explained everything in detail and even shaved some of his fur for me 
since I'd forgotten I wanted a sample (good cuz what she got was way better 
than anything I could've gotten with a scissors).  Then she gave him the 
tranquilizer (I think she did it quickly so I wouldn't have time to change my 
mind...knowing that was best for me and for Slinky).  She said it would take a 
few minutes for it to work, so they left and I just held him and cried and told 
him how much I loved him.  Thanked him for letting me share in his life and 
told him I was giving him the only gift I could at this point.  The room we 
were in had a beautiful painting of the bridge, so I showed it to him and told 
him that was where he was going.  
   
  They had put a sheep skin-like pad on the table and when they came back I 
laid him on that and put his head on his favorite pillow (he loved to knead on 
this "sqush" pillow I have).  She thought they might have to put a catheter in 
his front leg to get the needle in since his veins were so small, but she was 
able to do it in his back leg.  Once it was in, I just held him and cried and 
cried some more.  But I know he was in peace.
   
  He visited me this morning - as I was waking up I could hear the birds 
outside my window and I distinctly heard a meow (I remember thinking that I 
didn't know of a bird that meowed).  When it happened I got chills.  And when I 
woke up fully I realized that he was letting me know that he's happy and he 
loves me.  
   
  I'm actually doing much better than I expected to be.  After the vet 
appointment my friend took me out to dinner and then to ben and jerry's 
(self-medicating is always good!), which distracted me and that helped a lot.  
Of course when I got home I completely lost it, but I knew that would happen.  
I called "dad" and he was wondeful about telling me I did all the right things, 
that he loves me, and not to worry about paying all those bills back 'till some 
time in the future.  
   
  Today I relaxed in the morning and then went and got my hair cut (my stylist 
is "dad's" partner and the owner of the salon...so he has lots of experience 
with losing kitties) and did some shopping.  I got a stuffed kitty that looks 
just like Slinky, so he'll be my new sleeping buddy.  I thought I would lose it 
when I came home tonight, but I just choked up for a bit and really was okay.  
I know all the prayers and thoughts everyone is sending me are helping a ton!!! 
 I think half the population of the US is praying for me and checking on me!
   
  You guys have been absolutely amazing and having people to talk to who've 
been there and understand how this is has been an unbelievable help!  Thank you 
all so much for all your support!!!
   
  I know this is kinda long, but since you've all been reading so much about 
Slink, I thought you might want to know some of the details of his crossing.  
Thanks again for everything...I know I couldn't get through this without you!!
   
  Love to you and all your furkids!
   
  MJ

 
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Re: Hammy Please add to the CLS

Oh Sherry!  I'm so sorry!!!  I'm sure Slinky will have fun with another new 
buddy to keep him company at the bridge.  It's so hard for us though.
   
  Definitely adding Lucinda to my prayers.  GLOW to you and your furkids!
   
  MJ

Sherry DeHaan <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
Hi all,thank you for your good wishes and prayers for sweet little Hammy.He 
is now with all the Angel fur kids.
  Could you also put Lucinda in your prayers too? she is at Dr. Jens house 
possibly with some brain problems due to the felv.My boyfriend loves this 
beautiful orange tiger girl.Thank you all so much
  Sherry

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Re: Hideyo - Please send her strength

Hang in there Hideyo.  Sending prayers, strength, and GLOW your way.  Know 
you're not alone...unfotunately I too can say how hard it is to lose one you 
love so much (though I cannot imagine how you have the strength to go through 
it so many times, and so close together).  My heart is with you.
   
  MJ

Gussies mom <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
Wether you agree with things she says or not, her heart is in the right 
place, and those are the kind of people the world needs more of.

  Beth
   
  
Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  I'm writing to the list for prayers, strength and love to be sent to our 
dear friend Hideyo. She has had so many losses, so much pain and 

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Re: Good Bye Mama Kitty

Oh Elizabeth!  I'm so sorry!!  But I know Slinky will be happy to have such a 
wonderful friend at the bridge...they can keep each other company and share 
stories about their crazy mamas.  Slinky visited me this morning, I will pray 
that Mama Kitty greets you as well.
   
  I know how hard this is now.  Know that she was well-loved and very lucky to 
have such a wonderful Mom!!!  Hang in there.
   
  MJ

elizabeth trent <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  Mama Kitty,  You will forever rest in this yard that you loved so much.  
You are surrounded by roses.  I covered your grave with tulips and apple 
blossoms.  
   
  It hurts so much to say goodbye.  You will forever be alive in my heart.  I 
love you.
   
  elizabeth



 
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Re: Slinky - Sad News

Nina (and EVERYONE!), thank you soo much!  It is so helpful to know that 
those doubts are normal and that it won't be an indication that I made the 
wrong decision.  I honestly don't know how I would get through this time 
without all of you!

  MC and Barb have been absolutely amazing chatting with me online and helping 
me sort things out - thanks!

  And all of you, your words of encouragement and support mean so much to me!  

  I know this is going to be near impossible and that it's going to hurt a 
lot...but somehow I'll manage to get through it.  Thank you for sharing this 
journey with me and for lending me your strength!

  I've been telling Slink all about my other pets who are waiting for him at 
the Rainbow Bridge... and telling him that I'm gonna help him get rid of his 
tired weak body and feel wonderful again.  I hope he'll carry a piece of my 
heart with me...and I know I'll have him in my heart forever.  

  He'll always be my most precious kitty...the kitty of my heart.  I truly 
don't think I understood the depths of love and responsibility I was capable of 
feeling until he came into my life.  He has taught me S MUCH (which I'll 
write more about someday) and I will cherish those lessons always.  I can only 
hope I've been able to show him the same depth of love, acceptance, and 
security he has shown me.

  Thank you again for being here with me.  I've got less than 24 hours now to 
be with my precious baby, so I'm going to make the most of it.  GLOW to you and 
your babies!

  MJ

Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  Marissa,
I'm so sorry. My eyes filled with tears when I read your news this 
morning. I had such high hopes for a miracle for you and your Slinky 
boy. I know you haven't come to this decision lightly and that the only 
reason you would even consider this is to spare him any unnecessary 
suffering. MC has a quote that has given me comfort, something about it 
being better to let them go a day too soon than an hour too late. 

I have been on both sides of this terrible coin; waiting with hope only 
to have them suffer, and living afterward with the fear that I made the 
decision to help them cross too soon. No matter what we do in these 
circumstances we may be plagued by the possibility that we did the wrong 
thing, (the dreaded "what ifs"). I just wanted to let you know that I 
understand, and that I don't believe that it is possible to do "the 
wrong thing" when these hard decisions are made from our hearts. When 
we lose the hope of recovery, then letting them go is the last gift of 
love we can bestow on them. The last act of protection we can provide. 

I had such terrible regrets when I helped my Jazzy cross, but in the 
weeks that followed I found myself replacing my self-recriminations with 
acceptance. Even if I hadn't made the decision I did, she most likely 
would have been gone by then. Finally, I was able to forgive myself, 
not so much for the decisions I made, but for not being able to control 
the circumstances of our time together. I was able to forgive myself 
for not being able to save her. At least I can know that because I made 
the decision I did, when I did, her suffering was not prolonged. I know 
that she knows I will always love her, that I'm grateful for the time 
she graced my life and that no matter how many tears I shed, I will 
never be sorry I took her in. I can rest easier knowing that my sweet 
bottle baby, whom I had protected and nurtured from the time I became 
her surrogate mom, never had a moment of fear or want. Not even at the 
end of her all too short life.

I'm glad that you've made it possible to spend this time in Slinky's 
company. With how hard you've both fought, with all you and your family 
have done for your darling Slink, I'm praying that you will be spared 
the torture of any "what ifs". Hold that angel close and know that he 
has worked his way into all our hearts. 
Much love to you,
Nina

Marissa Johnson wrote:
> Thanks for that reminder Phaewryn. I've actually been able to 
> postpone tomorrow's meeting (my boss had asked if I wanted to this 
> morning because I've been sick, but like a dope I said I'd be 
> okay!...but I was able to call everyone and tell them we're postponing 
> it. I think it's for the best all the way around). So I've made the 
> appointment for tomorrow evening at 6:40 - the last appointment of the 
> day - and have found a friend to go with me.
> 
> I can't believe I'm doing this. It seems so...FINAL. And I guess it 
> is, but...wow. I know it's what's best but that doesn't make it any 
> easier.
> 
> Anyway, Slink and I have the rest of tonight and all of tomorrow to be 
> with each other. Thanks again for all your support!
> 
> MJ

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Re: Slinky - Sad News

Thanks for that reminder Phaewryn.  I've actually been able to postpone 
tomorrow's meeting (my boss had asked if I wanted to this morning because I've 
been sick, but like a dope I said I'd be okay!...but I was able to call 
everyone and tell them we're postponing it.  I think it's for the best all the 
way around).  So I've made the appointment for tomorrow evening at 6:40 - the 
last appointment of the day - and have found a friend to go with me.
   
  I can't believe I'm doing this.  It seems so...FINAL.  And I guess it is, 
but...wow.  I know it's what's best but that doesn't make it any easier.
   
  Anyway, Slink and I have the rest of tonight and all of tomorrow to be with 
each other.  Thanks again for all your support!
   
  MJ

"[EMAIL PROTECTED]" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  When I lost Moogie, I had to drop her off at the vet and go to work. 
They called and told me that she was dying and there wasn't anything else to 
do... I rushed back over, but only got about 30 minutes with her. I wish I 
would have blown off work and spent that morning with her. You can't get that 
time back.
   
  My thoughts are with you. 
  
Phaewryn
   
  http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html 
Special Needs Cat Resources


 
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Re: SLINKY

Aw.  Glad you liked his site.  Unforunately, though, he's actually only 11 
months and I've only had him for 8 months!!!  I had to set his age as over 14 
to give him a myspace, so i just made it 20 for fun...and maybe wishful 
thinking. 
   
  Thanks again!!
   
  MJ

Kelly L <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  I just visited his site, WHat a very very special boy,,,He looks just 
like MAXX my FELV boy and what a tribute to the wonderful care that 
he lived such a very very long contented life, My heart really goes 
out to you as this is the decision I had to make twice this month and 
I am still not recovered,
We are here 24 hours a day for you
Kelly




 
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Re: To Marissa Re: Another Slinky Update/pics

Thanks Wendy.  I'm about to lose it...but I think having had several days to 
think about it and adjust is helping (not that it makes it any easier).

  I do have lots of pics of Slinky, and have been taking even more in the last 
few days.  My best friend plans to help me make a scrap book for him (she has 
made them for each of her pets) and I'm going to put one of his pics in a frame 
I have on my nightstand (previously used for boyfriends but now being upgraded 
to a much more loyal love in my life!).  

  If anyone wants to see any of his pics, feel free to check out his myspace 
page:
  www.myspace.com/slinkecat

  thanks again!

  MJ

wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  Hey Marissa,

I am really amazed at how well you are handling all of
this. You are really good at making good/difficult
decisions. I commend you for that. I hope that when
you go see the vet today that his HCT is the same or
better if he's going to be able to pull through all
this. If not, I completely understand your decision
on this.

I wanted to tell you that if you don't have any pics
of Slinky, you might want to take some. Pictures of
Cricket were invaluable after I lost him. I slept
with his picture for weeks afterwards. They helped me
to grieve, and his pic is still on my nightstand a
year and a half after he passed. 

:)
Wendy

--- Marissa Johnson 
wrote:

> Hi all. Amazingly, Slinky's still hanging in there.
> Must be all the zillions of prayers going up on his
> behalf! :)
> 
> I mentioned the other day that when we went to the
> vet on Fri, his HCT was down to 7. However, he's
> till breathing normally and eating and drinking on
> his own (not eating a ton, but eating nonetheless). 
> The vet was shocked he hadn't lost any weight.
> 
> He perks up a few times a day to eat and drink,
> but for the most part he spends all of his time
> sleeping or lying around - either on my bed or under
> my bed. I'm giving him Doxy, Prednisone, Clavamox,
> Hi-Vite, and C&Lysine in watered down babyfood twice
> a day! Also giving Epogen once a week and Immuno
> Reguline a few times a week (that one at the vet). 
> I feel like I live in a hospital! lol
> 
> We go back to the vet tomorrow morning for the
> next dose of IR and I think I've made some
> decisions. First of all, I've decided against
> another transfusion. The vet doesn't think it will
> help much (his HCT actually went down after the last
> one, not up), I don't really want to put him through
> that, and "dad" isn't up for paying for another one
> if it's not likely to help. Most importantly, I
> don't believe Slinky wants to go through it again.
> 
> I've also decided that when we go to the vet
> tomorrow, if his HCT has gone down any further, I
> think that will be a sign that it's his time. If
> it's stayed the same, I'll try another dose of the
> IR and see what happens. If it goes up, we'll
> obviously keep doing what we're doing. But this is
> no quality of life for him and if he's continuing to
> get worse, I think I need to recognize that it may
> be time to let him go.
> 
> It's a difficult (almost impossible) decision! 
> But I feel peaceful about it. He's more cuddly
> lately - coming up to cuddle with me in our usual
> way and we've had some wonderful time together these
> last few days. I'm staying home and being with him
> as much as possible. I'm still praying and hoping
> that he's improving (and sending him those happy
> healing vibes), but we'll have to see tomorrow.
> 
> Thanks again for all your prayers and support! 
> When friends ask how I'm able to get through this I
> say it's largely because of you all. I hope all
> your furkids are doing well.
> 
> Hugs,
> MJ and Slinky
> 
> 
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> Go to the Yahoo! Mail Q&A for great tips from Yahoo!
> Answers users.

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Slinky - Sad News

Hi all.  Thank you so much for all the GLOW and well wishes.  Slinky and I just 
got back from the vet (and a spin through the park).  I am sad to report that 
his HCT has dropped to just over 5!  It was a little above 7 on Friday.  The 
vet didn't even want to give him the IR shot today because she said his 
platlettes (sp?) are so low that when they stick him in the vein he just 
bleeds.  She thought an IV injection would do more harm than good.
   
  She agrees with me that it's best to let him go.  She said she's never seen a 
cat with HCT that low who was still awake and breathing ok (which, amazingly, 
he is).  But she also indicated that as the RBC's drop, his organs will shut 
down and things will just get worse.
   
  Unfortunately, I'm not sure when this will happen.  I needed to bring him 
home right now so I'd have some time to say goodbye and do some of his favorite 
things.  But I have a HGE day at work tomorrow and am not sure I'll get 
through it if I put him down tonight.  Tomorrow night I have an evening meeting 
for work that I can't get out of!  So it might have to be Wednesday.  I don't 
know...I'd just die if he gets worse before then, but some things can't be 
rescheduled (I've already missed several days of work to take care of him and 
be with him).  
   
  He's pretty much the same...still breathing fine, eating, drinking, and using 
his box.  So I guess for now I'll just see how it goes.  They said they'd fit 
me in any time.  
   
  Thanks again for all your support!  I will be getting another kitty 
eventually (he is my only and my first as an adult!!)...but I don't think I'm 
up for another FeLV pos.  I'm thinking maybe one who's missing an eye or has a 
bad leg or is deaf or something.  Something that makes them difficult to adopt 
but isn't life threatening...I just don't think I can go through this again 
right now.
   
  I hope all your furkids are well.  I'll let you know when I need to add 
Slinky to the CLS.
   
  Thanks!
   
  MJ and Slinky

 
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Another Slinky Update

2007-03-25 Thread Marissa Johnson

Hi all.  Amazingly, Slinky's still hanging in there.  Must be all the zillions 
of prayers going up on his behalf! :)
   
  I mentioned the other day that when we went to the vet on Fri, his HCT was 
down to 7.  However, he's till breathing normally and eating and drinking on 
his own (not eating a ton, but eating nonetheless).  The vet was shocked he 
hadn't lost any weight.
   
  He perks up a few times a day to eat and drink, but for the most part he 
spends all of his time sleeping or lying around - either on my bed or under my 
bed.  I'm giving him Doxy, Prednisone, Clavamox, Hi-Vite, and C&Lysine in 
watered down babyfood twice a day!  Also giving Epogen once a week and Immuno 
Reguline a few times a week (that one at the vet).  I feel like I live in a 
hospital! lol
   
  We go back to the vet tomorrow morning for the next dose of IR and I think 
I've made some decisions.  First of all, I've decided against another 
transfusion.  The vet doesn't think it will help much (his HCT actually went 
down after the last one, not up), I don't really want to put him through that, 
and "dad" isn't up for paying for another one if it's not likely to help.  Most 
importantly, I don't believe Slinky wants to go through it again.
   
  I've also decided that when we go to the vet tomorrow, if his HCT has gone 
down any further, I think that will be a sign that it's his time.  If it's 
stayed the same, I'll try another dose of the IR and see what happens.  If it 
goes up, we'll obviously keep doing what we're doing.  But this is no quality 
of life for him and if he's continuing to get worse, I think I need to 
recognize that it may be time to let him go.
   
  It's a difficult (almost impossible) decision!  But I feel peaceful about it. 
 He's more cuddly lately - coming up to cuddle with me in our usual way and 
we've had some wonderful time together these last few days.  I'm staying home 
and being with him as much as possible.  I'm still praying and hoping that he's 
improving (and sending him those happy healing vibes), but we'll have to see 
tomorrow.
   
  Thanks again for all your prayers and support!  When friends ask how I'm able 
to get through this I say it's largely because of you all.  I hope all your 
furkids are doing well.
   
  Hugs,
  MJ and Slinky

 
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Re: any other catfood suggestions

2007-03-24 Thread Marissa Johnson

WOOHOO!!  Hugs to you and Mama Kitty!  :)

Nina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:  Hooray!!!

elizabeth trent wrote:
> Great advice, MC :0) I am so very glad to be a part of this list. In 
> my heart, I know that if I had not joined - Mama Kitty would not be 
> with us today. She's having a wonderful day in the sunshine -- and 
> she drank a lot of water this morning! She's been helping me plant 
> verbena and impatiens. Finally, I can take a breath.
> 
> elizabeth




 
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Re:

2007-03-24 Thread Marissa Johnson

Kelly, I'm so sorry to hear about your baby.  It's so hard to say goodbye.  
GLOW and prayers for you.  
   
  *hugs*
   
  MJ

elizabeth trent <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
Love and light to you, Kelly.  My heart is with you.
   
  elizabeth

 
  On 3/24/07, catatonya <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: Kelly,  I'm so sorry.
  tonya

Kelly L <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  To my Friends, My sweet Little White Deaf kitty is at the emergency 
vets under Oxygen tonight. It is a long story but probably underlying 
heart disease..and he is not responding. The ventilator is an option, 
but the prognosis of ever getting him off it is is so slim and with 
so many underlying problems I would be doing it for me and not him, 
He has been though so very much this year,...Please wish me the 
strength to go down there and hold him in my arms and a gently 
passage,,,Then to the other vet asFRESNO my rescued dog's would has 
opened up and the pin should be pulled, 
I hate these times.
Kelly







 
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Re: To Marissa

2007-03-23 Thread Marissa Johnson

Hey Wendy.  No problem...it is good information.  Generally I believe in 
holistic medicine and have even thought of taking Slinky to a holistic vet (if 
I can afford it).  I called someone yesterday to see if she could come in and 
do some T Touch and accupressure with him.  It's just hard when you feel like 
everything you read says something different (I remember going through that 
when I was trying to figure out what to feed him).  But at this point I feel 
like we're doing everything we can.

  Not so good news on the Slinky front.  We just got back from he vet...took 
him in to give him his first shot of IR.  They did another CBC to get a 
baseline so we can tell if the IR is helping...and his HCT is down to 7!!!  It 
was 9 when we were there on Wed.  :(  But we gave him the IR and I guess all we 
can do now is see if it works.  He seemed to perk up a bit when we got home, 
but nonw he's pretty much sacked out on the bed.  I'm really praying for a 
miracle...but I know I have to love him enough to let go as well if that's what 
he needs.  :'(

  It's INCREDIBLY hard to let him sit under the bed alone, but I want him to be 
in control of what happens with and to him, not me.  He is back on the bed 
now...sleeping.  I'm praying the IR works as I think it's the last thing we 
have left to try.  The vet was shocked he hasn't lost weight and isn't having 
trouble breathing...so he seems to still be fighting.  Thanks for all the GLOW!

  Hugs

  MJ & Slinky ^-^

wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  Hey Marissa,

I feel kind of bad now sending that out. If I had
thought about it, I wouldn't have because stuff like
this does tend to stress out people who are already
stressed about their pet's health. I apologize. I am
not sure what to think about it. I am interested in
what other people think as well. I agree that the
people who are trying to sell this stuff have a vested
interest, but I also know people who are health
fanatics who do the same type of cleansing things. 
And it's also scary to think about trying to do
something new while getting Slinky's body back under
control. I would be weary at this point, and if you
feel like doing more research, looking into it
couldn't hurt. Let me know if you find anything
corroborating it. Veterinarians have a vested
interest in this article not being true because they
lose business when animals are healthy.

I am so sorry you and Slinky are going through this
right now. It's SO hard-worrying about your furbaby
24/7. But you are right to try to be in tune with
what Slinky wants and respecting his space and wishes.
That's very big of you because it's so hard to do,
and not all of us are good at it. It's not surprising
you are getting sick with all the stress and lack of
sleep. Take care of yourself while you're taking care
of Slinky. I keep thinking about him all throughout
the week. I so want the little guy to rally and pull
through. I am hoping the IR really helps.

:)
Wendy

--- Marissa Johnson 
wrote:

> What do people think of this? I'm feeling so
> overwhelmed right now - wanting to do anything I can
> to save Slink and not knowing what's best. Seems
> everything you read says something different. I
> think I'd feel better about this article if it
> weren't written by the people selling the products. 
> But...what do people think?
> 
> Re: Slink...His temp spiked again last night. :( 
> But it's down to 103.6 this morning. Last night
> when I went to bed he got up and went under the bed
> all the way back in the corner and sat there. I
> really thought maybe he was getting ready to leave
> me. So I crawled under the bed and petted and
> kissed him a bit...but didn't want to bring him up
> to the bed if he wanted to be alone (trying to
> respect his wishes...so hard but I know it's best). 
> I did pull the rug he was lying on a little closer
> to the front of the bed. I checked on him a few
> times during the night and he's still hangin' in
> there. He's up on the bed with me now. But..was a
> long night for mom!!!
> 
> I ordered the IR and have an appointment tonight
> to start it. I am staying home today because now it
> appears that I'M getting sick! :( Thanks for all
> the prayers and support for Slink! I'll keep you
> updated.
> 
> MJ
> 
> wendy wrote:
> You might be interested in this article that was
> posted on the hyper T website about cleansing a
> cat's
> system. I couldn't post the whole article as it's
> very long (here's the rest of it:
>
http://www.petmedicinechest.com/feline/discussions/chronicsicknesstext.asp.)
> Any thoughts on this article?
> 
> :)
> Wendy
> 
> 
> > Dear Fellow Cat Lover,
> > 
>

Re: Interesting article about cat health and cleansing their bodies

2007-03-23 Thread Marissa Johnson

What do people think of this?  I'm feeling so overwhelmed right now - wanting 
to do anything I can to save Slink and not knowing what's best.  Seems 
everything you read says something different.  I think I'd feel better about 
this article if it weren't written by the people selling the products.  
But...what do people think?

  Re: Slink...His temp spiked again last night.  :(  But it's down to 103.6 
this morning.  Last night when I went to bed he got up and went under the bed 
all the way back in the corner and sat there.  I really thought maybe he was 
getting ready to leave me.  So I crawled under the bed and petted and kissed 
him a bit...but didn't want to bring him up to the bed if he wanted to be alone 
(trying to respect his wishes...so hard but I know it's best).  I did pull the 
rug he was lying on a little closer to the front of the bed.  I checked on him 
a few times during the night and he's still hangin' in there.  He's up on the 
bed with me now.  But..was a long night for mom!!!

  I ordered the IR and have an appointment tonight to start it.  I am staying 
home today because now it appears that I'M getting sick!  :(  Thanks for all 
the prayers and support for Slink!  I'll keep you updated.

  MJ

wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  You might be interested in this article that was
posted on the hyper T website about cleansing a cat's
system. I couldn't post the whole article as it's
very long (here's the rest of it:
http://www.petmedicinechest.com/feline/discussions/chronicsicknesstext.asp.)
Any thoughts on this article?

:)
Wendy

> Dear Fellow Cat Lover,
> 
> So your precious cat has been sick for months and
> months or possibly even years. There is no way you
> are willing to give up on your kitty. You have
> tried all the drugs the Vet has prescribed. Your
> kitty is fed up with you stuffing chemicals down its
> throat and might even be to the point of not eating
> anything you are giving because he/she no longer
> trusts you. Now what are you going to do? Let your
> kitty die? Never!
> 
> Your kitty may have just been diagnosed with hyper
> or hypo-thyroid disease. Your cat is sick of being
> sick. You are sick because you are trying
> everything and your cat is getting even sicker. 
> Your Vet wants to put your precious furry friend
> through all sorts of torture and drugs. 
> 
> Relax, you have just found the most important site
> on the internet to help you help bring your little
> life-long companion back to health, vitality and
> happiness. If you took the effort to research and
> seek us out, you are our kind of person. One who
> cares so much for the welfare of their cat, that
> they will do whatever it takes to bring their cat
> back to health in spite of all the "expert help" you
> both have been given. 
> 
> Guess what? It doesn't take nearly as much as you
> might think. It takes:
> 
> a.. Diligence on your part. 
> b.. A fresh perspective about animal
> health--eliminating the concept that drugs are the
> road to health that all of us have been led to
> believe over the past forty to fifty years and which
> you see with your own eyes how well they don't work.
> 
> c.. The initiative to make the changes that are
> essential in the recovery of your cat's health and
> well being and to stick with those changes. 
> d.. It does NOT take a lot of money either. 
> Our little ones are doing fine thanks to you
> guys. Please never give up this battle to inform
> the public of your great products. Without them, my
> pets would have died a long time ago. They not only
> lived longer, but in better health than they ever
> had. I mean ever!! Thank you, Gail H. and family,
> New York
> 
> WHAT YOU NEED TO DO
> 
> First, you need to bring your cat's immune
> system that has been so severely suppressed back up
> and into good working condition.
> 
> Second, you need to rebuild all the flora that
> has been killed in your kitty's gut and the rest of
> its body.
> 
> Third, you need to clean up your cat's
> contaminated blood that has been circulating within
> its veins for months or years causing these constant
> health conditions.
> 
> Fourth, you need to provide home-cooked, fresh
> wholesome food for your cat.
> 
> GETTING STARTED
> 
> Step One--The Immune System
> 
> After weeks and months of toxic drugs and other
> chemicals being given to your kitty, its little
> immune system is severely suppressed. Is it
> possible to rebuild the immune system? Absolutely
> it is possible. You may have heard of the herb
> Echinacea which has been used for hundreds of years
> in North America to boost the immune system. We
> use this and others that have been shown to boost
> the immune system. 
> 
> The medicinal qualities of herbs such as Echinacea,
> Poke Root along with a host of others from North
> America have been extracted from the plants in the
> form of a liquid tincture. This herbal remedy
> tincture with the synergy of the specifically feline
> formulated herbs has been show

Re: Mama Kitty - back from the vet's just now

2007-03-22 Thread Marissa Johnson

YAYAYAYAYAY!!!  So glad she's feeling better!  And I might steal that 
tip about freezing chicken stock.  Great idea!  :)  
   
  Give Mama Kitty some kisses for me.  
   
  MJ

Kelly L <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  At 03:32 PM 3/21/2007, you wrote:


wonderful!


>Mama Kitty and I just got home from the vet's office. The Acemannan 
>came in (less than 24 hours - that was very good).
>
>I knew Mama was feeling a bit better this afternoon because she did 
>put up some protest about going to the vet's today. They took her 
>temperature and her fever is gone! She got more fluids today.
>
>She was more vocal today -- that is much more like her. Instead of 
>taking us to one of the patient rooms - they took us straight back 
>to where they do procedures and surgery. I've been going there a 
>long time so I guess they know I'm not going to get in the way. Dr. 
>Reid is a wonder about giving those shots that go through the skin 
>and directly into the stomach. The vet tech holds her standing up 
>and he does the shot. My doctor said that actually a shot like this 
>is less painful than one that goes under the skin -- he explained 
>about why and the nerves in the skin, etc.
>
>We're scheduled every Wednesday for the next month or so to come in 
>for one of these shots.
>
>Maybe it is my imagination - but I could swear that by the time we 
>got home - Mama was feeling even better. The first thing she did 
>was have a few bites of salmon.
>
>Dr. Reid is concerned about her drinking enough water so I will be 
>keeping an eye on that. He recommends making ice cubes from chicken 
>stock (not the low sodium kind)you put the ice cube in a bowl or 
>plate for them. They can play with it - but also they won't drink 
>it too fast. My understanding is that the sodium in the broth makes 
>them more thirsty and so they will drink more water. (I don't think 
>you should use stock that is made with onions because anything from 
>the allium family is taboo for kitties).
>
>So - thanks for everyone who sent well wishes and thought of us. I 
>am cautiously optimistic. Mama Kitty is on the porch sunbathing 
>(since mean ol' mommy made her stay inside today while she was 
>away). We'll keep you posted.
>No virus found in this incoming message.
>Checked by AVG Free Edition.
>Version: 7.1.413 / Virus Database: 268.18.13/726 - Release Date: 3/18/2007




 
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Re: Fred - Crisis, prayers needed please

2007-03-22 Thread Marissa Johnson

Oh Belinda!  So sorry to hear this.  I will definitely be praying for 
Fred...and for you and the dr.  Give him head buts for me!
   
  GLOW to you!
   
  MJ

Belinda <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  Hi All,
Fred my CRF furkid is having some problems, I took him in to the vet 
last night because he gave out a meow that sounded like nothing he has 
ever done before and when he tried to stand and walk he did about a half 
turn and then plopped back to the rug and his front feet were 
twitching. He's been twitching off and on for a while.

He's been on Norvasc for high blood pressure for a while but apparently 
his dose is no longer high enough, his BP was 230 at the vets 
yesterday. I called the vet in while he was twitching and she is very 
concerned about his BP, she told me to give him double his dose when I 
got home, he had already had his usual dose that morning. Then she said 
to give his regular dose in this AM and another dose in the afternoon 
today. He will get double what he's been getting from now on.

I didn't feed or mess with him the rest of the night yesterday, and he 
twitched off and on all night. He was very unsteady on his feet and 
slept for the most part. This morning he is not himself still. He is 
not as unsteady and not twitching that I've noticed yet but seems very 
slow and just looks like he doesn't feel good. I gave him his 
metachloprimide and am going to feed him shortly, I'm going to wait and 
give him his BP med close to the time the vet opens so if I have to run 
him down they will be open, they open at 6:30AM, it's 6AM now.

Please pray that whatever is going on, hopefully it is just his BP and 
the increased BP meds will control it, if not, that whatever it is we'll 
figure it out and can help him feel better. He looks the worse he ever 
has since this all started.

-- 

Belinda
happiness is being owned by cats ...

Be-Mi-Kitties
http://bemikitties.com




 
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Another Update: Today's Vet Visit

Hi all!  Thanks so much for being such a fabulous support network!  I have many 
families in my life...and I feel like now I have a new one: my "feleuk family"! 
lol  
   
  Took Slink to a new vet tonight - the one near my house.  I was very pleased 
with her!  She asked if his regular diet is raw (which it was before he got 
sick).  I told her he's eating Innova Evo and she said her cats love it (I was 
impressed to find a vet who knew wat Innova was!  Then I remembered I got her 
name from the owner of the store where I buy it.  lol).  
   
  They did a CBC and his HCT is down to 9, but his WBC was up slightly.  His 
temp was 105.6!  She was very real with me.  She said what I had basically been 
thinking: that if we didn't do something, he would definitely die and fairly 
quickly.  So she said we had nothing to lose by trying things and she was 
willing to try whatever I wanted to.  
   
  I had faxed her 8 pages of info about IR and she'd read all of it, PLUS did 
her own reading!  She said she'd heard of some clinical trials but they'd been 
stopped because it wasn't working...but that she'd read further and saw that 
the reason they stopped them is because they were defining success as 
seroconversion (testing negative for FeLV) and that's just not going to happen. 
 But when you look at symptoms and quality of life, it seems like it works 
pretty well.  
   
  She wasn't as positive about the Epogen, wasn't sure that it would work.  But 
again was willing to try it.  She also wanted to start him on Prednisone since 
it can stimulate RBC production and would help with some other things.  So, she 
gave him a shot of Pred and Epogen (we were going to wait on the Epogen so as 
not to start everything at once, but decided to just go with it).  She also 
gave me a bottle of Doxy and sent me home with that and Pred tablets.  I'm 
going to order the IR (that way it will get here more quickly) and then we'll 
start that as well.
   
  Their prices are extremely reasonable as well!  They'll only charge me $20 
per visit to do the IR doses (and since it's only $50 or so for the meds, 
that's very affordable!).  It'll be $26 for the Epogen shots which is just 
paying for the medicine itself.  The exam tonight was only $48 (though with 
everything we did, the total bill was almost $200).  But "dad" is being 
wonderful and helping me out yet again!  :)  Also, I can get there in about 15 
minutes on the metro, so it'll be nice and easy to go to his appointments!  :)
   
  After the appointment my friend and I dropped Slink at home (he went straight 
for water!  :)), and went out to dinner.  When we came home a couple hours 
later, his temp is now 102.8!!!  I did the happy 
dance...and he looked at me like I was nuts! lol  He's still pretty quiet, but 
seems much more alert and comfortable.  I gave him his clavamox, doxy, water, 
and vitamins...and I think it was a bit too much cuz he coughed up some phlegm 
and kinda gagged on it.  So we'll be spreading that out from now on.  The 
Clavamox is almost gone, though.  He's not crazy about having to take all that 
stuff but he tolerates it pretty well.
   
  At dinner my friend and I were talking about him and she said when she worked 
at the vet she could tell when people brought their animals in whether they 
should put them down or not...and she says Slinky has way too much life left in 
him to put him down now.  That was great to hear!!!
   
  Anyway, that's the latest.  Obviously no way to know if all this will work, 
but we figure it can't hurt to try.  I'm just thrilled to be doing SOMETHING.  
Keep your fingers crossed and send us prayers for his recovery!  Thanks again 
for all your help and support
   
  Marissa

 
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RE: Question: Interferon (Alpha, Omega, etc.) Now? Others?

Thanks Hideyo!  Can you give me an idea of the cost to have it shipped from the 
UK?  Also, where do you order it from?  Thanks!!!
   
  MJ

Hideyo Yamamoto <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
v\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}  o\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}  
w\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}  .shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
st1\:*{behavior:url(#default#ieooui) }Interferon is basically 
anti-viral agent and try to attack different virus in their body..
   
  
-
  
  From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Hideyo Yamamoto
Sent: Wednesday, March 21, 2007 2:06 PM
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
Subject: RE: Question: Interferon (Alpha, Omega, etc.) Now? Others?

   
  I read a study where FOI (feline omega interferon) was used among sick felk 
kitties and the study did prove that it did help even among sick kitties.  
Alpha is human interferon and you give it orally  FOI is feline interferon and 
you can give it as an inject able usually.  You can only get it from other 
countries and they are expensive, but its more effective than alpha  and also 
a kitty will develop antibody to human one so it wont be effective after a 
couple of months.
   
  My vet order directly from UK and I get it in a few days  you are supposed 
to have DFDA approval letter  but you dont need it  I have gotten about 10 
shipments so far without FDA letter with no problem.  Good luck
   
  
-
  
  From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Marissa Johnson
Sent: Wednesday, March 21, 2007 1:57 PM
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
Subject: Question: Interferon (Alpha, Omega, etc.) Now? Others?

   
Hi all!  As I'm getting ready for this evening's vet appointment, I realize 
I have lots of research on IR, Epogen, and Doxy...but not much on some of the 
other things I've heard about on this list (namely Interferon and Acemannan).

 

Is Interferon something that could be helpful at this stage, or is it 
something you give before they get sick to prevent the virus from becoming 
active?  I've heard of Alpha and Omega...is there a difference, if so, which do 
I use? 

 

Also, what about Acemannan?  I read on www.felineleukemia.com that it can 
be helpful in combo with Interferon.  What do you all know or think about using 
it at this stage (now that he's already sick)?

 

Any info would be MUCH appreciated!  THANK YOU!!!

 

 

MJ and Slinky  :)



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Question: Interferon (Alpha, Omega, etc.) Now? Others?

Hi all!  As I'm getting ready for this evening's vet appointment, I realize I 
have lots of research on IR, Epogen, and Doxy...but not much on some of the 
other things I've heard about on this list (namely Interferon and Acemannan).
   
  Is Interferon something that could be helpful at this stage, or is it 
something you give before they get sick to prevent the virus from becoming 
active?  I've heard of Alpha and Omega...is there a difference, if so, which do 
I use? 
   
  Also, what about Acemannan?  I read on www.felineleukemia.com that it can be 
helpful in combo with Interferon.  What do you all know or think about using it 
at this stage (now that he's already sick)?
   
  Any info would be MUCH appreciated!  THANK YOU!!!
   
   
  MJ and Slinky  :)

 
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Update - making progress w/ vets

Hi all!  First of all, I need to say again how absolutely AMAZING this list 
is  Thank you so much for being here and for all your support and advice.  
And special thanks to Barb for IMing me (if anyone else feels like chatting, 
I'm on yahoo at disablednproud77 and on aim at disablednproud)!!!  :)
   
  I made a ton of calls this morning and have made a bit of progress in finding 
a new vet.  Thanks so much to all of you who recommended people and sent links! 
 I'm still waiting for some vets to call me back, but I found one very near my 
house (can even get there on the metro which is good since I don't have a car) 
who said she'd look at the articles I have (I faxed them to her) and that she'd 
be willing to try things as long as I am aware it may not work (well duh!!).  
Her prices are also REALLY reasonable, so that helps a lot!
   
  I also spoke with the vet I had taken him to at Banfield.  He said that he 
didn't think there was anything that would help, but if I faxed him my research 
info, he'd take a look and if it looked good he'd make sure I got whatever 
scrips I needed for things I wanted to try.  That's good news because I'm still 
on their wellness plan, so if we do IR or something, I can go there for the 
treatments and not have to pay for the office visit!  :)  
   
  "Dad" said to call him from the vet and he'll give them his credit card 
number...I'll start paying him back when I get paid next week.  Whew!  God is 
good.  Still no idea what will work, but I'm glad to be making progress!!!
   
  Thanks for all the suggestions and help everyone!!!  Hugs!
   
  Marissa

 
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Re: FeLV Supportive Vets in DC Area?/Attn: MJ

WOW!  Thanks.  Finksburg is only a little over and hour from me, so I might be 
able to swing that.  Could you give me his number and I'll call?  I'm going to 
call several places today and see what I can find out.
   
  Last night...about 10:30 or so I really thought I would lose him.  He was so 
lethargic that when we gave him fluids he just flopped in my arms and didn't 
even wince when we stuck him (normally he screams).  I told him that if he 
wanted to make it through the night I was going to try to find a vet to help 
us.  His temp was in the low 103's during the night and 104.2 this morning.  
And around 5:30 or so he got up and ate and drank quite a bit of water on his 
own.  That was great to see!
   
  I'm gonna start calling around, so please send your dr's info.  THANKS!  
And I'd love to have you "vouch" for me...I can use all the discounts I can get!
   
  MJ

[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
  I forgot [silly me!} to say that my vet also gives "Rescue Rates"
  If you want, I'll "vouch" for you
  Hugs & Best Wishes,
  Patti & her gang
  




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RE: FeLV Supportive Vets in DC Area?

2007-03-20 Thread Marissa Johnson

THANK YOU!  I'd probably even be willing to drive to WV...are you near 
Martinsburg or...?  My friend the vet tech who's here came from Charleston!  
THANKS

Tracy Weese <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:I am just outside of DC, in the 
Eastern Panhandle of WV and have great vets that have always supported me and 
my FeLV+ catssome have even done extra research just for me.  There is a 
lady I know in DC that might be able to help you, too, I will try to contact 
her.
   
Tracy 
  - Original Message ----- 


    From: Marissa Johnson 
  To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
  Sent: 3/20/2007 7:26:56 PM 
  Subject: FeLV Supportive Vets in DC Area?
  

  Hi.  Is anyone in the DC area?  Does anyone know of any vets who are 
supportive with FeLV + cats in the DC metro area (or Baltimore area)?  The vet 
I've been working with doesn't think we should try IR or anything else.  I'm 
tempted to get it and give it subq myself, but...that's probably not the best 
idea.  I've got a call in to the oncologist at the hospital and to my regular 
vet.  But I thought I'd see if anyone knows of any especially good vets in my 
area.
   
  Thanks!!
   
  MJ

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FeLV Supportive Vets in DC Area?

2007-03-20 Thread Marissa Johnson

Hi.  Is anyone in the DC area?  Does anyone know of any vets who are supportive 
with FeLV + cats in the DC metro area (or Baltimore area)?  The vet I've been 
working with doesn't think we should try IR or anything else.  I'm tempted to 
get it and give it subq myself, but...that's probably not the best idea.  I've 
got a call in to the oncologist at the hospital and to my regular vet.  But I 
thought I'd see if anyone knows of any especially good vets in my area.
   
  Thanks!!
   
  MJ

 
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Doxy and IR and Epogen, oh my! What to do?

2007-03-20 Thread Marissa Johnson

Hi all.  First, another brief update on Slinky:
   
  Last night around 2:30 his temp spiked to 106!  We gave him 75 cc's of fluids 
and that seemed to help.  It's been hovering in the 104.3-104.7 range today.  
Still high, but not as scary as 106.  My friend is giving him fluids (both 
sub-q and oral), keeping him on a cold pack, and taking his temp every hour to 
get a good log.  It seems to start rising in the evening and then spike in the 
middle of the night.
   
  Our vet appointment is tomorrow at 5:40.  The challenge I'm trying to sort 
out right now is what the next steps should be.  Based on my own research and 
all the info you guys have been so awesome to provide, it seems like there's 
about 3 "options": Epogen to increase the red blood cells, Doxy to treat 
possible Hemobartanella, Immuno Regulin to stimulate his immune system.
   
  The doctor had said she'd consider Epogen if there was some regeneration 
after the transfusion.  She was going to ask around about the IR, and she said 
it "wouldn't be wrong" to switch to Doxy.  He's out of Baytril now, so I'd like 
to try the Doxy.  The thing is...all of these treatments are going to be 
expensive.  IR isn't too bad...and I could even take him to a cheaper vet to 
get it administered (after the first dose to make sure he doesn't have a big 
reaction).  But I don't know what Doxy and Epogen will cost.  And I'm not sure 
how much my "Dad" is willing to pay at this point.  
   
  I'm not sure where to draw the line on trying treatments, spending money, 
putting him through all these things, etc.  He's been very lethargic and while 
he seems a LITTLE pinker, he's still very pale.  I mean, if he has no quality 
of life then I don't want to continue to torture him.  But at the same time, 
would the drugs give him back his quality of life?  Maybe?  I don't know?  He's 
still eating (though not drinking as much but will take water via syringe), so 
does that mean he wants to fight?  
   
  Do I do all 3 drugs and see what happens?  Or pick one or two?  If I pick one 
or two, how do I decide?  Or do I do them one at a time and then which do I 
start with?
   
  These are all the things going through my mind right now.  I've got a call in 
to the doctor to talk to her about some of this prior to our appointment (esp. 
since I'd need to order IR if we're going to do it).  I also have to call "dad" 
and see what he thinks.  But I just don't know how to make these decisions!  I 
feel so ill-equipped for this!  All I know is that he's depending on me and I'm 
responsible for his care...and I have NO clue what to do!!!
   
  Any thoughts, suggestions, or advice on how to move forward would be awesome! 
 Thanks everyone for being such an incredible support network!!  GLOW to all 
your furkids.
   
  MJ

 
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Re: Best way to give Vitamin C?

Hey.  I've been trying to get Slinky to take his C and Lysine as well.  I was 
mixing the powders with a little water and some dried chicken powder (I used to 
have somme Halo Dinner Party Chicken and Herbs food enhancer) and syringe 
feeding it.  That went down fairly well...he LOVES that chicken taste.
   
  Tonight I mixed it in with a little chicken baby food, adding some water to 
thin it out, and syringe feeding that.  He took that really well.  
   
  Just some ideas...that's what I've done.  I'd love to know if anyone has 
suggestions for ways to kill the taste though.  Thanks!
   
  MJ
C & J <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  The vet gave me some liquid Vitamin C to give Tomi, but it's horrible 
tasting stuff (I tried it).  Very acidic/sour and chemical tasting.  He 
absolutely hates it, and even gags afterwards, though he hasn't actually 
vomited anything up yet.
   
  I tried buying Vitamin C powder to see if he would eat it in baby food, but 
he knows its there and won't touch the food (he will eat the food with Lysine 
in it).
   
  Is there anything I could mix the powder with to reduce the acidic/sour taste 
that I could still administer with a syringe?
   
  Thanks,
  Cassandra


 
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Re: Latest Slinky Update

Thanks Wendy!!

  I did ask the doctor about Epogen...she said if he was regenerating some, we 
could look at Epogen to increase it.  I moved our appointment to Wed. night so 
I'm sure we'll talk about it then.  I'll talk to her about the IR then too.

  He actually seems a bit better today.  His temp was 104.1 this morning and we 
gave him a bout 250cc's of fluid (he kept moving and getting the needle out!), 
but he was looking a little pinker.  He's been quiet all day, but his temp was 
down to 103.8 tonight so that's good!!  He's still eating, and he's even a 
LITTLE playful...not running around, but will bat and chew a feather or string. 
 He wouldn't do that at the beginning of this ordeal so I'm taking that as a 
good sign.

  Thanks again for all your prayers!  I'm going to try to go to work tomorrow 
(I've stayed home for 3 days but don't have any vacation time left right now!). 
 My friend will still be here, so she'll keep an eye on him for me and I'm only 
a 10 minute walk away if he goes downhill.  But keep me in your prayers...that 
I'll be able to function without worrying too much.  And keep sending him those 
healing thoughts!!

  You guys are awesome!  Thanks!

  MJ

  p.s.  Slinky has his own myspace page now.  If you're interested, it's 
www.myspace.com/slinkecat  Even has a slideshow of pics.

wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  Marissa,

I can't remember what dose I gave Cricket of the IR,
but I did order it from Revival Animal Health and it
cost me about $50 with shipping. It came pretty fast,
but I might have paid extra to have it emergency
shipped. I think it's listed as EqStim; that's the
generic version. You probably don't need more than
the 5 mL to start off with. I think the dosage for IR
is .25 to .5 mL per 8 lb. cat, but don't quote me on
that. I really hope that Slinky's fever goes down
soon! I know it's worrying you, but I have heard
several people say that a fever is not necessarily a
bad thing always; it's the body's way of fighting off
things. Maybe it's a good fever. Fingers and paws
crossed here in Dallas.

:)
Wendy

--- Marissa Johnson 
wrote:

> Hi again everyone. Thanks so much for your support
> and ideas. 
> 
> After Slinky's fever spiked to 104 last night, we
> gave him some sub-q fluids and it went down to 103. 
> :-| Not great, but better.
> 
> He did eat during the night and seemed to do
> okay...but his fever is back up to 104 now. We
> tried to give him more fluids, but he won't keep the
> needle in. He got about 250 cc's in him but that's
> it. We're gonna try more later with a smaller
> needle, but...ugh. I HATE having to poke him and
> take his temp and stuff all the time...he's getting
> really sick of it! Poor baby.
> 
> He feels very hot and is pretty lethargic. He's
> still eating though. 
> 
> The doctor called to check in a bit ago
> (!!!)...i don't know if that's normal but it
> certainly hasn't been normal for me!!! She said
> she's glad to hear he's eating. She thinks I'm
> doing all I can and that eating and being alert
> might be a good day for him. :( Seems possible
> that the fever is his body adjusting to the
> transfusion, but with the FeLV it's hard to know. 
> 
> I asked her about IR and Interferon and she said
> she's never used it but saw it used with dogs in vet
> school. She said she'd ask around today and see if
> anyone had had positive results using it with cats
> with FeLV. I saw someone's post about getting it
> online w/o a scrip (can't remember who posted
> it...sorry). It's not cheap! But I may be able to
> swing a little. It's $35 for 5mL, $150 for 50mL. 
> But I have NO idea what the dose would even be. 
> Anyone know? I have a vet tech here all week so we
> could give it here for now...but what would the dose
> be??
> 
> Any ideas or suggestions would be great. 
> Thanks!!!
> 
> MJ
> 
> 
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RE: Latest Slinky Update

I got it.  Thanks Kerry!
   
  M

"MacKenzie, Kerry N." <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
Melissa,
  I just sent you an email offlist on IR -- let me know if it doesn't reach 
you. hugs, Kerry
  
  -Original Message-
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Marissa Johnson
Sent: Monday, March 19, 2007 12:08 PM
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
Subject: Latest Slinky Update


  Hi again everyone.  Thanks so much for your support and ideas.  
   
  After Slinky's fever spiked to 104 last night, we gave him some sub-q fluids 
and it went down to 103.  :-|  Not great, but better.
   
  He did eat during the night and seemed to do okay...but his fever is back up 
to 104 now.  We tried to give him more fluids, but he won't keep the needle in. 
 He got about 250 cc's in him but that's it.  We're gonna try more later with a 
smaller needle, but...ugh.  I HATE having to poke him and take his temp and 
stuff all the time...he's getting really sick of it!  Poor baby.
   
  He feels very hot and is pretty lethargic.  He's still eating though.  
   
  The doctor called to check in a bit ago (!!!)...i don't know if that's 
normal but it certainly hasn't been normal for me!!!  She said she's glad to 
hear he's eating.  She thinks I'm doing all I can and that eating and being 
alert might be a good day for him.  :(  Seems possible that the fever is his 
body adjusting to the transfusion, but with the FeLV it's hard to know.  
   
  I asked her about IR and Interferon and she said she's never used it but saw 
it used with dogs in vet school.  She said she'd ask around today and see if 
anyone had had positive results using it with cats with FeLV.  I saw someone's 
post about getting it online w/o a scrip (can't remember who posted 
it...sorry).  It's not cheap!  But I may be able to swing a little.  It's $35 
for 5mL, $150 for 50mL.  But I have NO idea what the dose would even be.  
Anyone know?  I have a vet tech here all week so we could give it here for 
now...but what would the dose be??
   
  Any ideas or suggestions would be great.  Thanks!!!
   
  MJ

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Immuno Regulin - DOSAGE???

Hi all.  I said this in my last update but thought changing the subject would 
help.
   
  Slink's fever still isn't quite down.  I'm considerinng trying IR (if I can 
afford it) and could order it without a scrip.  I have a vet tech here this 
week so we could even administer it here.  ButI have NO clue what the 
dosage would be!?!?!  
   
  I could afford to order a 5mL bottle if that will last me a bit...but I can't 
get the 50mL right now.  
   
  Anyone have any ideas on dosages?  His doctor called a bit ago and said she'd 
ask around if anyone had experience using IR with FeLV cats.  I may call her 
back but thought I'd see if you all can tell me about dosages.  Thanks!
   
  MJ

 
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Latest Slinky Update

Hi again everyone.  Thanks so much for your support and ideas.  
   
  After Slinky's fever spiked to 104 last night, we gave him some sub-q fluids 
and it went down to 103.  :-|  Not great, but better.
   
  He did eat during the night and seemed to do okay...but his fever is back up 
to 104 now.  We tried to give him more fluids, but he won't keep the needle in. 
 He got about 250 cc's in him but that's it.  We're gonna try more later with a 
smaller needle, but...ugh.  I HATE having to poke him and take his temp and 
stuff all the time...he's getting really sick of it!  Poor baby.
   
  He feels very hot and is pretty lethargic.  He's still eating though.  
   
  The doctor called to check in a bit ago (!!!)...i don't know if that's 
normal but it certainly hasn't been normal for me!!!  She said she's glad to 
hear he's eating.  She thinks I'm doing all I can and that eating and being 
alert might be a good day for him.  :(  Seems possible that the fever is his 
body adjusting to the transfusion, but with the FeLV it's hard to know.  
   
  I asked her about IR and Interferon and she said she's never used it but saw 
it used with dogs in vet school.  She said she'd ask around today and see if 
anyone had had positive results using it with cats with FeLV.  I saw someone's 
post about getting it online w/o a scrip (can't remember who posted 
it...sorry).  It's not cheap!  But I may be able to swing a little.  It's $35 
for 5mL, $150 for 50mL.  But I have NO idea what the dose would even be.  
Anyone know?  I have a vet tech here all week so we could give it here for 
now...but what would the dose be??
   
  Any ideas or suggestions would be great.  Thanks!!!
   
  MJ

 
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Slinky is Home...but Feverish again

2007-03-18 Thread Marissa Johnson

Hi all!!!  Just wanted to give you all the latest update.  I brought Slinky 
home this afternoon  The doctor called me this morning and said he was 
doing great and could go home.  I stopped and saw him on my way to church and 
he was wanting to jump out of his cage and go home.  :)  
   
  I went back this afternoon and they said his temp is normal (101 - was 102 
when I went in the morning), his BP, respirations, heart rate, etc. were all 
normal.  He even ate quite a bit of his dry food after I left in the morning.  
He was alert and looking around.  His gums are still pale but they're 
definitely pinker!  
   
  When we got home I took him out of his carrier...and watched my baby boy run 
across the living room floor, jump up on the couch, and perch on the window 
sill!!!  :)  Considering that I wasn't sure I'd even get to bring him home, I 
just about burst into tears!  
   
  The bill was actually pretty close to the estimate and they're going to have 
me continue his clavamox and baytril and give him sub-q fluids if I need them.  
My friend who's a vet tech will be here tonight to help me take care of him and 
keep an eye on him for the week.  We have a follow-up appointment Thursday 
night to run another CBC and see where we stand.
   
  Throughout all of it, the hospital was absolutely amazing!  I called 2-3 
times last night for updates and they were great about getting them to me.  
They actually THANKED me for the opportunity to work with him and told me what 
a wonderful cat he is.  :)  
   
  Now for the not-so-happy news.  He was really alert and energetic for a 
while...but I noticed he was starting to feel warm again.  I took his temp and 
it got to 104 and then he moved and it came out and he wouldn't let me get it 
in again.  :(  I called the hospital to make sure I was supposed to give him 
his abx tonight (wanted to make sure I wasn't overdosing him after he'd been on 
IV abx).  The doctor said to give him the abx and go ahead with sub-q 
fluids...but also said that she's concerned about his ability to regenerate and 
that she thinks I've done all I can for him...and it may be that if he's eating 
and alert that's a good day for him.  
   
  We gave him the clavamox, baytril, some C and L-Lysine, and Hi-Vite and then 
started the sub-q's.  Took the temp after the fluids were done and it was 
104.4.  I'm hoping it will go down by the time the fluid absorbs.  He's seeming 
a bit more lethargic and sleepy now.  I hate to keep poking and prodding 
him...it has to be frustrating for him!
   
  I'm feeling a bit discouraged...everything seemed to be going so well when I 
picked him up!  But my friend (the vet tech) is saying that his body needs time 
to adjust to the new blood.  I'm hoping that's what's happening...and not that 
his body is killing the new blood cells.  Please keep up the prayers and good 
thoughts!  I know we've done everything we can...but I really want this to 
work!  I got my baby back for a few hours...and I want more!  
   
  Thanks again for all your support and love.  I'll send more info when I have 
it.
   
  MJ

 
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Question: Next Steps? IR, Interferon, etc.

2007-03-18 Thread Marissa Johnson

Hi again all.  I checked on Slinky a while ago and he's stable and holding his 
own.  Temp is still a little elevated, but nothing too worrisome.  I'll be glad 
when I can go see him this morning!
   
  Now that the transfusion will be behind us and we know we have the option of 
Epogen...I'm wondering what you all might suggest as next steps.  I know I've 
read things in the past about Imuno Regulin (IR?), Interferon, and other drugs, 
but I frankly can't remember what the difference between those 2 are and what 
they're for.
   
  Is at least one of them something I should consider getting Slinky on 
regularly to try to boost his immune system and keep him healthy to avoid the 
anemia, etc.?  Are there other things I can do to ward off more problems 
(already giving him vitamin C and L-Lysine...any other suggestions?)?  
   
  Once I can afford it, I may take him in to see a holistic vet and/or bring in 
a woman I met who does T-touch and accupressure (if only to teach me to do it). 
 But in the meantime (and in addition), I want to know what kinds of things I 
should be talking to the vets about doing for him.  
   
  Any thoughts or suggestions would be MOST appreciated!!!  Thanks so much for 
being the most incredible list serv on the web!  :)  I hope you and your 
kitties are all having a great night.
   
  MJ

 
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Slinky - latest update

Hi again!  The hospital just called and said the transfusion is done and he's 
doing well.  HALLELUJAH  It took 5 hours - a little longer than usual cuz 
they went slowly, but it went well.  They said his gums are a little pinker and 
his heart rate and breathing are strong.  His temp was a little high (103 - 
which after 106 is NOTHING!), but they're running an IV with ice water to bring 
it down.  They said he's been munching on his food a bit (yay!) and he has 
water and they're giving him fluids.  He looks good and is stable.  :)
   
  I told them I might call if I wake up and they gave me the name of the doctor 
who'll be with him tonight.  I told the tech to give him a kiss for me and she 
said she'd be back in the morning and looks forward to seeing me.  
   
  Too early to know how much it's helped, but they'll run another CBC in the 
morning and we'll go from there.  I plan to at least stop in on my way to 
church...and may stay depending on how he's doing.  Maybe I could even take him 
home after church if he's doing well.  :)
   
  Re: my family.  Yes, they are AMAZING  My "real" dad (biological, the one 
i lived with growing up) does think I"m crazy!  I haven't told him yet that I 
did the transfusion but he kept saying that i should save the money for my next 
cat!  GEESH!!!  But this "chosen dad" really gets it and really wanted to help. 
 He's always been there when I've needed him most!  
   
  I'm just SO RELIEVED to know he's doing well!!!  I think I might actually 
sleep tonight - for the first time in 3 nights!  He's a fighter and it looks 
like he's gonna win this one!  I hope it will buy us much more time together, 
and time to figure out some other strategies.  
   
  This hospital is incredible - they have 17 vets on staff not counting 
specialists, techs, and the wellness team!  And they really seem on top of the 
care and are very sensitive to the owners - kept preparing me for seeing him in 
isolation with a gown on, etc. and made sure to call and update me.  So I'm 
thankful to have a great hospital, incredible family, and one AMAZING 
furbaby!!!  Be encouraged: miracles DO happen!  Praise God!!  :)
   
  Thanks again for all your support!  Hang in there everyone.
   
  Hugs for all the fur kids!
   
  MJ

 
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Update on Slinky

Hi all.  First of all, thank you SO MUCH for all of your advice, help, and 
support  It's done me worlds of good!!  I can't remember what all I've 
already posted and what I haven't (esp. cuz I've told so many people all the 
details that it's all getting a bit jumbled), so if some of this is repeat, 
forgive me.
   
  Slinky has never stopped eating entirely.  He's been eating his dry Innova 
Evo like crazy...just wouldn't eat the raw I usually feed him.  He's also been 
drinking quite a bit and using his litter box regularly (and no diarrhea).  I 
got some sub-q fluids at the vet yesterday (they didn't really think it would 
help but gave them to me anyway), but didn't end up using them.  
   
  When I went to bed last night his temp was 103.6, so I just syringe-fed him 
some ice water, wiped him down with a cold washcloth, and opened the window.  
He ate several times during the night (I had his dish with the dry food on my 
bed next to my pillow, so I heard him when he started eating, and his water 
glass - only thing he'd drink out of - is next to my bed), drank, and used the 
litter box.  He felt cool to the touch to me all night (when he's had high 
fevers, he's usually been very hot) and this morning, so I didn't even take his 
temp.
   
  But, after reading all of your posts about transfusions, anemia, etc. I noted 
that his gums were VERY pale, and I thought his breathing and heart seemed a 
bit fast (though I'd never really paid attention before so wasn't sure how 
abnormal they were), so I decided to take him in this morning. 
   
  Let me first say that I have the BEST "chosen family" in the entire 
universe!!  I called my "sister" this morning because she said she was 
getting together with the 2 "dads" (it's complicated but you get the idea) and 
did I want to come.  I called to tell her I couldn't go and why and she 
recommended I take Slink to a 24 hour animal hospital in DC (she took her dog 
there and both of the dads took their cats and dogs there as well).  So we 
headed out to see what they could do.
   
  I had called the hospital and they said they could do a payment plan.  But it 
turns out that what they have is a credit card you can apply for, but I applied 
for one through my bank this morning and was denied.  The visit alone was going 
to be $110, but I figured I could at least find out what my options were.  When 
I walked in, I said that my cat had FeLV and was very anemic, his gums were 
almost white..they came and took him back and started checking him even before 
they had all my ID info (I figured this was a good sign - they were serious 
about getting him taken care of!).  
   
  When we got there, his temp was 106!!!  That's the highest it's ever been!  I 
gave them the results from the clinic on Wed (the ones I posted earlier) and 
they ran a PCV.  They said his RBC was at 12 and Wed. it had been at 14...but 
since they were different machines and different types of tests they were hard 
to compare but figured the numbers were fairly comparable - at least it wasn't 
plummeting.  They said about the only option was a transfusion and 
broad-spectrum antibiotics...but for all of that we were looking at probably 
about $1000 (the transfusion plus overnight stay, tests, etc.).  They're a 
little higher than most because it's a 24 hour hospital, but I figured the 
other places would end up being about the same with all the tests, etc.
   
  The doctor said she had had a cat that was FeLV+ who lived to be about 5 and 
then got really sick...so I knew that at least she was familiar with the 
disease and was not going to write him off because of his label.  That made me 
feel TONS better!!!  She continued to say that his long-term prognosis is not 
great, but that it was worth trying the transfusion if I could spend the money.
   
  I called my "sister" in hysterics not at all sure what to do.  She came over 
immediately and said if I wanted to do it, she'd pay for it if necessary.  She 
doesn't have THAT much more money than I do though, so I wasn't crazy about 
that idea.  But while I was waiting for her to come, I had called one of the 
"dads" who has 2 cats and recently spent $3500 on surgery for one of them.  
Despite the fact that he was running a million errands to get ready for a big 
trip, he said he'd be there in 20 minutes.  
   
  When he got there, he looked at the estimates, talked to the doctor, and 
said, "we can put it on my card."  I said, "I don't know when I can pay you 
back" and he just said, "we'll figure that out someday."  In other words, I can 
pay him back slowly and he's not going to stress about it.  I really considered 
not doing the transfusion, but Slinky was very alert, was walking around the 
exam room and looking around like, "Hey mom!  Let's go home and PLAY!"  
Everyone says that when they're done fighting, they'll tell you and I knew he 
wasn't done.
   
  So we decided to go ahead with the transfusion and I came home.  I called 
wh

slinky update

slink is having transfusion now. not sure how he will
react but we are trying. a wonderful friend is helping
w the bill. sending from my phone so this is brief.
will send more details later. i could not feel better
about the hospital i an at. they are wonderful and the
dr had a pos cat herself. please send positive
thoughts and prayers for slink. thanks!


 

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Epogen? Winstrol?

Hi all.  A few people have recommended looking into Epogen and/or Winstrol for 
Slinky.
   
  He's very anemic.  His numbers on Wed. were as follows:
  WBC: 2.86 K/uL
  LYM: 1.09 K/uL
  MONO: 1.52 K/uL
  NEU: .17 K/uL
  EOS: 0.08 K/uL
  BASO: 0 K/uL
  HCT: 14.8% 
  RBC: 2.91 M/uL
  HGB: 7.7 g/dL
  RETIC: 16.9 K/uL
  %RETIC: 0.6%
  MCV: 50.8 fL
  RDW: 20.4 %
  MCH: 26.49 pg
  Platelets: 282 K/uL
  spin down PCV 20%
  Total Solids 7.0
   
  Urinalysis: 
  Dip stick abnormals: WBC +2, protein trace
  pH: 7
  Specific Gravity: 1.040
  Sdeiment: WBC 0-3/HPF, Triple Phos. Crystals - few
   
  I don't know what 90% of this means (only know HCT and RBC now because of you 
guys), but maybe some of you can make sense of some of the numbers.
   
  I have about $200 to my name right now, so funds are VERY limited.  I just 
applied for a credit card in hopes I could charge his care, but was turned 
down.  I HATE MONEY!  
   
  Could I do Epogen and/or Winstrol to buy some time until I can afford a 
transfusion (or find some help to pay for one)?  Would that be cheaper?  Are 
there any other options??
   
  If anyone has experience with these meds or any other ideas, please share!!!
   
  Thanks!!
   
  MJ
   

 
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Re: Transfusion?

2007-03-16 Thread Marissa Johnson

Would you recommend Epogen or Winstrol instead of a transfusion or in addition 
(like after the transfusion)?  No one has mentioned either of them.  I can't 
afford to keep paying for office visits in addition to the treatments.  But 
I'll try calling my vet to see if they'd do either of them.  What is Epogen?  

  THANKS!!!

  M

wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  Marissa,

What about Epogen? Have you tried that? Also,
Winstrol, a steroid, stimulates red blood cell
production. Has your vet mentioned that? A
transfusion can buy your kitty time for other
treatments to work, but it is only temporary. You
have to have a treatment in mind for Slinky. The
transfusion only buys time.

:)
Wendy

--- Marissa Johnson 
wrote:

> Hi. Does anyone have any experience with blood
> transfusions for sick kitties? Two vets now have
> basically told me that's about the only recourse I
> have left for trying to turn Slinky around. He
> seems to be doing a BIT better right now...I took
> him in and got some Sub-Q fluids (though I haven't
> started them yet), but I think being outside
> probably got his fever down a bit. I also gave him
> some vitamin C, L-Lysine, Hi-Vite, and his 2 abx. 
> He sees a bit more energetic and actually left my
> bedroom for the first time in days! 
> 
> But the vet says his gums look like he basically
> has no blood (low red cell count). I have no idea
> if I can even afford it, but I'm going to do some
> research into costs and payment plan options
> tomorrow. He's still eating, grooming, etc. so I
> think he wants to fight...and I told him I'd keep
> fighting 'till he tells me to stop.
> 
> Anyway, was just wondering if anyone had any
> experience with transfusions. Do you think it's
> worthwhile? Is it horribly invasive or traumatic? 
> Is it something that has to be repeated periodically
> or...? Any info or advice would be most
> appreciated. Thanks!
> 
> Love and hugs to everyone's fur kids!
> 
> MJ
> 
> 
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Transfusion?

2007-03-16 Thread Marissa Johnson

Hi.  Does anyone have any experience with blood transfusions for sick kitties?  
Two vets now have basically told me that's about the only recourse I have left 
for trying to turn Slinky around.  He seems to be doing a BIT better right 
now...I took him in and got some Sub-Q fluids (though I haven't started them 
yet), but I think being outside probably got his fever down a bit.  I also gave 
him some vitamin C, L-Lysine, Hi-Vite, and his 2 abx.  He sees a bit more 
energetic and actually left my bedroom for the first time in days!  
   
  But the vet says his gums look like he basically has no blood (low red cell 
count).  I have no idea if I can even afford it, but I'm going to do some 
research into costs and payment plan options tomorrow.  He's still eating, 
grooming, etc. so I think he wants to fight...and I told him I'd keep fighting 
'till he tells me to stop.
   
  Anyway, was just wondering if anyone had any experience with transfusions.  
Do you think it's worthwhile?  Is it horribly invasive or traumatic?  Is it 
something that has to be repeated periodically or...?  Any info or advice would 
be most appreciated.  Thanks!
   
  Love and hugs to everyone's fur kids!
   
  MJ

 
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Re: Hello Again - Slinky Sick

2007-03-16 Thread Marissa Johnson

How do I get home sub-q fluids?  Vet or...?  Are those fluids I have to inject 
or...?  His fever seems to be going back up.  :(  Thanks for the positive 
energy!
   
  MJ

"[EMAIL PROTECTED]" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  I'll be sending positive energy for Slinky. I don't have anything to 
suggest, home sub-q fluids might be helpful if his fever spikes again.
  
Phaewryn
   
  http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html 
Special Needs Cat Resources


 
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Hello Again - Slinky Sick

2007-03-15 Thread Marissa Johnson

Hi all.  I'm so sorry I haven't been able to keep up with the listserv.  I've 
been overwhelmed with work and life...and everything kind of got away from me!  
For any who've lost kitties or whose fur babies are sick, my thoughts and 
prayers are with you.
   
  Please send thoughts and prayers to Slinky.  Last week he peed in my bed 
twice.  I thought it was just behavioral...until Saturday when I noticed he was 
really lethargic.  Sunday morning I took his temp and it was 104.6.  I took him 
to the vet and they said he was a bit dehydrated and gave him a shot of saline 
and a shot of clavamox.  Sent me home with 2 rounds of Clavamox - 1cc twice a 
day.
   
  I thought he was doing better...but yesterday when I came home from work, I 
sat down on my bed and watched while he sat on a duffle bag I had on the floor 
and peed all over it.  I took his temp and it was 105.3!  I called a friend 
who's a vet tech and she recommended wrapping him with a cold water bottle and 
syringe feeding him ice water.  That brought it down to 105.1, but we knew he 
needed to go in.
   
  So I took him to the emergency clinic.  By the time we got there, his temp 
was 105.6!  They did a urinalysis and a complete blood count.  Results said he 
has a UTI (no surprise there) and that his FeLV is now "full-blown."  He's very 
anemic, his red blood cell count is down, everything was low.  They gave him 
some more fluids and a shot of Baytril and sent me home w/ 5 days' worth of 
Baytril (to give in addition to the Clavamox).  
   
  The doctor said the Baytril might buy him some time, but that his time is 
limited.  She said the only other option would be a transfusion which I can't 
afford (though I'm not sure I'd put him through that even if I could afford 
it).  I spent just about all the money I've got on last night's appointment.  
   
  This morning his temp was down to 100.6.  He was quiet most of the day, but 
that's pretty normal.  I stayed home with him, but he wasn't in the mood to 
cuddle (which is very unusual) or to play.  I went out to dinner and just came 
back to find him feeling warm.  I took his temp and it's 103.8.  I just gave 
him his abx and some ice water and opened the window (I figured sitting in the 
open window sill last night probably helped with his temp).  
   
  I've been feeding him raw (Nature's Variety) for several months now.  But 
he's refusing to eat his raw food.  He will lick off treats if I crumble them 
on top and he took about 2 bites when I tried to hand-feed them.  He will eat 
his dry food (go figure!) - Innova Evo - but not a ton of it.  He's drinking 
some (only from glasses next to my bed, not from his dish!).  The doctor last 
night said his hydration was fine.
   
  Does anyone have any suggestions???  I am a WRECK  I'm trying hard to 
hold it togehter for him...but it's not working.  He's my only kitty and he's 
my baby!!!  He's not even a year yet and I've only had him 7 months!!!  I don't 
know what I'll do without him!  
   
  Any suggestions/prayers/support would be most appreciated!!!  Thanks for 
being here!  And I'm sorry again I haven't done better at keeping up with 
everyone.  
   
  Love to you and your fur babies!
   
  MJ

 
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One more thing about Slinky

2007-03-15 Thread Marissa Johnson

should mention also that with his raw food I mix in L-Lysine, Vitamin C, and 
Gentle Digest.  He won't eat his dry food if I add those things so he's not 
getting them right now.  But he has been getting them for several months.  FYI. 
 Thanks!
   
  MJ

 
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Hi and Question: Mouse Traps

2007-02-07 Thread Marissa Johnson

Hi all!  Sorry I haven't been around much lately...life has been INSANE!!!  My 
condolensces to anyone who's lost a fur baby.  My thoughts are with you!  And 
I'm sending positive thoughts for any sick kitties.
   
  I have a question.  I am almost 100% sure I have mice in the walls of my 
bedroom in my apartment.  :(  The maintenance people are offering to put out 
traps, but I'm worried about Slinky getting caught in one.
   
  I'm not sure if he'd catch a mouse if he saw one...or what he'd do.  But I 
also worry a bit about him getting a disease or something from the rodents.  
Has anyone ever heard of any kind of mouse trap that's cat-proof?  Meaning 
something that would catch the mice but not hurt Slinky?  
   
  I googled "cat proof mouse trap" and all I got was all kinds of mouse traps 
with "cat" in the name.  Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks 
so much for being such a great resource!!!
   
  MJ

 
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Re: Hi again and Question

2006-11-25 Thread Marissa Johnson

Thanks everyone for your feedback and suggestions!  I appreciate it!
   
  I've had Slink on L-Lysine for a couple months now (twice a day in his food) 
along with Vitamin C and probiotics.  I also feed him Innova Evo and Wellness 
(only because he likes variety and gets bored and stops eating the Evo if 
that's all I give him).  I'm thinking I may swtich to raw in the near 
future...when I have enough money to get started.
   
  Thanks again!  He seems to be doing fine now.  The only thing I've noticed 
lately is that when he purrs he sounds congested (but his breathing is normal 
and he's not coughing).  So I don't know if that's just a weird purring thing 
or...?  Any ideas?
   
  Hope you and your babies are all doing well!
   
  MJ
   
  

Lance <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
  Hi Marissa,

I don't think the vomit is a big deal, unless it's happening 
regularly. Ember ate too much of her food too fast a few weeks ago, 
and she barfed in a similar fashion to what you're describing. I 
haven't seen it happen since. Regarding the sneezing, the same thing 
went through my mind that went through Wendy's: Lysine. It's cheap 
and has a good reputation with colds/URIs in FeLV+ kitties... 
actually, kitties in general. I don't give Ember Lysine right now, 
but if she were to start sneezing, I'd do it in a heartbeat.

Regarding food, you might check out Innova EVO. It's supposedly "the 
closest thing to feeding raw." Ember does pretty well with it. There 
are a few other brands with natural/organic ingredients that have 
more nutritional value than your average corn-based cat food. Felidae 
might be worth checking out, and I've also used Chicken Soup for the 
Cat Lover's Soul. It's more widely available here than most of the 
other good stuff.

I hope Slinky feels better soon.


Lance



 
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Hi again and Question

2006-11-23 Thread Marissa Johnson

Hello everyone!  I'm so sorry I've been out of touch for so long!!!  I got 
behind in emails and never was able to get caught up...life has been so 
insane!!!
   
  I hate to even email when I haven't been able to read everyone's posts the 
last couple months.  I send my love and thoughts to any who have lost furbabies 
and positive thoughts and prayers to any sick kitties.
   
  Slinky was neutered about 3 weeks ago and everything went well.  They also 
retested him...and it was positive.  :(  I'm considering taking him to a 
holistic vet when I can afford it (which may be a while)...and also thinking 
about switching him to a raw diet as he doesn't seem terribly interested in his 
canned food lately.
   
  My question is about a couple things I've noticed lately.  About a week or so 
ago, I came home and found vomit at the top of the stairs into my apartment.  
At least I think it was vomit...it looked like his canned food only slightly 
more watery.  If I didn't know better, I'd have thought he dragged his dish 
over there and spilled it! lol  But he seemed fine the rest of the night and I 
haven't seen any problems since.
   
  Now tonight, I was lying in bed and heard a strange noise in the living 
room...which turned out to be Slinky having a sneezing fit.  He must've sneezed 
at least 20 times.  Then it seemed to go away.  But then a few minutes later I 
heard him hacking in the living room.  I went in there, and again, he seems to 
be fine now.  He has been acting a bit like 'psycho kitty" lately...running 
around a lot, acting a bit ornery, and pouncing on me to wake me up at 6:30 
every morning.  But other than that he's been just fine.
   
  So far, in the last 15 minutes or so...no more sneezing or coughing.  But 
we'll see how he does through the night.  Should I be concerned?  Do I need to 
take him in tomorrow?  Or do you think he'll be okay and he just got into 
something or something? 
   
  Any thoughts or advice would be most appreciated.  I considered trying to 
take his temp, but I don't think he'd let me...though I'd obviously force him 
if it was really necessary.  Please send positive thoughts!
   
  Thanks...and thanks again for this great group...i'll try to stay more on top 
of the emails!
   
  Love to all of you and your babies.
   
  MJ

 
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Re: To Marissa Re: Question #9: Flea Treatments

Hi!  Thanks.  No, Slinky doesn't go outdoors (unless you count going out in the carrier to the car! lol).  He's strictly indoors.  I guess I just wondered because I've had to treat him twice - once with Revolution and once with Advantage.  Didn't know if the fleas would just keep coming back or what.  I haven't seen any fleas or flea dirt with the comb lately either (I think what I"m using is a flea comb), and he seems to be itching less.  So hopefully that means it's been taken care of.  I'd rather not treat him with any chemicals if I don't need to...but I also don't want him to keep getting fleas!       I'm taking him to the vet this weekend (more vaccinations), so I'll double check then, but hopefully he's flea-free now.     Thanks for the info!!!     MGina WN <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:Wendy,     That's what I'm thinking too.  My cats are strictly indoors.  Tigger, Taylor and Bob were flea-free until Pippin joined our household.  I've got them on Advantage until I get the fleas under control, then I will take them off of it.  Seems things are going in the right direction since I've not gotten any flea dirt or fleas off of them when I used the flea comb.     Ginawendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:  Marissa,Does Slinky kitty go outside at all? If not, he mightnot need flea treatments once he's flea free. :)Wendy--- [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:> I really am disappointed with the frontline plus> topspot. The Frontline
 SPRAY is much better, IMO> (though if they groom themselves, they foam at the> mouth something terrible for the first few days> after applying it!). Advantage works well too, I> think, I've had better success with it than with the> Frontline topspots. I prefer flea baths over harsh> chemical sprays, personally. Zodiac makes a really> effective flea shampoo, if you follow the directions> carefully, it has to soak on the cat for 5 minutes,> and you should go as high up on the head as> possible, and between every toe.> > Phaewryn> > Please adopt a cat from Little Cheetah Cat Rescue!!!> http://ucat.us/adopt.html > Low cost Spay&Neuter services in VT, and Emergency> Financial Assistance for cat owners:> http://ucat.us/VermontLowCost.html> Special Needs Cat Resources:> http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html > The Sofa Poem:
 http://ucat.us/sofapoem.html > Please shop online through i-give and support the> Feline Veterinary Emergency Assistance Program:> http://www.igive.com/FVEAP > Shop at GREAT stores, like Drs. Foster & Smith, Pet> Food Direct, Musician's Friend, and LOTS more!> It doesn't cost you a single penny more, and it> makes so much difference to a sick cat in need!> Novirus found in this outgoing message.> Checked by AVG Free Edition.> Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.11.6/428 -> Release Date: 8/25/2006> __Do You Yahoo!?Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com   Please visit my Tigger Tales
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Re: OT: Need feedback please

I couldn't agree more!  I love the new paragraph...I think it conveys what you want to without being quite so harsh.  We're all lucky to have you advocating for our animals!!     Mwendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:  Hey Belinda,Your revised letter sounds good. I think you arefantastic doing all that you do to help these animals.:)Wendy__Do You Yahoo!?Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com  
	
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Re: OT: Need feedback please

I like that...it gives it a little more punch! Thanks Kat!  :)     MKat <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:  Belinda,I think the re-wording Marissa suggested is good - with only a minoradjustment. I would add "if they haven't already died during theexperimentation." to make it read...Unfortunately, there are many people in the world who would take advantageof a free pet and use it for all kinds of unthinkable things. Believe itor not, there are actually people who use cats to train dogs to fight(encouraging the dog to aggressively mame and kill the cat), or to feedtheir snakes. There are actually sick, demented people who look for freeanimals to torture and beat until they finally get bored and kill them.Additionally, there are bunchers who sell free or
 cheap pets for anywherefrom $30 to $100 to labs who will experiment on them and then kill themif they haven't already died during the experimentation.I know you dont want any of these things to happen to Tiger, and that iswhy we require a minimum fee rather than allowing people to give awaytheir pets.What do you think??Kat (Mew Jersey) 
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Re: To Karen and Angel

Hi Karen.  I'm so sorry you lost your baby so quickly!  And what a cutie she was!  I know she was young, but I'm glad that in her all-too-short life, she was able to know such tremendous love and care as you were able to give her.  Know that you did everything you could and that she felt your love.  You are in my prayers.     Peace,  MJwendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:  Karen,I am so sorry to hear that Angel has passed on. Ican't believe it was so sudden. Just three days sinceyou noticed her hip. I am sorry I did not get toencourage you earlier; I just read your posts today. And I feel badly I did not get to pray for littleAngel; she sounded like such a sweetie. You were SOgood to her, and she will always be with you. Youwill carry her in
 your heart. I get emotionalthinking about what it feels like to lose a belovedfurbaby. Take care of yourself over the next fewweeks Karen while you grieve for Angel, and allowyourself to grieve. So many of us don't. If you needanything, or just to vent, we are here.Wendy __Do You Yahoo!?Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com  
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Re: OT: Need feedback please

I agree with Wendy.  I think the second paragraph is very harsh.  I don't think it's so much the content or even the specifics that make it harsh, I think it's more the approach...and the graphicness.  Your approach almost makes it sound like they are wanting something like that to happen to the cat and like they should know better, I guess.  Personally, I had no idea until I got this email from you...so I know there are lots of us who don't know about these things!  So you need to include the information, just maybe in a different way.     I took a stab at rewriting from a slightly less harsh approach.  Feel free to use or edit this to your liking...or to throw it out.  But at least it should give you an idea for ways you might be able to share the same information without turning people off.  Good luck!!     Here's the paragraph (for some reason it's not pasting quite right
 into my browser.  Hope it looks right for you - I'm getting a really long line of text rather than a paragraph.  But all the info is there):Unfortunately, there are many people in the world who would take advantage of a free pet and use it for all kinds of unthinkable things.  Believe it or not, there are actually people who use cats to train dogs to fight (encouraging the dog to aggressively mame and kill the cat), or to feed their snakes.  There are actually sick, demented people who look for free animals to torture and beat until they finally get bored and kill them.  Additionally, there are bunchers who sell free or cheap pets for anywhere from $30 to $100 to labs who will experiment on them and then kill them.  I know you dont want any of these things to happen to Tiger, and that is why we require a minimum fee rather than allowing people to give away their pets.  Marissa     wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:  I think you should leave out the second paragraph. It's VERY harsh and will turn people off. Or at leasttone it down a lot.:)Wendy--- Belinda <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>wrote:> Hi All,> Every once in a while I get people who post to> the Adoptable > FeLV/FIV/FIP and put free for the fee, it clearly> say's at the TOP of > the page this is not allowed, so I send them a> drafted letter which I'm
 > copying below with the reply I got from the person I> sent it to. Please > tell me if my letter is rude because that obviously> isn't my intention > and I don't want to scare anyone away BUT I do want> them to realize how > dangerous it is to post a pet for FREE. My letter> follow below:> > >> > Hi Kathy,> > Belinda here, I admin the ads, and there are no> "Free To Good Home" > > ads allowed, none is the same as FREE. This is> very dangerous for the > > cat, there are all kinds of lunatics out there.> >> > I don't think you want Tiger to end up being> ripped to shreds by a Pit > > Bull in training to fight, or to spend his last> few minutes on earth > > petrified while a snake squeezes the life out of> him and devours him. > > Or maybe a sick, demented person who scours
 ads> daily looking for an > > animal to torture and beat until they tire of them> and finally put > > them out of their misery by killing them. Then> there's the buncher who > > looks for free or cheap pets to take to labs where> they are > > experimented on and then killed when they have> served their purpose, > > these bunchers get anywhere from $30 to $100> dollars a pet from these > > labs.> >> > Giving an animal away FREE is very dangerous for> that animal and I > > personally would rather euthanise a pet than take> a chance that they > > could end up in some horrible situation like those> I described.> >> > I get emails every single day about some poor pet> that has endured > > horrible things until they finally died or were> killed. I have even > > been
 told by some of my rescues how a whole family> will come to look > > at an adoptee making them appear quite normal,> only to find out later > > the pet was tortured again and again until it> finally died or was > > killed. Please, please be very, very careful who> you hand Tiger over > > to, he is depending on you to make sure he is safe> when he goes to his > > new home!! Thank you.> >> > I'm not saying this to be mean, believe me I know> these kinds of > > things happen a hundred times a day to innocent> animals. I've changed > > your ad to negotiable.> >> > Please read these links for more info about how> dangerous this is for > > the cat:> >> > http://www.theanimalspirit.com/adopt.html> >> > http://www.petrescue.com/library/free-pet.htm> >>
 > ht

Karen, I'm so sorry to hear that your sweet baby is not doing well. You are in my thoughts and prayers...especially as you make decisions in the near future. Angel knows how much you love her and she is lucky to have such a great mom!!! Hang in there! MJBarb Moermond <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: Oh Karen, sending GLOW to you and Angel for calm and strength and peace so you are able to help Angel appropriately, whatever route that is.kandbz_ mom <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: Well, Angel's "hip" problem turned out to not be her hip. The vet felt a big, swollen bump near her bottom and tail. He took a syringe and
drained out a bunch of white colored stuff. He looked at it under the microscope and thinks it is cancer cells. He says she is in a lot of pain and this would take some doing, including a specialist, to have anything done about it. He says even if he drains all the stuff out, it will probably come back. She has nerve damage and may never be able to walk again. I don't really care about the money or how much it costs...I am just worried about stressing her out by putting her thru a bunch of things. She looks up at me with tears in her eyes and meows like she is in pain. She is only 5 months old and I have only had her for about 6 or 7 weeks. I am just heartbroken. She is too young to be going thru this. Please keep us in your thought and prayers. Thanks, Karen
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Re: To Gina: Re: OT: Re: Question #3: Supplements

2006-08-29 Thread Marissa Johnson

I feed Slinky Innova Evo wet and dry too.  It took me a while to get him really interested in the canned, and I did have to take away the dry when I gave it to him.  Then I just went away for a few days and had to leave the dry in an automatic feeder and have my coworker who was coming to take care of him give him twice as much canned in a serving because she could only come once a day.  I was really worried that he wouldn't eat ANY of the canned.       In order to try to entice him, I mixed in some freeze-dried chicken chunks I bought as a treat (called "Live-a-littles").  They actually crumble and become kinnd of a powder that I mixed into the food.  He couldn't resist it then!     Now I'll have to ween him off of that, but...it got h im eating it!  You might want to try that.  I get the live-a-littles at my natural pet food store.  They might have them at Whole Foods
 or you could try online (www.petfooddirect.com seems to have a pretty good selection).  They also make flakes and treats that you can sprinkle on food as a way to get them to eat.     Just a suggestion.  Good luck getting him to eat!!     MJGina WN <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:Hi Wendy,     I've been offering her the dry food as a supplement to the wet food (as was recommended by my vet) for about two months.  She never turned her nose up at wet food before.  She was on Science Diet (wet and also dry seperately).  When I transitioned her over to Innova (wet) she loved it and would eat her fill.  Now she just paws at the ground by the food bowl like she's covering
 up her "business"!  Her dry food is a mixture of the Science Diet and Innova Evo dry.  I am going to buy another bag of Evo and mix it in, as I think she likes the Evo dry and her system is okay with the change over from Science Diet now.     At any rate, I am going to call the vet tomorrow for a check-up just in case, and go to my local feed store to buy some different cans to try.     Gina.  wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:  Hey Gina,What do you think made her start turning her nose upat the wet Innova? Do you think it was putting thedry out? Can you see if taking the dry will help? Iwould try that, especially since she needs the lysine.I don't think there's any way to add lysine to thedry. As far as other wet foods
 go, some people likeWellness. I think that California Naturals makesInnova, so they will have other premium wet foods ontheir website you can learn about. Keep me posted onwhat works.:)Wendy--- Gina WN <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>wrote:> Wendy,> > I've been feeding Pippin Innova wet food and> mixing in the L-lysine. She seemed to like it. I> was supplementing with Innova Evo dry mixed with> Science Diet dry (to transition her over from> Science dry that she was eating.) Now, she won't> eat the wet Innova at all. She turns her nose up at> it and only wants the dry food. Can I stir the> L-Lysine into the dry food until I find a wet food> she will eat? And, can you recommend other wet> foods I can try?> > Gina> > > > wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>wrote:> Hey Gina,> > I am not sure how much is too
 much lysine, but from> what I've read, if kitty is asymptomatic, then 250> mg.> per day is good for maintenance. If kitty has> symptoms or is ill, then 500 mg. per day is not too> much. That's what I gave Smookie when she had a> corneal ulcer. If she tests negative on the second> FeLV test, then I don't see the need to boost her> immune system, unless the test is wrong. I have a> kitty with feline herpes and I don't give her lysine> unless she has symptoms. Some people do though. It> just depends on the person and their philosophy. It> is good for them, so doing it for maintenance or for> symptoms, either way is fine. I am not sure how much> lysine is too much. I think some people even give> 1000 mg. per day or more depending on how sick kitty> is. You should research this more though. You can> find info. on the web. Just pay attention to the>
 sources. > > :)> Wendy> > > > __> Do You Yahoo!?> Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam> protection around > http://mail.yahoo.com > > > > > Please visit my Tigger Tales site! > > At the bottom of the home and links pages are my> merchant affiliate banners. If anyone uses my links> to make a purchase, I will receive a percentage of> all final sales. I am going to donate 100% of the> proceeds to animal welfare organizations. This is a> great way to shop your favorite online pet stores> and give something to a worthy cause. Thank you in> advance!> > > -> How low will we go? Check out Yahoo! Messengers low> PC-to-Phone call
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Re: How did Slinky do?

2006-08-29 Thread Marissa Johnson

Thanks, Wendy!  I got home last night, and he did in fact do fantastic!!     He ate just fine, he played with my coworker a lot, and he didn't get sick or anything.     When I first walked in the door, I told him I was home and then i heard this big "clunk.,"  He had knocked a picture frame off the "ledge" down onto the staircase...right in front of me!!  I thought maybe he was mad!!  :(     But when I got upstairs, after a minute he let me pick himi up and he was VERY cuddly and purring like mad!  We played for a bit...and I gave him one of the new toys I brought him (one of those plastic mesh balls with a bell in it)...and he loved it!     Then during the night, he kept coming up to cuddle.  He did start playing in the middle of the night and I had to lock him out of the bedroom so I could sleep...and he cried!  But this
 morning when I let him back in, he came up and kept nuzzling my face and wanting kisses.       So...all in all everything went really well and he still loves me!  Thanks for all your support and positive thoughts and prayers!!  I know it helped!  The conference I was at also went INCREDIBLY well.  So it was a great weekend!     I hope you're all doing well.  I have quite a bit of catching up to do with your messages, but...my prayers and love are with you!  Take care everyone!     MJ (and Slinky!)wendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:  Hi Marissa,I was wondering how Slinky did while you were gone? Ijust read your post, so it's a little late for prayer,but I am hoping he did fantastic!
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Re: Positive Thoughts for Slinky (and his Mom)

2006-08-25 Thread Marissa Johnson

Hey Tonya!  Thanks for the reassurance.  I am planning on getting another cat, but I thought I should wait until after we retest Slinky so I'm sure of his felv status (and then can get a pos or neg cat depending on the results).  The vet wants to wait a few more months before retesting.       Yes, I know how it is dealing with principals!  It can be horrible...which is so sad since they're supposed to be supportive and helpful!!  Glad to hear HR gave you your day back, though.  Good luck with the rest of the year!       Thanks!     MJcatatonya <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:It's always hard to leave them, but sometimes you have to.  It sounds like you've done everything you can to make Slinky comfortable
 while you're gone.  I'm sure he'll be fine.  Have you thought about getting another cat so he won't be alone when you're not home?     tonyaMarissa Johnson <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:Hi all.  I can't believe I'm even sending this considering that Slinky is asymptomatic and seems to be fine...and as compared to the struggles you all have, this is such a tiny matter!  But...I could use your positive thoughts anyway.     I'm going out of town tomorrow for about 4 days (leaving tomorrow morning, returning monday night)...and I am S nervous about leaving Slinky!  This will be the first time I've ever left him overnight!!       One of my coworkers is going to come in every day and feed him, play with him, and clean
 out his litter box.  I've gone through everything with her and she loves animals.  I'm leaving his dry food and water in automatic feeders (also the first time for using those) and she will give him canned food when she comes.  I'm sure everything will be fine, but...I'm kind of freaking out!     I'm worried that he'll get into something, get sick, or that he'll just hate me for leaving him!  Last weekend, my boyfriend and his sister were here.  He and I went to a movie and his sister told me Slinky sat near the door and cried for about 15 minutes until she went and told him she was still there.  And yesterday when I left for work, I could hear him meowing behind the door after I left!  :(     Really, I KNOW this isn't a big deal and I know there are so many other problems I could be dealing with.  But I would still appreciate your positive thoughts and prayers...for Slinky AND
 for me!!  I'll be at a conference where I'm speaking several times and kind of need to be "on" so I don't want to be too worried.  And I just hope he'll still love me after I get back!     I'm sure I sound mellow-dramatic, but since he's my first pet as an adult, and this is the first time I've left him, I'm just...worried.  Thanks for all your support and for understanding!!!     I hope you and all you kitties are doing well!!     MJ  Get your email and more, right on the new Yahoo.com  
	
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Re: Positive Thoughts for Slinky (and his Mom)

2006-08-25 Thread Marissa Johnson

Thanks Kat!!  I'm at the conference hotel now...and doing okay.  I did talk to Slinky and told him I'd be back.  He still looked sad when I left this morning, but I just kept reassuring him that I love him and I'll be back.  I'm sure he'll be fine.     Thanks for the tips...and the hugs!!! Have a great weekend!     MJKat <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:  Hi MJ,Slinky will be just fine, and will welcome you back with hugs and kittykisses!! Talk to him now, as if he understands words, and tell him whatis going on, and when you'll be back, and that you'll bring him back akitty present, etc. By talking to him out loud you will be able to relaxmore about your trip, and he WILL understand that you are not going toabandon him. The
 more you relax, the less worried he will be. It soundslike you have everything covered. Just leave your number (and your vet'snumber) with your co-worker, and maybe call your vet to let them know whowill be watching Slinky for you, so that they have that info on file. I'msending you <<>> hugs. Have a safe trip.Kat (Mew Jersey)On Thu, 24 Aug 2006, Marissa Johnson wrote:> Date: Thu, 24 Aug 2006 09:10:30 -0700 (PDT)> From: Marissa Johnson <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>> Reply-To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org> To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org> Subject: Positive Thoughts for Slinky (and his Mom)>> Hi all. I can't believe I'm even sending this considering that Slinky is asymptomatic and seems to be fine...and as compared to the struggles you all have, this is such a tiny matter! But...I could use your positive thoughts anyway.>> I'm going out of town
 tomorrow for about 4 days (leaving tomorrow morning, returning monday night)...and I am S nervous about leaving Slinky! This will be the first time I've ever left him overnight!!>> One of my coworkers is going to come in every day and feed him, play with him, and clean out his litter box. I've gone through everything with her and she loves animals. I'm leaving his dry food and water in automatic feeders (also the first time for using those) and she will give him canned food when she comes. I'm sure everything will be fine, but...I'm kind of freaking out!>> I'm worried that he'll get into something, get sick, or that he'll just hate me for leaving him! Last weekend, my boyfriend and his sister were here. He and I went to a movie and his sister told me Slinky sat near the door and cried for about 15 minutes until she went and told him she was still there. And yesterday when I left for work, I could hear him meowing behind the door after I
 left! :(>> Really, I KNOW this isn't a big deal and I know there are so many other problems I could be dealing with. But I would still appreciate your positive thoughts and prayers...for Slinky AND for me!! I'll be at a conference where I'm speaking several times and kind of need to be "on" so I don't want to be too worried. And I just hope he'll still love me after I get back!>> I'm sure I sound mellow-dramatic, but since he's my first pet as an adult, and this is the first time I've left him, I'm just...worried. Thanks for all your support and for understanding!!!>> I hope you and all you kitties are doing well!!>> MJ>>> -> Get your email and more, right on the new Yahoo.com 
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Positive Thoughts for Slinky (and his Mom)

2006-08-24 Thread Marissa Johnson

Hi all.  I can't believe I'm even sending this considering that Slinky is asymptomatic and seems to be fine...and as compared to the struggles you all have, this is such a tiny matter!  But...I could use your positive thoughts anyway.     I'm going out of town tomorrow for about 4 days (leaving tomorrow morning, returning monday night)...and I am S nervous about leaving Slinky!  This will be the first time I've ever left him overnight!!       One of my coworkers is going to come in every day and feed him, play with him, and clean out his litter box.  I've gone through everything with her and she loves animals.  I'm leaving his dry food and water in automatic feeders (also the first time for using those) and she will give him canned food when she comes.  I'm sure everything will be fine, but...I'm kind of freaking out!     I'm worried that he'll get
 into something, get sick, or that he'll just hate me for leaving him!  Last weekend, my boyfriend and his sister were here.  He and I went to a movie and his sister told me Slinky sat near the door and cried for about 15 minutes until she went and told him she was still there.  And yesterday when I left for work, I could hear him meowing behind the door after I left!  :(     Really, I KNOW this isn't a big deal and I know there are so many other problems I could be dealing with.  But I would still appreciate your positive thoughts and prayers...for Slinky AND for me!!  I'll be at a conference where I'm speaking several times and kind of need to be "on" so I don't want to be too worried.  And I just hope he'll still love me after I get back!     I'm sure I sound mellow-dramatic, but since he's my first pet as an adult, and this is the first time I've left him, I'm just...worried. 
 Thanks for all your support and for understanding!!!     I hope you and all you kitties are doing well!!     MJ 
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Re: Popeye has gone to the bridge

2006-08-24 Thread Marissa Johnson

Tonya, I'm so sorry to hear about Popeye...and what a difficult decision to have to make! You made the right decision, though, and he knows how much you loved him and how well you cared for him! What kind of teacher are you? I actually have a background in education, too...though I'm not teaching. What a HIDDEOUS principal! And what a horrible way to start the year with a new boss!! I CAN'T BELIEVE she said you were "borderline disrespectful" by asking if she had pets That's amazing. Not to mention the whole approving and then "unapproving" your absence! As if being a teacher isn't a tough enough job already! I'm so sorry you've had to deal with that. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers daily...both for the loss of popeye - that you will have comfort and peace, and for peaceful crossings for him. But also
for your school year and the stress of dealing with this new principal! I hope things will improve!! Thanks for sharing and hang in there! Marissa > Date: Wed, 23 Aug 2006 16:48:01 -0700 (PDT)> From: catatonya <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>> Reply-To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org> To: "felvtalk@felineleukemia.org" > Subject: Popeye has gone to the bridge>> This never made it to the list. I wrote it Friday night I think.>> v\:* {behavior:url (#default#vml);} v\:* { BEHAVIOR: url (#default#vml) }> From: catatonya> Date: 08/20/06 13:46:10> To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org> Subject: Popeye has gone to the bridge.>>> Thank you everyone for your thoughts and prayers. It has
just been a horrible weekend. As a teacher we are not supposed to take a day off school the first week unless it's an 'extreme emergency'. I followed protocol, called my assistant principal twice and got no return call. Called my absence in and had an approved personal day form in my mailbox before I took Popeye into the vet on Friday morning.>> We went back and forth on what to do and then decided to wait for the thyroid test to come in on Saturday morning. Meanwhile they had me bring him home thinking it was less stressful for him here. However, he could not breathe, so I called the vet back and was arranging to take him back in. In the meantime at 3:00 (when our school day is over) I received a "corrected form" from my new principal stating that the absence was unexcused and I was being docked for the day.>> Those of you who know my history know that this was enough to put me over the edge. This is a brand new principal and I was just in
shock. Meanwhile the vet said that if they hyper-t came back as treatable Popeye was going to have to be hospitalized on oxygen for several days at least... I told the vet that my principal had just docked me for the day and was obviously not going to work with me on getting him to the vet (who opens at 8:00, when I'm supposed to be at work at 7:15). Plus my mobile vet was going out of town for the weekend, and if I waited until Saturday I would have had to take him in to have him euthanized. I was so hysterical by that time that I just called Dr. Love, and she said she would come by and look at him. She said he was not going to make it without oxygen and quite a few days of hospitalization if the test came back positive for hyper-t. So I let him go.>> I have just been in bed crying ever since. I did call my principal and she said she would 'discuss it with human resources' on Monday. It's a long story, and I wrote it all out because I plan to get my
psychiatrist to write a letter excusing the day as a sick day for mental illness or filing a grievance. I just cannot believe someone would be so cruel. I have been with the system longer than this new principal and I have NEVER had a principal give me a problem when I had a sick animal. If you want to see the letter and have any advice I will send it to you personally.>> Michelle, I thought being an attorney you might have some advice? I don't really know your area of expertise. Anyway, I am a mess and don't know how I'm going to make it through work tomorrow. It's like on top of the death I realize I have at least the rest of this year to work with someone who kicked me in the teeth on what was already a horrible day. I don't see how I can face her. How do you deal with people like that?>> Popeye's passing was very peaceful. Dr. Love gave him a sedative and found the vein right away. He was basically unconscious when she administered the drug.
I wrapped him in a towel and slept with him that night and took him to my regular vet's to be picked up by the crematorium. I believe Popeye would have been 14 in November.>> The thyroid test did come back negative, and Dr. Pruitt called me Saturday morning and said I had made the right decision. She believes he had thrown a blood clot (thromb

Re: Michelle L.-Has anyone heard from her?

2006-08-22 Thread Marissa Johnson

Wendy,     Are you talking about Michelle Lerner?  I just got a message from her today re: Inky.  Hope that helps!     MJwendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:  Hey guys,Have any of you talked to Michelle L. lately? Ihaven't seen her post in several weeks and waswondering if she was ok. Michelle, are you out there?:)Wendy__Do You Yahoo!?Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com  
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Question #9: Flea Treatments

Hi again! OK...I promise this is the LAST question (at least for today!!!). Slinky had fleas before I first got him (he was born under my boyfriend's trailer and boyfriend's sister took him to the vet because he had a URI and he also had fleas). They gave him Revolution...which actually seemed to work, surprisingly. When I first took him to the vet here (Banfield, re: my last post), he was flea-free. But he did have tape worms. We've treated for the tapeworms...and hopefully they're gone now. But when I took him back 3 weeks later, we didn't see any evidence of fleas (he just looked through his fur at his skin), but he'd been itching a lot. So the vet said to do a treatment with Advantage. I did that...and he stopped itching...at least for a while. That was a
couple weeks ago...and he does itch occassionally now, but not a ton. My question is...should I just plan on doing a flea treatment once a month? Or is that amount of chemicals bad for him, esp. since he's felv+? Also, I've heard that Frontline Plus is the best treatment. Do you all concur? What is your recommendation re: fleas? He also had ear mites when I first got him...and I treated and they went away. Then when we went in a couple weeks ago, he'd been itching his ears and while we didn't see any mites (even under the microscope), doc thought there might be some eggs or an infection, so gave me Tresoderm. Should I plan on continuous treatment for mites as well or...?? Ugh! Complications. I promise to shut up for today (unless you want me to make it an even 10...I'm sure I can come up with something! lol...jk). THANK
YOU SO MUCH for being so wonderful!!! Hugs to you all! MJ __Do You Yahoo!?Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com

Question #8: Vets & Neutering

I've mentioned before that I don't think my vet is the best.  Please don't shoot me...I went to Banfield!!  I didn't know any better...and a friend who used to be a vet tech at a Banfield highly recommended them.  But everyone else I've talked to (after I went there!) says they're horrible.  I will say that the Banfield vet has been incredibly supportive about Slinky's felv+ status...and was very positive from the beginning.  He said right out that he doesn't recommend euthanizing just because of a pos test and that he has at least a 50% chance of never having any symptoms (25% chance of throwing off, 25% chance of being a "carrier"), and a 25% chance of living at least several years before getting any symptoms.  He always tells me he looks healthy and happy...and that's good.  He does, though, say that there's "nothing you can do to help him stay healthy", that "diet
 doesn't matter...Purina is as good as anything," and that "supplements won't help, but they probably won't hurt either."     So at least he's been positive.  But other people's opinions of Banfield in general have not given me much confidence in the quality of Slinky's care.  To make matters worse, I got sucked into buying their wellness care plan (or whatever it's called)...so now I can't really afford to go anywhere else, at least for a while.  I figured when I bought it that even if I just went there for the vaccines and neutering, it was cheaper to pay the plan over the course of a year than to pay at the time of visit for everything.     I've continued to go there for his
 vaccines and he seems to be fine and they're pretty attentive.  But my natural pet food store owner (I know, I reference her a lot...she's my local resource for everything!), is concerned about me getting Slinky neutered at Banfield since his felv+ status could complicate the surgery.  And the vet wants to wait at least 6 months to retest, so he'd have to be neutered before we confirm his status.  I found out that the humane society will give me a coupon for neutering and it will only cost about $40...but there's a select few vets I can go to...and how do I know they're any better than Banfield??     The store owner did recommend one vet who's actually closer than the nearest Banfield (not holistic, but she said she's open to holisitic options) and I've thought of calling her...if I can afford her!  But if I
 do start calling around, should I just ask what their philosophy is in treating felv+ cats?  Should I expect to speak directly to the vet or are they like human doctors...impossible to actually talk to?  Are there any other questions I should be asking or clues I should be looking for to indicate their qualifications/attitudes?     Do you all think it would be a mistake to go to Banfield for his neutering?  Is it really all that complicated?  Or is it basic enough to let them handle it?  So far I've not seen anything to make me concerned.  I'm just going off of other people's feedback and opinions.     HELP!  I know I have all these questions...but I'm feeling a
 bit lost.  Thanks again for all your support and knowledge!!!     MJ 
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Question #7: Carriers

This might be the last question for now!!!  I'm not sure yet though! lol     I haven't bought a carrier for Slinky yet.  I've been using my boyfriend's sister's carrier (a hard-sided one with a front loading door) and it works fine.  But she's going to want it back eventually, so I need to buy one.     I've been diligently reading my "New Natural Cat" book and she has a great section in there about choosing a carrier.  Only one problem...I can't find one that matches the criteria she lists!!!  She says it should have a top-loading option so you don't have to "stuff kitty in the end", be ventilated on all 4 sides, be TRANSPARENT so kitty can see out (this has been the toughest to find...haven't found one yet!), and be hard-sided since the soft ones tend to collapse on kitty.     I've looked at PetsMart, Target, PetCo, and every online site I can think of
 (drsfostersmith, petcarecentral, petfooddirect, onlynaturalpets, etc., etc.!!!       So...anyone know where I can get a carrier like the one described in Natural Cat?  Or what kind of carrier do you recommend?     Man...there are so many things to consider with cats  Thanks again for your patience!!     MJ 
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Question #6: Books

OK...I promise I'm nearing the end of the list of questions!!!  Thanks for putting up with me!  :)     I went out the other day and bought The New Natural Cat...which so far has been great!  But are there any other books I definitely need as a new cat owner?  I looked at Dr. Pitciarn's book, but wasn't sure how different it would be fromo the New Natural Cat.  I looked at some other basic books...but most of what I saw I either already figured out, I can read online for free, or I learned in the 5 minutes I spent reading it in the store!     Any suggestions for "must have" books?     Thanks!!!     MJ 
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Question #5: Routines

OK, I know that cats are creatures of habit.  A lot of the websites and info I found on grooming says you should always do it in the same place.  Well...I get this when you're talking about something the cat enjoys (like he's much more likely to come and sit with me when I'm sitting in the recliner - where I usually am when I play with him or just relax and watch TV).  But it seems to me that if I do everything he doesn't like (giving meds, brushing teeth, trimming nails, etc.) in the same place, then he comes to associate that place with bad things and it's harder to get him a) to come to me there, and b) to calm down when I sit there with him).  So...I'm not sure I get that.     What do you all think about that recommendation (doing all grooming in the same
 place in the house)?  I'm just confused!  But then again, that's nothing new!!     Thanks again...especially for your patience with all my questions!!!     Prayers for all your furkids!     MJ 
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Re: OT: Re: Wendy - How's your husband's back?

YAY Wendy! Great to hear that he's doing better and the treatment is working!! And don't feel too bad about being frustrated with him! It's hard to deal with people in chronic pain...can be very draining! It sounds like you're handling it the best you can. Hang in there and do try not to strangle him! Spending the rest of your life in jail just wouldn't be worth ending the frustration! lol Hope the rest of the treatments work and he'll be pain free in no time!!! MJwendy <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: Hey Nina,How are you? I hope everything is going well. Thanksfor asking about my husband. He's doing ok. Thespinal decompression is actually working, believe itor not. One of two herniated disks
has moved off thesciatic after 10 treatments. We know this because hehas stopped having the pain shooting down the buttocksand back of the thigh. All he has now is pain in hiscalf/ankle. He has 10 more treatments to go. I amthinking this is going to be a great week for him. Ican't wait until he's pain free. I love him andshouldn't complain, but it's hard to live with someonewho is groaning all the time and/or on painkillers. Does that sound horrible? It probably does. I guessI'm venting a bit, and of course, feel bad about that,but it's true. We were in CVS one day filling ahydrocodone prescrip for him, and he was on valium,and he thought he was being funny by asking veryloudly in front of about 15 customers if we needed anyTrojans while standing by the condom aisle. :O. Hewould NEVER do something like that off meds. LOL. Sothings are finally looking up. Hopefully, I will notstrangle him before he is
pain free. :)Wendy__Do You Yahoo!?Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com

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Question #4: Litter

OK...here's another one!  :)      What kind of litter do you all think is best?  I don't mean brand necessarily, but...should I be using a clay or a crystal (expensive!)...or should I go with something natural like wheat or corn or cedar?  I have to say that I'm not a huge fan of the dust that comes with clay.  But I do appreciate the clumping factor and the odor elimination.       I've done a little research on clay and it sounds like the debate about it's negative effects is pretty heated...with experts on both sides.  I don't want to take the whole "natural/holistic" thing too far if it's not necessary (and my
 budget's already starting to stretch a bit thin, so I gotta be careful there, too).  But if clay really could be harmful to Slinky, I don't want to use it.     What are your thoughts?  What do you use?  My natural pet food store owner has several natural litters...but said she has to use a clay because it's the only thing her cats will use.  Please advise!  THANKS!!!     MJ 
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Re: Question #1: Making a "Health Kit"

Thanks, Nina!  I'll definitely compile a list when everyone has responded and send it out.  Thanks again!!     MNina <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:  Hi MJ,It's a good question.  I don't have a "health kit" per se, my stuff is all over the house and has been accumulated through the years.  Hmm...  Well a thermometer is important, I use one the infant digital kind, (don't forget the vasiline).  I tried the one's you stick in the ear, but I could never get an adequate reading.  A scale is a good thing to have.  I have a transdermal appetite stimulant and antibiotics, Clavomox is the one that most vets will throw at an animal when they don't know what's going on.  Terramycin antibiotic eye ointment is something you can get over the counter and should always have on
 hand.  Little Noses, Petromalt, Pepcid, Baby aspirin... baby food, tuna, salmon oil, Rescue Remedy, Feliway, powdered goats milk, KMR, gosh, I'm trying to think of stuff I would be uncomfortable running out of...  feeding syringes, pet tinic...  Things like regular syringes and bags of fluid, you'll get from the vet when/if you need them.  I guess that's true for the abx too, and if you're new to kittydom, you probably shouldn't be prescribing on your own!  A heating pad, is another good thing to have on hand.  It would be interesting to get a list of "must haves", let us see the finished product when you're done.NinaMarissa Johnson wrote:Hi all!  So as I just mentioned, I have a ton of questions!!  I think it'll make the most sense for me to send them one at a time so the subjects match the content...though that will mean
 several different posts.  So bear with me!  And keep in mind that I'm new to all things kitty!  So some of these might seem kind of basic.  Thanks for your patience!     First question: Making a "Health Kit"  I'm thinking I should put together some kind of first aid/sick kitty kit so that if/when Slinky gets sick or has an accident or anything I'll be prepared (esp. since I don't have a car, so getting things in the spur of the moment can be a challenge).  But what all should go in it?  I found some pet first aid kits you can buy online, but they seem to be more focused on injuries.  While I think I want some of those things (bandages, vet wrap, etc.), I also wanted to include things like oral syringes, a few basic supplements or appetite stimulators (jar of baby food, can of tuna, etc.), a pill dispenser, cotton balls, blanket, etc.  Any
 other suggestions on what specifically I should have on hand in case of illness or injury?     Thanks!  Look for more questions in the near future!!!  And thanks for being so supportive and knowledgeable!     MJ  Do you Yahoo!?Get on board. You're invited to try the new Yahoo! Mail Beta.  
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Question #3: Supplements