Conference misery::feline

This is based on absolutely no knowledge on my part, so please check with 
the vet, but would it make sense to test for lead poisoning?

It only came to mind because I took my daughter for her 9 month checkup 
today and the pediatricians do a lead (and iron) blood test at one year 
in baby's.  They can pick it up from house dust if there's old paint in 
the house.  But I've never heard of cat's being checked for it.


Worry, pout!!
Tanya

    Good point - so good that I just called Dr. Moss.  Unfortunately - that
    isn't the cause either.  Apparantly with lead poisoning in animals
    (which is in-frequent she said) there would be vomiting and/or
    seizures.
    
    Thanks for the idea though ... I'm wracking my brain (as are they) in
    trying to come up with something.
    
    

    Have you had any sophisticated diagnostic tests performed, such as xray
    or ultrasound (Ultrasound would show more than an xray.)?  That might
    help diagnose the problem, much more so than bloodwork.
    
    An ultrasound for a cat is roughly $100, but it is worth it for piece
    of mind.
    
    Hope Abagail is feeling better soon.  You might want to take a look at
    the book, "Cornell Book of Cats", or something near that title.  Search
    for fevers and I'll bet you'll get a good overview of what illness or
    disease can cause persistant fevers in cats.
    
    -Roberta
    

    Whoops, I do see that you had an xray done... maybe it is time for an
    ultrasound?  Sometimes underlying diseases of the vital organs cause
    infections -- either viral or bacterial -- that are "opportune", and
    secondary to what is really ailing the animal.  The vet treats the
    symptoms unaware of the underlying cause, so I would suggest you
    continue with the process of elimination route and administer more
    tests.
    

    An ultrasound makes sense and I'll try to get a copy of the book you
    suggested.
    
    Just a thought (no sarcasm intended) don't the veterinarian's do those
    things (consult and/or get out one of their text books)...or am I too 
    trusting?  I would hope they would have searched out all possibilities - 
    or do I have to be the one to make the suggestions?
    
    I am not upset with them - they have been wonderful to all three cats
    over the years ... but I am VERY frustrated.
    
    
    

    Marilyn,
    
    Some vets might go the extra mile and pour over textbooks/literature,
    but many have so many animals to treat that it is difficult to become
    too involved in any one case.  I have learned over the years of having
    and losing pets is to arm myself with knowledge both by reading and
    asking questions.  My vet and I often disagree on treatments, and I
    don't hesitate to make suggestions if I feel there is something she is
    overlooking.  Sometimes we butt heads... and sometimes I even offend
    her... but the way I see it is that it's my cat, and I'm paying her
    salary... not to mention the fact that I like to know everything
    possible was done in the event of a worst-case scenario.
    
    Anyway, I think the Cornell book will help you.  There is lots of good
    info in there to learn about.
    

    This is getting to be an all but consuming issue and I think I am 
    driving all the doctors crazy.  Ha!
    
    I called the vet (again) and just had a lengthy discussion with Dr. 
    Mulcahy ... bless her heart.  She said all three of them (vets) have
    been batting their heads trying to come up with all kinds of
    possibilities for Abigial's illness.
    
    I mentioned an ultrasound but she said the pain is external - not
    internal ... in other words ... muscular and in and around the fatty
    tissue - it doesn't involve liver, kidney's, heart, bones, blood, etc.
    
    Otis - my other cat - had been groomed there about a month ago.  In the
    process he caught a cold and when I had to bring him back there to be 
    checked out - I was told the other two (Tiffany and Abigail) would also 
    get the cold and sure as rain they did.  
    
    In our discussion I mentioned the fact that she looked so "old" ... and
    had she (Dr. Mulcahy) consider the possibilitiy of a neuro-muscular
    disease.  She said that she must have heard my "telepathy" because
    Abigail's upper respiratory problem was just two weeks prior to Abigail 
    getting so sick.   
    
    If it is (i.e., lupus or the equivalent of our muscular dystrophy) it
    would never be cured but treated with anti-inflammatory drugs and she
    could live a fairly normal life.
    
    She was sympathetic to the fact that I am near tears all the time and
    that the "not knowing" is killing me.  I can handle hearing ANY kind of
    news and/or diagnosis - but the not knowing is upsetting to all.
    
    On a lighter note - Abigail - who has ALWAYS preferred people food to cat
    food - declined the "good for you" vet food and had some bologna and
    ham ... atleast she is getting food in her stomach.
    
    Can't wait to see her tonight after work.
    
    
    

    That does sound plausible Marilyn.  There is no reason not to believe
    that animals can contract the same neuro-muscular diseases that people
    do.
    
    Dr. Mulcahey has an excellent reputation, so I would be inclined to
    believe and go along with anything she suggested.
    
    Hope Abigail is well soon!
    

    I checked this notesfile to find a subject on lupus and/or
    neuro-muscular diseases in cats and could find none.
    
    Has anyone had experience with their pet and this disease(s) and what I
    could expect if it turns out that is what it is?
    
    I really respect and admire Dr(s) Moss and Butler but the very first
    time I brought Otis in I saw Dr. Mulcahy and she and I seem to
    communicate the best.  My experience with the adopted cat (Sam) and
    having to give him up because of his extremely aggressive behavior was
    so traumatic for me that both she and I cried together in the examining
    room.  Her sensitivity and compassion - with regards to the commitment,
    love and bonding us human's have with out pets (I treat them like my
    babies) has always been so comforting for me.
    
    Sorry for going on - but I am at my wits end.
    

    Has she been checked for parasites?  The sound of the muscular pain
    brought to mind the one that can be gotten from pork (which of course
    escapes my mind at the moment).  It is rare, but does occur.
    
    Linda

    
    re .10 - trichinosis.  Extremely painful.  
    
    Give Abigail a hug and a kiss and a scratch behind the ears from all
    of us.
    
    len and Merlin and Rocky and Blueberry and Robin.
    

    Abigail is still hanging in there.
    
    Friday was not a good day for her and I seriously thought that we would
    have to put her down.  After consulting with the Dr's ... the consensus
    was to keep testing and by process of elimination, perhaps they could
    come up with a diagnosis.
    
    Dr. Butler called yesterday and said they noticed her drinking
    excessive amounts of water and that they would be doing a series of
    blood tests today (CBC) to check for diabetes and/or an underactive
    thyroid condition.
    
    She looks terrible but I have to assume that it is due in part to lack
    of exercise, being sick and not eating very well.  I hand fed her some
    chicken Friday, which she ate, but her appetite is nothing as it once
    was.
    
    Here's hoping they find something soon .. so that they can begin
    treatment and we can bring her home.
    

    My thoughts are with you and Abigail.....  When Mr. Meow became
    ill and we brought him to the vets there first guess was "best
    news would be thyroid problems, 2nd best news would be diabetes,
    and third would be kidney disease.     The first two are treatable
    disease...and there is nothing they can treat kidney problems with
    other then a low protein diet.
    
    Let's all pray that Abigails problem is something very treatable!!
    If it is thyroid...this can be treated with daily pills!!  My
    sisters cat has hypothyroid and with 1/2 pill a day...she is doing
    GREAT!!
    
    Sandy

    Thanks Sandy.
    
    My concern (and I was quite blunt with Dr. Butler with some of my
    questions) is that I worry she is going to be used as a "guinea
    pig" ... as she is only a year old and I am sure has become a 
    challenge and the situation has been described as unique.
    
    I don't want to assume anything - every day there is another 
    possible diagnosis.  I am wondering if she IS diabetic it is more
    because of the underlying illness ... rather than the real problem.
    I remember being told that if she goes without food for any great
    length of time, kidneys and/or liver will begin to fail ... which is
    what seems to be happening.
    
    The one good thing I do feel good about is in talking this over with
    my family - we are all in agreement that when/if the time comes to
    make a decision to put her down ... nobody will be "mad" at any one
    else.  Also, as strong as I have always believed myself to be I know
    that I could not be there to hold her during the process.  The guilt
    (Friday) was devastating --- I guess I am not as strong as I thought.
    My daughter, however, said she would be with her, and that support 
    made me feel much better.  
    
    Although I realize that owning (or being owned BY) a pet is an
    emotional risk - I was not prepared for this.  But then again, perhaps
    we never are.
    
     
    

    ...another update.
    
    Dr. Moss called and said it is NOT diabetes or thyroid.  She is still
    in a bit of pain, eating some but basically a happy cat.  She feels
    it is an auto-immune disease ... specifically Lupus.  She had given
    her some antibiotics this morning and steroids.
    
    Does anyone have any information on Lupus - any experience with their
    own cat having the disease or (more specifically) any information on
    steroids and their effects?
    
    Thanks
    

    I don't have any information specifically about Lupus in cats, but I
    have a friend that has it. I'll hunt around to see if I still have any
    literature on it. It sounds like your vet is on the right track for
    treatment. Lupus (in people) is usually treated with predisone, a
    steroid, among other drugs.
    
    Hopefully, your vet will be able to stabilize her. That's done by
    figuring out which organs the Lupus is attacking. Once she figures that
    out, she should be able to prescribe the appropriate medication. If all
    goes well with that, your kitty should be able to live a pretty normal
    life. Please remember my comments are based on the people version. I
    don't know if this information applies to cats.
    
    Good luck!
    Deb 
    
    I'll keep my fingers crossed for you.

    I had a unidentifyable problem with my cat Smurf many years ago and
    brought him to Tufts in Grafton (at the suggestion of my vet who was
    at a loss).  They were wonderful.   I strongly suggest you bring your cat
    to Tufts.  

    Here is the latest update:
    
    Dr. Moss just called and said the results from the blood work showed no
    signs of any blood disorder.  The protein level was a "bit" low ... but
    seeing as she hasn't been eating that well - she feels that's the
    reason why.  Abigail's temperature is back to normal and she is eating 
    on her own!!
    
    They started her on Prednisone yesterday and she will continue on this
    for at least 6 months.  She did mention, however, that using steriods
    does tend to cut their lives short(er) but feels she can live until the
    age of 10 or 11.
    
    The diagnosis is not final - either an inflammatory diesease and/or an
    auto-immune disease ... we may never know.
    
    Dr. Moss sais that when she gets home she can do ANYTHING she wants and
    eat ANYTHING she wants ... treat her as normal as possible.  She will
    keep her until Friday or Saturday to make sure the drug is working and
    that she doesn't have a relapse.
    
    I am cautiously optimistic, only because we don't specifically know
    what it is.  She did look better last night - walked around the room
    and "scratched" the old chair - the visiting room is a kick and gives
    us some privacy to help boost her morale.
    
    

    I'm glad to see that Abigail is feeling better.
    
    I looked for the literature and can't seem to find it. I'll see if my
    friend still has it. 
    
     

    Abigail is being released from the hospital today.
    
    Her temperature is down to normal (and has been for three days) and is
    eating on her own.  One of the Dr's isn't quite happy with her grooming
    habits - another indication that they feel better - but in watching her
    with me ... Abigail did groom herself some and Dr. Moss hopes that when 
    she gets home she will be happier.
    
    No guarantee's - she is not 100% and don't know if she ever will be.
    We could have her 6 months or 10 years.  She will be on Prednisone
    from 6 months to a year and hopefully they will be able to wean her
    off the steroids altogether.  She'll be going in for monthly check-ups 
    and meanwhile I'll try to fatten her up, make her comfortable and give
    her as much love as we can to ensure her time left with us is
    QAULITY.
    
    

    Someone (I can't remember who) very graciously gave me some information
    regarding a disease their cat had ... that went undetected.  I wrote
    a note back, asking if I could forward the information on to Dr.
    Mulcahy, and I can't find it and can't remember who the person was.
    
    I had to rush Abby back to the hospital this morning.  She did well at
    home for about 3 days and progressively got worse.  She is all
    but skin and bones, doesn't like to be touched, won't eat, is
    de-hydrated ... as she vomited and had diarreah from 2:30 a.m. this
    morning.
    
    Dr. Mulcahy gave her some IV fluids and will consult with Dr(s) Butler
    and Dr. Moss - Abigail's primary phsyician.  We are all at such a loss. 
    My dilemma is that I don't want the poor little thing to suffer, yet if
    they put her down and do an autopsy and find something *simple* we are
    all going to feel horrible.
    
    Perhaps I am trying to "humanize" the situation too much, but I love
    her, she has become a member of the family.  Is my difficulty in 
    letting go causing Abigail undue suffering?  Part of my sadness is due, I 
    know, to being somewhat selfish!
    
    When do you know it's time to say goodbye ... or am I over reacting?  
     
    
    M
    
    

    Marilyn,
    
    What about FIP?  Has that avenue been pursued yet?  Is she jaundiced? 
    Did the bloodwork reveal high serum protein levels?  An elevated level
    can be indicative of FIP.
    
    The dry form of FIP can be very difficult to detect, even through
    bloodwork, and is only confirmed upon autopsy.  Most vets will perform
    a combination of tests to diagnose the disease.
    
    Just a thought... my prayers are with you and Abagail.
    
    -Roberta
    

    So many tests have been done I can't keep track of them all.  When I 
    go in this evening I am going to bring in a pad of paper and take down
    some notes.
    
    I believe she had three different set(s) of bloodwork done (CBC)?
    Dr. Mulcahy mentioned the possibility of a type of cancer - something
    about the muscles or sub-cutaneous tissue?  If that were the case,
    her prognosis is definitely not good.
    
    She told me to call her back around 2 this afternoon and I will mention
    the dry form of FIP, liver cancer or another disease Feline
    Infectious Anemia - that was also brought to my attention.  Dr. Mulcahy
    says her tail is STILL part of the problem! 
    
    Thanks for the prayers ... Abigail needs all the help she can get!
    
    Marilyn
     

    Another thought....it sounds alot of the symptoms are what
    I went through with Van Gogh when he was diagnosed with Megacolon!
    Have they done and ultrasound on Abby......
    
    Your in my thoughts and prayers.  And even if right now you do not
    feel you will know when the time is....believe me...you will KNOW!
    
    Sandy
    

    Thanks Sandy, I'll add Megacolon to the list.  What is it?  Did Van
    Gogh have a sensitive tail, weight loss, high fever, etc?  What
    did they do for treatment?
    
    No, they have not done an ultrasound yet, at this point I have spent
    so much money what the heck is another $100 - I'll request one.
    
    Not knowing what tomorrow will bring I cannot imagine how I will 
    handle something like that.  I try hard not to dwell on it, yet, I
    have to be realistic that it is a very good possibility and not
    supress my emotions.  So, I cry at the drop of a hat!
    
    M
    

    
    I'm off to a meeting so I can't write much but please feel free to
    call me at home tonight. (508-342-2985)  For Van Gogh's full story
    see note 62.
    
    Megacolon is a problem with intestines.   VG had a piece of his
    large intestine that was "ruined" and he couldn't push the poop
    threw!!  We went through multiple tests and treatments and after
    many months it was finally diagnosed as Megacolon from my vet...and 
    confirmed at Tufts (via ultrasound) who operated on him!!  They 
    removed 80% of his large intestine...and it has been almost 2 years 
    and he is doing GREAT!
    
    VG had multiple symptoms such as throwing up, diahreah, constipated,
    fever, lethargic etc.  After an enema...he would be great for two
    days...and then start going down hill again!!   If they are bound up..
    they stop eating...throw up etc!!!!
    
    Feel free to call....
    
    Sandy

    I just called the office, again, and Dr. Mulcahy is in surgery.  This
    was to be Dr. Moss's day off, bless her heart, she did come in to the
    office.  I would love to think it was just to see Abby ;*) but I am
    sure there are other things she has to do.
    
    They will consult and I am to call back around 3:30.  
    
    Thanks to everyone who has written/called offline to send their wishes
    and prayers.
    
    Marilyn
    

    I just got off the phone with Dr. Mulcahy.
    
    Thanks to the advice and "direction" from a lot of friends out there
    she listened and was receptive to all my questions.  First, both Dr. 
    Moss and Dr. Mulcahy feel the vomiting and diarreah is a result of
    Abby's intolerance to the Prednisone - which they stopped giving her
    right away.  She has had two sub-cutaneous fluid enjections and she has 
    to stop vomiting for 24 hours before they will re-introduce fluids by 
    mouth.  I forgot to ask if she had a fever ... although she didn't feel 
    warm to me this morning.
    
    She is (temporarily) ruling out Feline Infectious Anemia ... they have
    done numerous blood tests but the one they ran today is still pending.
    
    There is drug (other than Prednisone) that I mentioned which she had
    not heart of but will research it and consult with the other two 
    doctors.
    
    I mentioned Tufts and she said that she thinks that would be a good
    idea - if after all the testing they do doesn't come up with anything
    substantial.  She suggested a Susan Cotter - has anyone heard of her or
    had any contact with her?  She said not only is she intelligent, but
    compassionate and a real "cat" lover.
    
    A doctor Kaplan will be coming to the hospital late this afternoon 
    and I gave her permission for Abby to have an Ultrasound.
    
    When I asked her if all this testing (etc.) was a "quest" to satisfy 
    our curiousity or save Abby - she feels (thank God) that because Abby 
    is so young ... there is a good chance that a diagnosis and treatment 
    will be found.  She has her age going for her - and she also reiterated 
    to me that her spirit is still alive ... she's not ready to die yet!
    
    I'll keep you updated!
    
    Marilyn
    
    P.S.  By the way.  Has anyone heard of (check the spelling here)
          Myocitis?
    

    I visited Abigail Sunday morning and later, Dr. Moss called me at home.
    
    Her white cell blood count was 1,000.  I remember Dr. Moss telling me
    what the "normal" range is (thousands) but she cannot survive on that
    extremely low count.  She gave her a blood transfusion and she told me
    that the next 72 hours were critical.
    
    Dr. Moss is almost sure it's Lupus.  She was reading through the book
    and the symptoms are all there.  One of the first signs something was
    wrong - hindsight is ALWAYS 20-20 - was that Abigail didn't like to be
    held, touched or brushed anymore..  It didn't seem strange (at the
    time) as sometimes I have found cats to be in a "mood" and the behavior 
    change was so minimal I didn't pick up on it.
    
    I am anxious to call this morning around 9 a.m. and hope that I hear
    some good news.   Abigial did stop the vomiting and diarreah and was
    eating Sunday morning which is a good sign.  She seems to be quite the
    fighter and I am hoping her age (a year) is going to be her ace in the
    hole.
    
    Has anyone got any information about Lupus?  Did she "catch" it .. is
    it viral, could she have been born with that trait?  Any or all
    information would be appreciated.  Dr. Moss said her case was unusual
    and what I would like to do is get some information (symptoms) and post
    them here (make a Lupus file) so that if some other cat starts acting 
    and/or behaving like Abigail - Lupus could be diagnosed more quickly.
    
    Again, I can't say enough about the love, caring and expertise Dr(s)
    Moss, Mulcahy and Butler have shown Abigail and the patience they
    have had with ME.  They are the best!!
    
    Thanks for any information you could supply me with or direct me to any
    reading material.
    
    Marilyn
    

    marilyn,
    
    have no info, just prayers and good wishes for you and abby.
    
    diane, stella and stanley
    
    

    Marilyn,
    
    A while ago, I put a note in saying that I would look for a brochure on
    Lupus. I asked my friend, but she forgot. After reading your note, I
    called her and asked her again. She said she would find something for
    me to give to you. If you're interested in receiving the information,
    please let me know.
    
    For now, I can tell you that Lupus is not catchy or caused by a virus.
    It is an auto-immune disease. No one knows how or why people (and I
    guess cats) get it. 
    
    I'll keep my fingers crossed that your vet gets it under control soon.
    
    Deb

    Deb, thank you.
    
    Abigail is not doing all that well.  
    
    Every night I leave work and go visit her and the poor little thing
    looks so pathetic.  One day she eats, the next she doesn't - her
    temperature stablizes but she has a bit of diarreah.  The doctors
    took a blood sample and are waiting for the results (something nuclear) 
    which is due back anytime.  It will HOPEFULLY come back positive so they 
    can treat her.
    
    I am under the impression (and I could be wrong) that no cat has
    ever been diagnosed with Lupus.  They have found it in humans and
    dogs ... but not cats.  This is a long shot - from what I understand.
    You also have to understand that at the time the doctors are giving me
    all this information I am not writing it down and I have heard so many
    "new" things about medicine I get confused.  So I hope nobody "quotes"
    me on this ... even though it is in writing (ha).
    
    I do know she has an auto-immune disease ... they just can't figure out
    which one it is.  I was also told, yesterday, that another animal was
    brought in (9 years old) with an auto-immune disease...a dog, I think.
    
    Sorry for rambling on.  To be honest I keep having ambivilant feelings.
    When I look at her I wonder if I am the one who is "hanging" on?  Am
    I doing the right thing - hoping we will find out what is wrong and
    make her better ... or should I say enough is enough and put her to
    rest.
    
    So sad!
    
    

Without permission from the author... Here are some excerpts from a brochure
on Lupus. Please remember, this has to do with people, not cats, but I'd 
guess the symptoms etc. would be similar. Hope this helps.

    
What Is Lupus?
by Peter Schur, M.D.
Professor of Medicine Harvard Medical School
Brigham and Women's Hospital


Lupus is a chronic, inflammatory disease in which the body's immune system,
instead of serving its normal protective function, forms antibodies that attack
healthy tissues and organs. There are several types of Lupus. Discoid lupus
affects the skin. Systemic lupus erythematosus, usually more severe than 
discoid, can attack any body organ or system.... If not controlled, systemic 
lupus can be life threatening. Another form of lupus is drug-induced lupus,
caused by reaction to medication. When medication is discontinued, the lupus
symptoms usually disappear. 


What Causes Lupus?

Although we do not know the exact cause of lupus, we do know that some people 
appear to possess genes which influence the immune system and predisopose them
to develop this disease. The immune system normally helps us develop protection
against viruses and bacteria. But the immune system can behave abnormally, as
in allergic individuals who produce an excess amount of a particular antibody.

Specifically, people with lupus produce an excess of antibodies to some of their
own cells or the contents of these cells. In some patients, this excess
production of anti-self antibodies is due to the deficiency of a group of 
regulatory or suppressor cells... These antibodies attack cells and therby cause
inflammation, cell injury, and even cell destruction.

Symptoms

Fever
Fatigue
Loss of appetite; weight loss
Aches and pains
Swollen glands
Nausea and vomiting
Depression
Easy bruising
Hair loss
Edema/swelling

    ...and the latest update of Abigail.
    
    Dr. Mulcahey and I had a lengthy conversation last evening and the
    test results came back NEGATIVE (for Lupus).  It could be that she
    doesn't have Lupus, or it could also be a false/positive in that Abigail
    has been on Prednesone.   They are now alternating Prednisone with
    some other drug (which is also used to treat cancer) and informed me
    that 4 years ago she had a cat - as emaciated as Abigail - who had an
    auto-immune disease.  He was sent home, was force fed and is STILL
    alive today.  She gave me some hope!
    
    In any event, she is picking at her food, her temperature is normal and
    her spirit is high.  She purred for me last night, gave me a couple of
    headbutts ... and let me brush her.  She looks pathetic but Dr.
    Mulcahey feels that she still has the will to survive - so what more
    can I ask for ... for today!
    
    Thanks for all the notes and calls of support, they have really helped
    me get through this emotional rollercoaster.
    
    Marilyn
      

    
    Marilyn,
    
       Each day I log in to check on Abigail's progress.  I too have 
       Dr. Mulcahey as my vet, and she and the staff at Central are
       the best.  I was so happy to hear that she received the award,
       she surely deserve's it.  Abigail is in the best hands.  She
       is in our prayers.  Please keep us posted and give her a pat
       for us.
    
       Mary, Katie, Mandy, Cali  and of course Cagney & Lacey our dogs
       who we adopted through Dr. Mulcahey.

    Dr. Butler called yesterday morning to say she had some "moderate"
    good news.  Apparantly Abigail had eaten during the night.  For the
    past month she would pick at deli meat that they had bought for her
    ... or pick from her bowl during the day but this is the first time 
    she ate during the night.  If all goes well and she continues to eat,
    there is a good chance I will be able to bring her home later on 
    this week.
    
    Friday I called the Lupus Foundation of America and spoke to a 
    wonderful woman who gave me all kinds of information.  I felt a bit
    foolish calling about my cat - but she assured me that they get calls
    about animals every day.  I forgot (she reminded me) that President
    Bush's dog (Millie) had Lupus!
    
    She is sending me a paper written by two DVM, PhD's out of the
    University of California, Davis - who have documented 11 cases of
    Lupus in Feline's.  I gave all the information to Dr. Mulcahey 
    Friday evening and she was thrilled to see that some research is
    being done regarding Lupus in Felines.  She put a call in to them 
    and is waiting for a response ... hopefully today.
    
    For now, Abigail is on Prednisone one day and Imuran (sp ?) the other
    and they will monitor this schedule for a week to see how she does
    with it!  I'll continue to keep you all posted.
    
    Thanks for all the well-wishes.  They keep my spirit up and renew my
    faith (and trust) in humankind.
    
    Marilyn
    

    Kitty prayers coming your way from Calif.  I hope Abigail continues to
    eat and to feel better.
    
    Steffi, Misty, Lizette, Misha and Marnie

    Well, we have some good news!
    
    I got home from work yesterday and found a large packet from the Lupus
    Foundation of America.  As you recall, I had called Friday and they
    said a paper had been written by two DVM PhD's from the University of
    California (Davis) on Feline Lupus.  Only 11 cases had been documented
    Nationwide.
    
    I brought the paper(s) to Central Animal Hospital and Dr. Moss read
    them in the room while I visited with Abby.  She HAS Lupus.  As Dr.
    Moss was reading the case studies she said there is no doubt in her
    mind that Abby fits the classic description!
    
    The good news is that now they know what to do.  The case studies also
    mentioned different drugs used (depending on the condition of the cat)
    so now it's just a matter of finding out which one will be best for
    Abigail.  She is presently being given alternate (daily) drugs of
    Prednesone and Imuran (sp ?).
    
    The one symptom Abigail DOES not have is kidney disease and/or failure
    and they want to make sure that does not happen.
    
    The staff will be making me a copy (as I gave them my original) and I 
    would be happy to post a couple of case studies in here if anyone is
    interested?
    
    Looks like Abigail is the 12th cat to be definitively diagnosed with
    Lupus ... but I am sure there are many more out there who, for whatever
    reason, have not and/or die before they can correctly diagnosed.
    
    Also, moderator(s), could you please change the name of this topic to
    "Feline Lupus" ... I feel it deserves a topic of it's own.  Either
    that or you can call it "Abigail - the first Lupus cat in New England".
    (ha)  Nothing to really laugh at - it's just that I have been grasping 
    at straws for weeks - Abigail is one hell of a fighter and I would love 
    to give her some credit for surviving and hanging in there.  
    
    She is not out of the woods yet - but atleast the doctors know what
    they are dealing with and can treat her!
    
    Marilyn
    
    P.S.  Thanks for all the calls and well wishes - and for the few
          who were willing to share some painful (yet informative)
          experiences with me.  Your courage prompted me to make the
          phone calls and attempt to search for this breakthrough 
          information.  I thank you from the bottom of my heart!
    

    Marilyn, that is great news!  How wonderful that a diagnosis has
    definitely been confirmed and now Abagail can be treated and on the
    road to good health.  What a famous little girl you have there!  :^)
    
    Not many folks would have gone the extra miles and then some, and you
    deserve a gold star for your infinite patience and love.
    
    -Roberta
    

    I've changed the title .. I thought this title would be more
    appropriate and honoring your dear Abigail.  I'm SO glad that they've
    finally diagnosed her!!  I'm sure that you're quite releaved!!
    
    HUGS to you and Abigail!!
    
    Holly (and Tabitha, Silver, Pita, Kyra, and Mondo)

    Fantastic! - I've been following this saga, and hoping for the best. 
    Now that they know what they are fighting, it should go much better.
    I hope she is well enough to come home soon!  Any idea how long this 
    thing is going to take before she is fully recovered?  
    
    What a fighter, I just hope all goes well for Abigail and you now!
    
    Linda

    Dr. Moss mentioned that Abigail could possibly come home by this
    Friday evening.  I explained to her that I am a bit nervous about
    that and she laughed and said "we all love her but she HAS to go
    home".  For me, it's like having been in a car accident and not
    wanting to drive the same road that it occurred on.  She assured
    me that there is nothing at home that will make her "sick", however
    I will have to give her medication and monitor her.  I believe
    she will be on medication for the rest of her life, she will get
    quite tired at times and will have to wait to talk with the doctors
    to find out if there are any other side effects.  One of the case 
    studies mentioned that a cat had had 4 relapses and Abigail has 
    already had two.  Hopefully she won't have any more. 
    
    Dr. Moss also wanted me to call Cornell University's College of
    Veterinary Medicine - which I did and am waiting for them to call
    me back.  She is hoping that they also have copies of some
    published material on Feline Lupus.  The more information she can
    get ... the better for them to diagnosis any other cases that may
    come in to their hospital.
    
    Knowledge is the key and I wonder if little Abigail realizes that
    she might possibly have "save" some other cats life - by surviving 
    this long enough for the disease to be finally diagnosed.  I am 
    bordering "drama" and "brag" - I feel like calling Cat Fancy magazine 
    or the newspaper to have a story written about her as well as Central
    Animal Hospital and the fine work they do!
    
    I'll be quiet now!  (smile)
    
    Marilyn
    

    Marilyn,
    
     Don't be afraid to brag a bit! You're hard work and perseverance
    seems to have paid off big time! I'm so happy they have diagnosed
    Abigail! Once they figure out what meds to use to keep her stable, she
    should be able to live for a good long time!
    
     My sister-in-law has been diagnosed with Lupus, and has been feeling
    great for the past few years for the most part. Every once in a while,
    the medication stops working, and they need to change it, but I think
    this has only happened a couple of times, and she was diagnosed about
    five years ago! I don't know all that much about the disease itself, so
    whatever you enter about it will be welcome by me!
    
     Good luck, and I know you'll do great by her when she gets home! You
    didn't do this much work to chicken out at this point! ;-)
    
     Love,
    
     Yonee

    Marilyn...so happy that they diagnosed this disease and I pray
    Abigail is on her way to recovery!!!
    
    As far as bringing her home....what I suggest is to get yourself
    a little journal and mark down everything Abigail does.  How much
    she eats, when she poops, what she looks like, is she playing...
    is she sleeping more, meds etc.   I have done this for both Van Gogh
    and now I'm doing it with Mr. Meow (kidney disease) and anytime
    I go to the vet...the journal comes with me.   The vets are real
    impressed with it because it really helps them monitor the
    recovery as well and you will notice any change in behavior.
    
    Any info you can get on Lupus...please share with the file.  Abigail
    could possibly help diagnose/save some of our feliners in the 
    future.   
    
    Abigail is quite the little fighter....
    
    Sandy
    

    Marilyn, 
    
    I'm so glad my sharing could help. Don't worry, the medicine for 
    Lupus works wonders. Ab will be fine, it's just gonna take time.
    
    Donna
    

    Hi (again).
    
    I just got off the phone with Gwen from the Cornell University
    College of Veterinary Medicine.  She is going to research her library
    to see if there is any other information she has regarding Feline
    Lupus.  She was aware of the work/research being done at the University
    of California, Davi and was extremely pleasant and very helpful.
    
    For anyone who knows (or has) a cat that has some of the symptoms that
    were discussed earlier here are two doctors that your veterinarian can
    call regarding questions they might have regarding Feline Lupus (or
    probably any other disease).  Cornell University is located in New York.
    
    Dr. Danny Scott.  She said to make sure they ask to speak to Dr. DANNY
                      Scott, as the Director of the University is a Dr. 
                      Fred Scott.
    
    Dr. William Miller
    
    ...and this is the telephone number 607-253-3038
    
    
    Abigail is still picking at food, groomed herself a bit yesterday
    and temperature is hovering around normal.  I'll visit her again
    tonight and give you an update tomorrow.  Thanks again for all the
    support!
    
    Marilyn
    
    
    P.S.  I'll post some information received from UCLA tomorrow - listing 
          some symptoms, as well as some excerpts from the 11 case studies.
    

    ...and the latest update!
    
    I went to visit Abigail last evening and had a lengthy discussion with
    Dr. Mulcahey.  Dr. Moss had called my office but I had left and missed
    speaking with her.
    
    Seems Dr. Moss called Dr. Miller at the Cornell University College of
    Veterinary Medicine and had an excellent conversation with him.  Dr.
    Mulcahey said she was so excited about the call - she drove to Webster
    to pick up the new medication that Abigail is now on - called (I think)
    chlorambucil.  He said that drug was found to have better effect in
    cats.  Again, Dr. Moss and Dr. Mulcahey are excited about the information 
    they received and ... now have a contact!
    
    I told Dr. Mulcahey that the visiting room should be named the Abigail
    Anderson Wing and she laughed and said "no, we'll call it the Abigail
    Anderson Visiting Center".  She was only kidding!
    
    During the next few days I'll post case studies ... they are very
    interesting reading.  If you would like a copy of the 16 page Paper,
    which is a selection from the Lupus Foundation of America Newsletter
    Article Library, please contact me offline - Marilyn Anderson @MLO
    or ASABET::MANDERSON and I will be happy to forward on to you.  I went
    to the library last night and made up 25 copies.
    
    The Paper is named:  SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS IN THE CAT by 
    Niels C. Pedersen, DVM, PhD and Jeffrey E. Barlough, DVM, PhD.
    
    Dr. Moss will be sending Abigail's case study to them - to add to
    their research (yes !) and she agreed that perhaps I should notify Cat
    Fancy magazine about her "plight" ... it would be nice if they did a 
    story about her and/or the disease in felines.  If nothing else, to 
    make people aware!!  Of course she is a BEAUTIFUL little girl - and I
    have some wonderful photographs of her before she got sick.  She is all
    white except for grey on the top of her head ... and she has a grey
    tabby striped tail.  Quite striking, actually!
    
    Can anyone provide the address and/or telephone number of Cat Fancy
    magazine?  I'll either make a phone call to them or dash off a letter.
    
    Oh, and as for Abigail.  I brought her some Tweety's chicken and all
    she wanted to do was be petted (REAL good sign) she purred and they
    said she is eating all day long.  Little amounts - but eating none the
    less.  It will be a very long process but it will DEFINITELY be worth
    it!  I am still on cloud nine - I didn't think we would ever find out
    what was really wrong.
    
    Thanks for any information help you can give me!
    
    Marilyn & Abigail
    
    

    Copied without permission from the paper:
    
               "SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS IN THE CAT"
                      Niels C. Pedersen, DVM, PhD
                     Jeffrey E. Barlough, DVM, PhS
    
    Case Study #5
    
    "A 9-year-old, neutered female domestic cat weighting 8kg was presented
    to the VMTHUCD with a 2-week history of fluctuating,
    antibiotic-resistant fever, gagging, and partial anorexia.  On physical
    examination the cat was found to be grossly obese with erythemic, oily,
    and seborrheic skin.  It was not febrile but was mildly depressed and
    exhibited hyperesthesia over the back, joints, and limb muscles.  A CBC
    count revealed no abnormalities except for elevated total protein
    (8.7g/dl) and mild hyperfibrinogenemia (300 mg/dl).  The urinalysis and
    blood chemical screen were normal.  No abnormalities were reported on
    abdominal radiography or neurological examination.  Tests for FeLV
    antigen and FIV antibodies were negative.  A FANA titer was positive at
    1:40 (speckled pattern).  Cytologic examination of synovial fluid
    aspirates from the left and right tarsal and carpal joints revealed
    leukocyte counts ranging from 9000 to 12,200/ml (23-75% nondegenerative
    neutophils).  A diagnosis of SLE was made and the cat was started on a
    treatment regimen of 10 mg of Prednisolone twice daily.  The cat
    responded well to treatment.  Synovial fluid aspirates from the left
    carpal and tarsal joints were essentially normal when examined 1 month
    after discharge from the hospital.  The dosage of Prednisolone was
    gradually decreased to 5 mg every other day.
    
    The cat was returned to the VMTHUCD in 3 months with a 4-week history
    of lameness. Synovial fluid from the right and left carpal and tarsal
    joints contained from 1100 to 4100 leukocytes/ml (8-51% nondegenerative
    neutrophils).  A urinalysis and urine culture were normal.  A CBC count
    showed a borderline leukopenia (6700/ml) and hyperproteinemia (8.5%
    g/dl).  The FAMA test was still positive at 1:40.  The Prednisolone
    dosage was increased to 5 mg twice a day and the cat wa placed on a
    weight-reduction diet and L-thyroxine supplementation (as a
    weight-reduction aid).
    
    The lameness rapidly resolved over the next few weeks, and the FAMA
    titer dropped to negative at 1:10.  In order to decrease the
    Prednisolone dosage, the cat was placed on 2 mg of chorambucil twice a
    week for 4 weeeks, and then once a week for an indefinite period.  At a
    recheck appointment 2 months later, the owner reported that the
    hyperesthesia had worsened, and that fresh blood had been observed in
    the stool on one occasion.  a CBC count was normal and the FANA test
    remained negative at 1:10.  The Prednisolone dosage was decreased to 5
    mg once a day, but the chlorambucil was continued at the initial
    dosage.  The cat improved progressively over the ensuing 16 months and
    remains essentially asymptomatic."
    
    
    Interesting note here.  According to Dr. Mulcahey Tufts does not 
    recognize the  FANA titer 1:40 as positive - they call it negative. 
    Abigail's was 1:40 ... which in fact IS positive.  She was also quick
    to point out that Central Animal Hospital does not use the Tufts lab,
    they use somebody else.  (can't remember who)  She said either she or
    Dr. Moss will notify someone at Tufts of this new finding!
    
    Also.  When I brought Abigail in the first time - her tail was
    extremely sore.  In fact, they had originally thought it might be
    abcessed.  Although none of the 9 case studies revealed any
    hyperesthesia on the tail (only on the  back, joints and limb muscles) 
    Central Animal Hospital will also note that new finding.
    
    

    Keyword FELINE_LUPUS has been added to the base note and a couple
    of the replies to this topic.
    
    Jan
    

    Abigail is still hospitalized.
    
    They won't let me bring her home (for good) until she has 3 days of
    maintaining a normal temperature and eating well.  One day I go in
    and she's mowing everything in sight but her temperature is elevated
    the next she's picking at her food but her temperature is back to
    normal.
    
    Frustrating.
    
    Obviously I don't want to jeopardize her health but what kind of life
    can it be for her in a cage.  Better than no life at all (I keep 
    telling myself)!  She got sick the middle of July and somehow it seems
    like she isn't getting any better.
    
    Can you tell I am having a bad day?  :^(
    
    

    Latest update on Abigail.
    
    In visiting her over the week-end she looked frail but in talking
    with Dr. Moss last night (she didn't work this week-end) she could see
    that she is still losing weight.  Apparantly she isn't doing well with
    the methyl prednesone.  
    
    The researcher suggested that perhaps she get the prednesone 1 day on
    and 1 day off, giving her a double dosage every other day.  As of last 
    night - Dr. Moss felt that if Abigail doesn't start eating by Monday 
    she suggests she be put down.  Abigail is purring, scratches the 
    furniture in the visiting room and does respond but is depressed, is 
    so quiet and, like I said, not eating very well.
    
    I am considering the possibility of force feeding her when I am there,
    perhaps I am looking for a desparate measure in a desparate situation. 
    She is not in pain - however she is slowly starving to death.
    
    Today is not a good day for ME - so I am praying that she turns around
    and this change of distributing her medicine will work.
    
    Marilyn
      

    More kitty prayers for Abigail...she has been quite the trooper so
    I pray she will start eating soon.
    
    Please keep us posted and know you are in our thoughts.
    
    Sandy   

    when Pip was fighting her battle with cancer, they had her on
    prednesone to stimulate her appitite; that worked fine for a couple of
    months, but after a while I couldn't even force feed her. I thot I was
    going to have to put her down. My vet prescribed a tiny (1mg?) of valium
    each day as a appitite stimulant (not enuff to make her stoned, but just
    enough to make her hungry). Within hours of the first dose, she basicly
    came back to life. I was eating while sitting next to her on the 
    couch and all of a sudden there was a calico paw attached to my chicken leg.
    I had no problem getting her to eat for her remaining 2 1/2
    months, so long as I handfed her old mother hubbard tuna and chicken
    from a just opened can; I should point out that she was capable of
    eating on her own, as she gobbled her crunchies without my assistance,
    but she was a litle spoiled at this point.
    
    Anyhow, I know that your Abigail doesn't have cancer, but it might be
    worth it to ask about the valium as an appitite stimulant.
    
    Deb

    Thanks Deb, for the suggestion, I will mention it to Dr. Moss when I
    visit her this evening.
    
    I just called the office and Linda said that she is eating (picking)
    better than she was yesterday.  When Dr. Moss told me she would be
    giving her the prednesone every other day - I don't know if she got
    it yesterday (and today she is off) or if she took her off it today
    and will give her the double dose tomorrow.
    
    I also asked Linda is force feeding her was a "good" idea (while I
    visit her) and although she said it couldn't hurt - it takes away from
    Abigail doing it on her own.  Obviously, she has to (at some point) eat
    on her own.  Not a good idea after all!
    
    In humans, anorexia is prevelant in some Lupus patients and it looks
    like the same holds true for cats.  Unfortunately, other than the case
    studies that Dr. Moss read from UCLA (Davis) there is no other
    documentation of Lupus in felines.  They are - more or less - working
    in the dark on this one!
    
    Poor Abby!
    
    

    Here's a suggestion for you regarding getting Abigail to eat.  Ask your
    vet what she thinks of using a small dose of valium.  It worked wonders
    in getting Misha to eat.  It makes cats ravenous for a 10-15 minute
    window after it gets absorbed in their system.  Then they get a little
    wobbly and go and sleep it off.  It got Misha used to eating again.  He
    was on it for only 2 weeks.  The prednesone that we tried earlier made
    him depressed and he wouldn't eat.  There is a small percentage of cats
    that react that way to prednesone.  Apparently, Abby is one, also. 
    
    Good luck.  I hope this will work for Abigail.
    
    Steffi

    When Murdock was ill several years back he never responded to the
    valium as a means of getting him to eat on his own.  I force-fed him
    for a period of two weeks, and it was very stressful for both of us. 
    In my heart, I knew that by not eating he had lost the will to live.
    When it reaches the point where nothing seems to be helping, your
    decision for Abagail will become easier to accept.  It certainly
    doesn't hurt to proceed with the process of elimination route, as you
    have been doing.  If anything, you will have peace of mind that you
    left no stone uncovered during the course of Abagail's illness.
    
    Hopes and prayers that she pulls through and is on the mend soon!
    
    -Roberta
    

    Thanks for the responses regarding the technique of valium.   I 
    couldn't wait to ask Dr. Moss about it - so I called the office again. 
    Linda spoke with her and she said they are aware of that practice,
    however, Dr. Moss decided against it because it is a narcotic and she
    felt it would push Abigail over the edge.
    
    Apparantly valium is a way to get some cats to eat - depending on the
    circumstances of their illness ... in Abigail's case (Lupus) it was not
    a viable option.
    
    So, again, we have to rely on Abigail (and God) to eat.  Knowing that 
    Prednesone is a depressant is not a comforting thought ... things are 
    not going Abigail's way.
    
    Marilyn
    

    Marilyn...
    
    If and when the time comes to make that decision you will not have 
    any "doubts" in your mind.   It doesn't seem like Abby has given up..
    so keep positive thoughts in your mind.
    
    I have seen many cases where cats were nearly on their deathbed...
    but did survive.  My 17 year old Mr. Meow (who has Kidney disease) was
    one that TWO vets told me they didn't have much hope for him...but
    it has been 3 months and Mr. Meow has started eating again, gained 
    2 pounds,  washes himself again, and is starting to be a pain in the 
    butt (wants to go out!)..so you know he is feeling better.  He probably
    don't have a long time to live...but I will do my best to make it the
    best time of his life and I KNOW I will know when that decision has
    to be made!
    
    Have you tempted Abby with different types of baby food, tuna,
    chicken etc or is she suppose to be on a special diet????  I know
    when Mr. Meow stopped eating all together....my vet said "give him
    whatever he wants because at this point it's better to eat something
    then not at all".  Once Mr. Meow started eating again...then we 
    started slowly getting him to his low protein diet.
    
    Please keep us posted...and I pray for little Abby! 
    
    Sandy  
    

    
    	Marilyn,
    
    	I second Sandy's note ... eating anything is better than nothing.
    	During Tiggr's last week I managed to get him to eat tiny amounts
    	of baby food, and he NEVER touched the stuff before. He really
    	seemed interested in the Turkey & Rice and Chicken formulas.
    	I used a tongue depressor and he simply licked it off. 
    
    	Having just gone through it I would NOT recommend a nose tube
    	for forced feeding. It really bothers the cat, they actually
    	stitch the tube to their nose, and Tiggr fought every feeding.
    	He used to get drenched with gruel every time they feed him,
    	almost as much on him as in him ...... 
    
    	Try foods that she may have turned her nose up at before. She
    	may surprise you by scarfing them down now. Good luck and keep
    	us informed!
    
    		Heidi

    Well, I called the hospital first thing this morning and they said she
    isn't eating.  Bummed, I asked that Dr. Moss call me back.  I spoke
    with her around noon and she said that Abigail is NOT a morning person 
    so they have learned not to expect anything from her until after lunch.
    
    Her temperature is normal but she is not eating.  She is getting 
    sub-cutaneous fluids (so her elctrolytes won't be thrown off).  She is 
    purring, came to watch everyone walk by and seems alert.  I asked Dr. 
    Moss if there is a certain "food" that the majority of cats like when 
    they get persnickity about eating and she said "no".  She got the 
    double dosage of Prednesone today so Dr. Moss doesn't feel she will 
    eat today.  
    
    I told her I would boil up some shrimp for Abigail and bring it in 
    with me tomorrow after work, but if her temperature stays normal,
    perhaps I can bring her home for the week-end.  She can't, however, go 
    without the fluids, so I may have to bring her in each morning.
    
    For the life of me I wish we someone could come up with something
    to pull her out of this.  Part of me things it'll be something
    "simple" ... are we overlooking something.  But, because she is the
    first in this area - the doctors can only go by her behavior and
    the little information they got from the case studies and the doctor
    from Cornell.
    
    She is wasting away before my eyes and there is nothing anyone can
    do.  So sad and the feeling of helplessness is beginning to get
    overwhelming.
    
    I'll keep you posted.
    
    

    At your next visit bring a grocery store and try everything!!!  Mr.
    Meow loved the beef/lamb/chicken/turkey baby food but only if I 
    would place it on my finger so he could lap it off.  Bowls were
    a no no for awhile!!   I also heard many cats love the cream of 
    spinich baby food.,..,but we haven't tried that one yet.   
    
    other stuff I've tried...slice chicken, baby hotdogs, tuna, slice
    roast beef.   Or how about that Alpo milk which is for cats!!
    Have they attempted any types of vitamins...I can't see Nutrical
    or Pet Tinic doing any harm????
    
    Just some thoughts....and more prayers.
    
    Sandy
                                     

    Another thought...hey you and Abby are on my mind what can I say!!
    
    Would it be possible for you to bring Abigail home and learn
    to do the fluids yourself!!!    I know Pam Gladding was taught
    how to do this for Mocha (by Dr. Mulchay) and Pam handled it like
    a pro!!!
    
    I especially think it would be worth while letting Abby come home
    for the weekend to see if maybe being in her own home with lots
    of love...might help her recover!!!  It's well worth a shot!!!
    
    Sandy

    Usually I go right to the hospital, as I go past it on my way home.
    Last night I thought I would stop by the house and get Otis and
    bring him to visit her.  She LOVES him and she always grooms him.
    Thought if she had the energy to do that ... she would then let
    him groom her and/or she would groom herself!
    
    I got all the way home - only to realize the cat carrier was at
    the vets.  So, I put him in a box and started out the door.  NO WAY!
    He knew where he was going and jumped out of the box (thank God we
    were still in the house) and flew upstairs.  I went up after him
    and literally had a talk with him - saying how he would help to
    save her life.  Sounds stupid now - but I really thought he would
    get the "vibes" and was hoping against hope he would let me carry
    him to the car.
    
    No such luck - in fact I got a rear claw in my wrist as he (again)
    jumped out of my arms.  I tried four times, to no avail.
    
    I am hoping that if her temperature stays normal one more day - I
    can bring Abigail home for the week-end.  I think she will eat
    better if she sees Otis eat (they did everything together) and
    has the run of the house.  Even if she chooses to snooze on the
    bed or chair - she'll have some freedom to roam around.  
    
    Don't know about doing the fluids myself - as I feel Dr. Moss meant
    that bringing her home for the week-end was only a temporary thing.
    I go to the hospital every evening - so bringing her by for fluids,
    a check and taking her temperature would be no big deal.  I could
    probably do all three (I know I can do two) but somehow I think I
    would feel better having Dr. Moss look at her every day.
    
    I tried the creamed spinach and she ate 1/2 the jar the last time 
    she was in the hospital.  I plan on getting all sorts of baby food
    and stuff when I shop tonight - something has to tempt her appetite.
    
    Marilyn
    

    Try Deli Turkey too, Marilyn.  When Micki was sick, that's about the
    only thing you could feed her.
    
    Just a suggestion.
    
    Holly
    

    
    
    	Marilyn,
    
    	I agree with Sandy, if Abigail is stable enought, then the 
    	home environment would be 100% better. Being at the Vets
    	would be depressing enought, ask Otis ....
    
    	It just might be the key to strengthen her recovery....
    
    
    	Paws crossed...
    
    	Mike

    ...close but no cigar!
    
    Visited the Animal hospital Friday night and was hoping I could 
    take Abigail home on Saturday.  Dr. Moss called early Saturday
    morning to say that Abigail had diarreah and she would not be able
    to come home.  So, I went to visit her instead.
    
    For the first time - she jumped into the stuffed chair and rolled
    on her side (purring) while I brushed her.  That is the FIRST time
    she got up in the chair - as usually she just sat on the cold floor
    and would move each time I tried to stroke her.  Dr. Moss was
    excited that she extended her limbs and flexed those claws (Happy
    Cat...she said) and it certainly seemed encouraging.
    
    Until the diarreah stops she has to stay in the hospital.  She still
    has it today (I spoke with Dr. Moss this morning) it is her feeling
    it is a reaction to the Prednisone.
    
    Marilyn
    
    

    Prednosone did cause loose stools in Pip; mixing a bit of boiled rice
    with her food (about a teaspoon) seemed to help the situation.
    
    glad she seems a little better,
    Deb

    Good morning to all.
    
    Monday evening I went to visit Abigail and she was pathetic looking.
    Dr. Moss said that she had stopped eating and had watery diarreah and
    was spiking a high fever.  Although she was purring (as we spoke) Dr. 
    Moss felt that if she didn't turn around - we would put her down at the 
    end of the week.  It isn't fair for us to let her continue to starve 
    to death just because we are attached and I can't seem to let her go.
    
    Went in yesterday, her fever was normal and no diarreah.  Don't know
    if she heard the "threats" (ha) or got all the Prednesone out of her
    system.  She is one hell of a fighter - Dr. Moss said that 50% of
    most cats would have given up and just died.
    
    She cannot survive, however, without the medication.  Dr. Moss can't 
    seem to get the Lupus under control.  They were force feeding her and 
    Abigail did start eating turkey baby food by evening.  She obviously
    cannot survive without eating.
    
    I called the owner of the Mom cat (finally got her name) and told
    them about Abigail.  Seems there were 7 in the original litter and
    two died at birth.  A sister-in-law took two but they "ran away"
    as she put it.  I wonder if they weren't sick (they were out door
    cats) and ran off to die?  She still has one kitten but that one 
    shows no symptoms of any illness.  I informed her of Abigail's 
    condition and she said (and I quote) "neither the Mom nor any of 
    the kittens have ever been to a vet".  And, the cat just had ANOTHER
    litter!   I almost choked!  
    
    Anyway.  The girl promised me she would call Dr. Moss and I wonder
    if Dr. Moss will want to see her (the Mom cat).  I'll call her this
    morning to see if it would do any good (i.e., draw some blood [for
    some genetic testing]) but if nothing else, to give her shots and
    test for leukemia and/or Feline Aids.
    
    Although Lupus is a disease of it's own, the Cornell study does say
    that it *could* be possibly linked (genetically) to leukemia and/or
    Feline Aids!
    
    I hate to say this (but it will make me feel better) but I don't think
    Abigail had a very good start in life.  
    
    Marilyn
    

    Geez, Marilyn, if Dr. Moss would take in the mom cat for tests out of
    the goodness of her heart that would be great.  It infuriates me that
    the momcat is having another litter and more babies could possibly die. 
    Maybe you could get her to spay momcat too.
    
    But that is not the real point of this reply.  I wanted say that
    Abagail seems like a real fighter and I hope she pulls through this and
    it is all behind you soon.  You're a pretty terrific "Mom" yourself!!
    
    Purrs and hugs for Abagail.
    
    -Roberta
    

    Marilyn, I just want to say that fingers and paws are crossed here
    hoping that Abigail will continue to fight to live and make it.  You
    have been through so much, you both deserve a happy ending.
    
    Steffi

    After all that Abigail has been through (I am being cautiously
    optimistic here) I am praying this is good news.
    
    I called the hospital, to check on Abigail (I do that three times
    a day) and they came back to the phone and said "are you ready for
    this"?  I held my breath and said 'yessss' and she said "Abigail 
    is going home".  She said Dr. Moss would talk to me when I come by
    to pick her up.
    
    My feelings are of ambivilance ... thrilled to think she can come
    home - yet I am scared to death she will crash.  I don't want to
    think negative thoughts, however the reality of it is - she was SO 
    bad on Monday I really didn't think she would make it until today!
    
    So, I'll leave early, stop by the store and pick up all kinds of
    food for her, pick up the cat carrier and pick her up around 5:00.  
    I just pray she is REALLY okay.
    
    M
    

    Good luck to you and Abigail.... she may feel a lot better being home
    and just think of all the extra cuddles you can give/get (probably make
    you feel better too!
    
    We have all fingers and paws crossed!
    
    janetb.
    Merlin & Rascal

    Marilyn....that sure is good news because if Abigail is going to
    recover I truly feel she will do best at home.    You know that
    if Abigail does start to go down hill....Dr. Moss is only a phone
    call away!!!
    
    What a little fighter she is!!!!   Don't be surprised if Otis doesn't
    like her right away when she comes home because she will have that
    yucky hospital smell.
    
    Keep a detail log of what she eats, what she drinks, how many times
    she pees/poops and how she is acting....and you will even be able
    to tell if she is making progress!!!!   
    
    What wonderful news...Sandy

    Interestingly enough ... the last time she was hospitalized (for 2 1/2
    weeks) Otis started grooming her right away.  They bonded from the
    moment Abigail came to our home and I truly believe he knew she was
    sick and wanted to help!
    
    I don't like the thought(s) of leaving her alone all day long
    (tomorrow) but Dr. Moss assured me she can't go down hill THAT fast.
    
    Thanks for the well wishes - I can't wait to get her home and pamper
    her!
    
    
    

    Abigail is finally home!
    
    I picked her up around 5:00 (yesterday afternoon) and the minute 
    we got in the door she was scratching at the carrier door to get out.  
    She ate some ham (baby food) and some ham from the deli.  When she
    heard me take the bag out of the refrigerator she came running ..
    well, not running, but she moved faster than she has in a couple of
    weeks.  I would give her little bite and when Otis tried to take
    the one that had fallen on the floor ... she looked at him and
    growled.  I took that as a positive sign ... she wanted the food.
    
    She groomed herself, followed me upstairs to see what I was eating
    for supper, and walked around (room to room) to check things out.
    She finally went to sleep in a little bed I made for her.  I woke
    up a couple of times during the night (I was hoping she had come
    upstairs to sleep with me) but she was still comfy in her bed
    downstairs.  
    
    This morning she came running when I opened the can of cat food 
    and this time she DID run.  She ate well, groomed Otis and then
    followed me upstairs to watch me make the bed and get ready for
    work.  She used the litter pan - one hard stool but then runny.
    Sorry, sounds gross, but her biggest problem now will be the 
    diarrhea, then possible dehydration ... and not eating.  I hope 
    this wasn't a bad sign.  I called Dr. Moss and if she has had 
    diarreah while I was gone today - I am assuming I will have to bring 
    her in tonight - either for fluids and/or to stay the night (hope not).
    
    She only weighs 7 pounds (down from 11 pounds) but they feel that
    her extra fat may have contributed to saving her life ... she had 
    plenty of reserve.
    
    She is on Prednesone every other day, 1/2 a pill (daily) of Lucaran
    and 1/2 pill (daily) of something that is supposed to aid in helping
    the diarreah (binding).  Think it beings with a "b" ... can't
    remember.  So, I am praying that after having the pill this morning,
    she will not slip back to her intestinal problem.
    
    I'll let you know (tomorrow) how she made it through today and
    the night.
    
    Marilyn
    

    
    
    Prayers for Abigail, great to hear she's finaly home and hope she 
    doesn't have to go back. 
    
    Shaw

    
    
    	Wonderful! Great news that Abigail is home with you now!
    	I'm sure her recovery will be MUCH faster .. and it
    	certainly won't do you any harm either!
    
    	Heidi
    	

    It must have been like heaven having her back home!!!  Let's keep
    praying her recovery keeps going uphill!!!!
    
    Sandy

    My daughter just called.  She went by the house to check up on all
    the cats and to visit with Abby.  No diarreah.  Looks like the
    medicine worked!
    
    She ate some turkey baby food AND some Purina Cat Chow.  She hasn't
    touched those since she got sick last July.  God, I didn't realize
    how long this has been for her ... she got sick on July 4th!  Three
    months - poor baby!
    
    The competitive eating, the bonding of Otis with her and having the
    freedom to move around (not to mention listening to the Classical
    music I leave on for them every day) has certainly helped her now
    that she is home!
    
    Of course, it goes without saying, that if it weren't for the love,
    dedication, caring, expertise, devotion and time that Dr. Moss and
    the other doctors (and staff) spent on her - she would not be alive
    to day.  I will be forever grateful and I'm willing to be they won't
    forget Abigail for a very long time.
    
    M
    

    I'm so happy to hear that Abigail is doing so well at home.  I think
    being home with you and Otis is the best medicine of all for her.
    
    I hope to see pics of her on Monday.  I'm sorry you won't be there, but
    I certainly understand.  Give her gentle hugs for me.
    
    Steffi

    
    Marilyn,
    
      I'm so happy to hear Abigail is home and on the road to recovery.
      I make it a point to check this note EVERY day to get an update.
      Plus I have said a prayer each night for her and you.  She is
      some special kittie.  Give her hugs from me and my girls.
    
      Mary and her crew

    Thanks, Mary, so many people have contacted me offline, as well as
    responding here, regarding Abigail's progress.
    
    She was quite alert when I got home last night - no diarreah!  I
    was a bit apprehensive to check the litter pan(s) but was relieved
    when I didn't see any gunk!
    
    She has been under the ottoman's (resting) but when I got home I looked
    under and couldn't find her.  Stupid me, she was on TOP of the ottoman,
    relaxing on the afgahn.  I guess she didn't feel threatened and wanted
    to catch a few rays ... as they filtered through the glass windows.
    
    When I serve them supper (yes, I SERVE them) in china bowls (YES,
    china bowls...I bought them at a flea market) I always clink them.
    She must have remembered the sound and came right away to eat.  She did
    quite a good job with her food, then groomed herself a bit and went
    upstairs to lay on the little bed I made for her there.
    
    She was quiet most of the evening and I exhausted myself (lovingly,
    of course) running down stairs to check on her and coax her back
    upstairs.  But, she wanted to rest so I respected her decision to chill
    out.
    
    After going to bed (I had the window open) I heard her try to get on
    the bed (she made it up on the second try) and then she tried to get up
    on the window sill.  I got out of bed and put her up there ... she sat
    for about 10 minutes watching bugs, birds ... whatever flies in the
    night.  I thought she might get a chill so I took her out of the window
    and she went back to her little bed.
    
    This morning she ran to breakfast - eating at three different intervals
    and bravely took her pills.  She was sitting by the front door as I
    left (guilt guilt guilt) so I am glad today is Friday and I have the
    week-end to spend with her.
    
    ...and I LOVE those guilt feelings ... just having her home is such
    a joy.  You don't realize what you have until you lose it (or ALMOST
    lose it).  She may live with us for 1 more week - a month - a year
    or 8 more years, but I feel blessed that for every day we have with her
    our lives are enriched beyond words.
    
    Thanks again for the love and caring.  The support has made it so much 
    easier for me to cope - so now that she is home I can give all my
    positive energy to Abigail.
    
    Marilyn
    

    GOOD JOB...All that caring will help her cope...
    
    Me
    

    I'm so glad to hear that Abigail is continuing to do so well at home. 
    I'm glad you don't spoil her too much. ;)))) 
    
    Have a wonderful weekend with Abigail.  I won't be in Feline til next
    Friday, so I'll say a prayer that there will be only good news in this
    note for me to read next week.
    
    Hugs to you and Abby.
    
    Steffi

    ...just had to share this.
    
    My daughter just called.  She went to visit Abigail and she said she
    FLEW down the stairs to the front door.  Tracey (my daughter) had
    brought her lunch along with her (McDonald's) and Abby meowed for
    food - even to the point where she tried to jump up into her lap!
    
    No diarreah and she ate a handful of ham (from the deli) as well as
    a half a can of cat food.
    
    Tracey was thrilled to see her so responsive and was touched that
    Abigail was so happy to see HER.  She is definitely acting more
    and more like the Abigail we almost lost!
    
    I am so happy and extremely pleased with her progress.  I am not 
    being negative - but realistic.  We will cherish these highs ... so 
    that if she crashes again these memories will carry us through.
    
    Marilyn
    
    P.S.  Trying SO hard not to be negative but I do have to be 
          realistic.  I try very hard not to be negative around her 
          as I vent my worries here - or to friends and family.
    

   Marilyn,

    That's why we're all here - so you can vent your fears and worries
    and know that we're here to support you - but we also LOVE hearing
    all the good news too !!!!

    Continued good spirits for Abigail and a good weekend for you & the
    rest of the family,

	Debbi & the Burrage Ave.Menagerie

    Here is the latest update on Abigail.
    
    She did beautifully this week-end (and like an infant) ate about every
    3 hours.  She ate EVERYTHING.  I had bought about 7 different kinds of
    cat food - figuring that if she were "picky" I would have choices to
    feed her.  Then, I bought her some shrimp from the fish market, ham
    and turkey from the deli and believe it or not - she ate homeade
    chicken soup on Sunday!
    
    For the most part - she stayed in her "cubby" a place in the living
    room that I made for her.  I put two ottoman's together and put a
    comforter over the top - then an afghan that draped off one end.
    Then I put a cotton blanket - and small comforter underneath (on the
    floor) for her to sleep on.  Yesterday, however, she came out more
    and more (I am assuming because her energy level is increasing) and
    watched me cook in the kitchen ... she would sit in the pantry and
    follow me with her eyes.  I leave the radio on for them all day 
    long and they ADORE the classical music.  I keep a dim light on
    and try to create a soothing - non-stressful - ambiance for her
    recovery.
    
    She woke me up twice Sunday morning (1:30 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. - for
    food) and still growls when Otis tries to pick get to her food first.
    She ate some Tender Vittles and this morning she munched on Purina Cat 
    Chow.  She takes her pills like a real good girl, drinks bottled water 
    and her poop(s) are still solid.
    
    She looks 60% better than when I brought her home last Wednesday,
    Tracey and Todd both say she looks like she's put on about a pound.
    Her jaws don't grind like they did when she first came home so I
    am assuming that's because she is getting muscle tone back.
    
    She goes for her check-up with Dr. Moss on Friday - she'll weigh
    her and it appears, for now, that the dosage of medicine that she
    is on is agreeing with her!
    
    I think (hope and PRAY) she is on her way to recovery.
    
    
    

    That sounds *wonderful*!!!   I'm so glad she is doing better.  I was
    also glad to see the pictures at the Yangtzee River last night - she is
    indeed beautiful.   And Otis looks like a doll, and a real character!
    
    We were, however, worried about you and your crew, as no-one had heard 
    how Abigail had done over the weekend - so glad the news is good!
    
    Linda

    I'm so glad Abigail is doing better.  As Linda says, she's beautiful! 
    I too saw the pictures last evening.  And Otis is one character, I must
    admit!
    
    Give them both kitty kisses for me!
    
    Lori B.

    ...and you should see Otis with Abigail.  He is an extremely mellow
    guy and I swear, coaxes her to eat.  He'll munch a bit and then look
    at her (to make sure she is eating) and follows her around to make
    sure she is okay.
    
    He has the soul of a human ... just looking into those eyes, which
    if you noticed (the ones who saw his pictures) can pierce the camera.
    His personality definitely comes out in those photo's.
    
    Donna Bates came to visit Abby Friday night ... she can attest to how
    thin she wass.  However (Donna) you should see her now!  She looks like
    she has porked out a pound or two, her fur is a bit shinier and her
    eyes aren't sunken in her head like last week.
    
    Glad you enjoyed the pictures.  I thought of you all Monday night,
    perhaps the next dinner ... not only can I attend but bring you
    pictures of Abby in full recovery!
    
    M
    
    
    

    Hi All,
    
    Yes, I got to meet the famous Abagail in person...she looked..well 
    like she has Lupus. Poor baby...but she was eating good...you hang
    in there Marilyn...she's gonna be fine.
    
    Donna & Angel Kitty sending Paw hugs.....
    
    

    Abigail got her first check-up last night.  I think she knew, however,
    that she was going to the doctor's ... she ran away from me when it
    came time to put her in the carrier.
    
    She didn't gain any weight (sigh) but Dr. Moss said she didn't lose
    any either.  She had a fever of 103 ... could have been one of her
    down days or the stress of being in the examining room!  Dr. Moss
    was happy to see her and said she thought she looked wonderful.
    
    When I brought her home she hid in her cubby and didn't come out all
    night - except to eat, which was not as well as she has been.
    From what I understand, some effects of Lupus are brought on by
    stress so I am hoping that this little setback is because of her
    trip outside the house!  She did eat better this morning and it's
    her day for Prednesone - I can't wait to get home and see how she
    is doing tonight.  I ran out of her deli treats - so I'll pick up
    some ham and turkey breast on the way home, that should perk her up
    a bit!
    
    Perhaps it's wishful thinking on my part but I really thought she
    had put on some weight ... she seemed to have really filled out.  Does
    anyone know if it is possible that in eating her muscle tone would
    increase, creating a "fuller" look?  Forgot to ask Dr. Moss when I was 
    there ... we got to talking about other things.
    
    Marilyn
    
    P.S.  Dr. Moss said they (she and Dr. Mulcahy) didn't learn anything
          about Lupus at the conference in Philadelphia.  Unfortunately
          the disease is so rare in cats that no one had any information.
          She did say, however, that because of Abigail -- and the
          knowledge they learned gained about Feline Lupus (and the 
          documentation of her treatment) they were both "heroes".  In 
          my heart, they are!!!  Can't say enought about CHA -- and what 
          Dr. Moss has done for Abigail AND me!
    
    

    Here is a brief update on Abigail.
    
    She sailed through the week-end and it seems she has forgiven me.
    She slept with me the last two nights and isn't hiding in her 
    cubby anymore.  She does go in there, however, to get away from
    the Otis and Tiffer chase ... she's not up to it yet.
    
    She had some bacon for breakfast Sunday morning and chirped for
    the first time last night.  She is grooming her entire body now,
    not just her face!
    
    She's due to see Dr. Moss a week from tomorrow and I'm hoping that
    she'll have put on some weight.  The dosage of Prednesone and 
    Leukuran (sp ?) is agreeing with her (so far).
    
    Thanks for all the well-wishes and I'll post another update the end
    of the week.
    
    Marilyn
    

    What a wondeful feeling you must have.   I remember the first
    time Mr. Meow tried washing his face and fell over because he
    was too weak.   I saw the sign of wanting to be clean...and
    said to myself "he wants to live...there is more fight to him
    then I originally thought.  As time went on he got stronger and
    the night he started washing his back...was the night I sat
    there smiling/crying watching him!!
    
    So far Abigail shows so many signs of improvement.....it's getting
    hard to believe that she won't win this battle!!  Keep those
    updates coming....
    
    Sandy

    Each day seems to get better ... however, there may be an issue that
    I need to take her to the hospital for tonight.
    
    The good news!  She chirps (FINALLY) and runs around ... chased the
    flashlight last night.  She hasn't done that since June - boy what
    fun we had.  She ate real good and when I went to bed - climbed up
    on the bed, curled herself in my arms and started kissing my face.
    Purring loudly - it was like her old self.  I was really amazed to
    see her doing so well.
    
    I noticed this morning that she pee'd three times ... so I have to
    call Dr. Moss this morning to find out if there is a potential 
    problem.  Things are going SO well and I'm nervous that she could
    have some kidney problems ... which, I am told, would not be
    unusual with her diagnosis of Lupus.
    
    Keep your fingers crossed - I'm calling the hospital now to see
    what they have to say!  I have the feeling we will make a trip in
    tonight - things were going so well.
    
    M
    

    Well, I spoke with CHA and Dr. Moss decided to give Abigail a
    prescription of Amoxicillin ... it won't hurt her and if it's
    Cystitis and/or a bladder infection, it will clear it up.
    
    Abigail's appetite is still improving, she's much more alert
    and is getting more curious (and investigative) with places in
    the house that she used to play in.  She was sitting in a corner
    this morning - her back to me - and didn't move.  She was glaring
    into the corner on the floor.  I watched her for a minute and then
    when I went over to see if she was alright (she was hunched over
    like a statue - the "thinker" came to mind) her eyes were glued
    to the floor.  Suddenly she swatted her paw and ran like hell...
    she had found a dust bunny!  Guess I'll have to clean those corners
    more closely - ahh, it's cleaning day on Friday, it'll give her
    something to do!  Ha!
    
    So, my worst fears are gone.
    
    M
    

    Marilyn,
    
     Glad to hear they think it's something minor. I'm also glad they put
    her on Amoxi just in case. Please remember though, that antibiotics can
    sometimes cause loose stools, so don't panic right away of this
    happens. I guess it has to do with the bacteria in the stomach also
    being 'taken care of' by the amoxi. If it goes on though, make the
    call! 8-}
    
     I love it when kitties stalk those 'treacherous' dust bunnies! ;-) I
    also have checked to make sure feendoonie was all right when she had
    stared one down for a bit too long for my comfort! ;-)
    
     Hugs to you and Abby, and I'll keep sending the good thoughts to both
    of you!
    
     Thanks for the update.
    
     Love,
    
     Yonee
                           

    When you give Abby her Amoxi, also give her plain yogurt.... it will
    put the "good" bacteria back in her system!
    
    M-L

    M-L,
    
     Thanks for putting that in! I knew there was SOMETHING to help, but I
    couldn't for the life of my brain dead self think of it! YOGURT! Yeah,
    that's the ticket! 8-)
    
    Yonee

    Yonee,
    
    If Abby is ANYTHING like my girls, we can't have it in the house!  They
    normally don't like human food (weird cats), but if it's yogurt, they
    will hunt it out!!!  It is good for them, thank goodness!
    
    Glad I could help!
    
    M-L

    
    Hugs to you and Abigail.  I'm so happy she is recovering so well.
    
    Mary,Katie,Mandy,Cagney and Lacey

    Well, Abigail had a minor setback.
    
    She seemed to be urinating quite a bit and Dr. Moss put her on
    Amoxicillan.  Last night she woke me up with scratching in the
    litter pan.  She didn't appear to be in any discomfort but she
    would pee, eat some food and have a drink a water.  This routine went
    on until about 4:30 this morning.
    
    I hate it when things happen in the middle of the night.  I got
    concerned so I called and Dr. Mulcahy was on.  After she called me back
    she seemed to feel it's a bladder or urinary tract infection and I felt
    a better having been able to talk to her about it.
    
    Abigail DID NOT want to get in the carrier ... but I finally got her in
    and dropped her off at the hospital for the day.  Hopefully this is
    just a minor setback and that when they collect the urine sample they
    will be able to find out the problem.
    
    One of my worst fears is that she has kidney damage but ... it's only
    a fear and I'll wait to speak to them around noon.
    
    marilyn
    

    Marilyn...fingers crossed again for little Abby.   Regarding your
    worse fear that there is kidney damage....don't let that get you
    down right now.   Even if there is kidney damage a cat can live
    a good life only using a portion of their kidney.  They just learn
    to drink more water to flush it out and putting them on a low
    protein diet helps the kidney not work so hard.
    
    Mr. Meow is a good case of this.  Four months ago I was told his
    kidneys were really bad and he was only utilizing a very small portion
    of them to survive.   The old man keeps getting stronger and
    stronger....and has lived with kidney disease for atleast 2 years that
    we know of.  (he's 17 years old!!)
    
    So don't get all worried for nothing....wait to the tests are back
    before your mind starts to panic.  I know...easier said then done!!
    
    More kitty prayers coming your way.  Does this mean Abby and Abby
    are in the hospital together!!!!
    
    Sandy
    
    

    Thanks Sandy for the moral support.  I do tend to worry too much
    and think the worst ... guess she has been through so much and
    has been doing so well, I hate to see her go down hill again.
    
    Yes, Abigail and Abby are together.  Perhaps my Abigail can give some
    positive vibes to Abby ... coax her along.  I understand that Abby
    made it through the night and is holding her own.  I'll have to 
    write Joyce and tell her that my Abigail is there ... and they will
    be roomies for the day!
    
    Normally I would think that anything Abigail got she could deal with
    and/or I would learn to adjust to her diet, giving her insulin (if 
    need be) etc.  But, the auto-immune thing is intimidating for me
    (at times) and I realize just how vulnerable she is.
    
    I'll keep thinking the good thoughts and hope that I can take her
    home with me tonight!
    
    Marilyn
    

    Anyone remember out dear departed (as in gone from Digital) Sandy
    Fraser???  Her CeeCee has lived with virtually no kidneys for years. 
    She has her set-backs, but she is always in high spirits, and such a
    little lover... and she does just fine, as long as Sandy and Andy watch
    her!  For some reason, I think it has been 5 years??  But I could be
    wrong on that!

    Keep your chin up... Abby is a fighter, as is CeeCee... and she will do
    just fine!

    M-L

Hoping everything will be okay, and your Abigail will be home again soon.
I admire her and your tenaciousness in dealing with the Lupus.

I'm an Abby owner too - my cat-dog, whatever, whom I just wrote about in the 
food-bowl topic is also named Abby.

Leslie

    Well, I just got off the phone with Dr. Mulcahy.
    
    She isn't going to do a kidney work-up - she feels it is a bladder
    infection.  Abigail isn't straining anymore and, although she is
    drinking water, it's not voracious - like someone with Diabetes 
    would (that is MY assumption, not Dr. Mulcahy's).  Dr. Mulcahy did 
    change her medication (she took her off the Amoxicillan) and gave her 
    something .... the name I can't remember.
    
    Unfortunately - it's one of the side effects of Prednesone or anyone
    (thing) on a chemotherpy type drug.  Unfortunately we don't know
    how often Abigail will get these infections ... it'll just be one
    of those things I have to keep my eye on.
    
    They all think she looks wonderful - she is doing terrific.  I can
    pick her up after work.   They will weigh her before I take her
    home and I'll let you know Monday how much she has gained.  I am
    SO proud of her!
    
    Marilyn
    

    ...and the latest information.
    
    I picked Abigail up from the vets Friday evening.  She had a bladder
    infection and Dr. Mulcahy changed her medication.  She said she hadn't
    strained all day (of course not - she made a liar out of me) and was
    resting comfortable.  
    
    They weighed her and she gained 1 1/2 pounds!!!  I was elated.  Everyone
    thought she looked wonderful and Dr. Butler came out to see her (she
    hadn't seen her since she left three weeks ago) and was amazed at how
    good she looked.  Of course she peed (Abigail - not Dr. Butler (ha)
    in the cage and we had to clean her up - she wanted to get home.  
    
    I brought her home and she ate like a little piglet ... but ignored 
    me the rest of the evening.  I think she was "mad" that I brought her
    there - as they shaved her butt (again).
    
    The new antibiotic agrees with her and hopefully - when she has her
    checkup with Dr. Moss next week - she'll put on another pound. 
    Although I can't imagine it's TOO good for her to put on weight fast.
    
    Marilyn
    

    I'm so happy to hear that Abigail is doing so well.  Give her a hug for
    me. 
    
    Fingers are crossed that she continue to be well.
    
    Steffi
    

    Amazing how, as time goes by, I realize how many special things Abigail
    did.  Because she isn't that old - and got ill mid-June - I realize
    she's been sick one third of her life.
    
    She is progressively getting better.  She slept with me this week-end
    and now seeks me out.  She rubs up against my legs (as I prepare her 
    food) a trait she did NOT show in the past .. but in watching Otis 
    since she came home (he does this all the time) I guess she decided
    to copy his behavior.  She runs (not walks) down the stairs, and jumped 
    up on the windowsill to watch the activity outside.  She chirps when she 
    sees you peek around the corner, and when I run water she comes
    running, she loves to get a drink from the faucet.
    
    She gobbles food and yesterday - while we all sat at the dining room
    table - she JUMPED up to try to steal some food.  Not a habit I am
    encourage, but she seemed so enthusiastic - we all felt like
    clapping.
    
    She is grooming herself all the time and actually groomed Otis
    yesterday - something she always did in the past.  She plays with
    the flashLIGHT, chased some leaves I had brought inside for her
    and sits in the pantry waiting for me to get her food from the
    shelf.
    
    Her visit with Dr. Moss is Wednesday night and I am hoping she put
    on some more weight.  I think Dr. Moss will be pleased at her progress,
    I know we are!  But, more importantly Abigail has shown that her will
    to live went beyond survival.  She seems contented, and is having FUN 
    again.  That, to me, is the quality of life I want(ed) for her and I 
    am SO grateful I(we) made the decision not put her down.
    
    I'll let you know how her check-up went.
    
    Marilyn
    

    Marilyn,
    
    What a wonderful progress report.  I hope Abigail continues in the same
    manner for many years.
                                                     
    Steffi

    Hi Marilyn,
    
    I am so pleased to hear that Abigail is doing so well.  It brought
    tears to my eyes.  Just knowing what she has been throught and where
    she is now...
    
    My family has been asking for a progress report on her and I can go
    home tonight and let them know how well she is doing..
    
    Take care and please give Abigail a hug for me.
    
    *joyce
    

    Abigail went for her visit to see Dr. Moss last night and all went
    well.  She weighs 8 pounds and her fur is the nice "white" it once
    was ... normal stool(s), normal temperature, good appetite, bladder
    infection under control and her activity has picked up considerably.
    
    Dr. Moss said she will probably only get to 75-80% ... but that's so
    much better than not having her at all.  Selfish statement on my
    part - but I am assured she is in no pain - and seemingly acts
    more and more like her ol self.
    
    Everyone was glad to see her and she has another check-up in about
    a month.  Dr. Moss will keep her on the same dosage of medicine she
    is on now - and I hope to get another pound on her before her next
    appointment.  She agreed that her "portliness" probably saved her
    life, as she had a reserve of fat to survive those awful days of
    diarreah, no appetite and high fevers.
    
    Thank God for all favors (and Dr. Moss)!
    
    I'll keep you posted as to any further development.
    
    Marilyn
    

    Thank God for small miracles..give her a pet for me.
    
    D.

    ...here is the weekly update on Abigail.  I also called Central 
    Animal Hospital to let them know how she is doing.
    
    Shrimp was on sale two weeks ago and I bought a pound and put it in the
    freezer.  The other night I decided to cook it up for supper (peel and
    eat - real easy) along with some cheese and crackers.  I swear Otis and 
    Abigail knew what I took out of the freezer because they both were dying 
    to get to the counter where I put the bag.  After the shrimp cooked I 
    took it to the den to watch the news and Abigail RAN ahead of me ... and 
    sat there waiting for me when I walked into the room.  She kept trying to 
    grap the shells as I peeled them and ended up eating 1/3 of a pound.
    Such a piglet.
    
    She couldn't eat them fast enough and after the last one was gone she
    looked at me and let out this loud belch!  I didn't know cats burped!!
    She looked ticked off that there wasn't anymore and promptly had some
    water and then gave herself a bath.
    
    She is eating me out of house and home (not complaining) and this
    morning ran after Otis and got up on her hind legs to give him a few
    swats over the head.  Not only is she grooming herself, eating and
    chirping again - her interaction with the other two cats has
    improved dramatically.
    
    She is getting a pot belly and her spine isn't as prominent any
    more ... bet she'll have put on another 2 pounds by the time I take her
    to see Dr. Moss in three weeks.
    
    She's my little miracle baby.  Who would have ever dreamed that she
    made such a wonderful recovery.  In fact, except for the few areas
    that she was shaved (neck and leg ... which is still hairless) you
    would never know she had been ill.
    
    Thanks for listening - it feel goods to brag about her recovery.
    
    Marilyn
    

    Marilyn, that's such wonderful news.  I am so happy for both of you. 
    Give Abigail a hug for me.  
    
    There must be something special about shrimp.  Misha, who's hardly
    eating at all now, ate about 1 1/2 large shrimps last night.
    
    Steffi
    

    Marilyn, I'm SO glad that Abigail is doing so well.  You're right, she
    definitely is a miracle baby!
    
    I've got people from all around my office looking at me rather
    strangely.  Why?  Because I just couldn't help but laugh out loud at
    Abigail "belching" after eating her dinner!  hahahaha!!  I can just
    imagine her face!!!
    
    Holly
    

    
    Not only do cats burp, they hiccup and fart.  One of the "joys" of
    raising kittens is that their high protein growth diet seems to make
    them a bit gaseous; several times now I have picked up one of my
    adorable little kittens to be suffocated by a cloud of "aromatic"
    fumes.  Picking them up seems to trigger the expulsion of the past
    hour's digestive side effects...
    
    len.
    

    I've seen cats hiccup, and BOY, do I know what you mean about kittens
    and farts!!  There's been MANY times when Bob has picked up MONDO and
    he's "broken wind".  Bob gets a wiff of it san says, "Oh Lord, Mondo! 
    What crawled up inside of you and died?  My eyes are burning!!"
    
    But the thought of a cat burping, just strikes me as funny.  Imagine
    this petite little kitty baby opening her mouth and all of the sudden..
    
    "BWWWWWWWWWWAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRPPPP"
    
    hahahaha!!
    
    Holly
    

	My little piglet Chalkie burps, he's also had hiccups.......he eats so
	much and so fast, I keep telling him it's not a race, and the food will
	always be there.........but he doesn't seem to believe me......yet.

	Hopefully he will, however my sister-in-law who took in a 6ish year 
	old stray tom weighing about 10 lbs less than a year ago, now has a
	24lb neutered heavyweight, that can't get clean his backside because
	his belly's in the way!  (mind you, he is a big cat anyway, I have
	never seen such a big head on a cat!).
	She's stopped putting out dried food, but leaves the canned out because
 	her other two girls, wheighimg about 6 and 7 lbs are nibblers.  
	He also farts, and it's definately stink-bomb time!

	Heather

    Again, here is the weekly update of Abigail - who is doing SO well I
    can hardly believe it.  
    
    She very rarely sleeps in her little cubby anymore - preferring to
    follow me around the house, or sit in the window and watch the
    birds and squirrels.  Her fur is beginning to grow back in where
    the bald patches were on her neck and leg ... and her coat is
    fluffy and shiny.
    
    She (very graciously I might add) jumps effortlessly up on the
    dining room table (looking for people food) where before, when
    she first came home, she didn't walk for more than 10 steps
    before tiring out.  She talks back to me and sits by my feet
    when I prepare her food and lets me know she can't wait any
    longer than necessary.  She wakes me up in the middle of the night to
    either cuddle or (you guessed it - EAT) and jumps into the sink to
    get a drink of water from the dripping faucet.
    
    The only downside is that although she is easy to pill - she is
    getting feisty now and will run from me when she hears me open the pill
    bottle.  I've had to be creative and put the pills in a glass baby
    jar (for the next day) so when she sees the jar she thinks it food.
    I honestly don't think that "trick" is going to last too long though,
    as she isn't associating that jar with FOOD!
    
    She is also eating lots of baby food and I'm concerned she will prefer
    that over cat food.  I bought her some kitten food (loaded with
    calories) and it's smoother and will try to wean the baby food that I
    mix in with it.  I also called Dr. Moss and was told that she can take
    vitamins - which I feel she needs in order to supplement her diet.
    
    She weighs 8 1/2 pounds and is getting a little belly on her.  Dr. Moss
    said that she didn't feel Abigail would ever be 100% but Abby and I
    talked that over and we are both going to prove her wrong.  Dr. Moss
    will be so proud of her - it's astounding the progress she has already
    made.
    
    Marilyn 

    Marilyn,
    
    I'm thrilled to hear that wonderful news about Abigail.  My fingers are
    crossed that she will continue to improve and stay healthy.  Give her a
    hug for me.
    
    Steffi

    YEAH!!! FOR ABBY!!!
    
    Donna
    

    Abigail went for her monthly check-up last night and is now a 
    whopping 9 pounds.  When she got ill she weighed 11 pounds ... so 
    we have two more pounds to go.  Dr. Moss said she looked great and 
    that she is much more alert.  
    
    In her examination Dr. Moss heard "rumblings" in her lungs.  Could
    be a number of things (i.e., scar tissue, asthma) and she told me
    to keep an eye out on her.  If her breathing becomes labored and
    sounds gravelly ... to call her right away.  I won't dwell on it
    but I must admit I was a bit taken aback and am worried.
    
    Other than that she is doing superb!  I will be taking her off the
    kitten food, however.  I thought the extra calories would help her
    to put on weight but Dr. Moss said that now she has put on the
    pounds the extra protein will make her kidneys (liver ?) work
    harder.  She gave me some IAM's dry food to bring home - which
    Abby scooped up (two dishes) and Otis chowed some down as well.
    I'll buy it for them now that I know they eat it ... it's 
    expensive.
    
    Keeping my fingers crossed that she continues to do well and that
    her kidney's, liver and lungs function so that she lives a good
    and happy life!  
    
    Marilyn
    

    Marilyn, don't worry too much about the rumbling in her lungs...it 
    is very common in people who have the disease...nothing serious..
    we'll keep our "paws" crossed!
    
    Hope you're ok too...
    
    Donna
    

    
    My Diesel has had a rumble since he was a kitten - Aside from purring
    like an engine constantly (hence Diesel) he rumbles a fair bit and 
    his nose drips (hence the nickname Diesel-Wheezel) - he's in perfect
    health however and the vet checked him out just last week and said
    he probably just has a touch of asthma or possibly some sinus damage
    (he had a little disagreement with a coyote last year) -- The only 
    drawback is that when he tries to wake me up in the morning, his 
    nose drips clear liquid on occasion (yuck! - but I don't oversleep)
    and I watch him a bit more carefully if I think he's acting oddly
    because one of the first signs that my Henry had been poisoned was
    his labored breathing.  Shouldn't interfere with his general 
    health. 
    

    Update - 2 1/2 years later.
    
    Abigail is alive and well ... weighs 13+ pounds and is off medicine
    completely now for over a year.  She did have a "flare" a couple of
    weeks ago but was put on the leukeran and medrol for a week and then
    weaned off all drugs completely.
    
    She appears to have beat the odds, has not only survived but thrives,
    purrs, chirps, climbs, runs, jumps and eats like "babe".  She bonded
    with Otis and he continues to take care of her!  Now, however, SHE is
    the one who grooms him daily ... guess it's her way of saying thank
    you!
    
    Marilyn
    

    that is fantastic!
    
    Deb and THE FIRM

    Hello stranger...
    
    So glad to hear Abigail beat the odds and is doing well!!!
    
    Sandy 

    This is wonderful!!!!  Keep up the good work!!
    
    					- Andrea
    					  Bigfoot, Loki & Midnight
    

    Yeah for Abby :-)