Yesterday turned out better than I expected. The cat’s surgery was a great success, though unbeknownst to me, putting it off for two short weeks meant that the problem got worse, and while he wasn’t apparently feeling any pain two weeks ago, it was clear to the vet that he had an exposed nerve in his mouth and was in horrible pain. I had no idea – he wasn’t showing any indication of being in pain. The lesson here is to not put off surgery for a pet, no matter the cost.
And on the money note, the estimate they gave me was a high estimate, one that would cover after care antibiotics and pain pills. He didn’t need either, since he had no infection and the dull ache he would feel after surgery was nothing compared to the exposed nerve. Even with picking up some prescription food for the other cat ($50 for one 17 lb bag!) the cost was still significantly lower than what I was quoted. I can’t complain.
So all in all, yesterday was a great success. I’m going to continue to build up my pet fund so that I’m ready for any additional unexpected expenses that might come my way. And perhaps I’m going to build a cat treadmill to help the fat one lose some weight so I don’t have to keep buying $50 food for him. We’ve tried all the traditional routes (non-prescription weight-loss cat food, exercise, limiting his food, etc) and he continues to gain weight. Clearly a gym membership is the next step.
If your cat treadmill works, pls let me know- I adopted a female and male kitten three years ago and the little boy is nice and slim but the little girl looks like she’s pregnant with two litters. She’s quite the chub. Kitty weight loss tips welcome! 🙂
Have your pets thyroid checked. My beagle, Truman, had weight issues for years. He even got up to 44 lbs! They finally checked his thyroid and that was the problem. He has been on the medication for 7 years now and is thin (29 lbs) happy and even though he is 12 years old, he has the energy of a 2-3 year old. The medication to regulate their thyroid is Soloxine.
Laura, he’s had the full workup. He’s just prone to fatness. The vet does think that this new food will help.
Growing up, we had a dog on thyroid meds, and they did work wonders for her. I’m glad they work for your Truman as well!
I’m glad your cat is doing well. I was thinking of you yesterday. A sick pet is so stressful but I’m so happy everything turned out!