My baby, Daisy, is not feeling well . . .

Daisy is a 5 year old Maine Coon.  You can see her picture in my pictures (she's the white one and deaf).  Anyway, she has a tumor on her thyroid and I've been worried about it because it's getting bigger.  I am taking her to the vet on Saturday, but I've noticed the past couple days she's lethargic and tonight she had diarhea (diarrhea) so bad and it was everywhere!  It was a horrible green and foul smelling.  We had to clean her and shave her hair around her anus and her anus is sore looking.  She let us do most of it but toward the end she had had enough.  I feel so bad for her and I'm worried!  

I'm wondering if this is related to the tumor on her thyroid.  The vet looked at it about 6 months ago and said it was slow growing and did not FEEL like cancer and so not to worry if she didn't lose weight or gain weight. He told me then that when you remove tumors from a cat's thyroid it causes other major problems.  

Anyway, I'm worried about her.  I'm sitting here crying.  She and I have a super duper connection.  All I have to do is think her name and she comes to me.  I know it seems strange, but that's how we are with each other.  

Please pray for her for me!  I would appreciate it!

Thanks,
Janet

[PrettyKitty1]

aw...I'm so sorry to hear Daisy isn't doing well. I will pray for her. I wish her all the best. I honestly don't know if her diarrhea is related to her tumor or not..but I sure wish her a quick recovery. Please keep us posted. aww poor daisy. She is so pretty....

[HelpinUtah]

The vet wants to see Daisy tomorrow morning at 10:15 a.m.  Originally they said they didn't have any openings but when I gave them her symptoms they agreed she needed to be seen right away.  I was reading about tumors on the thyroid and 96% of the time they are not cancer.  But, they cause so many problems.  The treatments are medication, surgery or radiation.  Medications cause problems in 30% of cats (side effects), surgery is risky because it can cause other problems and they end up on medication for the rest of their lives.  Radiation has a 95% cure rate.  They inject some radioactive stuff into the tumor.  It makes it go away but does not cause damage to other parts of the body or healthy tissue.  But, then they have to keep the cat at the vets for about 2 weeks until the radiation levels go down.  If it came to that, that sounds like the best treatment, but she would be miserable being away from us for 2 weeks.  So, I'll wait and see what the vets thinks.  

I don't care how expensive it is - she's my baby.  I'll do whatever I have to to make her feel better.

[PrettyKitty1]

Way to go HU. She will be miserable being away for so long but it's for her own good. In the long run, she will benefit from it the most.

By the way, thanks for the info. I didn't know that. It's good to learn stuff. I agree that some meds do cause horrible side effects. When my older cat, Abby, was suffering the terrible effects of IBD, the vet gave him predisone. As the symptoms got worse, the vet increased the dose. Little did I know, prednisone causes diabetes. I immediately stopped it and looked for an alternate cure. My alternate cure happened to be the ultimate cure: Diet Change!
So I believe you on that and agree with you. You're a very responsible pet owner. Look at you not caring about treatment being so expensive. This is the stuff I like to read :)

Good Luck and let me know what the vet says tomorrow!!!

[SassyLassie]

HU, you are to be commended, you sound like a wonderful pet owner, I, too, would not care about the expense as long as it helps my beloved pet, they are sooo worth it. I will keep your sweet kitty in my prayers. Please keep us posted.

[HelpinUtah]

Thank you so much for the prayers and good thoughts.  Daisy saw a vet that was filling in for our regular vet.  He wasn't very hands on and I wasn't happy about that, but he was very nice.  He felt the tumor and it concerned him.  He didn't check anything else or take her temperature or anything.  That bothered me.  But, they did take blood to do a full blood work up including her thyroid.  The results should be back on Wednesday.  It's rather expensive, but like I said above, she's worth it.  She's my little girl!  He gave her "Pro Gut" for the stomach and bowel issues.  So far, she seems a little perkier and happier.  I'm so relieved that the stomach issue is being helped.  

Once I know more, I'll let you all know!  

Thanks again,
Janet

[zodiacqueen]

Hi, don't blame ya one bit that you weren't happy that the vet didn't give a thorough exam.  I'm the same way!!!  I expect them to feel up my cat and I expect a WHOLE body exam.  God knows we give them enough freaking money!!!  Do we not????  Geeze!

Anyway, I've had a couple of cats-brothers-that were hyperthyroid and one of them had tumors (they called them nodules) on the thyroid gland.  He had those nodules for years and they grew some but did NOT spread.  I did some on-line research and found out that it was very very rare for those nodules to be cancerous.  If I'm remembering right, even if, God forbid, they are cancerous then the radioactive iodine treatments would take care of that too!!!  The price that was quoted in Virginia was around $1000, with a week stay at the vets.  

I hope that this has made ya feel a little bit better!  You sound like a wonderful mom, your fur babies are very lucky to have ya!!!!  =D

Hugs
ZQ

[HelpinUtah]

That's just it, I expected him to feel all over her and make sure she didn't have more tumors, etc.  I was surprised he didn't.  My vet is very hands on and would have also check out her little bottom to make sure there wasn't an infection in that area.  He looks at everything every single time I have my cats into him.   Saturdays visit between the visit and blood work was $180.  You'd think he would have done more.  He was very nice and looked concerned but I plan on telling my vet how unhappy I was about the exam itself.

Thank you so much for your kind words and for the information.  It helps me a lot.  I've been reading a ton about it.

I know when my vet gets the results he will call me himself - that's just how he is.

Thanks again,
Janet

[zodiacqueen]

Glad to help!  I was pretty sure that you'd be interested in hearing from someone else that has been through the same thing!  That helps me a lot and makes me feel a lot better!

I'm glad to hear that you plan on telling your vet about the half "A" exam your baby got.  Better yet, I would tell the owner.  I'd go as far as writing a formal letter.  I admit, it's great that he was nice and looked concerned, but that just doesn't cut it!  It sure sounds like you're vet is awesome!  He sounds as thorough as my vet!

Please let us know how things go with Daisy!  We're all here for ya!!  =D

[HelpinUtah]

Daisy's bloodwork came back normal, even the thyroid.  The vet is supposed to call me later today.  Maybe she just had a kitty flu or something?  She is feeling better.  So, all that worry over nothing.  Well, better to be safe than sorry, right?  Hugs, Janet

[zodiacqueen]

YAYYYYYYYY!!  So glad to hear that Daisy is feeling better!  I can relate-I worry over every little thing my cat does.  I'm REALLY bad-my cat goes to the vet if I don't like the way she is laying down or I might not like a look on her face!  Tell me that's not bad!!!  LOL

Hugs back at ya!!  =D

[HelpinUtah]

I'm sure I'm not the only one, but I have a "sense" when something is wrong with my cats.  I can tell just by looking at them if they don't feel well.  I know that sounds strange, but I truly believe it's a blessing.  I've been able to take my cats into the vet in the early stages of a problem because of it.  But, then again, it's probably just because we love them so much that we're in tune with them and their little personalities.  

That green diarhea (diarrhea) really had me freaked out. But, she is happier and acting like her old self again!  

Thanks so much for all your support and help!  I was really worried and now breathing easier!  

[PrettyKitty1]

HU,

This is terrific! Please keep us updated on her condition. I may not be very knowledgeable on the subject but I can offer support. After all, that's what we should be here for in the first place. Daisy is a pretty girl. :)

When my cats get sick I too rush them to the vet before it gets worse. There is just something about them.......you know they aren't doing so hot. Maybe it is the strong 'cat-human' bond which lets us know something is not right. You know your cat better than anyone else. I'm pretty sure you will not let anything happen to her.....only good things.

Good Luck!

[HelpinUtah]

Well, all of a sudden my Daisy is not feeling well again.  Her tumor seems larger and I weighed her and she has lost 5 lbs.!  I feel like I'm going to throw up with worry.  We're trying to get her into the vet.  I just don't want to lose her so young!  She's only 5!  Please keep her in your prayers!

Thanks,
Janet

[zodiacqueen]

OH NOOOOO!  I'm very sorry to hear that she's not feeling well again.  What's going on w/ her symptoms now?   Maybe these new symptoms have nothing to do w/ the tumor!  You did say that it came up all of a sudden.  Usually "all of a sudden" symptoms that crop up mean infection.  Try to calm yourself down and stay positive.  Cats pick up on stress and worry-so try your best to chill yourself out.  

Please know that you're family and Daisy will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Hugs!!
ZQ

[April2]

I'm so sorry to hear about Daisy. I will say a prayer for her. Please let us know what happens, ok? I'll check back here later.
Take care! *Hugs*
April

[Piparskeggr]

Just read the thread about Daisy; my thoughts go out and I will speak words on her behalf to That Which I Hold Holy.

5 IS way too young to be feeling that lousy.

If she's been healthy, hopefully her reserves will kick in and help her through this.

...and for you, I know how I love my little furry girlie-cats.  Keep your chin up and take care of yourself, too.

[HelpinUtah]

I just got home from the vet.  He is concerned about her.  He was shocked at how much weight she'd lost and the tumor has more than doubled.  He said what concerns him is that her bloodwork two months ago showed normal.  So, he took more blood and should have the results by Monday. She seems stable right now, which gives me relief.  She's actually in a good mood and seems to be happy.  If the bloodwork is normal than he will do a biopsy of the tumor to rule out cancer.  He is concerned because the area where the tumor is is surround by nerves, the corroted artery (sp?), thyroid, parathyroid, and if he had to do surgery it would be very difficult.  We did discuss the radiation injection into the tumor if it's a thyroid issue and benign tumor.  He agrees that would be her best option.

As soon as I know something, I'll keep everyone updated.  

THANK YOU SO MUCH for the prayers and good wishes for my baby!  

Hugs,
Janet

[zodiacqueen]

Thanks for the update.  This might ease your mind some-a lot of times those thyroid tumors are benign and many times those tumors cause the thyroid to become overactive.  That overactive thyroid gland causes weight loss.  That happened to my cat-it was NOT cancer.  There's lots of info on the web about this in cats.  Check it out, and you'll most likely feel better.  =D

Take care and bunches of hugs to ya!!!

[HelpinUtah]

I finally got the blood test results tonight - our vet just called me.  Her thyroid results were completely normal, but her calcium levels are high and white blood cell count is low.  The vet said that when blood calcium levels are high it is usually associated with cancer.  He would like to aspirate the tumor and put it onto a slide for the pathologist to review so we know what we are dealing with and if it's curable.  

She is still not feeling well.  She does eat wet food and drinks a lot of water, but she is NOT putting weight back on and often she goes off into the corner to sleep without being bothered.  Or, she might go into my bedroom closet to be alone.  She still comes and sleeps on me sometimes, but I can tell she's not herself.  She just doesn't feel good.  

Please, please remember my baby in your prayers!  I love her so much - we have such a unique connection.  I don't want her to suffer but I do want to find out if she is curable and if not, then I won't put her through the agony of cancer!  I can't do that to her.  I'm so worried and I'm just a mess!  I love her so much!  She's my little girl.  My cats are my children and I can't believe how badly my heart is breaking right now!

I am going to try to think positive and hope and pray that God will grant her more time with me.  

Anyway, please say those prayers - I can really use them too!  

Thanks,
Janet

[April2]

Oh no! Oh, I'm so sorry to hear this news. I'm praying, Janet. I pray the Lord will comfort you and be with Daisy. I know how difficult this is. I just lost my dog to Cushings 2 months ago. Love her and and be with her. She will let you know when it's her time. Just keep her comfortable and love on her. We will all be here joining hands and hearts in prayer. Hugs to you both!
April

[zodiacqueen]

Oh, Janet....I am sorry.  I was hoping that her thyroid was off and it would be a quick easy fix.  =(  I'm so so sooooooo sorry!  As always, BOTH of you will be in my prayers.  I honestly do think that the biopsy is your best bet right now.  Answers are what you need right now, not more questions.  Once you know for sure what your're dealing with, you might have an easier time coping.

Bless you Janet.  We've all got your back on here!  =D

Lots of hugs to you!

[HelpinUtah]

Daisy is being more socialble, but she's so unsteady.  She isn't able to jump up onto the furniture as easily and it scares me.  I'm so afraid she'll hurt herself.  She has been spending a lot of time sleeping on me since I'm sick and laying around.  But, I keep praying that God will help her not to feel bad and to feel better until we know what is going on and can get her treatment.  I am praying she won't have a terminal cancer.  I was reading about the parathyroid and apparently tumors sometimes form on that and can cause a high level of calcium in the body.  From what I understand those are treatable tumors and it would not show an elevated thyroid level.  Most cancers show a high white blood cell count and so I'm really hoping it's not cancer.  I know I sound like I'm rambling, but I'm tired, sick and worried and just felt the need to type about her in order to calm myself.  I suppose it's therapeutic.  

I appreciate all your good wishes and prayers!

Hugs,
Janet

[zodiacqueen]

Hi Janet, I did some reading, too.  I also saw that low WBC doesn't go with a cancer diagnosis.  Daisy's is low.  That's got to mean something, but from what I read it's not cancer.  Maybe she's got some parathyroid issues going on.  That is probably rare.  You are doing the right thing by arming yourself w/ information.  I'd even go as far as to print things up and request tests yourself to the vet.  Hey, I've done it to my vets....they're used to me.  LOL

One quick question, is Daisy on any medications?  I had a hyperthyroid cat that was put on meds and they dropped his white blood cell count.

I hope that you feel better, too.  Ya gotta take care of yourself and be well.  I don't want the stress making you sick.  Be good to yourself....you deserve it!  =)

[HelpinUtah]

Thanks!  I have read and read and read anything I could find and it seems to point back to the parathyroid, but I'm not a vet.  Hubby printed everything I found and since I wasn't able to get off work to take Daisy - Hubby is taking her.  He will show the vet what we found out.  He is aspirating he tumor today.  Tom is also going to ask if she could be in pain and if she should have something for that.  Last night when she laid down, she let out a whimper.  That really bothers me!  I've been crying off and on today.  I'm also having Hubby ask if she should be on a special food to keep her organs functioning properly right now.  

Oh, she's not on any medication right now. So, that's not a reason her WBC is low.  

Hubby is asking them to speed up the process for the pathology report.  

Thanks for your help and kindness and prayers!  

You are so wonderful to take your time to be there for me and Daisy!

Hugs & Love,
Janet

[HelpinUtah]

The vet took the fluid and Hubby said he did three slides for the pathologist.  He told us not to worry about the wet food Daisy is eating - just to make sure she eats.  He said he's hoping to get results back before the 4th.  He also agrees it could be the parathyroid but since it's so rare he has to rule out cancer.  He also said that she is not in pain, but probaby discomfort from being sick and so he does not think she needs anything for pain.  Tom said she did great and now she's resting.  

[zodiacqueen]

Well, Daisy could not ask for better parents than you and Tom.  She's a lucky girl!!  I'm glad that she did well w/ the biopsy.  Everyone on the cat forum is hoping for the best and wishing you well.  My fingers are crossed!!

Take care and stay positive.  Take comfort that you will have some definite answers soon!  Stay calm (or at least...try) and find some ways to relax and destress-a nice walk or a nice calming bubble bath.  That's what I do, and it really works!  =)

[HelpinUtah]

I'm sick to my stomach!  I just found out today that Daisy as lymphoma based on the findings of the pathologist.  She's at the vet's office right now for them to take some pictures to see if it has spread to any other place.  That will determine the treatment we can give her or if it's fair to her.  I'm heart-broken and feel such a deep sadness.  As you probably already can guess, I'm worried.

On the bright side, she's eating soft foods with added broth to the food - she mostly drinks the liquid and appears to have more energy.  She actually played with me just a touch yesterday and this morning she was alert.  She has good times and bad times.  

I don't want to lose her!!!

Anyway, I'll give another update once we have the pictures.  I'm still away from MH for awhile, but I promised I'd keep you updated on Daisy.

Thanks for your prayers!  They have helped tremendously.

Hugs,
Janet

[zodiacqueen]

OMG!!!!  =(  I'm sorry Janet!!!  Thanks for the update, but I wish it had been better news.  I think that lymphoma is a common cancer in kitties-I had one that had it(also a long haired cat).  I don't remember much about it-symptoms and what not.  I do remember he got chemo and had NO side effects from it!!  Chemo might be something that you want to consider.  From what I've seen and read, they handle chemo MUCH better than we do.  I would do as much research on lymphoma as possible, and I think that you'll get some more control back and feel a little bit better.  I'm gonna do some research, too.  If I see anything, I can let you know if you'd like.

It sounds like she's doing well and has more energy....that's a good thing!  You can try to entice her more with some chicken gizzards(sp?).  I give my cats this when they are being nit picky w/ foods.  It works every time.

Take care.  We care about you over here and want the best for Daisy and your family.  If you need any help, let any of us know.  I'm sure that everyone thinks you're a very sweet special person, like I do!

Zillions of hugs and prayers coming at ya!!

ZQ

[Maddie6]

I'm so sorry, too, Janet about your cat.  She is beautiful!  Hang in there, as there is always hope.  ZodiacQueen is right; cats can and do tolerate chemo much better than us.  I had a cat that had lymphoma, and he tolerated oral chemo okay, but in the end he also had kidney disease and arthritis and his age against him.   Your cat is still very young, so that's a plus, as my cat was much older.  You have a good opportunity to research everything about it and with your Vet make decisions.  Keep us up to date.   I'm praying for Daisy and you.

[HelpinUtah]

I just got home from vet.  He showed us the x-rays and the cancer has spread to her other organs.  He gives her 2 months at the most.  He gave her a shot of prednisone which will help her feel better and told us we'd be okay to take her home.  He told us to call him anytime no matter how late if we need him.  We wanted to bring her home and love on her and say our goodbyes and will probably put her down very soon.  My heart hurts so bad and I can't stop sobbing!  

I'm giving her chicken broth now since she is only taking liquids.  She loves it and just gobbled a bunch down.  That's a good thing that she is still eating and is still alert.  I don't know how much longer that will last and I want her to know she is loved!!!

[Maddie6]

Hi Janet,

I'm so sorry and sad to hear the news.   I'm glad she likes the chicken broth.  Did the Vet discuss any other treatments, or does he think it's just too widespread.? Daisy is lucky to have you and knows how much you love her.  God bless.

[HelpinUtah]

It's too wide spread.  We know it's just a matter of time when we will lose her.  Thanks!

[April2]

Oh Janet, I'm so sorry. I know you were hopeful, as we were too. Enjoy her. We are praying.

[dominosarah]

Janet, I am so sorry to hear the news about Daisy......She knows she is loved by you.  You have given her a wonderful life just as she has given you.  Daisy knows you will make the right decision when it is time.  You will hold her memories close to your heart forever and she will always be with you in spirit.  I know this is so very tough for you but just know that Daisy is a very lucky girl to have you........sara

[Maddie6]

Hi Janet,

How is Daisy today?

[HelpinUtah]

I was up until 8:30 a.m. with Daisy and layed by her side, rubbed a warm washcloth on her face and talked to her.  She's deaf but somehow I think she knew I was talking with her.  I prayed while laying next to her.  I put one of my hubbies shirts on top of her and she seemed to like that.  I finally fell asleep but only slept an hour at a time and would get up and check on her.  Right now, she's resting comfortably with her head up.  She has good times and bad times.  But, the bad are starting to outweigh the good.  I know it will be time soon to let her go.  It's breaking my heart, but when I prayed last night I thanked God for bringing her and her love into to my life.  I have been so blessed to have her!  One of my other cats, Katie, kept rubbing into the washcloth last night and purred and she layed down next to Daisy and groomed her a touch and was so sweet.  

Thanks for asking.  I'll keep you all updated on her and I really appreciate the prayers!  

Hugs,
Janet

[Maddie6]

Hi Janet,
I'm so sorry.  Thanks for the update on Daisy.  I think she's comfortable there at home and feels the love.  I know it's so hard to see our furbabies sick.  Hugs and prayers.

[HelpinUtah]

Last night, hubby and I prayed while each of gently stroked Daisy.  I felt as though it's not time to put her down yet and hubby felt the same.  This morning when I woke up, I looked over the side of my bed and there Daisy was looking up at me wide eyed.  Not bushy-tailed but much happier and more alert.  So, hubby stayed home and went to the vet to get some pain medication for her to keep her feeling better until the time is right.  We know it's inevitable, but I never want to put them down to soon or too late - it's quite tough realzing that balance.  She started the pain medication this afternoon and hubby said she's moving around more and seems brighter.  She's eating more again too.  So, we may have her for a few more weeks or less, but at least she's no longer hurting so badly.  

I can't say I'm not still sad - because just the thought of not having her sweet spirit alive in our home, makes me very sad.  But, I do believe she will stay with us on a different level after she's gone.  I truly believe that - I hope it doesn't sound crazy!  :)

[dominosarah]

I posted this in your journal too but her spirit WILL live in your house Janet......Am glad to hear she is responding to the meds......She will let you know when it is time......until then give her tons and tons of love just as you have been doing.....hugs to you    sara

[Piparskeggr]

I just read your progress reports about Daisy; I'm so sorry.

It is no real comfort now, but you have been doing the best you can for her.  Hold on to that, please.

My wife and I had a kitty (April Dancer) pass on at 6 1/2; she was our good little house-gremlin.  17 years, 2 states and 390 miles later, I still see her around the house; guarding us from whatever she saw that we didn't.  :-)

[Savas]

I'm sorry you're going through this. I will say that what you're doing is very brave. Most people can't stand to watch a loved pet suffer and won't take the time to be with it until the end.

Best wishes to your whole clan, and my our thoughts are with you over here.

[HelpinUtah]

I came home from work and Daisy is SOOOO MUCH more alert!  WOOHOO!!!  I walked in the door and she was sitting up and looking at me with her beautiful eyes!  I went over to pet her and she let out a happy meow.  She's sitting up, looking around, and watching our other babies play.  She ate for me when I got home too!  She likes to chase shadows and so I made shadows on the floor in front of her and she was watching them with interest.  She didn't play, but is responding now.  I'm so thrilled.  I love her so much!!!

[zodiacqueen]

That's wonderful, Janet!!  It sounds like you will have more precious time with Daisy!!  The pain meds are an excellent idea, too.  It sounds like she's getting stronger because she's eating more.  It sounds like she might start playing again, too!!

YAYYYYYYY!!!!

HMMMMM,  Our prayers are working!  =D

[Kaydey]

Keeping you and you Kitten in my thoughts

Blessings

[HelpinUtah]

Daisy is doing so much better on the pain meds and not just laying around like she was - I'm so excited.  I am so thankful that God is allowing us to have some precious time together.  She is walking around, eating a TON, and rubbing into me when I pet her again.  I'm just so happy!  I am treasuring every moment we have together!!!  

I appreciate all the prayers - it's obvious prayers do wonders and that God is great!

Hugs,
Janet

[zodiacqueen]

Hi sweetie!!

I know that everyone is sooooo happy for you!  It sounds like the pain meds are really doing the trick!  =D  It's obvious to me that Daisy is comfortable and feels well.  

What a wonderful update!!!  You put a big smile on my face!!  =D

Hugs
ZQ

[HelpinUtah]

Daisy is still hanging in there and seems to be enjoying life right now.  She has mostly good days right now.  I think the pain meds, prednisone and the Pro Gut have given her a quality of life back.  I know she is terminal, but I'm thankful she is not suffering and happy right now!  My heart breaks when she lays on my chest at night and falls asleep there - because I know she will be leaving us way too soon!  I can't believe how much my heart hurts when I think about it - shoot I'm crying now as I type this!  UGH!!  I am closer to her now than ever.  It's interesting how when we nurse someone how much more we come to love them and they us!  Our bond is actually stronger and I didn't think that was possible.  I take a warm washcloth every night and wipe down her face, her eyes, ears and she loves it.  I clean her chin (she's getting it dirty from her wet food) and she just loves it!  Our youngest cat, tries to rub into the washcloth while I'm doing this - it's hilarious and then she'll start licking Daisy.  

Anyway, that's an update for now.  God is good and I'm thankful he has blessed us with such a sweet spirit in our home!

Hugs,
Janet

[amandakav]

Hiya, I've just read through your story, and it's got me in tears. I feel for you soo much. I lost my Dog Max when he was 10, to me that was pretty young to loose him, he was like my brother :) He too listened to me when I was sad or anything. I know how heart breaking it is, and all I can say to give moral support is keep strong, you are doing so well. My thoughts and prayers are with you :)

Love and Hugs

Amanda xxx