Fuga

Question:

I hope that is what it is. This morning we woke up covered in drool.  We are waiting very patiently to take him in to the vet this morning. Sharon

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, Sorry I am not around much.. We have been busy packing.  I’ve been really busy with cat sitting and my volunteer work with the cat rescue group which has been wonderful.  I’m not so sure that Fuga agrees, this morning he vomitted blood.  We rushed him into the vet and they feel he has an ulcer due to stress.  His blood levels are too good for it to be related to his kidney failure.  Fuga has sort of stopped eating, I was able to coax him tonight to try a few bites of fancy feast. I really want  him to be able to get to the house to enjoy the backyard…it’s only 14 days away… The past two weeks, the fur on his brown siamese face has started to turn white :( . Fuga Purrs for Fuga to settle down and start eating. Is it warm there? Every August when the temps get near 100, Frank loses his mask, too, and gets it back in winter. Sherry

Response:

We will purr and pray that Fuga recovers and quickly. Jazz & his mama — Irulan from the stars we came, to the stars we return from now until the end of time

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, Sorry I am not around much.. We have been busy packing.  I’ve been really busy with cat sitting and my volunteer work with the cat rescue group which has been wonderful.  I’m not so sure that Fuga agrees, this morning he vomitted blood.  We rushed him into the vet and they feel he has an ulcer due to stress.  His blood levels are too good for it to be related to his kidney failure.  Fuga has sort of stopped eating, I was able to coax him tonight to try a few bites of fancy feast. I really want  him to be able to get to the house to enjoy the backyard…it’s only 14 days away… The past two weeks, the fur on his brown siamese face has started to turn white :( . Fuga

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, Sorry I am not around much.. We have been busy packing.  I’ve been really busy with cat sitting and my volunteer work with the cat rescue group which has been wonderful.  I’m not so sure that Fuga agrees, this morning he vomitted blood.  We rushed him into the vet and they feel he has an ulcer due to stress.  His blood levels are too good for it to be related to his kidney failure.  Fuga has sort of stopped eating, I was able to coax him tonight to try a few bites of fancy feast. I really want  him to be able to get to the house to enjoy the backyard…it’s only 14 days away… The past two weeks, the fur on his brown siamese face has started to turn white :( . Fuga

Purrs for both you and Fuga.  I don’t know whether this will help, but my daughter has a cat who is in the early stages of kidney failure, and she had lost her appetite.  My son had given her a couple of cans of salmon-flavored cat food after his cat went to the RB.  My daughter tried giving Coco a little of the salmon cat food, and she wolfed it down.  This was a couple of days ago, the salmon is all gone, but Coco is still eating.  There’s no guarantee it would work for Fuga, but it might be worth investing in one can to see. Joy

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hi all, Sorry I am not around much.. We have been busy packing.  I’ve been really busy with cat sitting and my volunteer work with the cat rescue group which has been wonderful.  I’m not so sure that Fuga agrees, this morning he vomitted blood.  We rushed him into the vet and they feel he has an ulcer due to stress.  His blood levels are too good for it to be related to his kidney failure.  Fuga has sort of stopped eating, I was able to coax him tonight to try a few bites of fancy feast. I really want  him to be able to get to the house to enjoy the backyard…it’s only 14 days away… The past two weeks, the fur on his brown siamese face has started to turn white :( . Fuga

Purrs for Fuga to settle down and start eating. Is it warm there? Every August when the temps get near 100, Frank loses his mask, too, and gets it back in winter. Sherry

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, Sorry I am not around much.. We have been busy packing.  I’ve been really busy with cat sitting and my volunteer work with the cat rescue group which has been wonderful.  I’m not so sure that Fuga agrees, this morning he vomitted blood.  We rushed him into the vet and they feel he has an ulcer due to stress.  His blood levels are too good for it to be related to his kidney failure.  Fuga has sort of stopped eating, I was able to coax him tonight to try a few bites of fancy feast. I really want  him to be able to get to the house to enjoy the backyard…it’s only 14 days away… The past two weeks, the fur on his brown siamese face has started to turn white :( . Fuga

Ozzy and Tiger are purring hard for Fuga, hoping that it’s something easily treated and that he loves his new back yard. —— Krista

Response:

Do you mean Rescue Remedy? (The bach flower drops?) There’s also a product called "Nature’s Miracle", but you wouldn’t want to put that into a cat’s water, I don’t think! :)

Yes, that one. Is Nature’s miracle the enzymatic cleaner? ;-) — Victor Martinez Owned and operated by the Fantastic Seven (TM)

Response:

Lots of purrs, best wishes and hugs, — Polonca & Soncek

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, Sorry I am not around much.. We have been busy packing.  I’ve been really busy with cat sitting and my volunteer work with the cat rescue group which has been wonderful.  I’m not so sure that Fuga agrees, this morning he vomitted blood.  <snip

Response:

In the fine newsgroup "rec.pets.cats.anecdotes", "Christine Burel" – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – om… Hi all, Sorry I am not around much.. We have been busy packing.  I’ve been really busy with cat sitting and my volunteer work with the cat rescue group which has been wonderful.  I’m not so sure that Fuga agrees, this morning he vomitted blood.  We rushed him into the vet and they feel he has an ulcer due to stress.  His blood levels are too good for it to be related to his kidney failure.  Fuga has sort of stopped eating, I was able to coax him tonight to try a few bites of fancy feast. I really want  him to be able to get to the house to enjoy the backyard…it’s only 14 days away… The past two weeks, the fur on his brown siamese face has started to turn white :( . Fuga

Purrs for Fuga and for your move. The blood work sounds like a good sign. More purrs for him to eat.  Poor baby. :( Poor Fuga!  What can the vet do for him to help heal his ulcer?

They can prescribe Carafate for ulcers.  It coats the tummy and protects it from stomach acid (IIRC; Shadow was on it for possible ulcers when he vomitted blood) — Cheryl

Response:

I went in Monday to Petsmart and they were out of diffusers.  I had them put one aside for me when they arrived yesterday which I promptly picked up plugged in yesterday. I went back about 20 minutes after Fuga was admitted and I saw him for a few minutes.  He was eager for me to kiss him when I went in which I hope will be a good sign for a recovery. I will be absolutely devastated if he doesn’t get to come to our new home. It was one of main things I was looking forward.. I guess I really am a crazy cat lady.

Positive vibes to Fuga. Surely he’ll be OK.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Fuga :o ) skrev i meddelandet I hope that is what it is. This morning we woke up covered in drool.  We are waiting very patiently to take him in to the vet this morning. Sharon Purrs that the vet can give Fuga something to make him feel better. Elisabet and Hugo Katt

Purrs that  Fuga feels better ASAP. Suz  Macmoosette Thank Heavens There’s Only One =^..^=   =^..^=   =^..^=   =^..^=  =^..^=  =^..^= Waiting for inspiration. Please hold while I contemplate my navel. |__/| (=’:'=) (")_(")

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Poor Fuga!  What can the vet do for him to help heal his ulcer?  Purrs for you to be able to help him feel better soonest!  Thinking of you both, Christine, Omar, Oreo, Midnight, Robin & Tucker Hi all, Sorry I am not around much.. We have been busy packing.  I’ve been really busy with cat sitting and my volunteer work with the cat rescue group which has been wonderful.  I’m not so sure that Fuga agrees, this morning he vomitted blood.  We rushed him into the vet and they feel he has an ulcer due to stress.  His blood levels are too good for it to be related to his kidney failure.  Fuga has sort of stopped eating, I was able to coax him tonight to try a few bites of fancy feast.

Based on definite human medicine and some reports in the veterinary literature, plausible therapies include a histamine H2-receptor blocker like ranitidine, and/or a proton pump inhibitor such as omeprazole. My preliminary searches found no ill effects from the H2-blockers, but one unexplained report that omeprazole was not recommended in cats. I gather that the gastrointestinal symptoms are new?  If they had been existing, in people, you’d definitely test for Helicobacter pylori infection, and treat it if present.  One of the tests in humans, which apparently is available for tests, is analysis of the breath after being fed a test medication. How one gets a cat to blow into a tube, etc., is an interesting thought! Supportive care obviously is important, and a mild tranquilizer might help.

Response:

No, you are not a crazy cat lady!  When Z was in the hospital  I went to sit with him every day and talked to him.  (and cried on his head).  When he had his exploratory surgery years ago he came down with a URI on top of the recovery, so wasn’t eating.  The vet put in a feeding tube, so I had to tube feed him until he started eating on his own.  You wouldn’t believe the things I tried to get him to eat again – and trust me this cat was a food hound.  Finally one day he decided he wanted to drink my fruit smoothie, and I knew we were on the mend (if I were able, I would have done cartwheels). I pray Fuga doesn’t have a rough go of it as Z did, and that he starts eating soon.  Many purrs coming your way!  Please keep us posted!

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I went in Monday to Petsmart and they were out of diffusers.  I had them put one aside for me when they arrived yesterday which I promptly picked up plugged in yesterday. I went back about 20 minutes after Fuga was admitted and I saw him for a few minutes.  He was eager for me to kiss him when I went in which I hope will be a good sign for a recovery. I will be absolutely devastated if he doesn’t get to come to our new home. It was one of main things I was looking forward.. I guess I really am a crazy cat lady.

Response:

  Awww… poor baby! We’re sending anti-stress purrs for Fuga. Have you   tried a Feliway diffuser? Those work wonders calming down cats. You   could also put some Nature’s Remedy in the water. Do you mean Rescue Remedy? (The bach flower drops?) There’s also a product called "Nature’s Miracle", but you wouldn’t want to put that into a cat’s water, I don’t think! :) Joyce

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hi all, Sorry I am not around much.. We have been busy packing.  I’ve been really busy with cat sitting and my volunteer work with the cat rescue group which has been wonderful.  I’m not so sure that Fuga agrees, this morning he vomitted blood.  We rushed him into the vet and they feel he has an ulcer due to stress.  His blood levels are too good for it to be related to his kidney failure.  Fuga has sort of stopped eating, I was able to coax him tonight to try a few bites of fancy feast. I really want  him to be able to get to the house to enjoy the backyard…it’s only 14 days away… The past two weeks, the fur on his brown siamese face has started to turn white :( . Fuga

We are purring hard for Fuga!!!!

Response:

I went in Monday to Petsmart and they were out of diffusers.  I had them put one aside for me when they arrived yesterday which I promptly picked up plugged in yesterday. I went back about 20 minutes after Fuga was admitted and I saw him for a few minutes.  He was eager for me to kiss him when I went in which I hope will be a good sign for a recovery. I will be absolutely devastated if he doesn’t get to come to our new home. It was one of main things I was looking forward.. I guess I really am a crazy cat lady.

Response:

I hope that is what it is. This morning we woke up covered in drool.  We are waiting very patiently to take him in to the vet this morning. Sharon

Extra purrs then! I’ll be thinking about him today. Please let us know

Response:

Fuga :o ) skrev i meddelandet I hope that is what it is. This morning we woke up covered in drool.  We are waiting very patiently to take him in to the vet this morning. Sharon

Purrs that the vet can give Fuga something to make him feel better. Elisabet and Hugo Katt

Response:

Awww… poor baby! We’re sending anti-stress purrs for Fuga. Have you tried a Feliway diffuser? Those work wonders calming down cats. You could also put some Nature’s Remedy in the water. — Victor Martinez Owned and operated by the Fantastic Seven (TM)

Response:

Purrs for Fuga to settle down and start eating. Is it warm there? Every August when the temps get near 100, Frank loses his mask, too, and gets it back in winter.

Hmmm… that makes sense, since it’s body temperature that creates the points in the first place. Our two boys with points spend most of their time inside, in the cool, so they don’t change much color, if at all. I’ll have to check! — Victor Martinez Owned and operated by the Fantastic Seven (TM)

Response:

I’ve been told that sometimes baby food will get kitties interested in food again (but watch for onion in the ingredients) — also, there is a cat food called "a/d" that Hills makes that some vets carry by prescription to also help cats eat — it did stimulate the appetite of one of my cats. hth, Christine

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, Sorry I am not around much.. We have been busy packing.  I’ve been really busy with cat sitting and my volunteer work with the cat rescue group which has been wonderful.  I’m not so sure that Fuga agrees, this morning he vomitted blood.  We rushed him into the vet and they feel he has an ulcer due to stress.  His blood levels are too good for it to be related to his kidney failure.  Fuga has sort of stopped eating, I was able to coax him tonight to try a few bites of fancy feast. I really want  him to be able to get to the house to enjoy the backyard…it’s only 14 days away… The past two weeks, the fur on his brown siamese face has started to turn white :( . Fuga Purrs for both you and Fuga.  I don’t know whether this will help, but my daughter has a cat who is in the early stages of kidney failure, and she had lost her appetite.  My son had given her a couple of cans of salmon-flavored cat food after his cat went to the RB.  My daughter tried giving Coco a little of the salmon cat food, and she wolfed it down.  This was a couple of days ago, the salmon is all gone, but Coco is still eating.  There’s no guarantee it would work for Fuga, but it might be worth investing in one can to see. Joy

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, Sorry I am not around much.. We have been busy packing.  I’ve been really busy with cat sitting and my volunteer work with the cat rescue group which has been wonderful.  I’m not so sure that Fuga agrees, this morning he vomitted blood.  We rushed him into the vet and they feel he has an ulcer due to stress.  His blood levels are too good for it to be related to his kidney failure.  Fuga has sort of stopped eating, I was able to coax him tonight to try a few bites of fancy feast. I really want  him to be able to get to the house to enjoy the backyard…it’s only 14 days away… The past two weeks, the fur on his brown siamese face has started to turn white :( .

Purrs to Fuga. He’ll most liekly be fine at the new place, I"m sure moving is a big a stress on our furry friends as it is on us, maybe even more because they don’t understand why their world is turning upside down. Yowie

Response:

Poor Fuga!  What can the vet do for him to help heal his ulcer?  Purrs for you to be able to help him feel better soonest!  Thinking of you both, Christine, Omar, Oreo, Midnight, Robin & Tucker

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, Sorry I am not around much.. We have been busy packing.  I’ve been really busy with cat sitting and my volunteer work with the cat rescue group which has been wonderful.  I’m not so sure that Fuga agrees, this morning he vomitted blood.  We rushed him into the vet and they feel he has an ulcer due to stress.  His blood levels are too good for it to be related to his kidney failure.  Fuga has sort of stopped eating, I was able to coax him tonight to try a few bites of fancy feast. I really want  him to be able to get to the house to enjoy the backyard…it’s only 14 days away… The past two weeks, the fur on his brown siamese face has started to turn white :( . Fuga

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, Sorry I am not around much.. We have been busy packing.  I’ve been really busy with cat sitting and my volunteer work with the cat rescue group which has been wonderful.  I’m not so sure that Fuga agrees, this morning he vomitted blood.  We rushed him into the vet and they feel he has an ulcer due to stress.  His blood levels are too good for it to be related to his kidney failure.  Fuga has sort of stopped eating, I was able to coax him tonight to try a few bites of fancy feast. I really want  him to be able to get to the house to enjoy the backyard…it’s only 14 days away… The past two weeks, the fur on his brown siamese face has started to turn white :( . Fuga

Awwww. Mega purrs to Fuga to feel better. It’s hell to get old :(

Response:

Hi all, Sorry I am not around much.. We have been busy packing.  I’ve been really busy with cat sitting and my volunteer work with the cat rescue group which has been wonderful.  I’m not so sure that Fuga agrees, this morning he vomitted blood.  We rushed him into the vet and they feel he has an ulcer due to stress.  His blood levels are too good for it to be related to his kidney failure.  Fuga has sort of stopped eating, I was able to coax him tonight to try a few bites of fancy feast. I really want  him to be able to get to the house to enjoy the backyard…it’s only 14 days away… The past two weeks, the fur on his brown siamese face has started to turn white :( .

Purrs that he gets to feeling better and starts eating so he can enjoy many days in the new back yard — Steve Touchstone, faithful servant of Sammy, Little Bit and Rocky Home Page: http://www.sirinet.net/~stouchst/index.html Cat Pix: http://www.sirinet.net/~stouchst/animals.html

Response:

Hi all, Sorry I am not around much.. We have been busy packing.  I’ve been really busy with cat sitting and my volunteer work with the cat rescue group which has been wonderful.  I’m not so sure that Fuga agrees, this morning he vomitted blood.  We rushed him into the vet and they feel he has an ulcer due to stress.  His blood levels are too good for it to be related to his kidney failure.  Fuga has sort of stopped eating, I was able to coax him tonight to try a few bites of fancy feast. I really want  him to be able to get to the house to enjoy the backyard…it’s only 14 days away… The past two weeks, the fur on his brown siamese face has started to turn white :( . Fuga

Response:

I can’t believe it but tomorrow we are going to be celebrating Fuga’s 15th birthday.  I really didn’t think he was going to make to 11 nevermind 15. He’s had so many health problems (arthritis, chronic constipation, pancreatitus, and CRF) over the years but he’s still here. I am so happy that we were blessed to have him this long and that he’s been able to enjoy the new house and enjoy his time outside on the harness. Hopefully he will have another year with us if we are lucky. Fuga

Happy purrday, Fuga, and may you have many more. :-) — Adrian (Owned by Snoopy & Bagheera) A house is not a home, without a cat.

Response:

Lots of purrs and best wishes for Fuga to stay with you for a very long time and to enjoy celebrating his birthday, — Polonca & Soncek

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I can’t believe it but tomorrow we are going to be celebrating Fuga’s 15th birthday.  I really didn’t think he was going to make to 11 nevermind 15. He’s had so many health problems (arthritis, chronic constipation, pancreatitus, and CRF) over the years but he’s still here. I am so happy that we were blessed to have him this long and that he’s been able to enjoy the new house and enjoy his time outside on the harness. Hopefully he will have another year with us if we are lucky. Fuga

Response:

Scritches & shrimpies for the Purrday Boy. Suz&Spicey

Response:

Best belated purrday wishes for Fuga! Christine

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I can’t believe it but tomorrow we are going to be celebrating Fuga’s 15th birthday.  I really didn’t think he was going to make to 11 nevermind 15. He’s had so many health problems (arthritis, chronic constipation, pancreatitus, and CRF) over the years but he’s still here. I am so happy that we were blessed to have him this long and that he’s been able to enjoy the new house and enjoy his time outside on the harness. Hopefully he will have another year with us if we are lucky. Fuga

Response:

I can’t believe it but tomorrow we are going to be celebrating Fuga’s 15th birthday.  I really didn’t think he was going to make to 11 nevermind 15. He’s had so many health problems (arthritis, chronic constipation, pancreatitus, and CRF) over the years but he’s still here. I am so happy that we were blessed to have him this long and that he’s been able to enjoy the new house and enjoy his time outside on the harness. Hopefully he will have another year with us if we are lucky. Fuga

Response:

yodeled: I can’t believe it but tomorrow we are going to be celebrating Fuga’s 15th birthday.  I really didn’t think he was going to make to 11 nevermind 15. He’s had so many health problems (arthritis, chronic constipation, pancreatitus, and CRF) over the years but he’s still here. I am so happy that we were blessed to have him this long and that he’s been able to enjoy the new house and enjoy his time outside on the harness. Hopefully he will have another year with us if we are lucky. Fuga

Happy Purrday, Fuga!! Theresa Stinky Pictures: http://community.webshots.com/album/125591586JWEFwh My Blog: http://www.humanitas.blogspot.com

Response:

I can’t believe it but tomorrow we are going to be celebrating Fuga’s 15th birthday.  I really didn’t think he was going to make to 11 nevermind 15. He’s had so many health problems (arthritis, chronic constipation, pancreatitus, and CRF) over the years but he’s still here. I am so happy that we were blessed to have him this long and that he’s been able to enjoy the new house and enjoy his time outside on the harness. Hopefully he will have another year with us if we are lucky.

Way to go Fuga! Here’s purring that your next year will bring less visits to TED and more shrimpies for you! Yowie

Response:

I can’t believe it but tomorrow we are going to be celebrating Fuga’s 15th birthday.  I really didn’t think he was going to make to 11 nevermind 15. He’s had so many health problems (arthritis, chronic constipation, pancreatitus, and CRF) over the years but he’s still here. I am so happy that we were blessed to have him this long and that he’s been able to enjoy the new house and enjoy his time outside on the harness. Hopefully he will have another year with us if we are lucky. Fuga

Happy Purr-day, Fuga.  May you receive all the treats and goodies you so richly deserve. Sam, closely supervised by Mistletoe

Response:

I can’t believe it but tomorrow we are going to be celebrating Fuga’s 15th birthday.  I really didn’t think he was going to make to 11 nevermind 15. He’s had so many health problems (arthritis, chronic constipation, pancreatitus, and CRF) over the years but he’s still here. I am so happy that we were blessed to have him this long and that he’s been able to enjoy the new house and enjoy his time outside on the harness. Hopefully he will have another year with us if we are lucky. Fuga

HBD Fuga!  My Mimi turns 15 this year too. :) -L.

Response:

Happy purrday Fuga. I am just coming up to 11 – no kitten myself now! Mognusticat http://mogular.blogspot.com/

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I can’t believe it but tomorrow we are going to be celebrating Fuga’s 15th birthday.  I really didn’t think he was going to make to 11 nevermind 15. He’s had so many health problems (arthritis, chronic constipation, pancreatitus, and CRF) over the years but he’s still here. I am so happy that we were blessed to have him this long and that he’s been able to enjoy the new house and enjoy his time outside on the harness. Hopefully he will have another year with us if we are lucky. Fuga

Response:

Hopefully he will have another year with us if we are lucky.

Happy purrday to Fuga! Here’s to several more happy years! — Victor M. Martinez Owned and operated by the Fantastic Seven (TM)

Response:

I can’t believe it but tomorrow we are going to be celebrating Fuga’s 15th birthday.  I really didn’t think he was going to make to 11 nevermind 15. He’s had so many health problems (arthritis, chronic constipation, pancreatitus, and CRF) over the years but he’s still here. I am so happy that we were blessed to have him this long and that he’s been able to enjoy the new house and enjoy his time outside on the harness. Hopefully he will have another year with us if we are lucky.

We’ll be purring that he has many more years with you. Hoppy Purrday, Fuga! — Marina, Frank and Mere. In loving memory of Nikki. marina (dot) kurten (at) pp (dot) inet (dot) fi Pics at http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/frankiennikki/ and http://community.webshots.com/user/frankiennikki

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I can’t believe it but tomorrow we are going to be celebrating Fuga’s 15th birthday.  I really didn’t think he was going to make to 11 nevermind 15. He’s had so many health problems (arthritis, chronic constipation, pancreatitus, and CRF) over the years but he’s still here. I am so happy that we were blessed to have him this long and that he’s been able to enjoy the new house and enjoy his time outside on the harness. Hopefully he will have another year with us if we are lucky. We’ll be purring that he has many more years with you. Hoppy Purrday, Fuga!

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to yoooooooooooooou, Happy Birthday dear Fuga! The Singers: Mr. Pumpkin, Aggie Marble, Victor Velcro.

Response:

a very happy 15th birthday to Fuga. May he live longer and prosper. Jazz & his mama — Irulan from the stars we come to the stars we return from now until the end of time

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I can’t believe it but tomorrow we are going to be celebrating Fuga’s 15th birthday.  I really didn’t think he was going to make to 11 nevermind 15. He’s had so many health problems (arthritis, chronic constipation, pancreatitus, and CRF) over the years but he’s still here. I am so happy that we were blessed to have him this long and that he’s been able to enjoy the new house and enjoy his time outside on the harness. Hopefully he will have another year with us if we are lucky. Fuga

Response:

Otis is 16 in July, I remember it so well, boyfriend moved out, kitten moved in (stayed the course – never unfaithful – more affectionate, all in all a better deal!). Happy birthday Fuga! Otis and maid

Response:

Happy Purrsday Fuga. I will celebrate my 11 purrsday and 10th anniversary with Meowmie in a few weeks. Purrs, Russie the (Liddle) Tiger

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Happy purrday Fuga. I am just coming up to 11 – no kitten myself now! Mognusticat http://mogular.blogspot.com/ I can’t believe it but tomorrow we are going to be celebrating Fuga’s 15th birthday.  I really didn’t think he was going to make to 11 nevermind 15. He’s had so many health problems (arthritis, chronic constipation, pancreatitus, and CRF) over the years but he’s still here. I am so happy that we were blessed to have him this long and that he’s been able to enjoy the new house and enjoy his time outside on the harness. Hopefully he will have another year with us if we are lucky. Fuga

Response:

I can’t believe it but tomorrow we are going to be celebrating Fuga’s 15th birthday.  I really didn’t think he was going to make to 11 nevermind 15. He’s had so many health problems (arthritis, chronic constipation, pancreatitus, and CRF) over the years but he’s still here. I am so happy that we were blessed to have him this long and that he’s been able to enjoy the new house and enjoy his time outside on the harness. Hopefully he will have another year with us if we are lucky. Fuga

That is wonderful.  Happy birthday, Fuga! Ginger-lyn Home Pages:   http://www.spiritrealm.com/summer/   http://www.angelfire.com/folk/glsummer (homepage & cats)   http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~summer/index.htm (genealogy)   http://www.movieanimals.bravehost.com/ (The Violence Against                                              Animals in Movies Website)

Response:

I can’t believe it but tomorrow we are going to be celebrating Fuga’s 15th birthday.  I really didn’t think he was going to make to 11 nevermind 15. He’s had so many health problems (arthritis, chronic constipation, pancreatitus, and CRF) over the years but he’s still here. I am so happy that we were blessed to have him this long and that he’s been able to enjoy the new house and enjoy his time outside on the harness. Hopefully he will have another year with us if we are lucky.

Happy Purrday Fuga!  May you have many more happy years with your devoted slaves. — Elise (supervised by Gossamer & Jeeves)

Response:

I can’t believe it but tomorrow we are going to be celebrating Fuga’s 15th birthday.  I really didn’t think he was going to make to 11 nevermind 15. He’s had so many health problems (arthritis, chronic constipation, pancreatitus, and CRF) over the years but he’s still here. I am so happy that we were blessed to have him this long and that he’s been able to enjoy the new house and enjoy his time outside on the harness. Hopefully he will have another year with us if we are lucky. Fuga

I am sure he has lasted so long due having a greatly devoted meowmy. Have a great birthday, Fuga!! — CATherine

Response:

I can’t believe it but tomorrow we are going to be celebrating Fuga’s 15th birthday.  I really didn’t think he was going to make to 11 nevermind 15. He’s had so many health problems (arthritis, chronic constipation, pancreatitus, and CRF) over the years but he’s still here. I am so happy that we were blessed to have him this long and that he’s been able to enjoy the new house and enjoy his time outside on the harness. Hopefully he will have another year with us if we are lucky.

Purrs for a long and happy life together.  Happy purrday Fuga! — Regards and Purrs, O J

Response:

Posted in Kidney Failure | No Comments » |

Sophie RB

Question:

She was so very gentle and loving I was so privileged to have loved her.

Purrs of condolence for your aching heart.  So sorry to hear about her passing.  May Sophie find a peaceful path to walk. — Regards and Purrs, O J

Response:

I’m very lucky with my work colleagues and neighbours. Monday had been a bank holiday and when I went in to work on Tuesday I was hugged by most of them and over the next couple of days they bought me my favourite chocolates and flowers. My next door neighbour, who was very fond of Sophie bought me a box of chocolates and hugged me. It all helped.

So glad that you have understanding people around you. — Marina, Frank, Nikki, and Mere marina (dot) kurten (at) pp (dot) inet (dot) fi Pics at http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/frankiennikki/ and http://community.webshots.com/user/frankiennikki

Response:

I’m so sorry, Judith.  Hugs and purrs, — Britta "There is no snooze button on a cat who wants breakfast." — Unknown Check out pictures of Vino at: http://photos.yahoo.com/badwilson click on the Vino album – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – On 2nd May 2005 Sophie passed over to RB. She’d been quiet and down for a couple of weeks (she sometimes was) then on the Thursday she went off her food and despite being served all her favourites she didn’t eat. Sunday evening she could hardly walk. I cuddled her all night then took her to the vets where it was found she had kidney failure. We returned to the vets and were with her as she was put to sleep. It’s taken until now for me to be able to post this. She was so very gentle and loving I was so privileged to have loved her. Judith

Response:

I’m so sorry Judith.  Please know that we will also miss Sophie. Pam, Rob, and the Fayetteville Six + kittens and Speedy the d-thing

Response:

Purrs of condolence for your loss. Eventually it WILL become easier to bear – I’ve just been through it myself with Pericles. Be consoled that you did everything you could and prevented Sophie suffering. Hopefully the many happy memories will come to outweigh the pain of now. Best wishes Gordon, Bandit, Snowball & Raki. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – On 2nd May 2005 Sophie passed over to RB.

Response:

Hugs and purrs from Elisabet and Hugo Katt Judith Latham skrev i meddelandet – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -On 2nd May 2005 Sophie passed over to RB. She’d been quiet and down for a couple of weeks (she sometimes was) then on the Thursday she went off her food and despite being served all her favourites she didn’t eat. Sunday evening she could hardly walk. I cuddled her all night then took her to the vets where it was found she had kidney failure. We returned to the vets and were with her as she was put to sleep. It’s taken until now for me to be able to post this. She was so very gentle and loving I was so privileged to have loved her. Judith — Judith Latham Stourbridge, West Midlands. UK.

Response:

On 2nd May 2005 Sophie passed over to RB. She’d been quiet and down for a couple of weeks (she sometimes was) then on the Thursday she went off her food and despite being served all her favourites she didn’t eat. Sunday evening she could hardly walk. I cuddled her all night then took her to the vets where it was found she had kidney failure. We returned to the vets and were with her as she was put to sleep. It’s taken until now for me to be able to post this. She was so very gentle and loving I was so privileged to have loved her. Judith

I’m so very sorry to hear of the loss of Sophie. It sounds like she didn’t suffer too much, or for very  long, and of course you did the right thing, as painful as that decision is. Sophie is running and playing in the warm sun with my RB kitties, and for Sophie, time will pass relatively quickly, until you are ready to join her. Many purrs for your loss. "Life without cats would be only marginally worth living." -TC, and the unmercifully, relentlessly, sweet calico kitty, Kenzie. How you behave towards cats here below determines your status in Heaven. – Robert Heinlein Life is very difficult. Once you understand that, life becomes easier. -Buddha

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – On 2nd May 2005 Sophie passed over to RB. She’d been quiet and down for a couple of weeks (she sometimes was) then on the Thursday she went off her food and despite being served all her favourites she didn’t eat. Sunday evening she could hardly walk. I cuddled her all night then took her to the vets where it was found she had kidney failure. We returned to the vets and were with her as she was put to sleep. It’s taken until now for me to be able to post this. She was so very gentle and loving I was so privileged to have loved her. Judith — Judith Latham Stourbridge, West Midlands. UK.

Candle lit for Sophie and comforting purrs on the way for you. Sam, closely supervised by Mistletoe

Response:

On 2nd May 2005 Sophie passed over to RB. She’d been quiet and down for a couple of weeks (she sometimes was) then on the Thursday she went off her food and despite being served all her favourites she didn’t eat. Sunday evening she could hardly walk. I cuddled her all night then took her to the vets where it was found she had kidney failure. We returned to the vets and were with her as she was put to sleep. It’s taken until now for me to be able to post this. She was so very gentle and loving I was so privileged to have loved her.

((((Judith)))) Purrs on the way for those left behind, and a candle is lit for her journey — Steve Touchstone, faithful servant of Sammy and Little Bit Home Page: http://www.sirinet.net/~stouchst/index.html Cat Pix: http://www.sirinet.net/~stouchst/animals.html

Response:

Oh no! I’m so very sorry to hear that. Lots of hugs and purrs, — Polonca & Soncek

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – On 2nd May 2005 Sophie passed over to RB. She’d been quiet and down for a couple of weeks (she sometimes was) then on the Thursday she went off her food and despite being served all her favourites she didn’t eat. Sunday evening she could hardly walk. I cuddled her all night then took her to the vets where it was found she had kidney failure. We returned to the vets and were with her as she was put to sleep. It’s taken until now for me to be able to post this. She was so very gentle and loving I was so privileged to have loved her. Judith — Judith Latham Stourbridge, West Midlands. UK.

Response:

On 2nd May 2005 Sophie passed over to RB. She’d been quiet and down for a couple of weeks (she sometimes was) then on the Thursday she went off her food and despite being served all her favourites she didn’t eat. Sunday evening she could hardly walk. I cuddled her all night then took her to the vets where it was found she had kidney failure. We returned to the vets and were with her as she was put to sleep. It’s taken until now for me to be able to post this. She was so very gentle and loving I was so privileged to have loved her.

I’m so very sorry to read this. This is how I lost my Smokey, though he was 20 years old it still hurt. That was 5 years ago and I still miss him. Lots of comforting purrs and a candle lit for Sophie, nothing can hurt her now. — Adrian (Owned by Snoopy & Bagheera) A house is not a home, without a cat.

Response:

On 2nd May 2005 Sophie passed over to RB. She’d been quiet and down for a couple of weeks (she sometimes was) then on the Thursday she went off her food and despite being served all her favourites she didn’t eat. Sunday evening she could hardly walk. I cuddled her all night then took her to the vets where it was found she had kidney failure. We returned to the vets and were with her as she was put to sleep. It’s taken until now for me to be able to post this. She was so very gentle and loving I was so privileged to have loved her.

My condolences for Sophie.  I’ve always enjoyed your stories about her.  It’s sad how even the most beautiful souls can’t stay on earth forever.

Response:

(((((((((Judith))))))))

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – On 2nd May 2005 Sophie passed over to RB. She’d been quiet and down for a couple of weeks (she sometimes was) then on the Thursday she went off her food and despite being served all her favourites she didn’t eat. Sunday evening she could hardly walk. I cuddled her all night then took her to the vets where it was found she had kidney failure. We returned to the vets and were with her as she was put to sleep. It’s taken until now for me to be able to post this. She was so very gentle and loving I was so privileged to have loved her. Judith — Judith Latham Stourbridge, West Midlands. UK.

Response:

On 2nd May 2005 Sophie passed over to RB. She’d been quiet and down for a couple of weeks (she sometimes was) then on the Thursday she went off her food and despite being served all her favourites she didn’t eat. Sunday evening she could hardly walk. I cuddled her all night then took her to the vets where it was found she had kidney failure. We returned to the vets and were with her as she was put to sleep. It’s taken until now for me to be able to post this. She was so very gentle and loving I was so privileged to have loved her. Judith

Oh Judith I am SOOO sorry to hear this :(  Major soothing purrs to you. I’m sure Sophie is playing with all the other kitties at the bridge now but it doesn’t make us feel any better :(

Response:

Judith, I’m so very sorry to read about Sophie.  Purrs for your heart. Christine

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – On 2nd May 2005 Sophie passed over to RB. She’d been quiet and down for a couple of weeks (she sometimes was) then on the Thursday she went off her food and despite being served all her favourites she didn’t eat. Sunday evening she could hardly walk. I cuddled her all night then took her to the vets where it was found she had kidney failure. We returned to the vets and were with her as she was put to sleep. It’s taken until now for me to be able to post this. She was so very gentle and loving I was so privileged to have loved her. Judith — Judith Latham Stourbridge, West Midlands. UK.

Response:

On 2nd May 2005 Sophie passed over to RB. She’d been quiet and down for a couple of weeks (she sometimes was) then on the Thursday she went off her food and despite being served all her favourites she didn’t eat. Sunday evening she could hardly walk. I cuddled her all night then took her to the vets where it was found she had kidney failure. We returned to the vets and were with her as she was put to sleep. It’s taken until now for me to be able to post this.

Yes, it can be hard for so many reasons.  RF can sometimes stay hidden until it’s it’s done irreversible damage– that’s what happened to my poor little Mimi.   Then it all happens so fast, you can’t really process it.  Peaceful RB purrs for her, and healing purrs for your heart. Theresa Stinky Pictures: http://community.webshots.com/album/125591586JWEFwh My Blog: http://www.humanitas.blogspot.com

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – On 2nd May 2005 Sophie passed over to RB. She’d been quiet and down for a couple of weeks (she sometimes was) then on the Thursday she went off her food and despite being served all her favourites she didn’t eat. Sunday evening she could hardly walk. I cuddled her all night then took her to the vets where it was found she had kidney failure. We returned to the vets and were with her as she was put to sleep. It’s taken until now for me to be able to post this. She was so very gentle and loving I was so privileged to have loved her. Judith

I’m so very sorry, Judith.  Purrs to mend your heart. Jill

Response:

{{{{{{Judith}}}}}} It’s such a heartbreaking thing to have to do!

Response:

We will light a candle for Sophie’s safe journey to the RB. She will be happy. there. Condolences to you and the family. Jazz & his mama — Irulan from the stars we come to the stars we return from now until the end of time

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – On 2nd May 2005 Sophie passed over to RB. She’d been quiet and down for a couple of weeks (she sometimes was) then on the Thursday she went off her food and despite being served all her favourites she didn’t eat. Sunday evening she could hardly walk. I cuddled her all night then took her to the vets where it was found she had kidney failure. We returned to the vets and were with her as she was put to sleep. It’s taken until now for me to be able to post this. She was so very gentle and loving I was so privileged to have loved her. Judith — Judith Latham Stourbridge, West Midlands. UK.

Response:

She was so very gentle and loving I was so privileged to have loved her.

Our deepest condolences for your loss. — Victor M. Martinez Owned and operated by the Fantastic Seven (TM)

Response:

She was so very gentle and loving I was so privileged to have loved her.

She sounds like a wonderful cat. I am so sorry to hear you have lost her. Purrs, Deb. — http://www.scientific-art.com "He looked a fierce and quarrelsome cat, but claw he never would; He only bit the ones he loved, because they tasted good." S. Greenfield

Response:

Judith, I am so sorry to hear of Sophie’s passing. Hugs and Purrs, to help you deal with your loss. Mark — Proof of Sanity Forged Upon Request

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I am so sorry to read of Sophie’s passing. Jeanne Hedge, as directed by Natasha http://www.jhedge.com

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On 2nd May 2005 Sophie passed over to RB. She’d been quiet and down for a couple of weeks (she sometimes was) then on the Thursday she went off her food and despite being served all her favourites she didn’t eat. Sunday evening she could hardly walk. I cuddled her all night then took her to the vets where it was found she had kidney failure. We returned to the vets and were with her as she was put to sleep. It’s taken until now for me to be able to post this. She was so very gentle and loving I was so privileged to have loved her.

I’m so very sorry to hear this, Judith. Our purrs and condolences for your loss. — Marina, Frank, Nikki, and Mere marina (dot) kurten (at) pp (dot) inet (dot) fi Pics at http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/frankiennikki/ and http://community.webshots.com/user/frankiennikki

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On 2nd May 2005 Sophie passed over to RB. She’d been quiet and down for a couple of weeks (she sometimes was) then on the Thursday she went off her food and despite being served all her favourites she didn’t eat. Sunday evening she could hardly walk. I cuddled her all night then took her to the vets where it was found she had kidney failure. We returned to the vets and were with her as she was put to sleep. It’s taken until now for me to be able to post this. She was so very gentle and loving I was so privileged to have loved her. Judith

love will live in your heart forever. Purrs to you for gentle healing.  I will remember Sophie along with my Sabra tonight when I light my candles. Blessings, Ginger-lyn Home Pages:   http://www.spiritrealm.com/summer/   http://www.angelfire.com/folk/glsummer (homepage & cats)   http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~summer/index.htm (genealogy)   http://www.movieanimals.bravehost.com/ (The Violence Against                                              Animals in Movies Website)

Response:

Posted in Kidney Failure | No Comments » |

Hope OUR Penguin is safe!

Question:

(Penguins are cool, eh?) The Associated Press SAN FRANCISCO – An outbreak of chlamydia at the San Francisco Zoo has left a dozen penguins dead, according to a spokesman. The bacteria, which was most likely transmitted to the birds by an infected seagull, is spread through airborne saliva or other bodily fluids, said Bob Jenkins, the zoo’s director of animal care and conservation. A similar disease is sexually transmitted in humans. "One quick exposure and you’re off and running," Jenkins said, adding that at its height, nearly 80 percent of the zoo’s penguin colony was infected. "It required very aggressive treatment on our part." Zoo workers first noticed several lethargic birds about two months ago. The penguins that died were mostly original members of the colony and about 20-years old, Jenkins said. Their weakened immune systems led to kidney failure and respiratory distress, which eventually killed them. The average penguin’s life span is 15 to 20 years. Precautions were taken to ensure no other animals or human visitors were infected. Only certain keepers wearing special clothing and masks took care of the penguins, the whole area was routinely disinfected and the birds were treated with antibiotics, Jenkins said. He added this was the first chlamydia outbreak among the penguins. Some of the zoo’s 55 remaining penguins are still recovering, he said. "It’s a strong colony, so it seems to be bouncing back well," Jenkins said. Copyright 2005 The Associated Press.

Response:

Reminds me of the space aliens who come to earth and are immune to the nuclear bomb but are wiped out by the common cold.  A penguin’s home is at Antarctica or nearby where it stays cold.  You take them away and they might not survive as well. <damod…@webtv.net> wrote in message

news:10517-427D0CF1-60@storefull-3236.bay.webtv.net… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> (Penguins are cool, eh?) > The Associated Press > SAN FRANCISCO – An outbreak of chlamydia at the San Francisco Zoo has > left a dozen penguins dead, according to a spokesman. > The bacteria, which was most likely transmitted to the birds by an > infected seagull, is spread through airborne saliva or other bodily > fluids, said Bob Jenkins, the zoo’s director of animal care and > conservation. A similar disease is sexually transmitted in humans. > "One quick exposure and you’re off and running," Jenkins said, adding > that at its height, nearly 80 percent of the zoo’s penguin colony was > infected. "It required very aggressive treatment on our part." > Zoo workers first noticed several lethargic birds about two months ago. > The penguins that died were mostly original members of the colony and > about 20-years old, Jenkins said. Their weakened immune systems led to > kidney failure and respiratory distress, which eventually killed them. > The average penguin’s life span is 15 to 20 years. > Precautions were taken to ensure no other animals or human visitors were > infected. > Only certain keepers wearing special clothing and masks took care of the > penguins, the whole area was routinely disinfected and the birds were > treated with antibiotics, Jenkins said. He added this was the first > chlamydia outbreak among the penguins. > Some of the zoo’s 55 remaining penguins are still recovering, he said. > "It’s a strong colony, so it seems to be bouncing back well," Jenkins > said. > Copyright 2005 The Associated Press.

Response:

This penguin is safe and healthy. take care penguin

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linux symbol. Our daughter has stuffed Tux Penguin. — Peter Timusk B.Math Just trying to stay linear www.crystalcomputing.net >blog> http://logbook.crystalcomputing.net www.webpagex.org >blog> http://notebook.webpagex.org

Response:

Posted in Kidney Failure | No Comments » |

Got "Wild Ginger"?

Question:

Yeah, dumb … dumb.  If you find something wrong with a web page, the responsible thing to do is to notify the website operators directly. website fails to provide an email address. If this weren’t crossposted, I’d say it’s worth an IOM nomination for that comment alone. You lack creativity, "Se th". Ever been elected to Mensa, "Se th"?

Oh, look, my pet troll is back.  Not that I missed it; there’s never been a shortage of flameworthy targets on Usenet. I’m going to TINYURL you, right now, like that: http://tinyurl.com/dbuce Here!

Seth — When I’m telling you to get a life, it’s time to consider suicide very seriously. — Lyle McDonald

Response:

Besides, the owner of one of the sites I mentioned already picked up and thanked me in a followup. So should you. I’m doing a public service providing information not widely known yet.

I shall commission a statue of you at once. But most of all, I’m concerned about YOUR health, therefore I choose to warn you directly.

So, you gonna drop by and lance this boil on my butt? Penelope — Dinna let yer wind fly out Nor flap ‘n wave yer kilt about Lest yer own beloved, true heart Bitch and moan about yer fart

Response:

Aristolochic acid is a strong carcinogen found in few plants – including species of "wild ginger" (Asarum, no relation to normal ginger). Consumption of plants that contain aristolochic acid lead to kidney damage and subsequent development of cancer, e.g. http://tinyurl.com/9xk6d Yeah, dumb … dumb.  If you find something wrong with a web page, the responsible thing to do is to notify the website operators directly. website fails to provide an email address.

If this weren’t crossposted, I’d say it’s worth an IOM nomination for that comment alone. Seth — 99% of the time, he is rude to the people who do in fact deserve it. — Will Brink

Response:

Aristolochic acid is a strong carcinogen found in few plants – including species of "wild ginger" (Asarum, no relation to normal ginger). Consumption of plants that contain aristolochic acid lead to kidney damage and subsequent development of cancer, e.g. http://tinyurl.com/9xk6d Yeah, dumb … dumb.  If you find something wrong with a web page, the responsible thing to do is to notify the website operators this, if the website fails to provide an email address. Why are you whining here, like some kind of a cry baby?

Try to stay focused. There is nothing wrong with that website (PubMed). On the other hand, there is plenty wrong with NUMEROUS websites advocating usage of aristolochic acid-containing plant "wild ginger" as food and alternative medicine.  What I posted "here" was a tiny random selection – so complaining would be purely impractical. Besides, the owner of one of the sites I mentioned already picked up and thanked me in a followup. So should you. I’m doing a public service providing information not widely known yet. In fact, I have considered emailing to owners of some of the web sites. But where is guarantee that it is an effective measure to make YOU stop chewing on the wild ginger root? (I’m using "YOU" here in most general sense, not to be interpreted as personally directed at "Mr-Natural-Health") I have considered likelihood of possible replies of the alternative medicine websites owners. Among those I would likely receive:    1) "Why are you whining here, like some kind of a cry baby?"    2) "But dude, it’s like all natural ‘n’ stuff, so, like, it’s gotta be good for ya!  Y’know?" (thanks to JMW from www.rustyiron.net who insightfully anticipated this one)    3) "2000 years of Chinese traditional medicine can’t be wrong."    4) "We’ll remove the entry" (fine, the entry goes away, but how would YOU know to stop chewing on the "delicious" wild ginger root?)    5) "The holistic yin yang blah blah beautiful complexity of natural wild ginger root ingredients can’t be equated with simple-minded reductionist communist approach of academic scientific bullies". But most of all, I’m concerned about YOUR health, therefore I choose to warn you directly. Cheers and stay away from "wild ginger"!

Response:

Alternative Nature Herbals a

Posted in Nephropathy | No Comments » |

How to you explain to a cat..

Question:

Then her face fell,quite literally….She let out a strange cry then got off the wardrobe and hid.

This is also such a sad story.

Response:

Hugs and purrs, this really is so hard! — Polonca & Soncek

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.  We have cuddled him and told him that Jas wasn’t coming home again, but he still comes over to us and cries.  He got up in my hubby’s face and looked into his eyes, then came over to me and did the same. He then gave us both head bumps and went off to see if Jas was in his crate. He is very upset. I am making sure that he gets plenty of cuddles and reassurance, and maybe one day he will have another puppy to cuddle. Just not now. Sad kitty cuddles, Patti

Response:

that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.  We have cuddled him and told him that Jas wasn’t coming home again, but he still comes over to us and cries.  He got up in my hubby’s face and looked into his eyes, then came over to me and did the same. He then gave us both head bumps and went off to see if Jas was in his crate. He is very upset. I am making sure that he gets plenty of cuddles and reassurance, and maybe one day he will have another puppy to cuddle. Just not now. Sad kitty cuddles, Patti

Response:

that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.  We have cuddled him and told him that Jas wasn’t coming home again, but he still comes over to us and cries.  He got up in my hubby’s face and looked into his eyes, then came over to me and did the same. He then gave us both head bumps and went off to see if Jas was in his crate. He is very upset. I am making sure that he gets plenty of cuddles and reassurance, and maybe one day he will have another puppy to cuddle. Just not now. Sad kitty cuddles, Patti

Awwww, how very sad.  I’m so sorry for your loss.  I wish I knew what to tell you to make Bear feel better. Jill

Response:

that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.  We have cuddled him and told him that Jas wasn’t coming home again, but he still comes over to us and cries.  He got up in my hubby’s face and looked into his eyes, then came over to me and did the same. He then gave us both head bumps and went off to see if Jas was in his crate. He is very upset. I am making sure that he gets plenty of cuddles and reassurance, and maybe one day he will have another puppy to cuddle. Just not now.

Under the circumstances you’re doing the right thing. Bear is going through abandonment depression–a regular, loved member of the household is no longer around, and he’s distressed by it. Keep giving him as much affection as he wants. Chances are he’ll eventually come to live with the fact that Jasper isn’t coming back. When my cat Simba died years ago, my other cat Bijou was quite distraught. He’d look all over for Simba, and wait for hours in Simba’s favorite spots, terribly unhappy that he could still smell Simba but couldn’t find him. Things were different when our cat Christian passed away last fall of chronic renal failure. Bijou saw his friend’s remains, pined for a few days, then came out of his funk soon afterward. The point is that, in my experience, it might be helpful for a cat to see that its friend has passed on. Cats, being hunters, understand death, at least in terms of it happening to other creatures. Others have told me how viewing the body of a deceased love one has helped their cats come to terms with the passing of their friends much more quickly than if the beloved person or animal had simply disappeared, leaving only its scent behind. As with humans, it seems better for cats to know what happened than not to know.

Response:

that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.  We have cuddled him and told him that Jas wasn’t coming home again, but he still comes over to us and cries.  He got up in my hubby’s face and looked into his eyes, then came over to me and did the same. He then gave us both head bumps and went off to see if Jas was in his crate. He is very upset. I am making sure that he gets plenty of cuddles and reassurance, and maybe one day he will have another puppy to cuddle. Just not now. Sad kitty cuddles, Patti

That’s all you can do. Purrs to your entire family. It’s so hard :(

Response:

that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.  We have cuddled him and told him that Jas wasn’t coming home again, but he still comes over to us and cries.  He got up in my hubby’s face and looked into his eyes, then came over to me and did the same. He then gave us both head bumps and went off to see if Jas was in his crate. He is very upset. I am making sure that he gets plenty of cuddles and reassurance, and maybe one day he will have another puppy to cuddle. Just not now.

So sorry for your loss. Poor Jasper. Many purrs for him and you to heal soon. I know this isn’t always feasible, but I’ve read that the best thing to do when an animal dies is to let the remaining animal see the dead animal and check him/her out thoroughly. I’ve never tried this, though. — Marina, Frank, Nikki, and Mere marina (dot) kurten (at) pp (dot) inet (dot) fi Pics at http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/frankiennikki/ and http://community.webshots.com/user/frankiennikki

Response:

So sorry for your loss. Poor Jasper.

And of course I meant poor Bear. Jasper will not be suffering any more. — Marina, Frank, Nikki, and Mere marina (dot) kurten (at) pp (dot) inet (dot) fi Pics at http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/frankiennikki/ and http://community.webshots.com/user/frankiennikki

Response:

that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.  We have cuddled him and told him that Jas wasn’t coming home again, but he still comes over to us and cries.  He got up in my hubby’s face and looked into his eyes, then came over to me and did the same. He then gave us both head bumps and went off to see if Jas was in his crate. He is very upset. I am making sure that he gets plenty of cuddles and reassurance, and maybe one day he will have another puppy to cuddle. Just not now. Sad kitty cuddles, Patti

"Rise up slowly, Angel.  It’s hard to let you go…" Sincere condolences in the loss of Jasper and purrs and kitty kisses for Bear.   MLB

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that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.  We have cuddled him and told him that Jas wasn’t coming home again, but he still comes over to us and cries.  He got up in my hubby’s face and looked into his eyes, then came over to me and did the same. He then gave us both head bumps and went off to see if Jas was in his crate. He is very upset. I am making sure that he gets plenty of cuddles and reassurance, and maybe one day he will have another puppy to cuddle. Just not now. Sad kitty cuddles,

What a sad story.  My condolences on the loss of Jasper and purrs of comfort for your family.  May Jasper find a peaceful path to walk. Regards and Purrs, O J

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that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.  We have cuddled him and told him that Jas wasn’t coming home again, but he still comes over to us and cries.  He got up in my hubby’s face and looked into his eyes, then came over to me and did the same. He then gave us both head bumps and went off to see if Jas was in his crate. He is very upset. I am making sure that he gets plenty of cuddles and reassurance, and maybe one day he will have another puppy to cuddle. Just not now. Sad kitty cuddles, Patti

That’s so sad.  I don’t know what to tell you.  When one d*g died and the other looked for their friend, we just would explain over and over.  It took time for them. So sorry about your loss. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

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that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.

<snip Awwww…sorry for your loss. :(  I recently had to euth my old dog as well.  My kitties still haven’t recovered – especially Mimi who used to sleep with her. -L.

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Patti Sorry to hear about Jasper. Cats do miss their friends. I’ve told this tale before but it’s worth telling again When we lost Fugazi, the first night Isis (her sister) didn’t seem too worried. Fugazi was an Olympic sleeper so even when she did not appear at the feeding dish, Isis didn’t appear too worried. The next morning was different. She wandered through the flat, making a calling noise and searching every place Fugazi was known to sleep in (and some we never knew about). She even went off her food and this was the cat who licked her bowl clean 15 minutes before she crossed the bridge herself some 4 years later. Three days she searched and cried and called. On the third night, we heard an enormous crash from the bedroom. Basically, Fugazi’s most treasured sleeping place was in a box on top of the wardrobe, as the box contained old jumpers, it was warm and soft and it was the highest vantage point of the flat, Best of all, Isis was no great shakes as a climber so she couldn’t get onto the wardrobe thus guaranteeing that Fugazi could indulge in her favourite pastime of intense napping without being disturbed. And here was Isis, struggling to get onto the wardrobe, she’d managed to get her front paws onto it and was scrabbling to get up, the crash being where things had been knocked over. As we watched, she made it and she trotted towards the box with what can only be described as a grin. She looked into the box, triumphantly as if she were saying "I’ve worked out where you must be! You must be here!" Then her face fell,quite literally….She let out a strange cry then got off the wardrobe and hid. The next morning she was fine Lesley Slave of the Fabulous Furballs

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Patti Sorry to hear about Jasper. Cats do miss their friends. I’ve told this tale before but it’s worth telling again When we lost Fugazi, the first night Isis (her sister) didn’t seem too worried. Fugazi was an Olympic sleeper so even when she did not appear at the feeding dish, Isis didn’t appear too worried. The next morning was different. She wandered through the flat, making a calling noise and searching every place Fugazi was known to sleep in (and some we never knew about). She even went off her food and this was the cat who licked her bowl clean 15 minutes before she crossed the bridge herself some 4 years later. Three days she searched and cried and called. On the third night, we heard an enormous crash from the bedroom. Basically, Fugazi’s most treasured sleeping place was in a box on top of the wardrobe, as the box contained old jumpers, it was warm and soft and it was the highest vantage point of the flat, Best of all, Isis was no great shakes as a climber so she couldn’t get onto the wardrobe thus guaranteeing that Fugazi could indulge in her favourite pastime of intense napping without being disturbed. And here was Isis, struggling to get onto the wardrobe, she’d managed to get her front paws onto it and was scrabbling to get up, the crash being where things had been knocked over. As we watched, she made it and she trotted towards the box with what can only be described as a grin. She looked into the box, triumphantly as if she were saying "I’ve worked out where you must be! You must be here!" Then her face fell,quite literally….She let out a strange cry then got off the wardrobe and hid. The next morning she was fine Lesley Slave of the Fabulous Furballs

That is so very sad.  Purrs for your loss as well. Jill

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That is so very sad.  Purrs for your loss as well. Jill

Went thru a similar thing with our previous cats, Scruffy and CC a few years ago. They were brothers and we had them from the time they were weaned from Cardi-cat, their mom. They were great playmates and everything went okay until Sruffy was hit by a car when they were 7 months old. It was awful. Scruffy didn’t turn up for his breakfast one morning around 6am (September 11th, I recall – should have known it was a bad omen). At first I didn’t worry too much, cos he was a great hunter and sometimes caught his own breakfast. Anyway, I didn’t go to work that day, cos when he hadn’t turned up two hours later, I really started to worry. I went all around the grounds where we lived, calling him and calling him. CC came with me and he was also "calling". Eventually we found him….. Anyway, my husband was away on business, so I asked the gardiner if he would help me bury Scruffy. I just couldn’t face it alone. He agreed. Found a nice spot where Scruff used to hang out…. CC spent the next few days calling and calling,looking in all Scruffy’s favourite spots, to no avail. I tried to explain to him that Scruffy was gone, but it took about a week before he gave up… CC died about a year later, he had feline leukemia. So all I can say is, hang in there and hopefully it will work out. Very sorry. Cathy

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We will light a candle for Jasper’s safe journey to the RB. Please give hugs and skritches to Bear for us and lots of cuddles. Condolences to all of you for the loss of your good boy. Jazz & his mama — Irulan from the stars we come to the stars we return from now until the end of time

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.  We have cuddled him and told him that Jas wasn’t coming home again, but he still comes over to us and cries.  He got up in my hubby’s face and looked into his eyes, then came over to me and did the same. He then gave us both head bumps and went off to see if Jas was in his crate. He is very upset. I am making sure that he gets plenty of cuddles and reassurance, and maybe one day he will have another puppy to cuddle. Just not now. Sad kitty cuddles, Patti

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.  We have cuddled him and told him that Jas wasn’t coming home again, but he still comes over to us and cries.  He got up in my hubby’s face and looked into his eyes, then came over to me and did the same. He then gave us both head bumps and went off to see if Jas was in his crate. He is very upset. I am making sure that he gets plenty of cuddles and reassurance, and maybe one day he will have another puppy to cuddle. Just not now. Under the circumstances you’re doing the right thing. Bear is going through abandonment depression–a regular, loved member of the household is no longer around, and he’s distressed by it. Keep giving him as much affection as he wants. Chances are he’ll eventually come to live with the fact that Jasper isn’t coming back. When my cat Simba died years ago, my other cat Bijou was quite distraught. He’d look all over for Simba, and wait for hours in Simba’s favorite spots, terribly unhappy that he could still smell Simba but couldn’t find him. Things were different when our cat Christian passed away last fall of chronic renal failure. Bijou saw his friend’s remains, pined for a few days, then came out of his funk soon afterward. The point is that, in my experience, it might be helpful for a cat to see that its friend has passed on. Cats, being hunters, understand death, at least in terms of it happening to other creatures. Others have told me how viewing the body of a deceased love one has helped their cats come to terms with the passing of their friends much more quickly than if the beloved person or animal had simply disappeared, leaving only its scent behind. As with humans, it seems better for cats to know what happened than not to know.

I agree, when it’s possible.  We own a home and our poor Percy actually "moved in" before we did.  When he went to the RB we were still in our leased house but had already signed the papers on our own home, so we asked the people still living there if it was OK to bury Percy in the back yard under a tree.  It was a couple who are both pastors in their church.  The husband was away on business, but the wife came outside after we’d buried Percy and held hands with us and said a prayer over his grave.  Anyway, we brought Percy home from the vet and it was very strange that all our girls came over one by one to sniff at his body and then stand by his side for a few moments. However, not everyone can take their pets home after they are euthanized, some have to leave the body with the vet.  In those cases, all you can do is give extra emotional support to your remaining furbabies to help them get over the grief. Hugs, CatNipped

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that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.  We have cuddled him and told him that Jas wasn’t coming home again, but he still comes over to us and cries.  He got up in my hubby’s face and looked into his eyes, then came over to me and did the same. He then gave us both head bumps and went off to see if Jas was in his crate. He is very upset. I am making sure that he gets plenty of cuddles and reassurance, and maybe one day he will have another puppy to cuddle. Just not now. Sad kitty cuddles, Patti

I’m so sorry to hear about your loss Patti.  A candle will be burned tonight to help light Jasper’s way to the bridge, and purrs are being sent to help heal his family’s broken hearts. Hugs, CatNipped

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that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.  We have cuddled him and told him that Jas wasn’t coming home again, but he still comes over to us and cries.  He got up in my hubby’s face and looked into his eyes, then came over to me and did the same. He then gave us both head bumps and went off to see if Jas was in his crate. He is very upset. I am making sure that he gets plenty of cuddles and reassurance, and maybe one day he will have another puppy to cuddle. Just not now. Sad kitty cuddles, Patti

You don’t; just wait it out. When Freddie & Killer went over the RB, Chaos looked for each of them for a long time. Now though, she doesn’t. It’s just like with us two-legs; I can’t count the number of times after Mother died that I started to go to her room to show her something amusing. — Cliologist, Philanthropologist, Prothonotary Wibbler, Paleoconservative, Surface Warrior Squid

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I’m so sorry for this sad time for your family and for Bear.  I’m glad that you have each other to comfort. Susan M Otis and Chester

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.  We have cuddled him and told him that Jas wasn’t coming home again, but he still comes over to us and cries.  He got up in my hubby’s face and looked into his eyes, then came over to me and did the same. He then gave us both head bumps and went off to see if Jas was in his crate. He is very upset. I am making sure that he gets plenty of cuddles and reassurance, and maybe one day he will have another puppy to cuddle. Just not now. Sad kitty cuddles, Patti

Response:

that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.  We have cuddled him and told him that Jas wasn’t coming home again, but he still comes over to us and cries.  He got up in my hubby’s face and looked into his eyes, then came over to me and did the same. He then gave us both head bumps and went off to see if Jas was in his crate. He is very upset. I am making sure that he gets plenty of cuddles and reassurance, and maybe one day he will have another puppy to cuddle. Just not now. Sad kitty cuddles, Patti

My condolences for Jasper and for your and Bear’s loss. I just had an idea for Bear. Why not thoroughly clean Jasper’s crate from his smell and put it away? And bury his bedding with Bear in attendance, like a little funeral. — CATherine

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My dad had a cat named Stalker who was best friends with Emma, a Lab/collie mix.  When Emma died, Stalker began to wander in search of her–first to the forest, then to the neighbours’, then up and down the breadth of the county up to 5 miles away.  Some times he would vanish for months, almost a year once, and he’d only check in 3 or 4 times a year to show us he was still alive–not coming near enough to be caught.  In his old age he returned home, though he still dragged himself from barn to yard to house and slept in Emma’s old sleeping spot.  When he passed away–in our barn–he was buried with his friend. My condolences on your loss. –Fil

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that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.  We have cuddled him and told him that Jas wasn’t coming home again, but he still comes over to us and cries.  He got up in my hubby’s face and looked into his eyes, then came over to me and did the same. He then gave us both head bumps and went off to see if Jas was in his crate. He is very upset. I am making sure that he gets plenty of cuddles and reassurance, and maybe one day he will have another puppy to cuddle. Just not now. Sad kitty cuddles, Patti

Purrs for your loss and for all your hearts to heal — Elise (supervised by Gossamer & Jeeves)

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that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.  We have cuddled him and told him that Jas wasn’t coming home again, but he still comes over to us and cries.  He got up in my hubby’s face and looked into his eyes, then came over to me and did the same. He then gave us both head bumps and went off to see if Jas was in his crate. He is very upset. I am making sure that he gets plenty of cuddles and reassurance, and maybe one day he will have another puppy to cuddle. Just not now. Sad kitty cuddles, Patti

Poor Bear, lots of comforting purrs. I will light a candle for Jasper. — Adrian (Owned by Snoopy & Bagheera) A house is not a home, without a cat.

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that his best friend is no more? We had to put our elderly boston terrier, Jasper to sleep today, and his kitty Bear is looking for him.  We have cuddled him and told him that Jas wasn’t coming home again, but he still comes over to us and cries.  He got up in my hubby’s face and looked into his eyes, then came over to me and did the same. He then gave us both head bumps and went off to see if Jas was in his crate. He is very upset. I am making sure that he gets plenty of cuddles and reassurance, and maybe one day he will have another puppy to cuddle. Just not now.

Poor Jasper and Bear.

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Posted in Renal Failure | No Comments » |

Kianna Karnes/FDA

Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Rob Duncan wrote: > "Michael" <muirh…@haidagwaii.net> wrote in message > news:MLednSgOyNrUONTfRVn-og@qcislands.net… >> Cowboy wrote: >>> The solution should be non-controversial. We’re not talking about >>> potential Vioxxes that will be widely used by generally healthy >>> people. We’re talking about treatments for dying patients. So let’s >>> have legislation mandating that the FDA grant access to these drugs >>> as soon as they show anti-cancer activity. >> Ah, but that *is* controversial. >> Cannabis has shown good anti-brain-cancer activity… but that’s a >> medical benefit, which is something the US government has decreed >> cannabis does not have – in much the same way as (and using the same >> reasoning with which) the Church of Rome declared that the earth did >> not orbit the sun. Way better to leave sick people to die in agony >> despite the >> possibility of effective treatment than for government to admit that >> it’s been completely full of shit for nearly 70 years. > Where is the US governments decree that Cannabis doesnt have any > medical benefit?  They clearly wanted to make it legal for Marinol to > be sold,

That isn’t the case, nor was it necessary to legalize anything to do with the plant, because marinol is a fully lab-synthesized chemical, not a plant extract. > not to mention the most effective emergancy brain damage > medication in the world, used for traumatic brain injurty, is made of > marijauna and is in EVERY emergancy room in the entire nation.  So, > Im unsure of your point. Our government clearly wanted those > marijauna medications made available. Not to mention the millions who > are on it whos States allow it. > Where is this decree?  Just curious.

Do you mean where besides in US federal law and the Act of Congress that put it there? On Monday, May 14, 2003, the United States Supreme Court dealt a blow to organizations that grow or distribute medical marijuana to sick people, holding that such organizations may not raise a medical-necessity defense to charges of violating the federal prohibition on marijuana. According to the Court, by placing marijuana in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act–the schedule that is the most restrictive possible–Congress determined that marijuana has "no currently accepted medical use." The only exception to the strict prohibition on growing or distributing marijuana, said the court, is for government-approved research projects. Writing for the majority, Justice Clarence Thomas stated that by expressly determining that marijuana has no accepted medical use, Congress foreclosed a medical-necessity defense by an organization that grows or distributes marijuana to sick people: "It is clear from the text of the [Controlled Substances] Act that Congress has made a determination that marijuana has no medical benefits worthy of an exception. The statute expressly contemplates that many drugs ‘have a useful and legitimate medical purpose and are necessary to maintain the health and general welfare of the American people,’ but it includes no exception at all for any medical use of marijuana. Unwilling to view this omission as an accident, and unable in any event to override a legislative determination manifest in a statute, we reject the [Oakland Cannabis Buyers'] Cooperative [medical-necessity] argument." (Opinion, p. 9.) Also… The Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences was commissioned by Barry McCaffrey, former Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, to study this issue. Their 267 page report concluded in 1999 that there are a variety of medical benefits from marijuana and its compounds. They noted the problems with smoking marijuana and the problems of using a crude plant as the source for the medicines. They also noted that marijuana use, per se, is NOT a gateway to other illegal drug use. They recommended more research, but concluded that persons with life threatening illnesses who did not respond to conventional medications be permitted to smoke marijuana. Disregarding the report it commissioned, the US Federal government continues to insist that marijuana has no medical value. The Federal government has resisted legal petitions to reschedule marijuana to permit its use in medicine, and repeated its arguments in numerous court cases. It opposes the use of marijuana in medicine on its websites, in case you’ve never seen those. http://www.usdoj.gov/dea/ongoing/marinol.html http://www.nida.nih.gov/MarijBroch/Marijteenstxt.html#Medicine

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Cowboy wrote: > The solution should be non-controversial. We’re not talking about > potential Vioxxes that will be widely used by generally healthy > people. We’re talking about treatments for dying patients. So let’s > have legislation mandating that the FDA grant access to these drugs > as soon as they show anti-cancer activity.

Ah, but that *is* controversial. Cannabis has shown good anti-brain-cancer activity… but that’s a medical benefit, which is something the US government has decreed cannabis does not have – in much the same way as (and using the same reasoning with which) the Church of Rome declared that the earth did not orbit the sun. Way better to leave sick people to die in agony despite the possibility of effective treatment than for government to admit that it’s been completely full of shit for nearly 70 years.

Response:

"Michael" <muirh…@haidagwaii.net> wrote in message

news:MLednSgOyNrUONTfRVn-og@qcislands.net… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Cowboy wrote: >> The solution should be non-controversial. We’re not talking about >> potential Vioxxes that will be widely used by generally healthy >> people. We’re talking about treatments for dying patients. So let’s >> have legislation mandating that the FDA grant access to these drugs >> as soon as they show anti-cancer activity. > Ah, but that *is* controversial. > Cannabis has shown good anti-brain-cancer activity… but that’s a medical > benefit, which is something the US government has decreed cannabis does > not have – in much the same way as (and using the same reasoning with > which) the Church of Rome declared that the earth did not orbit the sun. > Way better to leave sick people to die in agony despite the possibility of > effective treatment than for government to admit that it’s been completely > full of shit for nearly 70 years.

Where is the US governments decree that Cannabis doesnt have any medical benefit?  They clearly wanted to make it legal for Marinol to be sold, not to mention the most effective emergancy brain damage medication in the world, used for traumatic brain injurty, is made of marijauna and is in EVERY emergancy room in the entire nation.  So, Im unsure of your point. Our government clearly wanted those marijauna medications made available. Not to mention the millions who are on it whos States allow it. Where is this decree?  Just curious. Rob

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How About a ‘Kianna’s Law’? March 24, 2005; Page A14 Of all the opinions being expressed about the Terri Schiavo case, the hardest to understand is cynicism about the politics of Congressional intervention. Only phony "federalists" question Washington’s competence on matters of fundamental rights. And whether you side with Mrs. Schiavo’s parents or husband, it is hard not to be impressed by the spectacle of the nation’s highest legislative body convening over the fate of a single person. No, if our solons have exposed themselves to criticism by taking up the Schiavo case, it should be focused not on their motives but on their inconsistency and lack of proportion. To wit: If Terri Schiavo deserves emergency federal intervention to save her life, people like Kianna Karnes deserve it even more. [Kianna Karnes] The 44-year-old Mrs. Karnes — mother of four and grandmother of one — is not brain-damaged. And the possibility (albeit remote, at this point) exists that she could return to a fully normal life. But she will almost certainly die in the near future as long as the federal government continues to deny her treatment for the kidney cancer that has by now spread throughout her body. What makes Mrs. Karnes’s predicament so depressing is that two different developmental drugs have shown great promise for several years now against this once near-untreatable disease. But not only has the Food and Drug Administration not moved with dispatch to approve the drugs, it has begun imposing new testing requirements that make it all but impossible for their developers — Bayer and Pfizer — to provide them to terminal patients on a "compassionate use" basis. The problem here is the FDA’s unethical — and let us stress, unscientific — insistence on gathering information about drugs by way of "blinded" placebo-controlled trials, in which a subset of study patients are knowingly denied the new treatment and in some cases denied access to any active treatment at all. This may be moral with an antihistamine; it’s certainly not with treatments for a terminal disease. What’s more, it’s entirely unnecessary. We already know what happens to most cancer patients who don’t get treated. They die. We generally know, on average, how long that will take. So placebo groups are entirely unnecessary to prove significant anti-cancer activity, as the yet-unnamed Bayer (BAY 43-9006) and Pfizer (SU 11248) compounds have already done. Yet the FDA is mandating an unethical placebo trial for the Bayer drug. (The Pfizer drug is at least being tested against another form of care, albeit one that’s already all but certain not to work as well.) A deadly follow-on effect of the placebo fetish is that it gives companies a disincentive to run compassionate use programs for unapproved drugs. That’s because companies won’t be able to satisfy FDA demands to enroll patients in placebo trials if patients know they can get the drug for sure (instead of running the risk of getting a sugar pill) through compassionate use. Hence Mrs. Karnes’s deadly predicament. "If the only alternative is death, then for God’s sake let ‘em have the drug," says Mrs. Karnes’s father, John Rowe, who himself survived leukemia only by getting himself into a clinical trial where he could get another investigational therapy (Gleevec, since approved). Who could disagree? Well, a few bureaucratic MDs at the FDA do. More specifically, one Richard Pazdur. He is the current head of cancer drugs evaluation at the FDA, and is unfortunately a leading candidate for a new position that would give him the power to thwart the would-be revolution in biotech cancer treatments as well. Late last year we reported how Dr. Pazdur had undermined — in fact, totally reversed — the meaning of guidelines issued by former Commissioner Mark McClellan intended to speed up drug reviews. His latest attack on the concept of accelerated approval has him demanding that companies enroll patients in placebo-controlled "Phase 3" trials before submitting applications for very promising drugs that should be eligible based on smaller "Phase 2" studies. A few years back, Dr. Pazdur was the agency’s public face in explaining the rejection of Erbitux. That drug has since been approved and become a clinical hit. So has Eloxatin, which the FDA held up for years even after it was approved in Europe but has since become standard care for colon cancer here too. In almost all recent cases of FDA dawdling, the drugs are proving to be far more beneficial in practice than even the supposed "gold-standard" of placebo trials would have ever suggested. So could someone explain, again, what the benefit is of doing such trials? We’re not suggesting Dr. Pazdur is some kind of ogre. But he seems to be more worried about letting drug companies get away with a so-called "race to the bottom" on trial design than he is with getting good drugs to patients. And it’s obvious that he can’t (or won’t) be educated in modern scientific and statistical methods that would allow drugs to be released sooner. We’ve never understood why the Republican majority in Washington hasn’t been more active on drug-approvals over the past four years. What better way to demonstrate compassionate conservatism and commitment to a "culture of life"? Or to unite the free-market wing of the GOP with the social conservative one? Finally, what better riposte to the left’s equation of support for embryonic stem cell research with support for medical progress? The solution should be non-controversial. We’re not talking about potential Vioxxes that will be widely used by generally healthy people. We’re talking about treatments for dying patients. So let’s have legislation mandating that the FDA grant access to these drugs as soon as they show anti-cancer activity. Instead of restricted-access placebo trials, drug researchers could be using large, open access trials in which everyone who wants the new drug can get it. They could then take advantage of advanced statistical methods to figure out whether the drug is working. Wall Street traders use these kinds of math tools all the time, and so do economists. So-called Bayesian statistics are already used in medical device regulation, where even the FDA recognizes that randomizing people into sham surgeries is simply beyond the pale. Well, what about cancer and other terminal patients? They are now dying needlessly in placebo-controlled trials. And would-be patients like Kianna Karnes are dying outside of them because they make "compassionate use" all but impossible. Won’t Congress do something?         URL for this article: http://online.wsj.com/article/0,,SB111163190273988429,00.html Kianna’s Legacy March 29, 2005; Page A14 We regret to report that Kianna Karnes, featured in last Thursday’s editorial on the Food and Drug Administration’s fetish for the placebo-controlled testing of cancer drugs — "How About a ‘Kianna’s Law’1?" — died Friday night of complications from kidney cancer. She was 44. While it came too late to save Mrs. Karnes, our reporting of her plight certainly generated a lot of attention. Bayer and Pfizer — developers of two investigational drugs showing much promise for this particularly deadly cancer — both contacted her doctor almost immediately to discuss the appropriateness of providing the compounds. Mrs. Karnes’s family was also contacted by the FDA and told that the agency stood ready to approve such treatment on an emergency basis. All encouraging steps. But isn’t it a national scandal that cancer sufferers should have to be written about in The Wall Street Journal to be offered legal access to emerging therapies once they’ve run out of other options? The FDA’s oncology division has proven to be essentially incorrigible on this point in recent years, so it’s time for Congressional action mandating that the agency use 21st-century science and statistical methods to get these therapies to patients sooner. More specifically, drug approvals could be based on large trials open to all comers and analyzed with so-called Bayesian statistics, as already happens in the FDA’s medical device division. (Yes, the agency at least recognizes that studies involving, say, "placebo" defibrillators would be beyond the pale.) Mrs. Karnes’s father John Rowe — himself a leukemia survivor — plans intense Congressional lobbying in the coming weeks, and he’s had some interest from Congressman Dan Burton’s (R., Indiana) office in the possibility of sponsoring a "Kianna’s Law." No doubt there will be others willing to sign on. We’ll keep you posted. Meanwhile, we’d suggest that cancer patients looking for a constructive way to make their voices heard — and those looking to educate themselves on the issue — contact the Abigail Alliance for Better Access to Developmental Drugs at www.abigail-alliance.org2.         URL for this article: http://online.wsj.com/article/0,,SB111205740262191466,00.html

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Posted in Kidney Cancer | No Comments » |

Report: Obesity will reverse life expectancy gains

Question:

CHICAGO, Illinois (AP) — U.S. life expectancy will fall dramatically in coming years because of obesity, a startling shift in a long-running trend toward longer lives, researchers contend in a report published Thursday. By their calculations — disputed by skeptics as shaky and overly dire — within 50 years obesity likely will shorten the average life span of 77.6 years by at least two to five years. That’s more than the impact of cancer or heart disease, said lead author S. Jay Olshansky, a longevity researcher at the University of Illinois at Chicago. This would reverse the mostly steady increase in American life expectancy that has occurred in the past two centuries and would have tremendous social and economic consequences that could even inadvertently help "save" Social Security, Olshansky and colleagues contend. "We think today’s younger generation will have shorter and less healthy lives than their parents for the first time in modern history unless we intervene," Olshansky said. Already, the alarming rise in childhood obesity is fueling a new trend that has shaved four to nine months off the average U.S. life span, the researchers say. With obesity affecting at least 15 percent of U.S. school-age children, "it’s not pie in the sky," Olshansky said. "The children who are extremely obese are already here." The report appears in the New England Journal of Medicine. In an accompanying editorial, University of Pennsylvania demography expert Samuel H. Preston calls the projections "excessively gloomy." Opposing forecasts, projecting a continued increase in U.S. longevity, assume that obesity will continue to worsen, but also account for medical advances, Preston said. Still, failure to curb obesity "could impede the improvements in longevity that are otherwise in store," he said. Americans’ current life expectancy already trails more than 20 other developed countries. Dr. David Ludwig of Children’s Hospital Boston, a study co-author, cited sobering obesity statistics: Two-thirds of U.S. adults are overweight or obese; one-third of adults qualify as obese. Up to 30 percent of U.S. children are overweight, and childhood obesity has more than doubled in the past 25 years. Childhood diabetes has increased 10-fold in the past 20 years. "It’s one thing for an adult of 45 or 55 to develop type 2 diabetes and then experience the life-threatening complications of that — kidney failure, heart attack, stroke — in their late 50s or 60s. But for a 4-year-old or 6-year-old who’s obese to develop Type 2 diabetes at 14 or 16" raises the possibility of devastating complications before reaching age 30, Ludwig said. "It’s really a staggering prospect." While national attention is starting to focus on contributors to obesity, including the prevalence of fast-food, soft drinks in schools and cuts in physical education classes, "what we presently lack is a clear, comprehensive national vision for addressing the obesity epidemic," Ludwig said. The calculations are a stark contrast with Social Security Administration forecasts for slow improvement in life expectancy, and with projections publicized in 2002 that said the maximum human life span will reach 100 in about six decades. In an interview, Olshansky said he hoped the new research would play a role in the current discussion about overhauling Social Security. Critic calls report ‘very one-sided’ James Vaupel, director of the Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research in Rostock, Germany, and a research scientist at Duke University, co-authored the 2002 forecast, based on data from developed nations including the United States. Vaupel called the new report "very one-sided" and said he doubts that obesity will negate the effects of other medical progress in improving mortality. Emory University health policy expert Dr. Kenneth Thorpe said that while obesity is clearly damaging public health and driving up health care spending, rising rates aren’t enough to resolve Social Security’s woes. "That’s too simplistic," he said. Other life expectancy forecasts rely on past mortality trends; the Olshansky group used obesity prevalence data and previously published estimates of years of life lost from obesity. They calculated in reverse, assessing the fall in death rates that would occur if all obese Americans had a normal weight. Their estimate shows that, if not for obesity, life expectancy at birth should be four to nine months higher than the record 77.6 years announced by the government last month. That slight gain translates into a loss that will worsen if current trends continue, the researchers said. Richard Suzman, a researcher at the National Institute on Aging, which helped fund the study, said the projections are "possible, but I would say unlikely." He said the best approach is to estimate life expectancy using historical trends. The Center for Consumer Freedom, an advocacy group for the restaurant and food industry, which argues the obesity problem has been exaggerated, said the paper should be discredited because co-author David Allison has done consulting for makers of weight-loss products. Allison, a biostatistician at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, noted that the journal mentions his financial ties. While the study methods are partly based on assumptions, they are also sound, Allison said. Obesity researcher Dr. JoAnn Manson said she agrees with the paper’s message, if not the methods. "The calculations that were made may not be perfect," but the emphasis on obesity’s dangers "should serve as a wake-up call for policy makers and the public health community," said Manson, chief of preventive medicine at Harvard’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital. U.S. Sen. Tom Harkin said Wednesday that the report supports his efforts to have government regulation of junk food marketing to children. If the dim life expectancy forecast doesn’t demonstrate a need for action, "I don’t know what will," the Iowa Democrat said.

Response:

I don’t know why there is such a kerfuffle over this one

Basically because they overstated the case. – the paper was full of related hot debates this morning occasioned by this research.

The controversy wasnt about the research, it was about the wild prediction made, that we would see life national expectancys drop. THAT hasnt actually been seen in a single modern first world country. We all know that being obese will shorten our lives. Its no different than being a smoker – it’s self imposed, it’s hard to kick but no one can do it but us, and it results in all kinds of health complications that can make us miserable or kill us.

Yes, but its quite a separate matter whether that will actually see a drop in the NATIONAL LIFE EXPECTANCY STATS. Its more likely it will just see a drop in the rate of increase instead. Why would we be surprised that on the aggregate level a lot of us getting fatter (which we already knew) means a shorter average lifespan?

Because average lifespans have kept increasing as well for other reasons. I think we think modern medicine will somehow save us from ourselves, so we don’t have to take responsibility for our own health… like, I’ll just lie around like a sloth for 60 years eating cheetos and then expect the doctor to be able to reverse the damage of all those years of neglect and abuse so I can live to be 90.

Its much more complicated than that. And some essentially if unconsciously decide that they’d rather have 60 years as a glutton rather than 90 years of eating lettuce. I dont actually know what I would do if I was told that I had to stop eating the stuff I like to eat, to potentially get a few more years of ‘life’. I’d likely tell them to get stuffed if that involved eating say just lettuce etc. In fact I know I could get a longer life by starving myself and I choose not to do that. And I am right in the middle of the ideal BMI.

Response:

I don’t know why there is such a kerfuffle over this one – the paper was full of related hot debates this morning occasioned by this research. We all know that being obese will shorten our lives. Its no different than being a smoker – it’s self imposed, it’s hard to kick but no one can do it but us, and it results in all kinds of health complications that can make us miserable or kill us. Why would we be surprised that on the aggregate level a lot of us getting fatter (which we already knew) means a shorter average lifespan? I think we think modern medicine will somehow save us from ourselves, so we don’t have to take responsibility for our own health…like, I’ll just lie around like a sloth for 60 years eating cheetos and then expect the doctor to be able to reverse the damage of all those years of neglect and abuse so I can live to be 90.   Mary G.

Response:

Posted in Kidney Failure | No Comments » |

Report: Obesity will reverse life expectancy gains

Question:

CHICAGO, Illinois (AP) — U.S. life expectancy will fall dramatically in coming years because of obesity, a startling shift in a long-running trend toward longer lives, researchers contend in a report published Thursday. By their calculations — disputed by skeptics as shaky and overly dire — within 50 years obesity likely will shorten the average life span of 77.6 years by at least two to five years. That’s more than the impact of cancer or heart disease, said lead author S. Jay Olshansky, a longevity researcher at the University of Illinois at Chicago. This would reverse the mostly steady increase in American life expectancy that has occurred in the past two centuries and would have tremendous social and economic consequences that could even inadvertently help "save" Social Security, Olshansky and colleagues contend. "We think today’s younger generation will have shorter and less healthy lives than their parents for the first time in modern history unless we intervene," Olshansky said. Already, the alarming rise in childhood obesity is fueling a new trend that has shaved four to nine months off the average U.S. life span, the researchers say. With obesity affecting at least 15 percent of U.S. school-age children, "it’s not pie in the sky," Olshansky said. "The children who are extremely obese are already here." The report appears in the New England Journal of Medicine. In an accompanying editorial, University of Pennsylvania demography expert Samuel H. Preston calls the projections "excessively gloomy." Opposing forecasts, projecting a continued increase in U.S. longevity, assume that obesity will continue to worsen, but also account for medical advances, Preston said. Still, failure to curb obesity "could impede the improvements in longevity that are otherwise in store," he said. Americans’ current life expectancy already trails more than 20 other developed countries. Dr. David Ludwig of Children’s Hospital Boston, a study co-author, cited sobering obesity statistics: Two-thirds of U.S. adults are overweight or obese; one-third of adults qualify as obese. Up to 30 percent of U.S. children are overweight, and childhood obesity has more than doubled in the past 25 years. Childhood diabetes has increased 10-fold in the past 20 years. "It’s one thing for an adult of 45 or 55 to develop type 2 diabetes and then experience the life-threatening complications of that — kidney failure, heart attack, stroke — in their late 50s or 60s. But for a 4-year-old or 6-year-old who’s obese to develop Type 2 diabetes at 14 or 16" raises the possibility of devastating complications before reaching age 30, Ludwig said. "It’s really a staggering prospect." While national attention is starting to focus on contributors to obesity, including the prevalence of fast-food, soft drinks in schools and cuts in physical education classes, "what we presently lack is a clear, comprehensive national vision for addressing the obesity epidemic," Ludwig said. The calculations are a stark contrast with Social Security Administration forecasts for slow improvement in life expectancy, and with projections publicized in 2002 that said the maximum human life span will reach 100 in about six decades. In an interview, Olshansky said he hoped the new research would play a role in the current discussion about overhauling Social Security. Critic calls report ‘very one-sided’ James Vaupel, director of the Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research in Rostock, Germany, and a research scientist at Duke University, co-authored the 2002 forecast, based on data from developed nations including the United States. Vaupel called the new report "very one-sided" and said he doubts that obesity will negate the effects of other medical progress in improving mortality. Emory University health policy expert Dr. Kenneth Thorpe said that while obesity is clearly damaging public health and driving up health care spending, rising rates aren’t enough to resolve Social Security’s woes. "That’s too simplistic," he said. Other life expectancy forecasts rely on past mortality trends; the Olshansky group used obesity prevalence data and previously published estimates of years of life lost from obesity. They calculated in reverse, assessing the fall in death rates that would occur if all obese Americans had a normal weight. Their estimate shows that, if not for obesity, life expectancy at birth should be four to nine months higher than the record 77.6 years announced by the government last month. That slight gain translates into a loss that will worsen if current trends continue, the researchers said. Richard Suzman, a researcher at the National Institute on Aging, which helped fund the study, said the projections are "possible, but I would say unlikely." He said the best approach is to estimate life expectancy using historical trends. The Center for Consumer Freedom, an advocacy group for the restaurant and food industry, which argues the obesity problem has been exaggerated, said the paper should be discredited because co-author David Allison has done consulting for makers of weight-loss products. Allison, a biostatistician at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, noted that the journal mentions his financial ties. While the study methods are partly based on assumptions, they are also sound, Allison said. Obesity researcher Dr. JoAnn Manson said she agrees with the paper’s message, if not the methods. "The calculations that were made may not be perfect," but the emphasis on obesity’s dangers "should serve as a wake-up call for policy makers and the public health community," said Manson, chief of preventive medicine at Harvard’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital. U.S. Sen. Tom Harkin said Wednesday that the report supports his efforts to have government regulation of junk food marketing to children. If the dim life expectancy forecast doesn’t demonstrate a need for action, "I don’t know what will," the Iowa Democrat said.

Response:

I don’t know why there is such a kerfuffle over this one – the paper was full of related hot debates this morning occasioned by this research. We all know that being obese will shorten our lives. Its no different than being a smoker – it’s self imposed, it’s hard to kick but no one can do it but us, and it results in all kinds of health complications that can make us miserable or kill us. Why would we be surprised that on the aggregate level a lot of us getting fatter (which we already knew) means a shorter average lifespan? I think we think modern medicine will somehow save us from ourselves, so we don’t have to take responsibility for our own health…like, I’ll just lie around like a sloth for 60 years eating cheetos and then expect the doctor to be able to reverse the damage of all those years of neglect and abuse so I can live to be 90.   Mary G.

Response:

I don’t know why there is such a kerfuffle over this one

Basically because they overstated the case. – the paper was full of related hot debates this morning occasioned by this research.

The controversy wasnt about the research, it was about the wild prediction made, that we would see life national expectancys drop. THAT hasnt actually been seen in a single modern first world country. We all know that being obese will shorten our lives. Its no different than being a smoker – it’s self imposed, it’s hard to kick but no one can do it but us, and it results in all kinds of health complications that can make us miserable or kill us.

Yes, but its quite a separate matter whether that will actually see a drop in the NATIONAL LIFE EXPECTANCY STATS. Its more likely it will just see a drop in the rate of increase instead. Why would we be surprised that on the aggregate level a lot of us getting fatter (which we already knew) means a shorter average lifespan?

Because average lifespans have kept increasing as well for other reasons. I think we think modern medicine will somehow save us from ourselves, so we don’t have to take responsibility for our own health… like, I’ll just lie around like a sloth for 60 years eating cheetos and then expect the doctor to be able to reverse the damage of all those years of neglect and abuse so I can live to be 90.

Its much more complicated than that. And some essentially if unconsciously decide that they’d rather have 60 years as a glutton rather than 90 years of eating lettuce. I dont actually know what I would do if I was told that I had to stop eating the stuff I like to eat, to potentially get a few more years of ‘life’. I’d likely tell them to get stuffed if that involved eating say just lettuce etc. In fact I know I could get a longer life by starving myself and I choose not to do that. And I am right in the middle of the ideal BMI.

Response:

Posted in Kidney Failure | No Comments » |

Anyone here with PKD?

Question:

Hi Just wondering if anyone else here might have PKD and how you are dealing with it, symptoms etc… I was diagnosed a few years ago, but nothing has really changed in my life thus far…I don’t want it too but I’m wondering when I can expect things to get more apparent. Thanks for your help!

Response:

Hi Brian,  PKD affects over 600,000 people in the US so we are not alone.  I inherited it from my father, and unfortunately gave it to my son and daughter.  My son’s PKD is more agressive and his creatinine is up to 5.0 which means that he is looking at dialysis within a year or so.  My daughter was just diagnosed. Basically, what you have to do first of all is to keep your blood pressure down, limit your intake of protein, (steaks, eggs, chicken, pork, all meats).  Everyone is different and the progression differs in each case.  You can get a wealth of information on the following sites: Kidney school.org, PKD foundation.org As for me, I am 68 years old and my progression has been very slow so like I said, every one is different.  Also it would be a good idea to see a nephrologist who deals with kidney disease and can get you on a good regimen of diet, and blood testing etc. Hope this has been helpful, Good luck,  A. Torrisi Have a great day!!

Response:

thanks charles! i was diagnosed a few years ago…i go to the nephrologist every six months…but nothing has really changed for me…i guess i’m just waiting for the shoe to drop…i’ve had this now for over 9 years and besides high bp…nothing else has happened yet… i happy how things are…but just wondering what the proression is like…maybe i’m fortunate for a slow advance thx again b – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Charles Torrisi wrote: > Hi Brian,  PKD affects over 600,000 people in the US so we are not > alone.  I inherited it from my father, and unfortunately gave it to my > son and daughter.  My son’s PKD is more agressive and his creatinine is > up to 5.0 which means that he is looking at dialysis within a year or > so.  My daughter was just diagnosed. Basically, what you have to do > first of all is to keep your blood pressure down, limit your intake of > protein, (steaks, eggs, chicken, pork, all meats).  Everyone is > different and the progression differs in each case.  You can get a > wealth of information on the following sites: > Kidney school.org, PKD foundation.org > As for me, I am 68 years old and my progression has been very slow so > like I said, every one is different.  Also it would be a good idea to > see a nephrologist who deals with kidney disease and can get you on a > good regimen of diet, and blood testing etc. > Hope this has been helpful, > Good luck,  A. Torrisi > Have a great day!!

Response:

Posted in Kidney Disease Diet | No Comments » |

Sesame is doing better!

Question:

So glad to hear Sesame is better. And I totally agree with you that we should try to do what we can for our kitties if they are not feeling well. Hugs and purrs, — Polonca & Soncek

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thank you all so much for your good wishes, I feel relieved knowing so many people who understand how worrying things like this can be. Sesame has an overactive thyroid and is in the early stages of kidney failure. Not surprising considering her age. We have some meds for the thyroid and some food to ease the kidneys. She will go for another blood test in ten days to see how things are going. In the meantime we are to keep a close eye on her and make sure shes eating OK. I ‘m so relieved. The vet last night did a feline leukemia test which was very expensive as well as the blood test and consult… ouch. Never mind, I love this kitty and she is definately worth it. Feeling a bit peeved at one lady at work who started waffling on about her cats (she loves them I know.. but). Telling me if the cat goes away to hide sometimes that is their way and we should leave them be. I understand that.. but if there is simple treatment that maintain her good quality of life I am going to try that. Kathryn (relieved) and Sesame (sulking after her tablet, but liking the new food)

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thank you all so much for your good wishes, I feel relieved knowing so many people who understand how worrying things like this can be. Sesame has an overactive thyroid and is in the early stages of kidney failure. Not surprising considering her age. We have some meds for the thyroid and some food to ease the kidneys. She will go for another blood test in ten days to see how things are going. In the meantime we are to keep a close eye on her and make sure shes eating OK. I ‘m so relieved. The vet last night did a feline leukemia test which was very expensive as well as the blood test and consult… ouch. Never mind, I love this kitty and she is definately worth it. Feeling a bit peeved at one lady at work who started waffling on about her cats (she loves them I know.. but). Telling me if the cat goes away to hide sometimes that is their way and we should leave them be. I understand that.. but if there is simple treatment that maintain her good quality of life I am going to try that. Kathryn (relieved) and Sesame (sulking after her tablet, but liking the new food)

Hooray, I’m glad to hear Sesame is doing better, Kathryn! I hope she continues to improve. Melissa – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thank you all so much for your good wishes, I feel relieved knowing so many people who understand how worrying things like this can be. Sesame has an overactive thyroid and is in the early stages of kidney failure. Not surprising considering her age. We have some meds for the thyroid and some food to ease the kidneys. She will go for another blood test in ten days to see how things are going. In the meantime we are to keep a close eye on her and make sure shes eating OK. I ‘m so relieved. The vet last night did a feline leukemia test which was very expensive as well as the blood test and consult… ouch. Never mind, I love this kitty and she is definately worth it. Feeling a bit peeved at one lady at work who started waffling on about her cats (she loves them I know.. but). Telling me if the cat goes away to hide sometimes that is their way and we should leave them be. I understand that.. but if there is simple treatment that maintain her good quality of life I am going to try that. Kathryn (relieved) and Sesame (sulking after her tablet, but liking the new food)

Great news, Kathryn.  Purrs continuing for speedy improvement. Sam, closely supervised by Mistletoe

Response:

Thank you all so much for your good wishes, I feel relieved knowing so many people who understand how worrying things like this can be. I thought I sent you purrs, but seem to have forgotten (that happens too often nowadays), so sending happy purrs that Sesame is feeling better. Frank and Nikki know exactly how she feels, since they both have hyperthyroidism, too. I’ve made medication time = treat time for them by crushing their pills and mixing them into a little sour cream. Frank loves his little sourcream treat twice a day, but Nikki is a bit difficult sometimes. If she won’t eat the sourcream, I crush another pill, mix it with water and squirt it down her throat, and then she gets a treat afterwards to ‘take away the taste’. ;o) Good luck with treating Sesame.

Thanks for this info, I might try the sour cream. She’s on some very safe antibiotics for a gunky eye which she doesn’t notice in the food, but she seems to find the thyroid pill. Tried a different food tonight which she is VERY enthusiastic about, and didn’t notice the pill in that one. I’m a little surprised that you’re supposed to take Sesame back for tests so soon. Or are they testing her kidney values? The thyroid values take a very long time to change. My vet tested the cats once a month until we got the dosage right.

The vet had originally said two weeks but wanted to do it a bit sooner to be safe. I’m a little confused now about which levels will be tested! The thyroid pills he said they normally start at one pill twice a day but we’re starting on half because of her age. I think the test is to make sure that is having a good effect.. although if it takes a long time for them to change maybe he’s testing her kidneys. I might give them a ring and double check tomorrow, I also want to ask about what other human foods (as well as sour cream) are OK to hide her pills in. I’m also wondering if the lactose free cat milk you buy is OK? purrs Kathryn and Sesame

Response:

The vet had originally said two weeks but wanted to do it a bit sooner to be safe. I’m a little confused now about which levels will be tested! The thyroid pills he said they normally start at one pill twice a day but we’re starting on half because of her age. I think the test is to make sure that is having a good effect.. although if it takes a long time for them to change maybe he’s testing her kidneys. I might give them a ring and double check tomorrow, I also want to ask about what other human foods (as well as sour cream) are OK to hide her pills in. I’m also wondering if the lactose free cat milk you buy is OK?

Oh, I forgot to mention I use lactose-free sour cream. Some cats can’t eat normal dairy products. I haven’t noticed a problem with mine, but I use the lactose-free stuff just to be on the safe side. I haven’t tried cat milk. Sometimes, just for a change, I mix the pills in some tuna, but you shouldn’t give cats people tuna very often. Sardines are also very popular here as a change, but they’re probably too salty to give very often. — Marina, Frank and Nikki marina (dot) kurten (at) pp (dot) inet (dot) fi Pics at http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/frankiennikki/ and http://community.webshots.com/user/frankiennikki

Response:

Good to know at last what you’re dealing with.  Many continued purrs for Sesame and may she feel better with her meds! Christine

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thank you all so much for your good wishes, I feel relieved knowing so many people who understand how worrying things like this can be. Sesame has an overactive thyroid and is in the early stages of kidney failure. Not surprising considering her age. We have some meds for the thyroid and some food to ease the kidneys. She will go for another blood test in ten days to see how things are going. In the meantime we are to keep a close eye on her and make sure shes eating OK. I ‘m so relieved. The vet last night did a feline leukemia test which was very expensive as well as the blood test and consult… ouch. Never mind, I love this kitty and she is definately worth it. Feeling a bit peeved at one lady at work who started waffling on about her cats (she loves them I know.. but). Telling me if the cat goes away to hide sometimes that is their way and we should leave them be. I understand that.. but if there is simple treatment that maintain her good quality of life I am going to try that. Kathryn (relieved) and Sesame (sulking after her tablet, but liking the new food)

Response:

Thank you all so much for your good wishes, I feel relieved knowing so many people who understand how worrying things like this can be. Sesame has an overactive thyroid and is in the early stages of kidney failure. Not surprising considering her age. We have some meds for the thyroid and some food to ease the kidneys. She will go for another blood test in ten days to see how things are going. In the meantime we are to keep a close eye on her and make sure shes eating OK. I ‘m so relieved. (snippage) Kathryn (relieved) and Sesame (sulking after her tablet, but liking the new food)

This is very good news and I’m glad she likes the food, too.  That can be touch and go sometimes. Jill

Response:

That’s great that she likes the new food! and is feeling better.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thank you all so much for your good wishes, I feel relieved knowing so many people who understand how worrying things like this can be. Sesame has an overactive thyroid and is in the early stages of kidney failure. Not surprising considering her age. We have some meds for the thyroid and some food to ease the kidneys. She will go for another blood test in ten days to see how things are going. In the meantime we are to keep a close eye on her and make sure shes eating OK. I ‘m so relieved. The vet last night did a feline leukemia test which was very expensive as well as the blood test and consult… ouch. Never mind, I love this kitty and she is definately worth it. Feeling a bit peeved at one lady at work who started waffling on about her cats (she loves them I know.. but). Telling me if the cat goes away to hide sometimes that is their way and we should leave them be. I understand that.. but if there is simple treatment that maintain her good quality of life I am going to try that. Kathryn (relieved) and Sesame (sulking after her tablet, but liking the new food)

Response:

Feeling a bit peeved at one lady at work who started waffling on about her cats (she loves them I know.. but). Telling me if the cat goes away to hide sometimes that is their way and we should leave them be.

I don’t agree with that completely because when my Gnarly began hiding more often than usual, she was sick. I’m glad I dragged her out and got her to the vet. I understand that.. but if there is simple treatment that maintain her good quality of life I am going to try that. Kathryn (relieved) and Sesame (sulking after her tablet, but liking the new food)

I’m with you. "Nature" and its course are not so glorious much of the time. I want to keep my kitties happy and healthy as long as I can.

Response:

Sesame has an overactive thyroid and is in the early stages of kidney failure. Not surprising considering her age. We have some meds for the thyroid and some food to ease the kidneys. She will go for another blood test in ten days to see how things are going. In the meantime we are to keep a close eye on her and make sure shes eating OK. I ‘m so relieved. The vet last night did a feline leukemia test which was very expensive as well as the blood test and consult… ouch. Never mind, I love this kitty and she is definately worth it.

So glad to know that Sesame’s conditions can be treated and that she likes the food, if not the pills.  Purrs and wishes that she lives to delight you for a long long time. Pam, Rob, and the Fayetteville Five + Calvin, Sonya, and Speedy the d-thing

Response:

Thank you all so much for your good wishes, I feel relieved knowing so many people who understand how worrying things like this can be. Sesame has an overactive thyroid and is in the early stages of kidney failure. Not surprising considering her age. We have some meds for the thyroid and some food to ease the kidneys. She will go for another blood test in ten days to see how things are going. In the meantime we are to keep a close eye on her and make sure shes eating OK. I ‘m so relieved. The vet last night did a feline leukemia test which was very expensive as well as the blood test and consult… ouch. Never mind, I love this kitty and she is definately worth it. Feeling a bit peeved at one lady at work who started waffling on about her cats (she loves them I know.. but). Telling me if the cat goes away to hide sometimes that is their way and we should leave them be. I understand that.. but if there is simple treatment that maintain her good quality of life I am going to try that. Kathryn (relieved) and Sesame (sulking after her tablet, but liking the new food)

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thank you all so much for your good wishes, I feel relieved knowing so many people who understand how worrying things like this can be. Sesame has an overactive thyroid and is in the early stages of kidney failure. Not surprising considering her age. We have some meds for the thyroid and some food to ease the kidneys. She will go for another blood test in ten days to see how things are going. In the meantime we are to keep a close eye on her and make sure shes eating OK. I ‘m so relieved. The vet last night did a feline leukemia test which was very expensive as well as the blood test and consult… ouch. Never mind, I love this kitty and she is definately worth it. Feeling a bit peeved at one lady at work who started waffling on about her cats (she loves them I know.. but). Telling me if the cat goes away to hide sometimes that is their way and we should leave them be. I understand that.. but if there is simple treatment that maintain her good quality of life I am going to try that. Kathryn (relieved) and Sesame (sulking after her tablet, but liking the new food)

I’m so glad she’s doing better, Kathryn.  Keep us posted, will you? kili

Response:

Thank you all so much for your good wishes, I feel relieved knowing so many people who understand how worrying things like this can be.

I thought I sent you purrs, but seem to have forgotten (that happens too often nowadays), so sending happy purrs that Sesame is feeling better. Frank and Nikki know exactly how she feels, since they both have hyperthyroidism, too. I’ve made medication time = treat time for them by   crushing their pills and mixing them into a little sour cream. Frank loves his little sourcream treat twice a day, but Nikki is a bit difficult sometimes. If she won’t eat the sourcream, I crush another pill, mix it with water and squirt it down her throat, and then she gets a treat afterwards to ‘take away the taste’. ;o) Good luck with treating Sesame. I’m a little surprised that you’re supposed to take Sesame back for tests so soon. Or are they testing her kidney values? The thyroid values take a very long time to change. My vet tested the cats once a month until we got the dosage right. — Marina, Frank and Nikki marina (dot) kurten (at) pp (dot) inet (dot) fi Pics at http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/frankiennikki/ and http://community.webshots.com/user/frankiennikki

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