Precious Paisley the Problem Cat, Final Chapter

Paisley went to the vet yesterday for observation.

Sugar and I were concerned that her motor skills and behavior had changed.  She still continued to pee and poop in and out of the litter box, in spite of the high-powered antibiotic, which usually makes a dent in a urinary tract infection.

Her behavior was so erratic that I made two short youtube videos two evenings ago, which can be seen here and here.  She was clearly declining, but why?  The vet had no clear answers.

Paisley had presented with one basic issue:  inappropriate litterbox habits, which usually means not urinating in the box, but with Paisley the issue was bigger than that.  She would not consistently use the litterbox for either urination or defecation.  A secondary issue was a flea infestation, and I thought once the fleas were resolved, the litterbox issue would resolve.  A third issue was severe skin allergies to flea bites.  It seemed clear to me that the underlying cause of her issues were flea-related.

We did these things for Paisley:

• A flea bath (following the CapStar that was given at the shelter).
• A test for feline aids and feline leukemia, both negative.
• A rabies vaccination.
• An FVRCP vaccination.
• A leukemia vaccination.
• An AdvantageMulti flea, heartworm, and intestinal parasite monthly prevention.
• A Profender treatment to kill tapeworms (fleas are the intermediate host).
• A professional exam.
• A CBC (complete blood count).
• A GHP (general health profile blood test).
• Urinary health food.
• A urinalysis (showed an infection of unknown source).
• A pH test (normal).
• A round of Baytril, an antibiotic.

Also included was constant monitoring and cleaning-up-after, brushing, petting, and general running and fetching for the Paisley.  Her beds were soaked with urine and sometimes feces, even though she might have also used the litterbox. 

We could have opted for an x-ray, and then possible surgery if she had stones, or a possible ultrasound if stones were not apparent, but.  Her behavior seemed neurological, and she seemed miserable.  The veterinary professionals could offer no clear path, but rather one of trial and error. 

What if she had a brain tumor or neurological disorder?  We opted to let her go. 

Good night, sweet Paisley. 

 

Tags: cats