Topic: They're here!!! Introducing Chester & Beau (Read 191756 times)

Dawn F · « **Reply #678 on:** December 22, 2015, 08:40:12 AM »

glad your vet is so good and understanding

McKitties (Katie) · « **Reply #677 on:** December 22, 2015, 01:20:58 AM »

Whoa.......sooooooo exhausting for you and that roller coaster monkey. Seems like you and the vet have got it cracked though and you seem confident in him.

Not an ideal result especially with Mr Beau likely carrying too but a positive and hopeful one long term. The odds are pretty good especially as time goes on if I'm reading that right.

Still some decisions to make for Crypto and agreed future screening too. When you back in?

What a journey for you and your OH to go through, well we know what Santa will be bringing you guys at the end of the week........ a vat of Bombay Sapphire!! X

Gill (sneakiefeline) · « **Reply #676 on:** December 21, 2015, 23:19:54 PM »

I think if they were my cats I would not use an experimental drug that may make well cats sick and only use it at a last resort.

Your vet sounds very sensible and does know you

I agree with Sue ref the FIP and odds are on Chesters side. As your vet said if Chester was to get it there is only one outcome but I know it will always be in the back of your mind but try to keep it right at the back and enjoy Chester and Beau to the full.

Nicola (RockysMum) · « **Reply #675 on:** December 21, 2015, 22:56:08 PM »

Firstly, thank you so much for all the support & info on here. Don't know how I'd cope without my purrs family.

So, vet visit tonight.

He started the visit by saying

"I've been a vet for more than 25 years but since my call, you've probably read as much about corona virus as I have haven't you?"

He knows me so well

He was actually very reassuring. Talked through the options of repeated testing but explained that when it comes to the virus mutating, it's pretty much a case of wait and see.

He stressed that in 95% of cats it doesn't mutate and that we can do as much testing as I want including bloods, but if it was his kitten, he would watch for any clinical signs but other than that, try to put it out of his mind because Chester will probably be fine and if he isn't, all the knowledge in the world wouldn't change the outcome.

He said it's a worry that will never leave, but the odds are fully on Chesters side.

I asked if there was a point where fip stopped being a possibility and he said it's a lifelong possibility but less & less likely as he gets older.

He also said that the chances are that 1 of my other 3 boys had it & we just never knew. It's that common.

Unfortunately, it's highly likely that Beau has been infected too. But, he's had no symptoms so he thinks his immune system has been stronger.

He was impressed by Chesters progress & said that every bit of growing he does is a good sign.

I spoke to him about neutering & vaccinations on the basis of helpful advice on here (thank you) and he agreed that waiting as long as possible with both of them is the best plan.

He doesn't neuter before 9 months anyway as he says it can affect bone growth if done earlier.

Also discussed the parasite - cryptosporidia. Apparently treatment for it is still basically in trial stages with human drugs.

He had called 2 specialists and they recommended azithromicin. It's a human drug but it has some nasty side effects. It's recommended in cats showing symptoms - which neither of them are - otherwise there's a chance they have got rid of it themselves.

His worry is that even though the diarrhoea has stopped, it can lie dormant.

He wanted me to treat both of them just in case, but I want to do my research first.

Oddly, I've actually taken the drug for a bacterial infection and it made me extremely ill, so I'm torn. They both seem fine so I'm not convinced about using a drug that may not work for something they may not have which may make them feel ill!

I'm trying to stay positive that Chester will be one of the 95% who are just fine.
My precious boy, what a rollercoaster.

And while this 45 minute vet visit went on he was rolling on his back, climbing on the vets shoulder & then finally curled up & went to sleep on the table!

He's an amazing wee guy.

Sue P (Paddysmum) · « **Reply #674 on:** December 21, 2015, 15:23:09 PM »

Mix, I think it's perfectly natural to worry and fear the worst, but signs seem very encouraging, as does the body of evidence e in th vast majority of Fcv cases.

Ask your questions of the vet, and bear in mind Carol' s earlier observations.

Purdy Bear · « **Reply #673 on:** December 21, 2015, 15:12:04 PM »

Thanks for the information about the FCoV I'd never heard of it. I did know of a cat with FIV many years ago but that was when it was first known about, the cat was a strapping Wiggie and never showed his illness one bit.

Sending lots of healing thoughts to Chester.

DaveD · « **Reply #672 on:** December 21, 2015, 14:36:28 PM »

The most immediate worry I would have had is whether to separate the cats, but it seems that it would not be necessary or useful.
The way I read that article, your prompt action in taking him to the vet has likely given him the prospect of a long and healthy life, and hopefully the vet will confirm this.
However long that life is, I know it'll be a happy one.

Nicola (RockysMum) · « **Reply #671 on:** December 21, 2015, 14:27:54 PM »

Thanks Dave

DaveD · « **Reply #670 on:** December 21, 2015, 14:15:55 PM »

This might help too:
http://www.cats.org.uk/uploads/documents/cat-care-leaflets-2013/VG10_Feline_Coronavirus_%28FCoV%29_and_Feline_Infectious_Peritonitis_%28FIP%29.pdf

Particularly the summary:

Quote

In summary:
•
FCoV is common
•
FCoV only leads to FIP in a small percentage of cats
•
cats can pick up FCoV from any other infected cats and their
toileting sites
•
taking measures to minimise stress is important
•
good hygiene measures and avoiding overcrowding can help
cats to eliminate the virus

Nicola (RockysMum) · « **Reply #669 on:** December 21, 2015, 14:15:11 PM »

Thanks Dawn, thats encouraging information.

I was just talking to a colleague about it and she pointed out that the diarrhoea has been treated and cleared up without us knowing this and if I'd never had the test, we wouldn't even know he was a carrier and I would have stopped worrying by now.

I'm now googling up a storm to find out as much as I can

Dawn F · « **Reply #668 on:** December 21, 2015, 14:06:43 PM »

How do cats get infected with coronavirus?

Coronavirus infection is extremely widespread in cats, especially where large numbers of cats are kept together. It is estimated that 25 to 40 per cent of household pet cats have been infected with FCoV, but the infection rate increases to 80 - 100 per cent for cats kept in multi-cat households or colonies.

The virus mainly infects the intestinal tract, where it replicates. FCoV is shed in the faeces and may survive in the environment for a short while (several days or a few weeks), but is readily destroyed by common disinfectants. Infection is caused when a cat ingests the virus (e.g., through licking). The relationship between the virus and the cat is complex - some cats may remain persistently infected with FCoV and shed virus in their faeces the whole time; others may be infected, develop a strong immunity and be protected from future infections; and others may be infected and manage to eliminate the virus, but then get recurrent infections.

In most cases, infection with FCoV will cause mild signs of enteritis (mild, self-limiting diarrhoea), or sometimes no signs at all. Diarrhoea is more likely to be seen in young cats, but because it is mild and self-limiting a specific diagnosis of FCoV infection is almost never made.

from International cat care website

Nicola (RockysMum) · « **Reply #667 on:** December 21, 2015, 13:59:31 PM »

Just had the PCR results from the vet and it's not what I was hoping for.

Chester tested positive for both Corona Virus and cryptosporidia. I'm seeing my vet tonight to discuss

I was praying that it wouldn't be corona virus as FIP is my biggest fear and I know the virus can cause it.

If anyone knows anything about it I'd love any advice or information you have.

Sue P (Paddysmum) · « **Reply #666 on:** December 21, 2015, 11:08:30 AM »

Quote from: souffle on December 21, 2015, 10:50:36 AM

Of course we are still reading it! Gorgeous pics of your kittens

Darn right we are - where you bin?

We bin waitin an waitin........

souffle · « **Reply #665 on:** December 21, 2015, 10:50:36 AM »

Of course we are still reading it! Gorgeous pics of your kittens

JenGeorgieBob · « **Reply #664 on:** December 21, 2015, 10:44:32 AM »

so gorgeous and lovely to see how they are growing into delightful hoolies in waiting

Nicola (RockysMum) · « **Reply #663 on:** December 21, 2015, 10:34:15 AM »

So, a busy weekend present wrapping & trying to get the house cleaned for Christmas.

Although with monsters it was pretty pointless cleaning. They just followed me around messing it all up again!

Cleaned all the nose smears and pawprints off my windows...they were back within 10 minutes.

Not sure if anyone's still reading this thread but I'm sharing some pics in case someone is

I had an Amazon delivery in one of those cardboard envelopes yesterday. It was still in my hand when Chester decided to squash himself inside it. Beau then took great pleasure in sitting on it and swiping at him. They're bonkers my boys! ^-^

Dawn F · « **Reply #662 on:** December 15, 2015, 14:14:01 PM »

Nicola (RockysMum) · « **Reply #661 on:** December 15, 2015, 14:13:30 PM »

And for a little bit of cuteness, here’s my boy suckling away at his bed. Listen to those purrs

Just love that wee face!

<a href="http://www.youtube.com/v/HpDdYDDFZ4c" target="_blank" class="new_win">http://www.youtube.com/v/HpDdYDDFZ4c</a>

Dawn F · « **Reply #660 on:** December 15, 2015, 09:19:25 AM »

great that he is going in the right direction Nicola

Nicola (RockysMum) · « **Reply #659 on:** December 15, 2015, 09:10:53 AM »

Good luck Susanne. I have everything crossed that Miso and kito leave your tastefully decorated tree alone when its finished

Vet visit with Chester last night.

The vet was pleased with his progress, he’s gone from 2kg to 2.4kg in the last 10 days and his poos are still normal.

His scabby back is also slowly getting better although there’s thickening of the skin which the vet said he’d hoped would have settled down by now. He said the one thing that would sort it out is a steroid injection but he’s on metacam so that’s not an option and he wouldn’t want to give him it anyway with him being so young.

Unfortunately, the vet can’t do anything else until we get these results back, ridiculous that it’s now been three weeks and two samples and yet I’m still waiting. He said he suspects they lost the last sample as we provided more than enough poo for the PCR tests!

So, he’s to stay on the Metacam as well as his AntiB’s and binder for another week at least.

I’m not happy about that as I know there are risks involved in Metacam use but he said the risk of the bowel swelling up again is worse than the risk to his kidneys from the metacam. He’s also on a smaller dose than he should be for his weight.

He did say there was a chance that he had got over whatever caused it already and would be fine without the Metacam, but that he wouldn’t advise taking the chance until we’ve got results.

I asked him about the chances of it being FIP, FELV OR FIV. He said all these things are still possible, but the fact that he’s gaining weight and looking so healthy means it’s less likely.

He really wants the results in-case its TF as the symptoms fit.

So, still waiting and worrying. But at least for now he’s doing really well. I just wish I could get him off all these drugs!

Susanne (urbantigers) · « **Reply #658 on:** December 14, 2015, 19:16:17 PM »

Awww sounds like you may have potential norty club members on your hands. Mosi will be trying to recruit them before long.

What a shame you've had to take the tree down but it's better to be safe than sorry. Christmas trees and kittens really is a potentially lethal combination!

My tree is standing so far but there isn't really anything for Kito to work with. No decorations or lights on it at the moment and the size and position makes it difficult to climb. It's too small really for Kito to do anything with (it's about 3 foot 6 inches including pot and the tree part is almost as wide at the bottom as it is tall). It's not on the floor so he can't get underneath it and try to climb up the middle. If he reaches a paw out the branches clearly wouldn't support his weight and he knows it. He has tried a nibble but found it not to his liking. Up until a few years ago I didn't bother with lights for kitty related reasons but have given them a go lately and Mosi has been ok with them. Kito does not bother with cables so I'm hoping be won't bother with them. After I've eaten I am going to put the lights on but not switch them on. Tomorrow we will try the lights on and take it from there. In recent years I've gone for the natural, outdoor look - small potted tree with red berry lights and nothing more - but this year I think I am going to get a garland I've seen which is gold sprayed acorns and use that instead of tinsel then take my auction winning decoration (which arrived today and is lovely) as inspiration for a few wooden/light gold/beige deccorations. Well that's the theory

I'm making it sound very tasteful aren't I?

The reality will no doubt be much different and I can see Kito swiping decorations.

Nicola (RockysMum) · « **Reply #657 on:** December 14, 2015, 16:43:16 PM »

Despite their shenanigans with Christmas tree, OH is delighted because he’s convinced Beau shares his taste in music.

He snapped this photo of him mesmerised by a Whitesnake DVD at the weekend and one of him sleeping on top of our stereo while Whitesnake was playing

Men

Nicola (RockysMum) · « **Reply #656 on:** December 14, 2015, 10:09:14 AM »

Oh Dave, thats just so typical of cats

Well, it's official. I have the kittens from hell

Saturday was so mental that OH has renamed Chester "

hole"

My tree lasted less than 24 hours before being packed away again as they appeared to be attempting to eat it.

Beau was especially fond of bulb chewing.

Chester was exceptionally skilled at fitting large pieces of cabling in his mouth for a good chomp. he also enjoyed wearing my LED parcels on his head like a hat while attempting to race around the room.

Oh yes....and the cables for those were obviously particularly tasty. Especially when enhanced by delcious bitter apple spray

I have no tree. Christmas is cancelled

I love them to bits, but my god they are a pair of

Susanne (urbantigers) · « **Reply #655 on:** December 13, 2015, 09:06:03 AM »

DaveD · « **Reply #654 on:** December 12, 2015, 17:17:24 PM »

Many moons ago, my dad got annoyed with one neighbouring cat using our garden as a toilet, so he put liberal amounts of tabasco sauce on some meat, and left it out.
The next day, he stormed in grumbling "the bloody cat's eaten the lot!"

Nicola (RockysMum) · « **Reply #653 on:** December 12, 2015, 16:13:50 PM »

I might need to get the Tabasco out Susanne. The Bitter Apple has no effect at all!

I wouldn't mind them climbing in the tree and playing with ornaments but I'm a nervous wreck with the cables. They keep chewing the bulbs too!

The indoor lights & outdoor lights are all on one switch so if I put the tree lights out, it's all out...my neighbours must be wondering why they've been off and on about 10 times an hour

I nicknamed them monsters & Chester is definitely living up to the name!

Susanne (urbantigers) · « **Reply #652 on:** December 12, 2015, 14:54:59 PM »

Bad luck re the cables. some are chewers and some are not. Thankfully Kito isn't (it was something I asked his breeder about before I got him) and Mosi wasnt either. I still sprayed bitter apple spray on them just in case. When Jaffa and Magpie were kittens I rubbed Tabasco sauce on cables and that seemed to keep them away

Nicola (RockysMum) · « **Reply #651 on:** December 12, 2015, 11:15:20 AM »

It was a 3 minute respite from trying to prevent kitten electrocution by fairy light Katie

And possibly an attempt to remind myself how adorable they can be when they're not chewing cables/branches or hanging suspended from my bannister, trapped in garland (while chewing fairy light bulbs)

Why are they chewing everything?? WHY???

Cables.....I bloody hate cables.

If my tree is still up on Christmas day it'll be a Christmas bloody miracle

McKitties (Katie) · « **Reply #650 on:** December 12, 2015, 04:22:25 AM »

Was that just a middle of the night 'ping' moment Nic? "Oh I think I'll pop onto Purrs and see what's happening (at 3 in the morning)?!"

Was just dealing with a very unwelcome poo moment. I became very aware of a cat poo like stench coming from the kitty crate which is about a metre from me. I hadn't heard a thing so it was obviously a 'stealth poo' moment. Well you can certainly tell we have no Bozita (cos they're taking a week to deliver it!

)
What a smell!! Ewwww. I have now to sleep in this environment, most unpleasant.

On a lighter note, Archie slept on my lap this evening. I think it was because he was drowsy from his jabs, but he was there just the same. I wasn't able to pour my wine after that as he was partly on my arm, but I dare
say I can relinquish that for my wee boy.

Nicola (RockysMum) · « **Reply #649 on:** December 12, 2015, 03:01:09 AM »

Chesters been very affectionate since day one. Beau was very nervous of us but he came around after a week or so.

I think part of the reason they became such lap cats is because when they were small, they loved me to drag the stick from their wand toys around for them to chase.

I got so knackered one night that i sat on the floor with my legs in front of me stretched out & dragged the stick across my legs for them to chase. They loved it & eventually conked out on my legs.

It became my sure fire way of calming them down & I think they got used to being on my lap when sleepy.

Worth a try with your pair. Prepare for scratched thighs though!!

McKitties (Katie) · « **Reply #648 on:** December 11, 2015, 17:15:44 PM »

Aw I just love that photo of Chester. We're your cats lap cats from day one Nic? Our two will purr and rub beside you but not sit down, they don't stay still enough! The both sleep on the very top of their tree every time.
I hope that they will become more cuddly like your boys when they're older and not so crazy.

Chester just looks fab though

Sue P (Paddysmum) · « **Reply #647 on:** December 11, 2015, 12:13:45 PM »

Quote from: Nicola (RockysMum) on December 11, 2015, 11:26:57 AM

I actually thought that pic was of you emmy-lou!
it shows what a crazy cat lady I am when my first thought was "beautiful cats"

Me too, with the "beautiful cats" thought.

Chester looks so happy, bless his paws. Wonder if we'll ever be able to do that with the gurls? I so long to have Malt on my lap, happy and relaxed. Still, baby steps.

Nicola (RockysMum) · « **Reply #646 on:** December 11, 2015, 11:26:57 AM »

I actually thought that pic was of you emmy-lou!
it shows what a crazy cat lady I am when my first thought was "beautiful cats"

emmmy_lou · « **Reply #645 on:** December 11, 2015, 11:17:40 AM »

Doing some catch up after the auction stuff...

That pic is adorable!!!! You are so lucky he likes tummy rubs. Only one of mine does, and not for long.

None of our doors are ever shut, except for cupboard doors.

This pic sprung to mind

(its from the net BTW, not me on the loo!!!)

hollycat · « **Reply #644 on:** December 11, 2015, 11:00:18 AM »

Lovely pic, he looks very happy

The Hoolies love tummy rubs too, especially Astrophe. They like having their tails played with too

Nicola (RockysMum) · « **Reply #643 on:** December 11, 2015, 10:46:47 AM »

Quote from: hollycat on December 10, 2015, 18:30:52 PM

You will have to change the handles for doorknobs. That'll confuse Chester

Glad the cream is doing it's job

I might need to Andrew!! He's also now discovered the extractor fan over the cooker. he hasn't jumped up there yet but I keep catching him standing on his back legs like a meercat looking at it.

Once he gets up there, then the top of the kitchen units will follow I fear

He has now developed a love of tummy rubs. He spent ages sprawled on his back on my lap last night and wailed every time I stopped rubbing his tummy

hollycat · « **Reply #642 on:** December 10, 2015, 18:30:52 PM »

You will have to change the handles for doorknobs. That'll confuse Chester

Glad the cream is doing it's job

Nicola (RockysMum) · « **Reply #641 on:** December 10, 2015, 09:18:59 AM »

Quote from: Gill (sneakiefeline) on December 09, 2015, 15:54:51 PM

Great pic

Door handles!!......................covering Lupins eyes

Dont know what I would do if he discovered that!

Chester is going to be a trouble maker LOL

He's quite the handful Gill! You should hear the noise it makes when he's trying a door handle. i showered in record time this morning because he was doing his bouncy tigger routine and bashing off the door and handle constantly while I was in the bathroom

Good news with the mess on his shoulders, it's really dried up since being shaved. Thankfully, the cream finally seems to be working. Now I just hope the vet says he can come off all the meds on Monday.

I'm desperate to see if the poos stay solid without all the medication

Gill (sneakiefeline) · « **Reply #640 on:** December 09, 2015, 15:54:51 PM »

Great pic

Door handles!!......................covering Lupins eyes

Dont know what I would do if he discovered that!

Chester is going to be a trouble maker LOL

hollycat · « **Reply #639 on:** December 09, 2015, 12:51:09 PM »

kitler, love it

Love the pic too

Author Topic: They're here!!! Introducing Chester & Beau (Read 191756 times)