Just wanted to let you know this may be Pookey's last week. He went in for a check-up last month and we were marveling how well he was doing -- very healthy for 19. The only concern was the nasal issue that began in January, but had been essentially dormant since (no significant symptoms). Well, his nasal issues showed back up.

He breathes very heavy/rough/congested when he isn't laying still. Fortunately, he is still a lot napping as cats will be, so he isn't constantly struggling with his breathing. The vet thinks it is just a nasal infection, or an infection and the polyp kicking back in. Started him on two different types of antibiotics throughout last week, but he can't keep either liquid or pills down. He hasn't eaten/drank on his own for a week, since last Friday (I help him eat and drink). Since he could not keep the antibiotics down and they could significantly improve him, we are trying one last thing in the hopes it is just the nasal infection. He was given a several day antibiotic shot last night (can't throw that up) and anti-nausea meds.

I am going to continue to work with him this week, but the vet and I decided that if he isn't better by the end of next week (breathing clearer, eating/drinking on his own), we will say goodbye to him Friday afternoon. Next Friday would make two weeks of not eating/drinking on his own and not improving with meds. He's 19 and may not pull out of this infection like he would if he was younger. We aren't running any extensive tests due to his age. Either the antibiotics clear it up or she feels he just will not get better/pull out of it.

I am hoping for the best. I know the time is coming due to age anyway, but it will be tough to lose him after all these years of his being my constant shadow. Should know by mid-week if he has any improvements. Antibiotic shot probably won't really start to kick in until tomorrow to show any signs, per the vet.

I'll let you know the end of next week which way it goes.
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Tammy and Pookey
(Stanley 8/91 - 8/07)

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