I don't know how to handle this

[waterflow]

I'm sorry for being such a complainer but I have no clue what to do for my cat with IC now. Vet sort of pulled the rug out from under me. I don't know if what she said is true or not. All I know is how it all went for me and I don't want her to suffer in pain. She's 2 already and if she only lives to 12-13 I don't want those few short years laying around in pain. I went 10 years without pain medication so if it goes that way for her she'll be almost gone by the time she gets relief. This is one reason why I never wanted pets again after the last dog was put to sleep. I worry (probably more then need be I know :rolleyes:) and I just worry more now since getting older. Don't know how those of you who have children deal with them being sick. Any suggestions? I do have this sinking fealing I will make the vet mad which I dont want to do at all and I don't know if I should just tell her my worries or shut my mouth and do what she says? :confused: They are the only vet that allows payments and my cat is going to need a lot of vet care. Not to mention the others if they get sick. I just feel like crying and never stopping.

Once again sorry.................

[Briza]

((((hugs))))
I am so sorry you're having to deal with this. I, too, think of my animals as my children since I don't have actual children. You are probably like me and care for your pets much better than many parents do for their children.

Ok, remember that your IC/IC diagnosis experience is not the same as everyone who posts on this board. As the saying goes around here, we are all different. And it will be the same for your cat, I am sure.

Your cat is young and relatively new to this bladder situation. If I were in your shoes knowing what I know about IC NOW, and you knowing what you know about IC NOW, not just your case and what you and I experienced in long dx process and pain reief, but all the thousands of others who post on this board, I would try not to think of worst case scenario at this point...it is just too soon for you to be going there, I think. If I were your cat I would want you to explore all options within reason, just as we as IC patients would want the same!

I don't understand how you would make the vet mad?? Please explain.

Yep, I agree, those of us w/ chronic health conditions such as IC have much more empathy for others (cats included) being ill or in pain. But please work with your vet to find what is the most successful, affordable treatment plan available....just as you and I would for our IC. :kiss:

As for your other kitties getting sick, please remember that UTI infections are not contagious and that just b/c one of your kitties is having some health issues right now does not mean that the other ones will! (((hugs)))

[waterflow]

I've made many doctors mad because I didn't agree with them or wouldn't do what they wanted. Even my Uro and I have had a few good ones where I was ready to walk out after many years of being with him and trust. It took telling him pain meds or I stop everything all together because without pain meds I was still sitting at home and if I could sit all day I could just sit as well on the toilet all day. (heparin instills only help with peeing). That's why I worry if I tell her no about something and start telling her too much about what I went through with this or that she might say if I know so much treat her myself. she doesn't seem like that but I've been wrong on some doctors. She did mention that metacam because it is a lot cheaper then the pain medicaiton but I told her if it's due to money I'll pay for the pain med but her thought is getting the inflamation down and then the shot for inflamation should be enough to handle it all. You are right what worked for one didn't for the other but I'm the type of person who always plans for the worse. Why I have always been that way I don't know.
I do think once you take on a pet it is for life and if you have to go without so they can have (food, water, medicne and such) then that is what you do. I know the other cats can't catch the IC or UTI but some have had UTI's in the past. Just chaulk me up to "mommy worries" I guess.

[amaranthe]

Hi sweetie! I understand your fears and worries. Of course she is your baby! But, just like human babies cant talk so we have to go by their expressions and how they act, it's the same way with animals. That's how you will know what's working and what isnt. As her Mommy, you know her personality and when she just isnt acting like herself. That's how you'll know something isnt working.

When that happens, just like human Moms, you will have to do your best to advocate for her. If she needs pain meds, speak up and explain why you think she needs them.

Meanwhile, dont borrow trouble. It's human nature to think the worst and try to mentally stay a step ahead. But, that's what makes us worry. We need to slow down and just take things a day at a time and a moment a time and deal with things as they happen now, not trying to think what we will do if this or that happens. Instead, just try what's on the table right now, and see how she responds. Keep us posted on things. We are always here to support you!

Sending hugs for you and the kitties,
Amaranthe

[dg2901]

Dont worry about possibly making your vet mad. Like a human Dr they cant force treatment on a patient. You have a right to question their suggestions and express your concerns.
As long as the vet doesnt suspect animal cruelty then they have to respect your wishes.

Do what you feel is best for your animals after weighing all of your vets suggestions.

:)
D

[ICNDonna]

You also need to think about the fact that most people who become vets do it because they love animals --- and most will want to do all they can to help them. It sounds like you have a vet who cares about people, as well as animals.

Warm hugs,
Donna