While Renn may be feeling the effects of his age, I worry about my foster-cat, Neville.
I have been discussing with his doctor switching kinds of insulin for the Nevsky. When the Former Thin Man came to stay with me, his diabetes went into remission. Something must have occurred to bring it back, however, and, while it has been somewhat managed since then, it could certainly be better. The doctor needs more information, though, and that means a ‘curve’. Unfortunately, his latest curve showed his insulin having very little effect, and a curve barely existed in his blood-sugar readings that day. It remains to be seen if the doctor can use this particular information.
Otherwise, Nev is doing well physically. I don’t know that he is happy living with me. He is bullied a little by Tucker, but the main problem is that Neville detests being poked by needles all the time. Tucker is resigned to receiving his insulin and having his blood drawn eight or nine times a day once a month. Neville dreads it all. His tail is never high and he doesn’t purr much.
Then again, he comes up on the bed for a snooze even when I am at the computer, next to the bed, so he doesn’t fear me, at least. He spends more of the night on the bed, too. And he has ceased to kick out when I pick him up to carry him to where he must give me blood when his curve is performed. Progress has been made with the poor fellow. But I still think he is not happy.
Oh, poor Nev. You've mentioned before that he hates the needles, but I hoped he'd be used to them by now. I can't stand to think of him--or any other animal--as unhappy.
ReplyDeleteI've had two diabetic cats over the years, and what you're experiencing with Neville sounds familiar. Both of my cats went into remission at some point. (Jeremy remained in remission for 4 years.) But eventually, for some reason, they both had to be put back on insulin once again. But remember, John, that even though Neville doesn't like getting needles, I'm sure he realizes you love him and that you're giving him the best care possible, and I know he loves you.
ReplyDeleteAny chance of using that experimental blood-sugar monitor, that stays attached for a length of time? I see TV commercials about a human version, but I recall that you had a cat one, at one time.
ReplyDeleteTucker was the subject of an experiment with such a monitor. I liked it, and the experiment was a success, but I don't know if they are available here yet. As well, Neville goes to another veterinary hospital, as he is my foster-cat.
DeleteI'm hoping you can find the insulin answer for Neville. He is a handsome cat and looks peaceful on your bed. It must be difficult for you to try to care for him and not know just where this is headed for now. I will certainly hope the best outcome for his improved health. You are providing him with all you can and that is such a good thing.
ReplyDeleteI sure hope sweet Neville will keep doing okay and the right insulin can be found soon.
ReplyDeletePoor Nev. As someone who also dislikes needles I know how he feels. However he does have a home with comfort and food so does know he is loved.
ReplyDeleteIt has occurred to me that maybe it's not just the needles. A while back, John posted a photo of Neville when he was first rescued, and I was shocked by how awful he looked. He had obviously been through some horrible experiences when he was in the wild. Perhaps he's still a bit shell-shocked, and the shots he gets somehow reminds him of those days.
DeleteIt's hard when you can't explain you are just trying to help
ReplyDeletePoor Neville. We do hope you and the docs can figure out how to monitor and control his diabetes soon. Thank you for loving and caring for him.
ReplyDeleteAh! Bless the little fella..I think of
ReplyDeleteNeville quite a lot, l seemed to have
developed an extra soft spot for him..
And, it seems he still cares for you,
wanting to be near you, even if your
on the PC..Bless!x
I adore Neville- and I so don't want him to feel unhappy. I wish something could be thought of by the Vet to help him in some way. I don't know what I'm talking about I know..I, just as do you I feel sure, want things to be less stressful for the dear fellow.
ReplyDeleteI hate to see Neville so unhappy. Let's hope between you and the vet that his diabetes can get controlled!
ReplyDeleteSending purrs and love to your Thin Man.
Poor Neville. I, too, hope a good resolution can be found. It wouldn't hurt to ask about that monitor for him. I think, too, that if cost is a factor for PAWS, you really could ask for donations specifically for Neville. I think at least some of your readers would be willing to contribute, even a small amount, and those small amounts can add up quickly. Something to think about.
ReplyDeleteSending Neville love and Light, with purrs from Derry. ♥
Poor Neville, life hasn't been easy for him. But I do believe he is in the best place, and while he may not be happy, he appears content.
ReplyDeleteHe has a difficult life but it sounds like he has been managing. Some cats are never super happy. If I get 10 minutes a day out of Fitz it feels like a win while sick naughty Rumpy is so happy it hurts despite his coughing.
ReplyDelete