The Uncertain Road Ahead

Yesterday afternoon, I spoke with the veterinary about the disappointing results of Neville’s insulin use over the last two weeks. The doctor, too, was disappointed. He feels that Neville has become largely resistant to insulin. There are several possible causes and several possible courses of action.

In terms of reasons for this remarkable and unsatisfactory state, the doctor first suggested Cushing’s disease, which is, as he stated, very rare in cats. Nev does not have most of its symptoms, anyway. There is the possibility of cancer, though it has not been accompanied by weight-loss. I have had several of my cats die of cancer, and each has suffered a great and relatively sudden reduction in poundage. However, the doctor told me that there are some forms of cancer that are not characterised by weight-loss. And, of course, there is the possibility that Neville simply hasn’t begun that phase of his illness. A third suggestion was a kind of infection that is countering the insulin’s effects.

The chance of infection is the one that is most easily tested and cured. Neville will be receiving some anti-biotics, starting today. If there is cancer, there are treatments, of course, depending on the kind and extent of the disease - surgery, chemo-therapy - but none that would not bring still more distress to this sensitive fellow’s life.

The alternative of trying another kind of insulin was discussed. The doctor felt, however, that if the glargine and the ProZinc did not make an appreciable effect on the blood’s glucose-numbers, another kind was as unlikely to do so. I will, though, switch to another variety of insulin once this supply of ProZinc is finished; the opportunity will be present, and I can’t see the harm in trying.

While I remain hopeful for the Nevsky’s immediate future, his prospects are not promising at this point. He remains his usual self, nonetheless: content, if not happy; pleased to eat the limited types of food he enjoys, and satisfied for recreation in looking out the window at the wide world, and receiving chin-rubs. As long as my friend takes his minor delights in such a fashion, I will be happy to assist them.