On the Safe Side

Renn’s appointment with the veterinary today did not result in any revelations, which is probably just as well. His condition had been improving for the last couple of days, so much so that I considered cancelling the appointment. His sneezing and sniffling had been diminishing, though Monday it had reached a climax: his snorting and dripping was producing blood, probably due to the constant irritation of the nose and throat. So, in the end, I decided to take him, just to be on the safe side.

He sneezed once at the hospital; his nose is no longer running and his sniffles evident now only when he lowers his head to eat or drink. The doctor found little congestion in my big boy; the heart and lungs sound good. She thought Renn in satisfactory shape for his age. Though the problem had likely been a respiratory infection, there wasn’t now a need for anti-biotics, which would have treated the by-products of a viral infection. He didn’t feel even dehydrated.

Renn himself seemed confident of the verdict. His tail was mostly up while waiting for the veterinary, and it was only during the actual examination that he exhibited annoyance or discomfort.

So we returned to the Cosy Apartment, where my oldster had a bit more to eat – dinner having been served prior to our appointment – and washed it down with a draught of fresh water. Much ado about nothing, Renn no doubt thought. That may be fine for him, but when you care for a sixteen year old cat, much ado often starts as nothing. I’m glad that this time, it is heading back there, too.