Sudden Worry, Eventual Relief

I had to take Renn to the veterinary hospital late yesterday afternoon. He had been visiting the litter-boxes and, despite staying for ten-minute stretches, was not producing anything. I feared that he might be blocked, especially with his history of bladder problems. I called the hospital and was told to bring him in.

The mass that had been evident in Renn’s bladder at one time is back, but the doctor still does not believe it to be a tumour. She stated that it did not feel hard, but had a feel of tissue. Nor was it near the usual spot for a bladder-tumour; this is the same characteristic it had when it had appeared on Renn’s first ultra-sound examination. But there was an infection present, and it might be connected to the mass. Upon applying pressure, a veterinary technician was able to release Renn’s pent-up urine; initially some blood came out with it. It may be that that had been blocking the urine.

In addition to increasing my big boy’s anti-inflammatory dosage a little – at least temporarily – I am giving him anti-biotics. They appear to be largely tasteless, as I have been crushing the tablets and adding them to his soft-food. The Recovery that he eats is very soft and is perfect for hiding powdered medicine. Renn has consumed it without a problem. I am following him to the litter-box whenever I can, and have so far seen good, clean results in the way of urine; he is having no trouble wetting this morning, and leaves no sign of blood, nor is he showing signs of having to go too frequently.

A good and surprising development is that Renn has gained nine tenths of a pound, since he was last weighed.

I must mention the positive response I received from the veterinary hospital. I called at 4.30 yesterday. They close at 5.30 and I was told that there were no openings. I then heard some discussion in the background, and Renn’s name mentioned. I was instructed to bring him in. I learned later that Renn’s doctor had finished her last appointment when she overheard Renn’s name in the telephone conversation. She stayed late so that I could bring my big boy in; in fact, because I had to come by taxi, she had to wait half an hour before I even arrived. I believe the technicians remained later than usual to run Renn’s blood through some tests. I am very grateful to everyone there.