Amputation of hind leg :(

[Abby]

Im so glad I have found this forum!

Im in a complete dilemma with my cat George :(
He has been poorly for some time with his toe, he first started to limp so took him to the vets but they had no idea what it was (thought it was infected) so squeezed it and some puss came out. Sent him home & he was ok for about 2 weeks, however, he started limping again so took him back, they did an x-ray and nothing came up. Adivsed me taking the toe was the best thing to do so said yes!
He recovered really well from having his toe off, became an absolute pig with his food :) (as hes always been quiet skinny)
We didnt get any answers from the lab as they had no idea what was going on with his toe (the vet found a 'mass' when she removed his toe) - it was either cancer, gout or a fungal infection.
But, he then went off his food about 2 weeks later and started limping again, this time not putting his leg on the ground. I was devastated.
The vet x-rayed his leg again and couldnt see anything, she asked me if I wanted him put to sleep :'( I said no! cause I had no 'real' reason to and hes not even 2 yet!!

She gave him painkillers but once he finished them he started limping again and his next toe along is swollen so took him to the vets yesterday and she said whatever it is has spread and Ive only got 2 options...take his right hind leg and stop whatever it is spreading or put him to sleep.

I love my cat too much to put him to sleep but I also dont want him to suffer!! But the vet said because he is so young she knows he will be able to cope...he is also basically a house cat and we live in a very quiet area with few cars (which he hates anyway) so even when he is outside I dont really have to worry.

It would just really put my mind to rest if someone could let me know how their cat has reacted to having his/her leg amputated. I dont want him to be confused or hate me for it. I just want to know he will cope. Ive got him booked in on monday to have it done (4 days away).

The vet did say to me she wouldnt have suggested it if she thought he wouldnt cope as she said 99.9% of cats do fully cope after.

Thanks in advance for any reply and sorry about the long post.

Abby x

[yola]

Welcome Abby - sorry you're finding us under such distressing circumstances. I don't have experience of amputee cats but others here do and I'm sure will be along to advise soon.

My only comment reading your post would be to get your vet to investigate what exactly it is that's causing the problem. Possibly seek a 2nd opinion from another vet also. Amputation is a very drastic solution; do you in your heart of hearts think they have done all they can to get to the source of the problem?

[alexgirl73]

Hi Abby, and welcome to the forum. There are a number of cat owners on here who have amputees, and I don't think I've heard of one who hasn't coped brilliantly afterwards, and is running about quite happily within days. However, I'm a bit concerned that the vet wants to amputate without a proper diagnosis and that she doesn't know why she needs to remove the leg. Would it be possible to consult another vet first, just for your own peace of mind? Saying that though, if you are happy to follow your vets advice, then rest assured George will not hate you, and will have no problems getting around after :)

[angieh]

Hi Abby - I don't have any experience of amputee cats, but as the others have said, from what I've heard cats get along just fine with no problems from losing a limb.

I also would agree with what Yola and Alex above have said - and really I would want to know exactly what is wrong with George's toes before agreeing to this surgery. If George is insured, could you ask for a referral to a specialist?

[Abby]

Thank you alexgirl73 and yola for your replies.

I must admit I thought it was drastic but my only other option she gave me was to put him to sleep :(
In my heart hes not poorly enough for me to make that awful decision. Hes got his whole life ahead of him and I dont want to end his life over a toe.

When she sent the toe off to the lab 6 specialists looked at it and not one of them could decide what it was. 2 said cancer, 2 said gout and 2 said fungal. She said gout was a stupid thing to say and that if it was fungal then thats worse than cancer so she put it down to cancer.

He's such a chilled out cat, we only ever know if something is wrong if he stops eating as much as he was.

He doesnt even meow!!!! EVER (haha) so we as a family know when something is wrong with him.

I have thought about giving her a call but I feel like I am bugging her :/ and I dont want to leave it any longer for whatever it is to spread :(

Its so confusing...cause Im also leaving the country for 7 months in 2 weeks time! I live with my parents & they love him just as much as I do so I know they will look after him but I dont want to go without knowing something is being done.

Arghhhh :(

[Abby]

Hi angieh

I would get him checked over by a specialist but like I said above to yola and alexgirl73 Im panicing because whatever it is in his toe I dont want it to spread :( as its already spread from the removed toe to the next one.

She also said she wanted to take the leg right up to the top as him lymph node is swollen so she wants to make sure she gets it all.

I might pop to the vets today when my mum finishes work just so we can have another chat.

I think with the shock of it all yesterday I just forgot to ask anything! lol

[yola]

I think it might be an idea for you to make an appointment asap with the vet without George just to talk this through and get a clear picture of how to move forward. The swollen lymph nodes could be a sign of cancer but equally they could just be syptomatic of George fighting whatever infection is causing his bad toes.

I know there is a time imperrative but personally I would be nervous of proceeding without all the facts to hand.

[angieh]

Shock is understandable Abby - I am also sure that the vet won't think you are "bugging" her by asking questions. Also there is your added urgency about making sure that George is stable before you go away. If the vet is talking about lymph nodes, she is probably reasonably sure it is cancer. But what type????

[Abby]

Thank you girls!!

I dont think I have stopped to think about what is actually 'going on'. I think cause she gave me the 2 options and I dont want to loose him, I have just jumped at having his leg removed.

Ill ring her today and see if she can have one of the other vets look at his records too.

My best mates cat got shot in her front leg twice and it shattered her bones, they told her (same vets as mine) that they needed to remove her leg but another vet (same surgery) said he would operate on her - she is now back to normal with plates and screws in her arm. She never had to loose it in the end...but I guess with cancer its a little more tricky.

Ill give her a ring and see what she says...I just dont want to offend her cause she has been brilliant with us over everything :)

[yola]

Good luck - let us know how you get on!

[alexgirl73]

Hi Abby, I see you are in Shropshire, can I ask whereabouts, and I may be able to advise you to a good vets to contact, as I volunteer with CP and we use a lot ov vets all ovr the county :)

[dandysmom]

Offend her? No decent vet should be offended at a caring owner wanting more information before deciding on a major operation. I do understand your dilemma especially with your pending trip, but I do think you need to know more before making the decision to amputate. But if you do, cats adapt marvellously to it. Do let us know what's happening. Oh, and welcome to Catsey, even though it's under such sad circumstances,

[Abby]

Hi alexgirl73, Im actually in Telford. I must admit my vets are brilliant, have been with George ever since I first took him there :)

Dandysmom thanks for your reply :)

I think you were all right about going and having a word with my vet, so I went to the practice earlier but she wasnt there so the receptionist left her a note to call me.

She called as soon as I got home and I asked her all my questions...is it the right thing to do? Is it cancer? I dont want him to suffer. Will it spread? etc etc. She was actually really happy I called and said that she's glad I did cause its obvious I want the best for George.
She said it is definately cancer as gout would have affected the whole of his foot & its not fungal because it wouldnt be as painful as it is for him at this moment in time & it would have responded to the treatment they have already given him.

She also said about him lymph node and that it is swollen due to the fact the infection (could) be spreading - and it obviously is due to his next toe now swollen. So she wants to take it off right up to his hip so she can 'get it all'.

She again said to me she wouldnt advise him having his leg removed if it wasnt the best thing and he is healthy everywhere else in his body & putting him to sleep wouldnt be a wise option.

Worse case scenerio is that when he has his leg removed - its then spread into his hip but as she is doing it mon and he doesnt seem to have any signs of this as of now, she doesnt see that as an option.


I feel so so much better for talking to you all and my vet :)
I just needed to put some questions in my mind to rest & Im glad you all told me to go and speak to her...thank you!!!
She said we will have another chat mon before he goes under just so I go in to it with a possitive outlook.

Abby x

[alexgirl73]

I'm glad you have spoken to your vet again, and you seem happier having spoken to her, so best of luck to George with his op :)

[Abby]

I am much happier, it has made a big difference - a 15 min phone call.
Ill make sure I let you all know how it goes :)

[yola]

That's good news. I'm glad you've resolved the questions you had.

Now all that's needed is to with both you and George well for Monday!

[angieh]

I'm really glad that you've answered the questions you had Abby. All best wishes for George for his operation on Monday. Please let us know how he gets on.

[trick]

Hi Abby, I have had 2 experiences with toe/foot tumors. One was in a very old cat whos foot had started to ulcerate and bleed and my vet said that it was a type that would return if it was cut out so advised putting it to sleep as it was in so much discomfort and it was too old to amputate, however the other cat had its cancerous toe removed and coped very well and it thankfuly never returned.
I have fosered an amputee after it had it leg off and It was amazing just how well it adapt. I think your doing the right thing. Good luck

[farthing]

Sorry your cat has to lose a leg, but they do adapt very well without one. Our cat, Triger, came to us as a rehome when he got his leg amputated. It was quite scary to see the size of the wound and the swelling, it must have been very scary for Triger, because he was also surrounded by new people in a new house. However, after he got a bit of strength back and started to get used to having 3 legs he was amazing. he could jump- we found him on the roof of the house the 2nd day he was let out, he could balance on fence posts, the only thing he couldn't do was sit up on his back leg. He looked a bit ungainly when ha walked but yu would never have guessed he was missing a leg when he ran, and he was as quick as the rest.
All in all you will soon not really notice he is missing a leg.

[Abby]

Thanks for your reply trick!
Thankfully its not all of Georges foot but I think the vet fears it will be as she removed the cancerous toe and now it has spread to the next one.

I think its lovely that you and farthing have rehomed amputees. I think maybe I will struggle with the shock more than George? I just also feared his personallity would change (hes such a loving and affectionate cat) but from what I have read they become even more loving or slowly become themselves again.

I will definately let everyone know how he gets on & any more info will be greatly appreciated :)

[Mags]

Hello Abby, I thought maybe you would like to read through one of our member's experience of amputation with her cat. She expressed her feelings of almost terror at the thought of the ordeal to start with, then gradually came to terms with it and within weeks her cat was moving around almost as good as any other cat.

http://www.catsey.com/showthread.php?t=19409&highlight=amputated+leg

If it will help you, you can share all your concerns and worries about after care etc here with us ........ we have a very supportive family of members here who will support you and help you get through this experience.

Loads of good wishes to you and George, we'll be thinking of you...

[Abby]

Thank you for that link Mags, Ive just started reading through it now...You people are so lovely and to think that at 11o'clock this morning I was in termoil & Ive already started to come to terms with. But it wouldnt be without everyones advise and lovely support!!

[alexgirl73]

If you need a bit of support at any time over the next few weeks, give me a shout. I'm always happy to come over and drink other peoples tea... I mean, visit and lend an ear :lol:

[Abby]

Oh haha :lol: thank you :)
Well I go abroad in 2 weeks for 7 months so Ill get my mum set up on here so you can have a chat & then once Im gone she can keep you all updated :)

[dandysmom]

Good idea, Abby. We'd all be interested in how she's doing. Will you have internet available where you're going?

[Abby]

Yes, Im hoping so as Im taking my laptop...I will need updates too ;)
I feel guilty for leaving him but I will have 7 months worth of love to give him when I get back :)

[Abby]

Hiya Everyone,

I dropped George off at the vets this morning...hardly slept last night & Im really worried at how Im gonna react when I pick him up.

I was looking at him this morn and hes gone soooo skinny :( I can tell hes so poorly bless him but I know if this pain is taken away hes gonna start eating like a pig again :)

Cant wait to pick him up later and give him some loves but scared to death at the same time.

Thanks for all your support so far :) x

[angieh]

Thinking of George and you today Abby. Hope all goes well with the operation. ((((HUGS))))

Have you tried Rescue Remedy for yourself? I recommend it.

[yola]

It will be a shock Abby, but I think you need to reassure yourself with the fact that George will ultimately feel better as a result of the operation.

Big hugs to you all :hug:

[Abby]

Hi Angieh, thank you!! And no Ive never tried it, I think I will be ok once Ive got him home and settled, might pick some up for my flight next week though (Im terrified of flying lol)...thanks for letting me know about it!

Thanks Yola, I feel like today is dragging as slow as it possibly can lol!

I just want that phone call now :)

[alexgirl73]

everything crossed here that George is soon fighting fit once more :) RR is fab, Ihave used it on many occasions, for the animals and myself lol. Please update us when you can :)

[Abby]

Just had a call from the vets and she wanted to let me know that his bloods arent brilliant...there is a sign that the cancer is spreading but she doesnt know if its spread any further than his leg.
Shes done x-rays and cant see anything.

There are signs of toxins & his red blood cells are low...does anyone know what this means?

She's still gonna take his leg and give him the best chance but it doesnt help when my dad is calling me cruel for putting him through all this.

I dont know whether to call my vet back and ask her to just put him at ease or get his leg off and get that horrible cancer away from him.

I feel like I am being selfish cause he means so much to me :(

[yola]

I'm very sorry to read this Abby. There is no right or wrong answer as far as these things are concerned. A low red blood cell count usually indicates anaemia, but this in itself can be symptomatic of other things - cancer among them.

If it were me in this situation, much as I wouldn't want to give up on my beloved pet, I would be seriously considering whether it was wise to be putting my cat through this only to potentially loose him shortly after.

But as I say, that's only my thinking . . .

[Abby]

Yola I completely know where you are coming from!!
Same things are running through my mind...my mum is like me and wants to give him the best go possible.

The vet said it can be a sign of cancer or not - shes not sure.

So when she gives me an answer like that I seem to cant make a straight decision myself lol.

She said he could either be completely fine after the op and live a happy healthy life or the cancer could come back in a couple of months or years and then thats when you would have to make the decision.

She said she would advise me to make the decision to have his leg off cause she doesnt want me to have him put to sleep and then me regret that I didnt give him a chance.

Its a hard one isnt it!!
Sorry Im bombarding you all with this :?

[angieh]

That's such a hard decision Abby. I was going to type "if it were me, I'd" but I can't.

I suppose you must factor in that you will be away and the hard decision MAY rest with your parents.

Do what your heart tells you ................. ((((HUGS))))

[Abby]

Well she rang me an hour ago so I would have thought she would have started the operation now.

All I can do now is be possitive. If I had him put to sleep I would beat myself up about it - I know I would. I would be thinking what if?
And the same thing with having his leg amputated, if the cancer does come back in a week or a year Im gonna be even more upset and Im gonna have to make that awful decision!!! And Im gonna be angry with myself for not putting him out of his misery sooner.

Either way to me, I cant make the 'right decision' there is no right decision.

He was running around like a loon last night playing with my shi-tzu so thats where I struggle - he seems fine to me apart from not eating but he did the same with his toe.

Ive got a large bond with George (one that Ive never had with a pet before) this is mainly because I spent a yr in hospital. I bought him when I was poorly & he was as a kitten - only 5 weeks!!!!! He slept with me when I was bed-ridden and the night I got him the only place he would sleep was on my chest on top of my heart - he stayed there for 8 whole hrs lol - I had neck ache in the morning I tell you!! hee hee.

I dont doubt that other people have this sort of bond with their pets but either way this goes now I want the best for George and thats trying to give him the best life I can.

Fingers crossed little man!!!

[Abby]

Oh, I also dont want people to think Im being selfish by keeping him alive cause I feel like we have a big bond...I just wanted to tell you just how much he means to me.
If the cancer does come back or has already spread and I get that awful phone call then there will be no doubt about it - George will be put at ease and I will see him when we meet again <3

[angieh]

You really don't have to beat yourself up Abby - I really hope that George pulls through and is himself again when he's recovered. He is obviously so very special to you and you have to give him the best chance possible. Everything crossed here for the best news.

[pookyandjo]

Abby I was in the EXACT same circumstances as you exactly 1 year ago... Do what YOU feel is best...don't have any regrets... I lost my soul cat TinkyWinky and I miss him so much it still hurts....BUT... I know I gave home the best chance to get well..Tinky had haemangiosarcoma and we amputated his right hind leg

[Mags]

I admire your strength at this difficult time, Abby. I can also understand why you feel you need to give George this chance, he has been a special boy to you through your bad times too.

I truly hope the op is successful and he quickly adjusts to running around and amazing you by what he can do on three legs.

Fingers crossed for your special boy ...

[yola]

Abby - whatever happens, we won't judge you. It's an almost impossible call and you have support here no matter what.

[Abby]

Firstly, I want to thank you all again for being amazing people and being there for me today!! :bighug:

My vet, Liz, has just called and George's op was successful and they have sent his other infected toe and lymph node away for checks.

He apparently has come round already and is cleaning himself happily :)

They're gonna keep him over night just so if he needs any morphine they can give it to him without us worrying, but she said just cause he seems amazingly well already I should call back at 6.30 and see how he's doing & see how liz feels about him coming home.

Id prefer him to stay there so I know hes not in pain and pick him up tomorrow but then again I just wanna give him big cuddles!

Im off to my brothers tonight for a meal so if I can get on here before I go to bed to let you know the 6.30 update I will do or Ill let you all know in the morning :)

[dandysmom]

Sounding good! Thanks so much for the update; lookforward to the next one.

[Abby]

Abby I was in the EXACT same circumstances as you exactly 1 year ago... Do what YOU feel is best...don't have any regrets... I lost my soul cat TinkyWinky and I miss him so much it still hurts....BUT... I know I gave home the best chance to get well..Tinky had haemangiosarcoma and we amputated his right hind leg

Im so sorry to hear that!!
Id miss George so much too :(
Was that something to do with his blood? Just a guess in the dark as the problem starts with haema.
I think I would regret things more if I hadnt given George a good go at his life.

Thank you for posting...its made me feel better about my decision. Even though it didnt turn out for the best with TinkyWinky Im sure he is greatful that you had given him that one more chance!!! (((((hugs)))))

[alexgirl73]

That sounds reaaly promising Abby :) So pleased to hear he is doing so well. I'd be inclined to leve him overnight too, but I can imagine your excitement at having him home lol.

[calismum]

Glad to hear his op went well. I think no matter how this turns out you will be glad you gave him the chance.

You must so be looking forward to getting him home.

[dandysmom]

Im so sorry to hear that!!
Id miss George so much too :(
Was that something to do with his blood? Just a guess in the dark as the problem starts with haema.
I think I would regret things more if I hadnt given George a good go at his life.

Thank you for posting...its made me feel better about my decision. Even though it didnt turn out for the best with TinkyWinky Im sure he is greatful that you had given him that one more chance!!! (((((hugs)))))

I didn't know either, had to look it up:

Haemangiosarcoma
a rare (http://www.biology-online.org/dictionary/Rare) malignant (http://www.biology-online.org/dictionary/Malignant) neoplasm (http://www.biology-online.org/dictionary/Neoplasm) characterised by rapidly proliferating, extensively infiltrating (http://www.biology-online.org/dictionary/Infiltrating), anaplastic (http://www.biology-online.org/dictionary/Anaplastic) cells (http://www.biology-online.org/dictionary/Cells) derived from blood vessels (http://www.biology-online.org/dictionary/Blood_vessels) and lining (http://www.biology-online.org/dictionary/Lining) irregular (http://www.biology-online.org/dictionary/Irregular) blood (http://www.biology-online.org/dictionary/Blood)-filled or lumpy spaces (http://www.biology-online.org/dictionary/Spaces).

http://www.biology-online.org/i/1.gif

[Phoenix]

Just caught up with this thread :D

Glad to read George is doing a lot better now :-D

[Abby]

Oh I cant wait to get him home :)

6.30 update - hes staying over night & doing well, plus hes eaten some food...got to ring the vet at 10.30 in the morn to see how hes progressing and then she will let us know what time we can pick him up :D

[dandysmom]

Good news, Abby! Glad to hear he's eaten, that's a good sign! The house feels empty without him, doesn't it? Hurry tomorrow and the homecoming......

[farthing]

Glad to hear he's come through the op well.

[pookyandjo]

Abby, Im so glad that George has come through his op.... they do adapt very well to being on three legs... I know that the morning after Tinky had his surgery he was making clumsy attempts to use his litter tray...
a couple of things that you should be aware of which will help you prepare for his arrival home...

he may not be able to use his normal litter tray at the beginning as he may have troubles getting into it... we remedied this by purchasing a cheap litter tray.. and cutting one end off it... it will be a little messy... but it will only be until he gets better balance..
you should also ask the vet about what food to feed him in recovery... cats that lose a limb can lose a lot of protein from their bodies... if he seems depressed or goes off his food.. you need to be aware of that and get him to the vet so they can check the protein levels in his blood... having him on a food with a reasonable amount of protein will go some way to stop this from happening...

depending on how they have done the amputation the wound may be under some pressure...so he will need to be kept reasonably quiet... walking is ok... and he may need some help initially but he should be discouraged from jumping up and down from furniture... because if the wound breaks down it causes all types of problems...keep an eye out for any discharge from the wound

In reply to your post... yes... haemangiosarcome is cancer of the blood vessels... tinky came through his amputation surgery.. but passed from a thrombus (blood clot) 6 days after his surgery... ironically on the day that he died we got the pathology back stating that the margins where clear...the surgery had been successful... sadly it was all in vain

If you want to PM me please feel free... due to the time difference im awake when you guys are asleep...
but im happy to help you if i can...
incidentally... my other cats name is George too!

[Abby]

Hiya Pookyandjo,

Ive just called the vets to see how he was through the night and the nurse said he seems very happy but hasnt eaten a lot but they expect that when they are kept in.
Ive got to call back at 10.30 to have a chat with the vet then pop over and pick him up.

We have George on the best food possible as he had a bit of a skin problem a while back so we have him on James WellBeloved (have you heard of it?) and the whiskers for wet. But Ill have a chat with the vet and see what she suggests :)

We've got a large dog cage for him which fits a nice big fluffy blanket, his litter tray and food in comfortably. The main reason we want him in the cage is because we dont want our dog bowling him over and he likes his comforts.

We've still got his litter tray from when he was a kitten and the sides are really low (but Ill keep an eye out), we had to buy a bigger one for when he got bigger cause he would flick everything everywhere lol!!

Im so sorry that Tinky passed away from a blood clot :(
Its such a shame!! Especially when you did the right thing for him. Im sure he would still be really greatful to you!! Oh and you can feel free to pm me too :)...aww no way!! haha George was orignially called lucy (my mum chose lucy lol) and then when I took 'her' to the vets for 'her' first ever check-up the vet informed me 'lucy was infact a boy' :lol: so we had to change 'her' name to George lmao!!

Oh Dandysmom, it feels so empty without him!! I missed his cuddles in bed this morning! I think I might be sleeping in his cage with him tonight :lol:

[angieh]

Good luck today Abby. Lots of people here are thinking about you and George and wishing him a full and speedy recovery.

[Abby]

Thank you!! Ive had a call back from the vets and they said hes ok...hes just pretty aggitated so they want to keep him today and I can pick him up tomorrow.
She said shes thinking about me and she doesnt want me to see him in pain and think Ive made the wrong decision...because I havent!!

I think Id prefer it like that too cause I know it would upset me seeing him in pain and I know I would punish myself.

So after surgeries today they are gonna get him out and give him some physio...cause I think he is being a bit stubborn hee hee

[dandysmom]

Sorry he can't come home today, but I feel the vet made the right call. Sounds as if you're well prepared for his convalescence at home; what valuable info from Jo! There is a wealth of knowledge on this forum and willingness to reach out and share it. One more catless night and your boy will be home! (hugs)))

[alexgirl73]

I think you're vet has given you good advice there Abby, and it's best to see him when he is more comfortable :)

[Abby]

Madly enough my vet called at 3.15 this afternoon and said that they got George out of his cage and !!voila!! its like he's always had 3 legs!
She advised we picked him up! :O

So, Ive been home 10mins and George is well...amazing!! He has made me so proud! He is walking like he has always had 3 legs and he is purring soooo much makes me wanna cry with happiness :D
He's had a few wobbly moments but he's been ok :)
The vet even said he has amazed her!! He just had a bit of a tantrum last night hee hee!!

I know its not over yet cause we have to wait for the results back from his lymph node and toe but my boy has gotta be the stongest boy I know...he always comes back fighting.

Hes been to the litter tray!! and had a few biscuits & now he's having a chill out on his blanket in his cage!

Thank you all so much for your support and Im sure I will have more to update you all on...I just hope it continues to be good :)

[alexgirl73]

oh that's great news :D I can imagine how happy you are to have him back. Any chance of a piccy or two of this brave boy?

[yola]

Oh wow. What a little trooper!! Well done George for being up and about already :D

[Mags]

I'm so pleased for you and George, Abby :D

[trick]

Thats great news.

[dandysmom]

Wonderful news! Yes, we'd love to see George, Abby.

[Abby]

I hope this works...cause Im not sure how to upload pics on here lol so just got a flickr account...

This is george as a kitten...well about 16 weeks old...he could fit in the middle of my hand as a kitten...hes with my dog who is a shi-tzu cross :)
http://i892.photobucket.com/albums/ac121/Little_Miss_Malibu/DSC02482.jpg

This is george few nights before his op hiding under my blankets on my bed lol
http://i892.photobucket.com/albums/ac121/Little_Miss_Malibu/DSC00370.jpg

This is george just as his second toe got infected...I started snapping away with the cam cause I wanted some recent pics incase he didnt come home :(
http://i892.photobucket.com/albums/ac121/Little_Miss_Malibu/DSC00367.jpg

And this is George tonight...its a bit red cause the vet said he was licking last night...if he carries on I will put the collar on him but he goes evil!!!
http://i892.photobucket.com/albums/ac121/Little_Miss_Malibu/DSC00433.jpg

http://i892.photobucket.com/albums/ac121/Little_Miss_Malibu/DSC00422.jpg


Hope theyve worked :)

[Phoenix]

I hope this works...cause Im not sure how to upload pics on here lol so just got a flickr account...

This is george as a kitten :)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/48653309@N04/4457391449/

This is george few nights before his op hiding under my blankets on my bed lol
http://www.flickr.com/photos/48653309@N04/4457397285/

This is george just as his second toe got infected...I started snapping away with the cam cause I wanted some recent pics incase he didnt come home :(
http://www.flickr.com/photos/48653309@N04/4457396051/

And this is George tonight...its a bit red cause the vet said he was licking last night...if he carries on I will put the collar on him but he goes evil!!!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/48653309@N04/4457386901/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/48653309@N04/4458161362/

^^^ I dont think they have actually worked so if anyone knows how to do it let me know :) x

Use photobucket then they'll show ;)

[Abby]

Oh okie dokie...Ill edit my last post :)

[Mags]

Abby, you will first need to have your photos hosted somewhere like Photobucket, then simply follow these instructions to post your pics here on Catsey....

http://www.catsey.com/showthread.php?t=8195

Looking forward to seeing them..:)

Edited to say I've just seen your photos ....... George is such a gorgeous boy!

[Abby]

Abby, you will first need to have your photos hosted somewhere like Photobucket, then simply follow these instructions to post your pics here on Catsey....

http://www.catsey.com/showthread.php?t=8195

Looking forward to seeing them..:)

Edited to say I've just seen your photos ....... George is such a gorgeous boy!

Thank you Mags :)

I didnt realise the pics would come out so big! Sorry all :/

He's very skinny for his build but hopefully he will bulk up when hes feeling better, but I wont get him too fat cause I dont want his joints suffering :)

[alexgirl73]

Oh he's gorgeous :D Bless his wee shaved bum lol. It's amazing how quickly that fur grows back though. So pleased to see him home :)

[angieh]

What a brave wee soldier - cuddles to gorgeous George! So glad he's come through the op so well Abby. He'll do much better at home with you.

[Abby]

Aww thank you! I just got in his cage and had a bit of a cuddle with him...tried gettin him out but he would want to run off to the back door so he had me for cuddles instead lol :oops:
I can tell he wants to get out sooo bad but hes not going anywhere :)
When he got out earlier and had a walk around he kept stopping and having a lick of his wound so its obvious its a bit tender when he is walking around so he is resting whether he likes it or not :)

[dandysmom]

Thanks for the pics; so nice t see the boy we've been concerned about for days, bless him. What a handsome fellow he is! Cage rest is probably the best thing for him now, and maybe the collar if he's worrying his operation site. Do keep us posted how he's doing, Abby; glad the worst is over and he's home now. (((hugs)))

[yola]

He's beautiful, with the most amazingly expressive eyes! I hope he fully recovers and that the cancer doesn't return. He deserves a good long life, bless him :D

[Abby]

Thank you ladies...Im very lucky to have such a lovely cat :)
Just a shame the pics dont do him much justice...in the sun he's red & brown striped :)

Well, I got up at 7 this morn and we cuddled on the sofa from 8 til 11.30 but then I popped him in his cage so I could wash my hair and have some lunch...he wasnt happy with me...oops...:/ haha

But Ive got him back out now as Im off to work at 2.30 and my dad doesnt get back til 4.30.

He's eaten half a sachet of wet food this morning already (we norm give him 1/2 a sachet a day!!)
But Ill get my dad to give him the rest for his tea and to put some painkillers in it.

He's used his litter tray over night but not had a poo yet...Im hoping to let him out friday with some supervision as I know then he will try and go for a poo :)

[pookyandjo]

Hi Abby... just checking into see how George is getting along... hope he's still taking little steps forward... albeit on three legs...lol

[Abby]

Hiya Pookyandjo!!

George is doing fantastic!!
Its like he's always had 3 legs :)
He's had a few wobbly moments but as far as jumping on and off the sofa is concerned his balance is amazing and as of yet has not had trouble.
Just got back from the vets for his check-up and as it seems he is doing fine!
The only thing is...he has been drinking a lot of water and not eating much so they have took some blood and will ring me today...Im not too worried about that though as George has always been a big drinker.

Hope you are ok :)

[pookyandjo]

good to hear that George is doing well... i know the first time i saw Tinky attempt to walk after his leg was amputated i was amazed at how he stood up... and "centred" his remaining hind leg...and then he attempted to walk...

give him a pat from me and a purr and headbutt from his namesake here in Australia!:D

[angieh]

I am so pleased to read this news Abby. Well done George. I do hope he goes from strength to strength.

[dandysmom]

That's great news, so pleased.

[Abby]

Thank you everyone!! and I will pookyandjo :)

Just had a call from liz our vet and she has had his results back from his lymph node and they are clear! no sign of cancer!!
But...they havent got the results back from the other toe yet so we're not completely in the clear but Im guessing no sign of cancer in the lymph node is a good sign?

Will let you know anymore when I hear anything :)

[angieh]

It has to be good, doesn't it mean that the cancer hasn't spread? Fingers crossed that's what it means Abby.

[Abby]

I think thats what it means angieh :)
But she did say not to get our hopes up too much as we still need to get the biopsy back from the toe so she might just mean - dont get ya hopes up too much as the toe might have been cancerous therefore we just need to keep an eye out for any signs of spreading for the rest of his life.
But I can live with that - at least Ive still got my George - I think it would have been a bit more serious if it had of spread into his lymph node :/

[angieh]

Absolutely. Sounds like good news to me Abby. Please give George a gentle cuddle from me. Tell him to eat a bit more.

[dandysmom]

A cuddle from here too; you both are coping wonderfully. Fingers crossed here the toe biopsy will be OK.....

[pookyandjo]

good news that there's no nodal involvement...fingers crossed here too that the biopsy comes back ok .... do you know where the node/s were from that were tested? was it behind the knee or the groin?

[Abby]

Oooh Ive given him some big cuddles for you all :)

I think it was the knee as they were always saying the gland in his 'leg' was swollen and she said it was the one halfway up his leg so thats what makes me think its the knee.

I hate to say it but I think the toe biopsy will show it was the cancer spreading but I just hope that it hasnt spread any further and doesnt in the future!
Im just gonna keep possitive about it all :)

[yola]

Keeping positive until you have any information or evidence to the contrary is the way to go Abby.

You've done such a sterling job with George I hope you have many more years with him yet :D

[farthing]

Glad to hear things sound positive, I hope the cancer has been fully removed.

[Abby]

Thank you yola thats a lovely thing to say!! I hope I have many more years with him too!!! :)

Thank you farthing, I will let you all know once I hear something!!

[Phoenix]

Hope you have another 20 years with your gorgeous boy Abby (LOVE the username by the way!):D

[Aquatic]

I'm happy to hear everything is ok. Fingers crossed that the cancer has been fully removed.
Xxx

[jan]

Hi Abby,

Only just caught and read this thread. I am so pleased you gave George this chance, so pleased he is coping so well. He is a beautiful fella and very lucky to have such a devoted friend as you. Enjoy each day spoiling him and keep us informed of his progress. Now relax and enjoy Easter! Jan x

[Abby]

Hello!!!

Just to give you all a quick update before I jet off in the morning :) George is doing fantastically well. We are now letting him out and he is loving it!!
Hes 'freaked out' over the past 2 days when he wakes up (not every time though)...its like he forgets he doesnt have 3 legs and starts throwing himself around so I just pick him up, calm him down, put him back down and kinda give his bum a push and then I think he thinks "oh yeah, I forgot, I only have 3 legs" lol bless him...and he walks on fine.
Ive upped his painkillers too as the vet said to incase he has put weight on then his painkillers need to go slightly up.

So yeah, Im leaving the country pretty happy with Georges progress :)

Still no sign of the results from his toe but Im sure they will be in touch soon.

Take care all n Ill keep you updated!!

[Abby]

Oh hello Jan, thank you for following! :)
As you can see I have posted his update above as I havent posted one for a couple of days!
I hope you enjoy easter too!!!

[angieh]

Hi Abby thanks for the update on George. I am so glad he's doing well. Hope your flight goes well.

[alexgirl73]

Thanks for the update abby :) Glad he's doing so well. and I hope you enjoy your travels.

[dandysmom]

Thanks for the update, do keep in touch; have a good flight.

[Abby]

Well hello everyone! Again!

Im not sure if youre all still interested but Ive been back from my travels for a few weeks now and thought Id update you on George!

The results on his leg came back and they actually found nothing in it! Which does suggest that the vet took his leg through no reason :shock: however, he is a happy chappy and bounces around on his 3 legs better than on 4 :D
I know it might sound like Ive taken it lightly but trust me I was distraught and angry that George had his leg taken for the 'possibility' of nothing.

Anyways!! Since Ive got back hes had a few ups and downs, 1 was he jumped off our back garden wall and landed funny and hurt his back a little, but after a few painkillers he was on the road to recovery!

Although, we do have another on-going issue with george, which is the same one we had before his problem with his toe and his leg which is Eosinophilic granuloma - to us Rodent Ulcer. But hes on steroids at the moment, this is because he had a very bad reaction on the back of his good leg, this is because he licked the area to an ulceration. All is good now though...eating like a pig and is very very content. Ive never seen him so happy :D

Hope you are all well, including pets!!

Best Wishes, Abby

[dandysmom]

Hi, Abby, nice to hear from you and the update on George. It's sort of shocking that it was an unnecessary amputation, but if it had been cancer and you didn't have it done he probably wouldn't be here now and had a painful death. Hindsight's aways 20 - 20, isn't it? Glad to hear he's coped well. Off to read your other thread now .......

[Shelley123]

I'm glad to read George is doing well, long may it continue.