Cat in ICU, Now What?
Written by WhatUsaid
To make a long story short, one of our cats was attacked by a Rottweiler; while no internal damage, he was ripped open and has about 100 staples from leg through his tummy and just below his anus and over to his other leg. After a 1 1/2 days in ICU, he came home, but didn't do well. His body temperature dropped to 96 and we took him back to the ER, where he's been in and out of ICU for the last two days. They're saying he's making slow progress, but without ICU, he starts to fail.
I feel lost here. Not knowing what questions to ask. The vet asked if we wanted to put him down. We said no. We're now $3,800 and counting for the ICU care.
Needless to say, there's an emotional attachment. I rescued him from near death two years ago. Common sense says, let him go. But, not without knowing the right questions to ask.
What signs does one look for to establish there is recovery? If body temperature is not maintained, why? He's obviously on pain medications, but doesn't seem to be in any pain. He simply rests...sleeps... Is that good or bad? If he's not eating on his own, what do we conclude from that?
I'd greatly appreciate any feedback.
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I am really sorry about your kitty. What a horrible experience for all of you. Signs to look for in terms of recovery are things like interest in eating and drinking, a change in attitude, like perking up when people are around and starting to clean his wounds and groom himself. I am really not sure why he is unable to regulate his temperature unless it is just because of the trauma, shock, or a side effect of something he is being treated with. Rest and sleep an absolute must-a very good thing. The body has a huge undertaking ahead trying to heal itself. I would not be overly concerned with the lack of interest in food for a couple of days at least. If he is recieving fluid therapy, that is keeping him hydrated.
If you decide to continue with your kitty's treatment, I would strongly encourage you to visit him 1 to 2 times a day. It does not have to be for a long time but it is helpful to him to know you are still around. You can bring him something from home like and bed, blanket or shirt from his favorite person for him to sleep with. It will comfort him.
I know it is incredibly hard to know what the right thing to do is. Only you can decide what is best for you and your cat. Sometimes a veterinary person may suggest to you what they think you may want to do because they are caring people who do not want to see you suffer with not knowing what to do.
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