Success treating neurological issue with steroid?

Hello all!

I figured I'd start a new thread about my boy Gabe now that we know more about what is going on with him.  He is almost 18, blood work is very good/normal but he is showing signs of neurological issues.  We both agree not to put him though MRI.  Vet suggests trying out prednizone twice daily.  We just started it yesterday along with mertazipine to simulate his appetite.  So far, he'll eat about 1 hour after the mertazipine but not interested in anything after.  He is drinking water and going to the littler box normally.

As far as his personality, he doesn't seem to be in pain.. more lethargic and depressed.  He is still jumping on the couch, climbing his stairs up to our bed, etc but he doesn't purr when we pet him. ;(

This is so heartbreaking as he's always been so healthy and happy and very purr-y/cuddle-y.  I'm hopeful since he is otherwise very healthy, he will respond to the meds.  Curious if anyone has seen success with this? or experiences they can share?

Thanks in advance!

Gabe's mamma

No throat problems? That would affect both his appetite and ability to purr..

Poor old boy. Hope he perks up soon!!!

Thanks, misterwhiskers... hmmmm he does have a lump on the side of his throat I can feel.  Vet 'wasn't concerned' with it.  He had the same lump about 6 months ago and it actually went away on its own.  Now its back??? She tested for hyperthyroid but thankfully his levels are normal.  He has had twitching/jerking that has gotten worse over the last year.  The new symptom that started last week was the drunk walking, which has gotten better but not 100%.  Also, the not eating.  All these things considered, the vet is saying neurological issues.  I will ask about the throat though, thanks, I didn't even think of that!

xo

Hmmm...
Any chance this lump near a blood vessel to or from the brain? Or a lymph node?

There was a point in which we thought my Boo (age 15) had neurological problems. We tried prednisolone and it didn't do anything. He's now on gabapentin alongside supportive supplements for several of his issues (pain, arthritis, IVDD, FHS) and it really helps. Perhaps something to mention to your vet.