My 5 month old kitten diagnosed with feline infectious peritonitis (wet form) and feline leukemia. D

perdidogringo

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Hi All,

On Friday, I noticed that one of my cats (5 month old Egyptian Mau, Tootsie) had a swollen abdomen and looked uncomfortable. Prior to this day she had been perfectly healthy (or so I thought).  I immediately took her to a 24 hour emergency care vet and she was diagnosed with 2 fatal diseases - feline infectious peritonitis (wet form) and feline leukemia. Both, I understand, are eventually fatal, but the vets told me that the peritonitis will probably get her within a couple of weeks (at the most). I had a second vet verify the diagnoses. Tootsie had her abdomen drained and was put on some medication but she was extremely uncomfortable all last night and was crying. Now I am struggling with the decision about putting her to sleep (she's only 5 months old!). Everywhere else I searched on the internet seems to indicate that a cat diagnosed with either disease is probably a death sentence. And my poor kitten was diagnosed with both!

Anyway, just looking for some additional guidance in terms of when do you know it's the time to put her to sleep? She's already uncomfortable with the fluid drainage holes, doesn't eat much, and hasn't gone #2 in days. She can't even jump up on the bed or couch any longer due to lack of strength, I guess?

Any guidance would be appreciated....
 

Sarthur2

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I am so very sorry for what you are facing. With all of the painful issues that you have just described, the kindest thing to do would be to go ahead and put her to sleep right away, as her problems are insurmountable and she is already in pain.
 

denice

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FIP especially the wet form is a vicious disease and the kitten will decline very rapidly.  I imagine fluid is already building up and will be noticeable again soon.  I am so very sorry but I think euthanasia sooner rather than later is the kindest thing to do.
 

cinqchats

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I support what Denice and sarthur2 have already said. I'd like to add that if you purchased her from a breeder, you should call them and tell them about the FeLV. 
 
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perdidogringo

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Thank you for all your feedback. It seems everyone I talked to concurred with the responses here and even though it broke our hearts we had Tootsie put to sleep about an hour ago. It was very peaceful, quick, and pain free. We're going to miss her but I know it was the correct decision. 
 

talkingpeanut

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So sorry for your loss. You made the right choice for her.
 

Sarthur2

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You did make the right decision to spare her further pain. I know that you are heartbroken, but she is better off now. Rest in peace, Tootsie [emoji]128149[/emoji].
 
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