Full anaestesia for an older cat

trezzy2003

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We have a 17/18 year old (we inherited him from a relative) male cat who has been taking Meloxidyl for 16 months as he suffers from arthritis. When he was prescribed Meloxidyl we were warned that its possible long-term side affects was damage to his kidneys but that he would have a better quality of life on this medicine in the short-term.
We have now been told that he needs to go under full anaesthetics to have some teeth removed as he has an abscess in his mouth.
He is currently very weak and is only weighing 3 kilos and we are extremely worried if he is too weak to make it through a tooth extraction procedure? We are due to see our Vets on Tuesday - we may move it to Monday?
Just wondering if anyone has some advice for us to take into consideration?
Thank you.
Teresa
 

di and bob

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You are so right to be concerned, I would be frantic to think of a weak, older cat going under. Can they put him on antibiotics to clear up the abscess? I give the liquid mixed in tuna juice and my almost sixteen year old takes it well.  I would not have surgery unless the pain is making it too difficult for him to eat soft food. But he may be so weak because of the pain and not eating, it is definitely a dilemma. How well do you know the vet, ask if they have surgery regularly on geriatric cats, and what his final recommendation is, maybe you want a second opinion? I feel for you, if it does not go well, you should know you tried your hardest, and you did it out of concern and love.  I know you will be blessed for loving that sweet cat, I will pray for his safe return,good luck!
 
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trezzy2003

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Thank you so much for your reply.

Our Cat was given a shot of antibiotics on Friday evening and it has made a slight difference to his wellbeing.

We will look into getting a second opinion tomorrow and speak to them in detail about our concerns regarding benefits versus risks.

Thank you once again for your heartfelt wishes.

Best wishes, Teresa
 
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