Moaning/groaning: Pain or just 'him'

Bandit's had a bit of a few rough days, and I started to notice him groans or 'moans' more when sleeping.

Thursday he could not get comfortable, so I gave him some pain meds, antacid and took him to the vet for b12 and fluids. He was looking very lethargic and I was worried. However, he's been more active, sleeping in the porch in the sun, on the bed/cuddly with me and good appetite. He was even attacking his sister (she's less thrilled about that part)

Bandit, from what I can remember, has always been a 'vocal' sleeper. He will yawn, and make noises and stretch and moan sort of sound, ever since I can remember---but, I'm noticing it more now and I spoke to my vet today and he did say it can be a sign of pain. So, more bupe for him and he's happier---I just wonder if he's not feeling well(megacolon issues) that it is helping, but Bandit has lost weight---likely from the 10mgs of prednisone a day. We discussed dropping the pred, but I think it's put into remission whatever is going on in his gut.

Thing is, when Bandit does this, he's still wanting belly rubs, purrs and generally seems cuddly/happy. I am so ....sad that he's dropping muscle mass and I know I don't have many days left with him, but I know in my gut he's not ready to leave--he's already told me many times.

I've put him back on antacids (will do 2x daily for 5 days) incase this is pancreatic related, give bupe when needed and take him to the vet if he's still not well. But, he's chowing down on food and only has had a few spit up moments (Which he will get with megacolon).

Anyone else have a 'vocal cat?". Is it a sign of pain/discomfort?

Also, to help him gain weight, we've got him on a hypoallergenic food(hard) and he's loving fancy feast cat food--sits will with both kitties, so I'm letting them enjoy. I've discussed with my vet about diet options, but we're at an impass because likely Bandit has IBD, so anything new to his system might make him sicker....ugh.

Thanks for listening.

Skye is doing great!! She's on 5mgs of prednisone a day for arthritis. Was going to bump to 10mgs, but I realized she didn't need it(after lengthy talk with my ever wonderful vet). Skye still has trouble pooping due to the arthritis in her hips, so I will be starting her on ciscipride to help her motility. I also like her on pred because her pancreatic levels were 34 (down from 50!), and I want to keep that inflammation down.

I don't have any cats who make any noises other than once in awhile a slight snore, but just want to say I'm sorry he seems to be going downhill somewhat.  But having a great appetite in my mind is always a  good sign  .  When my Callie didn't feel well, her appetite was the first thing to go.  

Thanks Mrsgreenjeens! He's better today after I gave him buperenorphine and a quarter cerenia. I think that's what really helped. I totally forgot he ate some of my chinese food Saturday----and I think that's irritated his tummy because since then, he's been blah. My vet explained that cerenia has an anti pain component as well. So, he's now relaxed and purring and eating up a storm(Bandit, not my vet ) 

I found that giving Bandit a quarter cerenia twice a day is better than a full half tablet. It makes him far too groggy. Add to that a quarter dose of bupe and his pepcid a/c , prednisone and ciscipride, he has more meds than me! Hahahaha. But it's working. He's eaten a ton and is resting far better. AND, no groaning.

I am emotional though----between pre menopause and this current flare, I'm a weeping mess. But, he's one tough kitty and I have a wonderful support team, so that's all I could really ask for.

MOD NOTE:  Bandit has passed.  We'll lock the thread now out of respect for his passing.  

http://www.thecatsite.com/t/329735/bandit-crossed-the-rainbow-bridge