HELP !! probable ear infection, need to call vet Monday for appt, my buddy is in a nasty mood,and ca

joang71

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My cat Cande is approx. 5 yrs old. I have had her almost a year, and over two days she is shaking her head, flicking her ears, scratching and making sounds she is not happy, and not feeling well. I did manage to get a few warm drops of olive oil in her ears, but she is in a back up and leave me alone mood, and the tail tells me the same. When her original owner brought her to me she came in a blanket; I don't believe she has ever been in a carrier, and due to her being upset, I for see big problems for myself, age 72, trying to get her in a carrier. Do vets ever let you bring them in a  blanket? That doesn't sound safe either for all concerned. I can't really see in her ears to determine the problem. I don't see blood or smell signs of infection. I need some advise ASAP.

I only have my Social Security, so my options are limited as to how to get this done to help her. When I first got her it took me over a month to even be able to pick her up. I was the 3rd home. Now she is my buddy. But right now, I'm not. thank you for some advise in getting her to the vet.  Joan
 

2azwildcats

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Please use a carrier.    Your cat could easily get away from you if you use a blanket and you might not be able to catch it.  My cat does not like the carrier either but I am able to get him in to it.  The funny part is when it is time to leave the vet he easily goes back into the carrier as I think he knows he is going home.  
 

If your cat is scratching it's ears and shaking its head, her ears do need to be checked out by a vet. 
 

cat-tech

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Please don't use olive oil, if there is an infection or waxy buildup in the inner ear canal, this will only exacerbate the problem.

Do whatever it takes to get her in the carrier for the vet visit.  It is MUCH TOO DANGEROUS to not use a carrier.  It happens all too often when owners assume they can just carry their cat into a car, the vet, etc, the kitty escapes, never to be found again. 

Put a small soft blanket or towel inside the carrier, keep door open - scruff kitty gently and face her forward into the carrier, using your other hand to cup her rear end and push at the same time, close door immediately.  It's easier when this is done with as quick a motion as you can.  One option is to put a light hand towel draped over her head/face so she doesn't see the carrier as you place her into it. 

Most cats don't like their carriers, but it's necessary for their safety and so they can get to the vet promptly.
 

catsknowme

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When you call the vet to make the appt. you should ask the vet's opinion about possibly using a sedative. I have had cats that were so frantic, the vet had to sedate them by using a poke-stik through the carrier (usu my blind kitties). Sadly, that will up the vet bill. You could ask your local cat rescue groups and your vet to see if there is a low-income assistance program in your area.

I often feel frustrated with the lack of options for fixed income people and their pets. Keeping your cat in your care is cheaper than having her in the shelter, so in essence, you are "pre-fostering" her. If she was in an actual foster situation, those vet bills would be covered. It isn't just with pet care - I have an elderly friend who lives in an RV, who needs a hip replacement,  and she has to stay with us because of lack of affordable housing. And I have a close friend who is in-between jobs who is unable to afford a place of her own - she is bright, intelligent, experienced but the only good jobs available go to younger women; so she also stays with us. (I don't mind because I am a Christian and when I read in Matthew 25 that I am helping Him through them)
 
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joang71

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thanks to all who gave advise. Made an appt with my vet for Jan 12. They suggested using a pillowcase to get her in the carrier so she won't see it coming; bad enough sometimes to get a healthy cat in a carrier let alone one who is over 5 years old, who is not feeling well, and never been in one. She is high strung to begin with, as I was home #3 and she was not a happy camper, but almost a year later she is my buddy. It  just took time. She is eating and all else is good as well. She sleeps most of the time which is good. Will let all of you know how things turn out. Taking my versatile carrier that has a top opening as well. Wish us good luck. Joan
 
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joang71

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Had your cat gone 5 years without the use of a carrier?
 
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joang71

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I understand; I've had cats for years, but never under present circumstances.
 

stephanietx

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If you can handle it, you can take 2 laundry baskets, turn one upside down on the other and tie them together as a homemade carrier.  I have done this before. I tied the "hinges" together on the back, put the kitty in and closed the "lid", then tied one tie on the sides and two in the front.  It's not pretty, but it's better than taking her loose in a blanket.
 
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joang71

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Hi from Joan on this Sunday morning. I would like some feedback/recommendation until my vet's office opens.

I took my cat to the vet last thursday for her ear condition which turned out to be an ear infection (no mites found)

ears cleaner, shot given, and prescription for Mometamax 15 gm

I was looking at the box today and on a few area's of the box it states otic use in dogs only. All info on the computer says the same.

Should I not treat her ears tomorrow until the vet is available? I don't know yet if the office will be open until Tuesday. thank you for responding. Joan
 
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joang71

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got my answer all ok
 
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