- Joined
- Nov 17, 2022
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- 7
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I'm near tears writing this. I rescued a beautiful 3-year old neutered, male DSH/Siamese mix in March. I do not have any of his history because he was left in a box on the shelter steps. A few days after I brought him home, I noticed him scooting. We went to the vet for his first check-up where they treated him for coccidia, emptied his anal glands, and did a preventative deworming treatment. I took stool samples back twice more to be sure the coccidia was gone and it was - stool was clear. He's had three follow-up anal gland checks and they were empty each time. Since April, we've done a food trial (prescription hydrolyzed protein for 9-weeks), a round of prednisolone, changed litter brands (always unscented), a round of antibiotics, and Entederm ointment. He doesn't vomit or have diarrhea and his poop is solid and healthy. He's active and plays like nothing is wrong. His scooting never leaves "leftovers" on the carpet. He's an indoor-only cat and I only use All Free & Clear on his bedding, I don't smoke or burn candles/incense or use essential oils, and he gets Revolution Plus each month. I've been two two different vets and the most recent vet wants to try gabapentin in case there's pain. He got his first dose last night and he was a muted version of himself. It made me so sad. I feel like I'm torturing this cat trying to find an answer to his scooting. Could it be behavioral? I don't know which is worse for him - scooting 2x a day or me trying to find a cure for him? I'm at my wits end and don't know how to proceed if the gabapentin doesn't work, which isn't looking great at the moment. Any encouragement or insight is appreciated. Thank you.