It is time to look back at the month of August with Cooper.

Week 1

The beginning of August was slow and rainy. Cooper continued his daily subcutaneous fluids. You cannot see on this picture the large patch of hair the vet shaved off on Cooper’s upper back. This was solely due to my request, so I could improve giving Cooper the fluids in the correct area of Cooper’s back. I have struggled with injecting the needle in the correct area of Cooper. Cooper did not care at all about the bald spot he had on his back. Fortunately, Cooper and I are getting a better groove at fluids and his bald spot is growing back!

 

Week 2

Week 2 continued on a usual. Cooper seemed well. His appetite was good. He was social with us. Overall, we were having a good week while we were preparing for Cooper’s vet check-up the next week, and my upcoming knee surgery as well.

 

Week 3

Week 3 began with Cooper getting a 1-month check-up for his renal values and blood pressure. His doctor wanted to order a complete blood work for a more detailed and thorough understanding of how Cooper is doing. I agreed. Unfortunately, some of the results were not what I was expecting since Cooper seemed to be doing well. Cooper’s blood pressure was too high. We changed Cooper’s treatment plan for hypertension and would recheck his blood pressure in 2 weeks. Cooper’s calcium level results were too high as well. His doctor informed me that high calcium levels are a reason why renal cats do not do well long-term. We would recheck his calcium level in 2 weeks as well, and if the level is not back down to normal, we will try to manage it through medication. Although this is not what I wanted to hear, I have come to learn that just because Cooper is acting well, there are easily underlying health conditions, and Cooper can be disguising a health problem. Cats are excellent at hiding their illnesses! All of this confirms why allowing your pet’s doctor to run tests based on the pet’s health and not by our bank account is always best. I will keep you all posted on Cooper’s 2-week check up on his blood pressure and calcium level!

Week 4

Well, this is week 4. I had a minor knee surgery, but it really took me our of commission. I was not prepared for the downtime I would have to take. Fortunately, I had my favorite 4-legged furry nurse by my side the entire time. My husband took over the household responsibilities which included feeding Cooper. I am sure most of you can share your stories of your pet(s) knowing when you are not well. It amazes me every time how Cooper just turns gears and becomes the most nurturing and caring cat. When we arrived home from the surgery, Cooper jumped on the bed and stayed right next to my leg. Through the days and nights of staying in the bed recovering, Cooper was right there snuggled next to me. He was the best pain relief I could have asked for.

We look forward to a great September!