I don't think the vet has been or is being straight w/ me

[MissMillie]

original thread: http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=105&topic_id=5370780&mesg_id=5370780

I called to see what time to pick Millie up today. The receptionist got a quick update from the vet and came back to the phone to say that Millie would not be coming home today.


First of all, I miss my cat. She's an important part of my household.

Second of all, I do not have unlimited resources. I was under the impression that my cat has feline asthma, that she was going to come home and we could treat her here. I was told that the first treatment they gave her helped.

I get the feeling that they don't realize that I can't afford to pay for a lengthy process of treatment especially if the prognosis isn't good to begin with. I wish I could. The reality is that I have needed bifocals for over a year now, and I haven't been able to afford those for myself. The first night in ICU at the animal hospital was going to run me $1500....

Losing Millie would be terrible, but it would be even worse to rack up thousands in debt to try to save her and then to end up losing her. I don't want to put her through uncomfortable treatment, especially when I can't afford it anyway.

The doc said she'd call back after noon, and now it's almost 1. I am a wreck over all of this.

[Wcross]

1. I would be direct with the vet.

Explain your situation just as you have in your post. I know the feeling about a sick pet, you want to do everything you can for the little friend. At the same time you can't bankrupt yourself trying to save a pet that is beyond help.
I send you and Millie my deepest wishes of good health and a speedy recovery. I have eight pets and I would go as far as I could to save them IF the prognosis was positive. If there was little hope I am sure my vet would be up front about it.

[Spacemom]

2. I just want to add my support

:hug:

These decisions are always hard ones. I wish you and your kitty the best. :hug:

[wildhorses]

3. oh sweetie, what a trying time...

:hug:

Call the vet, NOW

[MissMillie]

4. UPDATE: Millie has had more episodes

w/ some medication they have been able to keep her breathing from being labored but it is still a little more rapid than they would like. She has had 2 more episodes of open-mouth breathing, but the medication has helped. They have had her out of the oxygen cage for a couple of hours now, and she is doing ok. They hope to put her in the normal cat ward for the rest of her visit--which will be at least until Monday, as they need her to see a cardiologist.

The cannot make an asthma diagnosis w/o ruling out some heart issues.

The bill so far is not as much as I had expected, and it will not add up as quickly if she is sent to the normal cat ward (vs. ICU).

They said I can go and see her after I bring my son to work.

[wildhorses]

5. YAY....good news....be sure and get all the good lovin you can

enough to last you ....so you don't go into DT's

:hi::hug: