As the New Year begins, I am sad to share that our beloved Max has lost more weight. Our vet team regularly monitors Max’s weight fluctuations, and until now they’d been minor and no cause for concern. But this past month alone, Max lost over a pound. It was time to do more testing.
First, our team found some good news. Max’s medication for hyperthyroidism is working as it should. However, Max has developed a new problem: significant cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heart rate). This was initially detected via physical examination and later confirmed with cardiac ultrasound.
This all sounds quite frightening, but there’s more good news. On his ultrasound, Max’s heart appeared perfectly normal. So for the time being, there is no need for any medication. Of course, we’ll continue to monitor both his heart and weight issues closely.
In social news, Max has seen a change in suitemates over the past month. Longtime suitemate Sherpa was relocated to another suite, and gentle Tucker was adopted! Max’s precious friend Sammy is still by his side, providing daily doses of feline love and devotion. I’m sure that Max finds this comforting.
The pair also helped to welcome Wilhelmina, a gentle, older feline who should blend in quite well with the others. Wilhelmina benefits from a daily sprinkle of phosphate binder into her food; this supplement helps to regulate her kidney levels. Since it’s not harmful to any cats, we’re sprinkling it into all the food bowls in Adoption Room #1. Of course, we’ll monitor all the kitties closely to make sure they’re continuing to eat well.
Max asked me to thank you for your monthly gifts of love and support. We’re especially grateful as we realize that medical issues can come on without warning. Our fellow has been blessed with good health for a very long time. His personality remains as charming as ever, and he was very receptive to my recent long visit.
As those big green eyes gazed up at me, I said a special prayer that Max will remain a part of the Tabby’s Place family for many years to come. Thank you for helping to make his health and happiness possible.