| Living With IBD - Lulu P. |
| Lulu P – Wiltshire, Southwest England, United Kingdom Female, Somali Cat Born February 20, 1999 Diagnosed with IBD in June of 2009 Diagnosed with iris melanoma on May 2, 2012 |
First Entry: April 14, 2011
I collected Lulu from a breeder at 4 months old. She was initially fed on a mixture of Iams dry kibble kitten food, High Society and
Whiskers Kitten wet/canned food with fresh cooked Coley (white fish), turkey and scraps from the Sunday joint, while at the
breeder. I continued with this for some time before gradually progressing mainly to Whiskers canned Kitten food, and then
progressing to Felix and Whiskers canned adult food and kibble, which she was fed on until Ted was diagnosed with IBD in May
2005.
It soon became very clear just how difficult it is to keep certain cats on a strict diet, when you have a multi cat household,
therefore because the prescription diet of Royal Canin Sensitivy Control (SC31) capelin and tapioca kibble is a complete food
diet and considered to be an excellent protein source, all three cats were slowly converted to this food. After the manufacturer
stopped production of this food all three cats were converted to Royal Canin sensitivity control Chicken and Rice and/or Duck
and Rice moist pouch food and kibble and Royal Canin Blue Whiting sensitivity control kibble.
Prior to diagnosis in June 2009, Lulu had been a member of a multi cat house hold. I was the proud owner of four beautiful cats,
different breed types, colours and within various age ranges, none of which were related. Ellie, female, (1990 -2004) beautiful
long haired tortoiseshell, mixed breed domestic cat who was euthanized in July 2004 after being diagnosed with terminal and
un-treatable cancer of the stomach at 14 years of age. Gismo, male, beautiful silver tabby and white chinchilla Persian cross,
moggy domestic cat, (1996 - 2010), (see Gismo’s case history on the Tributes Page of this site). And Teddy, male Somali
(DOB: 2001), (see Teddy’s case history in the Living With IBD section).
Lulu had always been an extremely healthy, hardy, playful kitten and cat. In fact she continued to remain in good health throughout
most of her young to mid mature years. However, she was a fussy eater on occasion. Lulu was generally well and fed lightly
boiled chicken and/or white fish when a boat of IBD occurred. She had a slow progression to Royal Canin sensitivity control
Chicken and Rice and/or Duck and Rice moist pouch food and kibble and kibble and Royal Canin Blue Whiting sensitivity
control kibble. Despite her occasional condition Lulu was generally a happy and sociable cat.
As of January 1, 2009, Lulu was fed on 50gms Royal Canin Sensitivity Control kibble and 25gms Royal Canin Chicken & Rice
moist pouch food per day. Generally well, happy and content cat. Wormed with Drontal, had occasional occurrences of fresh
blood from bottom and occasional vomiting. Prescribed ½ x metronidazole tablet 250mg twice daily for 7 days. On April 26,
stools were sent for lab analysis to eliminate the possibility of parasitic and bacterial infections, negative result found. Vet
discussed benefits of carrying out a Bile acid stimulation test, pre/post food, in order to understand and diagnose GI, pancreas,
and/or liver disease. May 13, blood samples were taken; hematology (hl) and pre-op biochemistry (in house) B12/Foliate (b3) to
see how well the gut worked/absorbed and any other abnormalities in the blood count including liver disease, GI and pancreatic
problems. Generally all samples were within normal range, mild increase in acids, further testing to be done.
On May 18 Lulu was hospitalized where they took 3 dynamic bile acid samples. Bile acid stimulation test were done, looking for
Liver disease, GI and pancreatic problems. In the meantime I was to feed a bland diet chicken and/r white fish. On May 22 a
gastroduendenoscopy (endoscopy), ultrasound examination and two x-rays were carried out. The vet prescribed 21 x
metronidazole tablet 200mg, ½ (100mg) twice daily and 5 x Losec 10mgs, half tablet once daily (am). By June 7th she was very
unwell, vomiting clear fluid and not eating. Her general demeanour was not very good. She was tuckered up, miserable and ran
and hid when it was time for her medication. I contacted the vet to tell her that she was also losing weight. The vet advised to
feed bland diet and Hills Canine Ad (156gms tins). Also to withdraw the metronidazole and treat her with Clavaspeptin, which is
gentle on the stomach, but less effective in the lower bowl. She was still vomiting clear fluid, unable to take high dose of
metronidazole (bitter taste), was totally off her food, not eating and losing weight. It was very upsetting to see her like that. Vet
prescribed 20 x Clavaspeptin 50mgs tablets. The results of the endoscopy were mild GI and IBD.
On June 15 the vet prescribed 1 tube of 15ml Protexin Pro Kolin Paste, 1ml three times and 3 x Cerinia 16mg tablets at ¼ daily
for 6 days. Cerenia is licensed for use in Dogs but effective in cats too. It's an anti-nausea tablet that affects the area of the brain
that is responsible for vomiting. Weight 2.6kg (decreased) target weight 3kg. She was underweight due to being starved for
three days in order to carry out Endoscopy and related tests, also due to high dose of metronidazole effecting her appetite. Vet
recommended to slowly introduce Royal Canin Feline Hypoallergenic food (DR25) and advised to slowly increase the amount of
(DR25) while reducing the amount of white fish, aiming to be on 100% (DR25) by June 24th.
I was to Keep Teddy and Lulu on Hypoallergenic food for 5 weeks (first day on 100%) in order to allow all other food substances
to expel from their bodies. This would enable us to see the effect of the new food on their digestive systems, and give us an
understanding of possible causes, either food allergy OR idiopathic bought of inflammatory bowel disease. She had occasional
bouts of vomiting and diarrhea. August 22nd vet examination showed her condition to be good, weight 3.89kg. Given 1 x cat
booster (combination booster including feline leukaemia) and was prescribed Pro-Kolin and Katalax to protect the bowl and rule
out fur balls.
By December 29th, Lulu has developed black ear wax in both ears (in fact Gismo and Teddy had too). The vet said it was a
possible ear mite infection, although very late in season. (In retrospect I've learned this is a symptom of IBD). She was then
prescribed Canaural ear drops, two drops twice daily in each ear for 7 days. Everyone's bedding was washed. Changed diet to
Purina Ha and lightly boiled chicken. By March 24th, she had been de-wormed again with Drontal and vet suggested changing
from lightly boiled chicken to lightly boiled turkey and Purina HA. Over the next couple of months we continued with the ¼ Zantac
daily and tried various ratios of boiled turkey and Purina HA, working up and down the ratios to either 100% turkey or 100%
Purina HA (Gismo was very ill at this point too).
In May, 2010 we continued the above diet, varying the ratios, with 80% Purina HA and 20% lightly boiled turkey, giving the best
result. She vomited only occasionally, no particular pattern to the vomiting. Hard dehydrated toilet most days. Generally very
good in herself. By June she was on 100% Purina HA biscuits. After the loss of Gismo and the devastating effects of the
diseases and treatments on Gismo’s body I had decided to check out alternative, more naturals ways of finding a solution to
Teddy’s and Lulu’s on-going health problems. I searched websites informative books on cat care and health in a desperate
attempt to ensure Teddy & Lulu did not suffer the same fate as my poor Gismo. I discovered this website, IBD Kitties, and
Jaspers site, www.laurieulrich.com and also purchased ‘Your Cat’ simple new secrets to a longer, stringer life by Elizabeth M
Hodgkins, D.V.M, Esq.
I discovered each to be an excellent source of accurate information. I introduced one Efavet 330 (oil of evening primrose and
marine oil) casual daily (Efavet330, is a known natural anti- inflammatory supplement). Introduced Evian bottled water instead of
filtered tap water after reading an article on chemicals in our water supply and page 313 of New Choices in Natural Healing for
Cats & Dogs by Amy D. Shojai and the Editors of Prevention for Pets. Evian is free from Chloride and according to this article,
chloride can cause bacterial over growth in the digestive process and can cause bleeding in IBD.
With continued use of above products I observed a marked improvement in Lulu’s toilet which was perfect No blood or mucus,
firm and no vomiting, it’s truly amazing. I introduced Synbiotic D-C capsule, a probiotic and prebiotic powder in a capsule to
restore the gut microflora, once daily. Was on 100% Purina HA biscuits (hydrolysed soya based diet).
July 8th she was drinking 3/4 times more than usual and not vomiting. Urine sample taken showed range 0-35, Lulu’s is 50, a
good result. Kidneys were okay, generally healthy, however working hard. Sample indicated Lulu possibly not drinking enough,
also could be a combination of eating dry kibble (was on 100% Purina HA) and the hot weather at the time caused a slight
weight reduction. Vet suggested that the increase in water intake may be due to the fact that cats have an excellent sense of
smell and do not like drinking water that contains chemicals, therefore Lulu may just like the taste of the Evian more. Vet happy
with general condition of cat and said that Efavet is a known natural anti-inflammatory and was happy for me to continue
administering it to her.
I began searching for a more suitable food since discovering cats are obligate carnivores via ‘Your Cat’ book. Referred to this
website for suitable cat food products and suppliers. At that point, almost all of the food on this site was not available in the UK
(Europe). Despite contacting manufactures directly in America, they were unable to sell their products within Europe due to
importing and licensing laws, the only exception being Orijen Dry kibble. I introduced Orijen Chicken kibble into Lulu’s diet and
reduced the quantity of Purina HA biscuits, slowly increasing quantity of Orijen to 100% over the next week (7 days). By July 18th
she was on 100% Orijen Chicken kibble and showed a definite improvement in condition of toilet; normal, not dehydrated. And
she also liked the taste of Orijen. There still had occasional vomiting, normal toilet, but not dehydrated. I was concerned about
feeding dry kibble only, because it makes the kidneys work harder. I began to introduce a 10% canned wet food, Bozita Chicken.
Lulu loved the taste of the Bozita (97% pure organic meat with no gain) Perfect toilet, no issues, no vomiting.
I cut her Orijen Chicken kibble to 60% and started to introducing 40% canned wet food Bozita Chicken. I started the withdrawal
of Synbiotic D-C capsule, fed 60% Orijen Chicken kibble and 40% canned wet food Bozita Chicken. No issues with vomiting or
toilet consistency. Generally, very happy and content cat. Then went 50/50 with dry and wet food and saw a 100% improvement.
She had soft, silky fur, lots of energy and was very playful. I was very pleased with the outcome. Lulu was a picture of health and
full of energy.
Late October of 2010, Lulu had a vet check–up and an annual boost was given. The vet was very pleased with Lulu’s general
condition. Her weight had increased to 3.52 kg, excellent weight for her size. Personal choice, I decided to have the general
boost, but exclude FelV (feline leukaemia) because Lulu has limited access to a secure garden, therefore does not come into
contact with other cats and have read various article about injection site sarcoma. It has been such a battle to get my cats well
that I am afraid to introduce more health risks.
On January 1, of 2011, I introduced 1/2 (1000mg) B12 methylcobalamin (Natural Factors) daily, slowly working up to 1 x
(1000mg) B12 methylcobalamin (Natural Factors) daily over the coming month. Continued with bottled Evian water, fresh supply
daily in their drinking bowls. Continued mainly with to 50% Orijen Chicken kibble and 50% canned wet food Bozita Chicken.
Occasionally I substitute (twice or three times a week) the Bozita with Ziwipeak veal & fish daily cuisine and/or lightly cooked
fresh minced turkey tight meat and chicken liver, served in the cooking water for extra moisture. Toilet is perfect, no mucus, no
blood. Occasional fur ball vomit, remedied with Katalax. Happy, healthy, playful and loving cat and happy caregiver at last.
Update: October 23, 2011
In March, while we where away for a few days Lulu started to loose interest in Bozita canned food. At first I thought it was
because we had been away, as she still ate and very much enjoyed the Orijen kibble. I think it is just that she has gone off it, she
still continues to turn her nose up at the Bozita. So I gradually introduced her to Almo canned food, fish varieties and chicken
varieties, which included: Ocean fish, Mackerel, Tuna and Chicken and pumpkin, Chicken and shrimp, with each 70gm can
contains, 75% meat/fish, 24% broth and 1% rice. My vet recommended “encore” in similar varieties, again with each 70gm can
containing: 75% meat/fish, 24% broth and 1% rice. However all fish varieties of “encore” have a minimum of 25% tuna in ALL
their fish mix varieties per can, whereas Almo have some fish varieties totally without tuna, within their fish mix varieties per can.
And having recently read an interesting article within ibdkitties newsletter detailing how too much tuna in a kitties diet has a
negative effect on the vitamin e level within their bodies (it depletes it over time) I have stopped giving all my cats tuna on a
regular basis, they can have it for a treat, but not often. Also, both Almo and “encore” are totally natural, therefore nothing is
added, not even taurine, so must be supplemented or fed with other complete foods such as Orijen.
Although Lulu very much enjoys eating and licking these canned foods (Almo & encore), as the months have gone by I started to
notice that Lulu has what I believe to be, an intolerance to the rice within them, because she started to develop black ear wax,
which I cleaned regularly with Clean Aural. She also started to scratch and developed the occasional debris in the corner of her
eyes (similar to what poor Gismo had). On a few occasions Teddy has sampled the canned food too, as he is quicker to Lulu’s
dish, than me!! He ate up all she had left, which is typical of Ted. However he just vomited it back up on each occasion, I think
they both have an intolerance to rice Smartie (my 11 month old kitten-cat) eats Almo and encore with no problems at all.
I tried to source food without rice, grain and tuna, there’s not much currently available on the market, but I did find the following:
Porta 21 “Pure Chicken”, Schesir “Chicken & Sea Bass”, Animonda Carny “Ocean” and Terra Felis “Meat Menus”. Lulu has
been on these brands for a three months now and she loves these varieties, also the ear wax and scratching have totally
disappeared. Her eyes are lovely clear and bright and she is full of energy. So will continue to feed her these with the odd tin of
Almo and encore on the days when she is particular fussy and its a case of feeding her these or her not eating.
Update: October 24, 2011
Teddy and Lulu went to the vets today for their flu jabs. I had a biochem of their blood done, so we have a better understand of
their body chemist and how healthy they are. We were not able to collect a blood sample from Lulu despite three tries, so she
looks like a pin cushion now with a shaven neck and paws!
We saw a different vet, one we have not seen before (three vets from our practice have moved on this year). The new vet noticed
that Lulu has a slight curve to her spine (scoliosis) she has no history of this. Her back seamed sore when the vet examined her,
so this is a new one to me. Smartie keeps chasing her and is very rough with her, so I try to separate them. But I’m not sure what
he gets up to when I’m not around. The vet thinks it is best to do the biochem and when the results are back and everything is ok
we can think about putting her on a supplement of glucosamine & chondroitin as she thinks the curve is becoming more
pronounced due to arthritis. Lulu has hyper-pigmentation in both eyes but her right one is affected more. The vet said to keep
and eye on it, as if it changes and becomes more pronounced or less diffused it could indicate that it is becoming malignant. I
explained to the vet that it is slightly less pronounced since I have been supplementing her diet with taurine.
Update: October 29, 2001
Finally got some blood for her biochemist test today, they had to use anaesthetic on her to get it, she may be tiny but boy she's
feisty!!! So should have the results back toward the middle or end of next week. Her weight has increased she is now 4 kg, which
is half a kg more than before (3.52kg) which I think is the new food because she loves it.
Update: November 18, 2011
Lulu’s blood biochem results came back today and they were very good, so I am very happy. All areas are within the normal
range, the only exception was the urea which showed a slightly higher protein level. The vet said it was probably due to slight
dehydration at time of testing. We discussed the uses of glucosamine & chondroitin but have decided to await for more info. on
Teddy first, as Lulu is not showing any signs of discomfort, and she is still very active and can jump up high without any difficulty.
Update: February 3rd 2012
Spoken with vet today, vet suggested trying Lulu on Metacam for 10 days too see if her back is less sore / inflamed, then we will
have a better understanding as to the cause, arthritis or toxoplasmosis. Note: she is not showing any outward signs of pain,
discomfort or inability to move. In fact she is quite normal in her movements and manner, but vet was concerned as Lulu
complained a lot while the vet examined her back and diagnosed a curvature of the spine, also cats are notorious for hiding pain
and discomfort. To collect Metacam on February 8th 2012.
Update: February 19th 2012
10 day trial of 4ml of Metacam once daily finished yesterday, with no obvious improvement observed, except Lulu complained
less when I clean her teeth while she was on Metacam (I clean them 3 times a week with Virbac tooth brushes and tooth paste).
Next appointment booked for April 16th, 2012 for a toxoplasmosis blood test, eye and teeth/mouth examination.
Update: April 16, 2012
Lulu went to the vet today, no evidence of infection or decay in her teeth or mouth. In fact they were generally in good condition;
she may have some discomfort in her neck, due to arthritis, when cleaning her teeth, because her head is facing upward,
creating an angle between her head and back bone. Metacam recommended, as it is not acute pain and can be easily
administered at home, buprenex discussed with vet but not recommended by vet for this type of pain, as has to be injected in the
surgery, generally only lasts for two days at a time and is generally used for acute pain. Lulu’s right eye has more hyper-
pigmentation of the iris than before, resulting in more surface area of the iris having a dark ring effect around the entire edge of
the iris and less of the coloured section showing now. Possibly enlarged area of hyper-pigmentation, iris rubinosis, uveitis,
appointment book with ophthalmologist for April 25, 2012. Blood test taken for FELV, FIV and toxoplasma.
Update: April 18, 2012
Lulu’s FELV (feline leukaemia virus) and FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus) results were negative, which is excellent, awaiting
toxoplasma results next week.
Update May 2, 2012
Lulu was examined by an ophthalmologist on May 2, 2012. Diffused Iris melanoma was diagnosed in her right eye, which has
elevated the pressure within her right eye to 21, in comparison to her left eye at 12, although the right eye is not distorted by the
pressure at this stage it is on its way to glaucoma, which in turn leads to blindness and becomes very painful. The only option is
to surgically remove (enucleation) her right eye because melanoma can metastasizing and rapidly cause death if left untreated.
The ophthalmologist is hopeful of the outcome if the eye is removed within the next two weeks as it has not effected the white
section (sclera) of her eye yet, which is very good news. The removed eye will be sent to histology, body CT scan or chest x-ray
images and ultrasound examinations could be carried out to see if the melanoma has metastasized, but if they are very small
(less than 2mm) they may not show up, but may still be there. Lulu’s toxoplasma results were negative.
I collected Lulu from a breeder at 4 months old. She was initially fed on a mixture of Iams dry kibble kitten food, High Society and
Whiskers Kitten wet/canned food with fresh cooked Coley (white fish), turkey and scraps from the Sunday joint, while at the
breeder. I continued with this for some time before gradually progressing mainly to Whiskers canned Kitten food, and then
progressing to Felix and Whiskers canned adult food and kibble, which she was fed on until Ted was diagnosed with IBD in May
2005.
It soon became very clear just how difficult it is to keep certain cats on a strict diet, when you have a multi cat household,
therefore because the prescription diet of Royal Canin Sensitivy Control (SC31) capelin and tapioca kibble is a complete food
diet and considered to be an excellent protein source, all three cats were slowly converted to this food. After the manufacturer
stopped production of this food all three cats were converted to Royal Canin sensitivity control Chicken and Rice and/or Duck
and Rice moist pouch food and kibble and Royal Canin Blue Whiting sensitivity control kibble.
Prior to diagnosis in June 2009, Lulu had been a member of a multi cat house hold. I was the proud owner of four beautiful cats,
different breed types, colours and within various age ranges, none of which were related. Ellie, female, (1990 -2004) beautiful
long haired tortoiseshell, mixed breed domestic cat who was euthanized in July 2004 after being diagnosed with terminal and
un-treatable cancer of the stomach at 14 years of age. Gismo, male, beautiful silver tabby and white chinchilla Persian cross,
moggy domestic cat, (1996 - 2010), (see Gismo’s case history on the Tributes Page of this site). And Teddy, male Somali
(DOB: 2001), (see Teddy’s case history in the Living With IBD section).
Lulu had always been an extremely healthy, hardy, playful kitten and cat. In fact she continued to remain in good health throughout
most of her young to mid mature years. However, she was a fussy eater on occasion. Lulu was generally well and fed lightly
boiled chicken and/or white fish when a boat of IBD occurred. She had a slow progression to Royal Canin sensitivity control
Chicken and Rice and/or Duck and Rice moist pouch food and kibble and kibble and Royal Canin Blue Whiting sensitivity
control kibble. Despite her occasional condition Lulu was generally a happy and sociable cat.
As of January 1, 2009, Lulu was fed on 50gms Royal Canin Sensitivity Control kibble and 25gms Royal Canin Chicken & Rice
moist pouch food per day. Generally well, happy and content cat. Wormed with Drontal, had occasional occurrences of fresh
blood from bottom and occasional vomiting. Prescribed ½ x metronidazole tablet 250mg twice daily for 7 days. On April 26,
stools were sent for lab analysis to eliminate the possibility of parasitic and bacterial infections, negative result found. Vet
discussed benefits of carrying out a Bile acid stimulation test, pre/post food, in order to understand and diagnose GI, pancreas,
and/or liver disease. May 13, blood samples were taken; hematology (hl) and pre-op biochemistry (in house) B12/Foliate (b3) to
see how well the gut worked/absorbed and any other abnormalities in the blood count including liver disease, GI and pancreatic
problems. Generally all samples were within normal range, mild increase in acids, further testing to be done.
On May 18 Lulu was hospitalized where they took 3 dynamic bile acid samples. Bile acid stimulation test were done, looking for
Liver disease, GI and pancreatic problems. In the meantime I was to feed a bland diet chicken and/r white fish. On May 22 a
gastroduendenoscopy (endoscopy), ultrasound examination and two x-rays were carried out. The vet prescribed 21 x
metronidazole tablet 200mg, ½ (100mg) twice daily and 5 x Losec 10mgs, half tablet once daily (am). By June 7th she was very
unwell, vomiting clear fluid and not eating. Her general demeanour was not very good. She was tuckered up, miserable and ran
and hid when it was time for her medication. I contacted the vet to tell her that she was also losing weight. The vet advised to
feed bland diet and Hills Canine Ad (156gms tins). Also to withdraw the metronidazole and treat her with Clavaspeptin, which is
gentle on the stomach, but less effective in the lower bowl. She was still vomiting clear fluid, unable to take high dose of
metronidazole (bitter taste), was totally off her food, not eating and losing weight. It was very upsetting to see her like that. Vet
prescribed 20 x Clavaspeptin 50mgs tablets. The results of the endoscopy were mild GI and IBD.
On June 15 the vet prescribed 1 tube of 15ml Protexin Pro Kolin Paste, 1ml three times and 3 x Cerinia 16mg tablets at ¼ daily
for 6 days. Cerenia is licensed for use in Dogs but effective in cats too. It's an anti-nausea tablet that affects the area of the brain
that is responsible for vomiting. Weight 2.6kg (decreased) target weight 3kg. She was underweight due to being starved for
three days in order to carry out Endoscopy and related tests, also due to high dose of metronidazole effecting her appetite. Vet
recommended to slowly introduce Royal Canin Feline Hypoallergenic food (DR25) and advised to slowly increase the amount of
(DR25) while reducing the amount of white fish, aiming to be on 100% (DR25) by June 24th.
I was to Keep Teddy and Lulu on Hypoallergenic food for 5 weeks (first day on 100%) in order to allow all other food substances
to expel from their bodies. This would enable us to see the effect of the new food on their digestive systems, and give us an
understanding of possible causes, either food allergy OR idiopathic bought of inflammatory bowel disease. She had occasional
bouts of vomiting and diarrhea. August 22nd vet examination showed her condition to be good, weight 3.89kg. Given 1 x cat
booster (combination booster including feline leukaemia) and was prescribed Pro-Kolin and Katalax to protect the bowl and rule
out fur balls.
By December 29th, Lulu has developed black ear wax in both ears (in fact Gismo and Teddy had too). The vet said it was a
possible ear mite infection, although very late in season. (In retrospect I've learned this is a symptom of IBD). She was then
prescribed Canaural ear drops, two drops twice daily in each ear for 7 days. Everyone's bedding was washed. Changed diet to
Purina Ha and lightly boiled chicken. By March 24th, she had been de-wormed again with Drontal and vet suggested changing
from lightly boiled chicken to lightly boiled turkey and Purina HA. Over the next couple of months we continued with the ¼ Zantac
daily and tried various ratios of boiled turkey and Purina HA, working up and down the ratios to either 100% turkey or 100%
Purina HA (Gismo was very ill at this point too).
In May, 2010 we continued the above diet, varying the ratios, with 80% Purina HA and 20% lightly boiled turkey, giving the best
result. She vomited only occasionally, no particular pattern to the vomiting. Hard dehydrated toilet most days. Generally very
good in herself. By June she was on 100% Purina HA biscuits. After the loss of Gismo and the devastating effects of the
diseases and treatments on Gismo’s body I had decided to check out alternative, more naturals ways of finding a solution to
Teddy’s and Lulu’s on-going health problems. I searched websites informative books on cat care and health in a desperate
attempt to ensure Teddy & Lulu did not suffer the same fate as my poor Gismo. I discovered this website, IBD Kitties, and
Jaspers site, www.laurieulrich.com and also purchased ‘Your Cat’ simple new secrets to a longer, stringer life by Elizabeth M
Hodgkins, D.V.M, Esq.
I discovered each to be an excellent source of accurate information. I introduced one Efavet 330 (oil of evening primrose and
marine oil) casual daily (Efavet330, is a known natural anti- inflammatory supplement). Introduced Evian bottled water instead of
filtered tap water after reading an article on chemicals in our water supply and page 313 of New Choices in Natural Healing for
Cats & Dogs by Amy D. Shojai and the Editors of Prevention for Pets. Evian is free from Chloride and according to this article,
chloride can cause bacterial over growth in the digestive process and can cause bleeding in IBD.
With continued use of above products I observed a marked improvement in Lulu’s toilet which was perfect No blood or mucus,
firm and no vomiting, it’s truly amazing. I introduced Synbiotic D-C capsule, a probiotic and prebiotic powder in a capsule to
restore the gut microflora, once daily. Was on 100% Purina HA biscuits (hydrolysed soya based diet).
July 8th she was drinking 3/4 times more than usual and not vomiting. Urine sample taken showed range 0-35, Lulu’s is 50, a
good result. Kidneys were okay, generally healthy, however working hard. Sample indicated Lulu possibly not drinking enough,
also could be a combination of eating dry kibble (was on 100% Purina HA) and the hot weather at the time caused a slight
weight reduction. Vet suggested that the increase in water intake may be due to the fact that cats have an excellent sense of
smell and do not like drinking water that contains chemicals, therefore Lulu may just like the taste of the Evian more. Vet happy
with general condition of cat and said that Efavet is a known natural anti-inflammatory and was happy for me to continue
administering it to her.
I began searching for a more suitable food since discovering cats are obligate carnivores via ‘Your Cat’ book. Referred to this
website for suitable cat food products and suppliers. At that point, almost all of the food on this site was not available in the UK
(Europe). Despite contacting manufactures directly in America, they were unable to sell their products within Europe due to
importing and licensing laws, the only exception being Orijen Dry kibble. I introduced Orijen Chicken kibble into Lulu’s diet and
reduced the quantity of Purina HA biscuits, slowly increasing quantity of Orijen to 100% over the next week (7 days). By July 18th
she was on 100% Orijen Chicken kibble and showed a definite improvement in condition of toilet; normal, not dehydrated. And
she also liked the taste of Orijen. There still had occasional vomiting, normal toilet, but not dehydrated. I was concerned about
feeding dry kibble only, because it makes the kidneys work harder. I began to introduce a 10% canned wet food, Bozita Chicken.
Lulu loved the taste of the Bozita (97% pure organic meat with no gain) Perfect toilet, no issues, no vomiting.
I cut her Orijen Chicken kibble to 60% and started to introducing 40% canned wet food Bozita Chicken. I started the withdrawal
of Synbiotic D-C capsule, fed 60% Orijen Chicken kibble and 40% canned wet food Bozita Chicken. No issues with vomiting or
toilet consistency. Generally, very happy and content cat. Then went 50/50 with dry and wet food and saw a 100% improvement.
She had soft, silky fur, lots of energy and was very playful. I was very pleased with the outcome. Lulu was a picture of health and
full of energy.
Late October of 2010, Lulu had a vet check–up and an annual boost was given. The vet was very pleased with Lulu’s general
condition. Her weight had increased to 3.52 kg, excellent weight for her size. Personal choice, I decided to have the general
boost, but exclude FelV (feline leukaemia) because Lulu has limited access to a secure garden, therefore does not come into
contact with other cats and have read various article about injection site sarcoma. It has been such a battle to get my cats well
that I am afraid to introduce more health risks.
On January 1, of 2011, I introduced 1/2 (1000mg) B12 methylcobalamin (Natural Factors) daily, slowly working up to 1 x
(1000mg) B12 methylcobalamin (Natural Factors) daily over the coming month. Continued with bottled Evian water, fresh supply
daily in their drinking bowls. Continued mainly with to 50% Orijen Chicken kibble and 50% canned wet food Bozita Chicken.
Occasionally I substitute (twice or three times a week) the Bozita with Ziwipeak veal & fish daily cuisine and/or lightly cooked
fresh minced turkey tight meat and chicken liver, served in the cooking water for extra moisture. Toilet is perfect, no mucus, no
blood. Occasional fur ball vomit, remedied with Katalax. Happy, healthy, playful and loving cat and happy caregiver at last.
Update: October 23, 2011
In March, while we where away for a few days Lulu started to loose interest in Bozita canned food. At first I thought it was
because we had been away, as she still ate and very much enjoyed the Orijen kibble. I think it is just that she has gone off it, she
still continues to turn her nose up at the Bozita. So I gradually introduced her to Almo canned food, fish varieties and chicken
varieties, which included: Ocean fish, Mackerel, Tuna and Chicken and pumpkin, Chicken and shrimp, with each 70gm can
contains, 75% meat/fish, 24% broth and 1% rice. My vet recommended “encore” in similar varieties, again with each 70gm can
containing: 75% meat/fish, 24% broth and 1% rice. However all fish varieties of “encore” have a minimum of 25% tuna in ALL
their fish mix varieties per can, whereas Almo have some fish varieties totally without tuna, within their fish mix varieties per can.
And having recently read an interesting article within ibdkitties newsletter detailing how too much tuna in a kitties diet has a
negative effect on the vitamin e level within their bodies (it depletes it over time) I have stopped giving all my cats tuna on a
regular basis, they can have it for a treat, but not often. Also, both Almo and “encore” are totally natural, therefore nothing is
added, not even taurine, so must be supplemented or fed with other complete foods such as Orijen.
Although Lulu very much enjoys eating and licking these canned foods (Almo & encore), as the months have gone by I started to
notice that Lulu has what I believe to be, an intolerance to the rice within them, because she started to develop black ear wax,
which I cleaned regularly with Clean Aural. She also started to scratch and developed the occasional debris in the corner of her
eyes (similar to what poor Gismo had). On a few occasions Teddy has sampled the canned food too, as he is quicker to Lulu’s
dish, than me!! He ate up all she had left, which is typical of Ted. However he just vomited it back up on each occasion, I think
they both have an intolerance to rice Smartie (my 11 month old kitten-cat) eats Almo and encore with no problems at all.
I tried to source food without rice, grain and tuna, there’s not much currently available on the market, but I did find the following:
Porta 21 “Pure Chicken”, Schesir “Chicken & Sea Bass”, Animonda Carny “Ocean” and Terra Felis “Meat Menus”. Lulu has
been on these brands for a three months now and she loves these varieties, also the ear wax and scratching have totally
disappeared. Her eyes are lovely clear and bright and she is full of energy. So will continue to feed her these with the odd tin of
Almo and encore on the days when she is particular fussy and its a case of feeding her these or her not eating.
Update: October 24, 2011
Teddy and Lulu went to the vets today for their flu jabs. I had a biochem of their blood done, so we have a better understand of
their body chemist and how healthy they are. We were not able to collect a blood sample from Lulu despite three tries, so she
looks like a pin cushion now with a shaven neck and paws!
We saw a different vet, one we have not seen before (three vets from our practice have moved on this year). The new vet noticed
that Lulu has a slight curve to her spine (scoliosis) she has no history of this. Her back seamed sore when the vet examined her,
so this is a new one to me. Smartie keeps chasing her and is very rough with her, so I try to separate them. But I’m not sure what
he gets up to when I’m not around. The vet thinks it is best to do the biochem and when the results are back and everything is ok
we can think about putting her on a supplement of glucosamine & chondroitin as she thinks the curve is becoming more
pronounced due to arthritis. Lulu has hyper-pigmentation in both eyes but her right one is affected more. The vet said to keep
and eye on it, as if it changes and becomes more pronounced or less diffused it could indicate that it is becoming malignant. I
explained to the vet that it is slightly less pronounced since I have been supplementing her diet with taurine.
Update: October 29, 2001
Finally got some blood for her biochemist test today, they had to use anaesthetic on her to get it, she may be tiny but boy she's
feisty!!! So should have the results back toward the middle or end of next week. Her weight has increased she is now 4 kg, which
is half a kg more than before (3.52kg) which I think is the new food because she loves it.
Update: November 18, 2011
Lulu’s blood biochem results came back today and they were very good, so I am very happy. All areas are within the normal
range, the only exception was the urea which showed a slightly higher protein level. The vet said it was probably due to slight
dehydration at time of testing. We discussed the uses of glucosamine & chondroitin but have decided to await for more info. on
Teddy first, as Lulu is not showing any signs of discomfort, and she is still very active and can jump up high without any difficulty.
Update: February 3rd 2012
Spoken with vet today, vet suggested trying Lulu on Metacam for 10 days too see if her back is less sore / inflamed, then we will
have a better understanding as to the cause, arthritis or toxoplasmosis. Note: she is not showing any outward signs of pain,
discomfort or inability to move. In fact she is quite normal in her movements and manner, but vet was concerned as Lulu
complained a lot while the vet examined her back and diagnosed a curvature of the spine, also cats are notorious for hiding pain
and discomfort. To collect Metacam on February 8th 2012.
Update: February 19th 2012
10 day trial of 4ml of Metacam once daily finished yesterday, with no obvious improvement observed, except Lulu complained
less when I clean her teeth while she was on Metacam (I clean them 3 times a week with Virbac tooth brushes and tooth paste).
Next appointment booked for April 16th, 2012 for a toxoplasmosis blood test, eye and teeth/mouth examination.
Update: April 16, 2012
Lulu went to the vet today, no evidence of infection or decay in her teeth or mouth. In fact they were generally in good condition;
she may have some discomfort in her neck, due to arthritis, when cleaning her teeth, because her head is facing upward,
creating an angle between her head and back bone. Metacam recommended, as it is not acute pain and can be easily
administered at home, buprenex discussed with vet but not recommended by vet for this type of pain, as has to be injected in the
surgery, generally only lasts for two days at a time and is generally used for acute pain. Lulu’s right eye has more hyper-
pigmentation of the iris than before, resulting in more surface area of the iris having a dark ring effect around the entire edge of
the iris and less of the coloured section showing now. Possibly enlarged area of hyper-pigmentation, iris rubinosis, uveitis,
appointment book with ophthalmologist for April 25, 2012. Blood test taken for FELV, FIV and toxoplasma.
Update: April 18, 2012
Lulu’s FELV (feline leukaemia virus) and FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus) results were negative, which is excellent, awaiting
toxoplasma results next week.
Update May 2, 2012
Lulu was examined by an ophthalmologist on May 2, 2012. Diffused Iris melanoma was diagnosed in her right eye, which has
elevated the pressure within her right eye to 21, in comparison to her left eye at 12, although the right eye is not distorted by the
pressure at this stage it is on its way to glaucoma, which in turn leads to blindness and becomes very painful. The only option is
to surgically remove (enucleation) her right eye because melanoma can metastasizing and rapidly cause death if left untreated.
The ophthalmologist is hopeful of the outcome if the eye is removed within the next two weeks as it has not effected the white
section (sclera) of her eye yet, which is very good news. The removed eye will be sent to histology, body CT scan or chest x-ray
images and ultrasound examinations could be carried out to see if the melanoma has metastasized, but if they are very small
(less than 2mm) they may not show up, but may still be there. Lulu’s toxoplasma results were negative.
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