September 2, 2011
FDA Warns of Possible Danger with Animal Vaccine Device
The Food and Drug Administration is warning veterinarians and pet owners, particularly cat owners, of the possible risk of
fractures with the Vet Jet™ transdermal vaccination system device.
www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/NewsEvents/CVMUpdates/ucm270642.htm
Everyone in the south please stay safe with now tropical storm Lee approaching Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, etc. The
flooding we had here in east from Irene has done irreparable damage and claimed 48 lives. We all know what Katrina left in its
wake for those states so we’re crossing our paws and fingers this isn’t another bad one. All the safety precautions I mentioned
on the last 3 or 4 newsletters still hold and also for the dangers of the wild fires in Texas and Oklahoma. What is up with Mother
Nature!!!!?
Good news on a couple of fronts. Two kitties that were VERY sick last week are doing fantastic! Norman was very jaundiced, not
eating and lethargic. After talking with his mom about syringe feeding and sending instructions, she began doing so immediately.
Norman is now yellow free and eating like a little piggy!!! What a great site that is when you have a sick kitty. Also Biggles was in
the hospital during hurricane Irene, had severe pancreatitis and a heart condition that was previously undetected. They syringe
fed him, gave him antibiotics, the works. He’s now home and also doing GREAT!
Unfortunately there is sad news. Remember how Maggie passed away about 3 weeks ago from FIP (which the necropsy
confirmed)? Well Kelli’s OTHER kitty Aussie suddenly passed away yesterday. Aussie had CRF but it was controlled and even
her last labs looked good. She was in the hospital because of some blood in her urine. They were going to do an ultrasound
yesterday when things took a major turn for the worse and she passed. I can’t tell you how sad I am and I just don’t know if I could
take something like this happening. Kelli said her dog Bailey is looking at the front door all the time, staring out the window. She’
s confused and doesn’t know why she’s suddenly alone. Ugh, life is just so unexplainable sometimes. A necropsy will be done on
Aussie as well to figure out what happened. Kelli is a TERRIFIC mom, one of the best moms I know. She made a beautiful
slideshow of Maggie that we both wanted to share with all of you. She’s such a gorgeous little girl.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRUVI-bZcCc.
September 7, 2011
Hi everyone! Hope you had a good holiday weekend and I hope those of you in the south are okay and safe from the floods and
wildfires! A new member of ours gave us another great idea for donating to shelters. Kent went to Amazon.com and ordered the
Friskies Turkey and Giblets Pate for $10.20 per case of 24 through there Subscribe and Save subscription and he’s having it
sent to a local cat shelter there in Tucson each month I believe an automatic delivery. Very cool idea! Thanks Kent!
Also, I need to convey a very important message from a new friend on a forum. This was her post yesterday: “Don't give spinach!
It causes oxalate deposition which can put the cat into renal failure, which I am now battling with my dear cat's life in jeopardy. If I
had only known! I always thought it was so funny how much he loved it, I bought it just for him. It wasn't on any of the poison lists
and now I find that I may have cut short his life. I pray he lives through this! Never another bit of human food for any of them." This
is another great example of not taking something at face value because it’s not on a toxic list. Spinach can cause crystal
formation in the urinary tract and should be avoided completely in cats with urinary problems. But on the whole I'd say don't feed
kitties any raw veggies! Or any veggies at all frankly. Cats are obligate carnivores and there's no reason for them to eat so many
vegetables. Even cooked veggies can cause gas, diarrhea and digestion problems. Their bodies aren't designed like humans
that need it. Dogs are slightly different as they are omnivores. Carnivores do not need greens even though for some strange
reason they love them. But that doesn't mean they should have them. Carrots & peas are the leading veggies in a lot of their
canned foods because they are safe, highly digestible and they offer enough fiber for what they need. I don't care how much a
kitty begs for something, always know that saying "NO" can save your kitty's life. In the short term and the long run. Just like
grains, predigested greens are completely fine! Meaning, from their prey. That’s normal.
Another thing to not take at face value is when a company writes statements about their product like: “RenAvast™ is a new,
highly effective compound, that has been proven through a two-year clinical study to halt the progression of Chronic Renal Failure
(CRF) in cats and improve overall kidney function. It is 100% safe with no side effects. RenAvast™ contains Avastamine™.
Avastamine™ (AB070597) is a combination of naturally occurring amino acids and peptides that have been scientifically proven
in an open-ended two year clinical study to supplement and promote healthy renal function. Unlike other products and drugs,
RenAvast™ does not treat the symptoms of renal failure, it treats the cause. Cats have seen improvement to their kidney function
within weeks of starting RenAvast™.” www.chronicrenalfailureincats.com/about-renavast
I wrote to the company and asked specifically “what their amino acids and peptides were”. Basically I got a defensive answer
because I bothered to ask questions. What they don’t know is that I spoke with my good friend Dr. Barb (human MD) and
confirmed her answers with my contacts at Cornell University vet teaching school. “Once kidney function is lost, it cannot be
regained - kidneys do not regenerate so if half your nephrons are dead you can't improve that, though you can slow the progress.
Not impressed by their website, they did one study with only 19 cats and no control group. In the FAQs they say there was no
need for a control group. That's BS, you can't have a study that has any significance without a control group. Margaret is IRIS 2
CRF and her parameters have remained the same for years so she would be considered a success if she was taking this stuff in
the study. I don't see how certain amino acids would improve renal function or slow decline. Feline CRF has very different
symptom manifestation than human, but I think the process is similar. And you have to trust me on this one having had many
statistics courses, years of journal clubs, and learning to critically read studies being a major part of medical education: the
"study" they did is completely worthless. No control group, no blinding, no standardization of treatment or lab measurements, tiny
sample size - there certainly isn't a shortage of CRF kitties. It is unlikely this stuff would hurt, but is likely a waste of money. By
their definition, Margaret has had positive results in that her values have all stayed stable and she wasn't on this stuff, it's the
nature of CRF, particularly in IRIS 2 which is the most common stage, to stay stable for a long time then finally start progressing.
Sometimes at her semi-annual the numbers are even improved, then go back to her average the next time, things like hydration
can affect that.”
Companies like this prey on those of us who have no medical training, knowledge or others that are so desperate to help their
poor kitties, they’ll buy it because “why not? If there’s nothing in it that will hurt them.” But there nothing in it that will HELP them
either. Seeing as how a sick kitty takes so much medicine as it is, it’s pointless. AND, I do not give them anything with mystery
ingredients, no matter how “natural” they are said to be. ALWAYS ASK QUESTIONS! I’m so pleased that many of you have
really gotten into researching things and demanding answers. The more we make them accountable for what they’re putting on
the shelves, the more they’ll realize the consumer isn’t as trusting and ambivalent as we used to be. That’s exactly why
companies like Hill’s are now going on the defensive and realizing their bottom line is in jeopardy.
Barb and I also found a website that will make a custom diet canned cat or dog food with novel proteins for the purpose of
elimination diets to see what’s causing issues. One thing I didn’t like was that their food contains dextrose. I emailed them and
asked why and the answer I got was “Thank you for contacting us. The dextrose used is quite minimal, however, it has two
purposes: - complexes the vitamins and minerals to make them more stable (point from the veterinarian who helps us with the
nutrition) - contributes to the natural flavor system. Having said that, we do make custom diets and can certainly make the same
formula without the dextrose if that is a better fit for you.” Now, one good point is that they will make it without the dextrose
(because sweeteners or any kind can lead to more GI upset). So for that reason I’ll be adding them to my site but with a side
note. However, I’m finding contradicting information regarding dextrose as a binder. Apparently it acts as a starch. But there are
thousands of other vitamins and minerals in “vegetarian forms” being sold everywhere that do not contain dextrose that hold
together just fine. I did point that out and ask them about it but got no reply.
www.raynenutrition.com/felinediets.aspx?page=f.
Barb did find this site though which doesn’t mention that at all, although this is from 1998: FOOD ADDITIVES: WHAT THEY DO -
www.chymist.com/Food%20Additives-What%20they%20do.pdf.
I know many are always looking for a new food containing rabbit. This company is based in Atlanta, GA and for the most part
looks good. Two issues; they’re very expensive and the other is they contain brewer’s yeast. Have any of you noticed how yeast
is now becoming the “new grain”? Meaning we’re finally getting heard about removing corn, wheat, etc. but they don’t ever just
remove an ingredient without replacing it with something else. Again, be a vigilant consumer and let the company know what you
want and DON’T WANT in your pet’s food. Yeast has its benefits on occasion as it can settle the stomach. But for the most part,
any pet with any kind of allergies or intolerance at all will only get worse eating yeast.
http://houndgatos.com/cat-products.aspx.
And last but not least I would like you to please read about CeeCee in my tributes section. This case is extremely important as it
demonstrates the clear differences between a REALLY bad vet and a wonderful vet. As you can tell by where CeeCee’s info is
on my site, she did not make it despite every effort to correct the horrible treatment she previously received. It’s shameful!
http://ibdkitties.net/CeeCeeK.html.
I did have a lot more to go over but I’ll save it for the next newsletter seeing as how this is turning into a book, LOL. My
newsletters are keeping me as busy as the website itself! But there is so much to learn and it thrills me to see so many who want
to not only educate themselves but to help educate others. This is the only way things will change. “What you do makes a
difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” -- Jane Goodall
September 14, 2011
FDA establishes foodborne illness outbreak response network. The CORE Network is comprised of a multi-disciplinary team of
epidemiologists, veterinarians, microbiologists, environmental health specialists, emergency coordinators, and risk
communications specialists. Working full-time on outbreak prevention and response at headquarters, the CORE is
complemented by trained, experienced investigators in FDA field offices nationwide. CORE will coordinate closely with the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and state public health and
agriculture agencies in human and animal foodborne illness outbreaks.
www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm271742.htm.
August 2011 FDA Safety Labeling Changes:
Neurontin (gabapentin)
www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/Safety-RelatedDrugLabelingChanges/ucm154552.htm.
Tenormin (atenolol) Tablets www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/ucm271111.htm.
This is not good news. I don’t know if you’re all aware that there is a lot of shortages of drugs lately. It’s affecting our pets also, so
please read this:
Drug Shortages: A Problem for Pets, Too
www.petmd.com/blogs/thedailyvet/jcoates/2011/sept/drug_shortages_in_vet_medicine.
What’s not mentioned on that page is there’s also now a shortage of Cyanocobalamin Injection (B12)
www.ashp.org/DrugShortages/Current/Bulletin.aspx?id=769.
And also Famotidine Injection (Pepcid) & brand named pepcid tablets. Generic tablets are still readily available and frankly are
MUCH cheaper! I get mine at Target and use their Up & Up brand.
www.ashp.org/DrugShortages/Current/Bulletin.aspx?id=810.
(thanks to Barb for these links and info)
Concerning the last newsletter about “clinical trials” on some products. One of our members works for a pharmaceutical. Also,
my best friend here in my city does as well. This was the comment from both on that issue: Your vet is absolutely correct about
the "clinical trial." If a pharma had done a clinical trial like that, the FDA would be all over them. A real clinical trial must have a
control group, and it takes multiple trials to get a drug approved for human use. It's appalling to me that it doesn't seem to be the
case for animal medicine.
Last winter I was informed by my contact at Cornell University vet teaching school that there would be a stem cell trial developed
for felines with IBD. I could not have been more excited. I found out last week that this research and trial has been delayed for
awhile. I can’t tell you how disappointed I am. They did say it was only delayed and not halted but as of now they don’t have
anyone to do the research and trials. The person who was slated to do it didn’t follow through with his Ph.D. and is no longer a
candidate to do the work. And unfortunately all the other researchers are backed up with their own trials and studies so it may be
awhile. I’m really very bummed about this especially since I recently saw this on the news, check it out, it’s amazing stuff! Make
sure to watch the video to the right to see how bad his paws were.
Revolutionary treatment helped heal badly burned dog. www.whec.com/news/stories/S2269154.shtml?cat=566.
Also, I’ve had this in my mind for awhile and kept forgetting to mention it. I know many kitties love to drink out of the toilet (gross)
and it seems like a harmless thing. But think about what you’re putting into the toilet (ewww) and what you’re using to clean it.
VERY harsh disinfecting and cleaning chemicals like bleach, detergent, dyes, fragrance, thickening agents, and hydrochloric
acid. MMMMM, YUMMM! These agents are designed to stick to the walls of the bowl to keep disinfecting & cleaning for days,
they are not getting flushed down the toilet immediately. So if kitty is drinking out of the bowl, guaranteed they’re getting some of
the residues of these chemicals. So please keep the toilet seat closed at all times.
I also wanted to let everyone know that poor little Max who was in the hospital with renal failure from eating spinach, didn’t make
it. He passed away a few days ago. Needless to say his mom is devastated and really wants to emphasize again to know what
you’re feeding your pet is SAFE. And I also want to express my condolences to Tracey over in the UK who just lost her little Ollie
very unexpectedly. Ollie has had brain damage his entire life, 7 years, but this came on very, very suddenly. Tracey and her
husband have a large family of fur children and are just wonderful parents to them all.
September 17, 2011
Hi everyone, this newsletter is strictly links with really good information I found that I think is interesting and important to read. I’m
going to be restructuring the More Resources page so it’s easier to follow which topics are on there. So for now this is all new
stuff. I’ll be sending out another newsletter but with other information you should know about, probably tomorrow.
Zofran (ondansetron): Drug Safety Communication - Risk of Abnormal Heart Rhythms
www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts/ucm272041.htm
FDA Approves Atopica for Cats
www.veterinarypracticenews.com/vet-breaking-news/2011/08/15/fda-approves-atopica-for-cats.aspx
Diet, Kidney Disease and the Urinary Tract. http://feline-nutrition.org/health/diet-kidney-disease-and-the-urinary-tract.
Wound Treatment for Cats (Overview)
www.petmd.com/cat/emergency/accidents-injuries/e_ct_wound_treatment.
Drug Used to Treat Heartworm Disease Out of Production
http://blog.vetdepot.com/drug-used-to-treat-heartworm-disease-out-of-production
Developing DNA tests to diagnose cancer in cats
www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/blog/category/cat/developing-dna-tests-to.html
Researchers discover molecule that can starve cancer cells
www.news.cornell.edu/stories/Sept10/CerioneStudy.html
The answer is in the genes
www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/blog/category/dog/peering-into-the-future.html
Top 10 Questions to Ask about Your Pet’s Medications
http://blog.vetdepot.com/top-10-questions-to-ask-about-your-pet%E2%80%99s-medications
How to Syringe Feed Your Cat – Video instructional
www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9ygsA93vQc
California Assembly Passes Statewide Microchipping Law for Pets
www.petmd.com/news/care-safety/nws_multi_California_assembly_passes_statewide_microchipping_law_for_pets
Great info on finding pet friendly hotel chains! Pet Friendly Hotel Chains & pet Policies.
http://hotels.petswelcome.com/chains/
Introducing a New Cat to Other Pets
www.humanesociety.org/animals/cats/tips/introducing_new_cat.html
This is very cool! You can actually train your kitty at home and set up an agility training course of your own.
http://catagility.com/
Ten surprises about cats
http://network.bestfriends.org/3422/news.aspx
September 25, 2011
Pookie’s mom Diane supplied me with some great information about B12 as she’s currently reading the 2nd Edition of the book,
Could it be B12. According to the book, spirulina may actually "block the uptake of real B12." It states "a number of others take
spirulina or tempeh, supplements that are touted as being high in B12 but actually contain B12 analogues that block the
absorption of cobalamin. So basically be careful if you’re kitty is on B12 therapy and is also being supplemented with spirulina at
the same time.
On Sept. 7th during the flooding in Penn. A mom on Catster passed away from a sudden heart attack. She lived alone with her
cat Toulouse and because of the flooding, her daughter couldn’t get to her when there was continuously no answer to her phone
calls. Her neighbor was the one who found her and thankfully she also adopted Toulouse. Because he has health conditions that
need tending to, it’s extremely fortunate for him that she not only knew about them but is committed to his care from now on. And
Toulouse now has a new kitty brother that he already loved and got alone very well with. Since they are neighbors the two kitties
would visit each other. It’s a relief to know that he’ll be okay. This sad event reminded me that many of you are new at receiving
this newsletter and may never have read my good friend Barb’s article about being prepared for just such a thing:
http://ibdkitties.net/Estateplanning.html. It’s not something we want to think about but just as you make arrangements to have
someone care for your human children, it should be the same for your fur children.
Veterinary Q&A: How to find a good vet
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/tailsofseattle/2016198915_veterinary_qa_how_to_find_a_good_vet.html
More problems with tainted wipes used for insulin injections, etc.
Second wipe-maker issues recall after bacteria detected
www.msnbc.msn.com/id/44601608/ns/health-tracking_tainted_wipes/#.Tn9JeNSJ0q5
Take the pledge and stop puppy mills: I pledge that if a pet store sells puppies, I won't buy anything there.
http://nopetstorepuppies.com/take-the-pledge.
This is a GREAT article and basically says what we’ve been saying all along. That the bacteria in the gut, know how to trick the
immune system.
Intestinal bacteria can trick the immune system
www.nature.com/news/2011/110921/full/news.2011.550.html
September 29, 2011
MU Study Links Cat Cancer to Human Cancer Treatments
www.komu.com/news/mu-study-links-cat-cancer-to-human-cancer-treatments/
One line in this article that stands out to me is this: “the study is important because cats share the same environment as
humans.” So what’s in our environment or households doing this to us AND our pets? I hope they reach some answers.
How to recognize and relieve your pet's pain
www.tahoedailytribune.com/article/20110928/NEWS/110929883/1001&parentprofile=1056
Notice this sentence: Our best friends, especially cats, tend to hide injury and pain as a survival instinct.
Please keep a few kitties in your thoughts and prayers. Barb’s Bumbly is not doing well with her lymphoma and barring a miracle
it’s all comfort measures now, that just tears me to shreds. http://ibdkitties.net/BumblyA.html. Please send this black beauty as
many healing vibes and positive thoughts as you can. Also our member John’s kitty, Tigger who has FELV is in the hospital
tonight recovering from surgery for two 2 cancerous masses, one on his intestine, the other his stomach. He’s a strong little boy
and the percentages were WAY against him even making it through surgery. Tonight he’s resting comfortably and the next 48
hours are crucial. Tigger does not have IBD so he’s not on my site but we pray for all of them, no matter where they are or who
they belong to. We love them all.
FDA Warns of Possible Danger with Animal Vaccine Device
The Food and Drug Administration is warning veterinarians and pet owners, particularly cat owners, of the possible risk of
fractures with the Vet Jet™ transdermal vaccination system device.
www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/NewsEvents/CVMUpdates/ucm270642.htm
Everyone in the south please stay safe with now tropical storm Lee approaching Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, etc. The
flooding we had here in east from Irene has done irreparable damage and claimed 48 lives. We all know what Katrina left in its
wake for those states so we’re crossing our paws and fingers this isn’t another bad one. All the safety precautions I mentioned
on the last 3 or 4 newsletters still hold and also for the dangers of the wild fires in Texas and Oklahoma. What is up with Mother
Nature!!!!?
Good news on a couple of fronts. Two kitties that were VERY sick last week are doing fantastic! Norman was very jaundiced, not
eating and lethargic. After talking with his mom about syringe feeding and sending instructions, she began doing so immediately.
Norman is now yellow free and eating like a little piggy!!! What a great site that is when you have a sick kitty. Also Biggles was in
the hospital during hurricane Irene, had severe pancreatitis and a heart condition that was previously undetected. They syringe
fed him, gave him antibiotics, the works. He’s now home and also doing GREAT!
Unfortunately there is sad news. Remember how Maggie passed away about 3 weeks ago from FIP (which the necropsy
confirmed)? Well Kelli’s OTHER kitty Aussie suddenly passed away yesterday. Aussie had CRF but it was controlled and even
her last labs looked good. She was in the hospital because of some blood in her urine. They were going to do an ultrasound
yesterday when things took a major turn for the worse and she passed. I can’t tell you how sad I am and I just don’t know if I could
take something like this happening. Kelli said her dog Bailey is looking at the front door all the time, staring out the window. She’
s confused and doesn’t know why she’s suddenly alone. Ugh, life is just so unexplainable sometimes. A necropsy will be done on
Aussie as well to figure out what happened. Kelli is a TERRIFIC mom, one of the best moms I know. She made a beautiful
slideshow of Maggie that we both wanted to share with all of you. She’s such a gorgeous little girl.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRUVI-bZcCc.
September 7, 2011
Hi everyone! Hope you had a good holiday weekend and I hope those of you in the south are okay and safe from the floods and
wildfires! A new member of ours gave us another great idea for donating to shelters. Kent went to Amazon.com and ordered the
Friskies Turkey and Giblets Pate for $10.20 per case of 24 through there Subscribe and Save subscription and he’s having it
sent to a local cat shelter there in Tucson each month I believe an automatic delivery. Very cool idea! Thanks Kent!
Also, I need to convey a very important message from a new friend on a forum. This was her post yesterday: “Don't give spinach!
It causes oxalate deposition which can put the cat into renal failure, which I am now battling with my dear cat's life in jeopardy. If I
had only known! I always thought it was so funny how much he loved it, I bought it just for him. It wasn't on any of the poison lists
and now I find that I may have cut short his life. I pray he lives through this! Never another bit of human food for any of them." This
is another great example of not taking something at face value because it’s not on a toxic list. Spinach can cause crystal
formation in the urinary tract and should be avoided completely in cats with urinary problems. But on the whole I'd say don't feed
kitties any raw veggies! Or any veggies at all frankly. Cats are obligate carnivores and there's no reason for them to eat so many
vegetables. Even cooked veggies can cause gas, diarrhea and digestion problems. Their bodies aren't designed like humans
that need it. Dogs are slightly different as they are omnivores. Carnivores do not need greens even though for some strange
reason they love them. But that doesn't mean they should have them. Carrots & peas are the leading veggies in a lot of their
canned foods because they are safe, highly digestible and they offer enough fiber for what they need. I don't care how much a
kitty begs for something, always know that saying "NO" can save your kitty's life. In the short term and the long run. Just like
grains, predigested greens are completely fine! Meaning, from their prey. That’s normal.
Another thing to not take at face value is when a company writes statements about their product like: “RenAvast™ is a new,
highly effective compound, that has been proven through a two-year clinical study to halt the progression of Chronic Renal Failure
(CRF) in cats and improve overall kidney function. It is 100% safe with no side effects. RenAvast™ contains Avastamine™.
Avastamine™ (AB070597) is a combination of naturally occurring amino acids and peptides that have been scientifically proven
in an open-ended two year clinical study to supplement and promote healthy renal function. Unlike other products and drugs,
RenAvast™ does not treat the symptoms of renal failure, it treats the cause. Cats have seen improvement to their kidney function
within weeks of starting RenAvast™.” www.chronicrenalfailureincats.com/about-renavast
I wrote to the company and asked specifically “what their amino acids and peptides were”. Basically I got a defensive answer
because I bothered to ask questions. What they don’t know is that I spoke with my good friend Dr. Barb (human MD) and
confirmed her answers with my contacts at Cornell University vet teaching school. “Once kidney function is lost, it cannot be
regained - kidneys do not regenerate so if half your nephrons are dead you can't improve that, though you can slow the progress.
Not impressed by their website, they did one study with only 19 cats and no control group. In the FAQs they say there was no
need for a control group. That's BS, you can't have a study that has any significance without a control group. Margaret is IRIS 2
CRF and her parameters have remained the same for years so she would be considered a success if she was taking this stuff in
the study. I don't see how certain amino acids would improve renal function or slow decline. Feline CRF has very different
symptom manifestation than human, but I think the process is similar. And you have to trust me on this one having had many
statistics courses, years of journal clubs, and learning to critically read studies being a major part of medical education: the
"study" they did is completely worthless. No control group, no blinding, no standardization of treatment or lab measurements, tiny
sample size - there certainly isn't a shortage of CRF kitties. It is unlikely this stuff would hurt, but is likely a waste of money. By
their definition, Margaret has had positive results in that her values have all stayed stable and she wasn't on this stuff, it's the
nature of CRF, particularly in IRIS 2 which is the most common stage, to stay stable for a long time then finally start progressing.
Sometimes at her semi-annual the numbers are even improved, then go back to her average the next time, things like hydration
can affect that.”
Companies like this prey on those of us who have no medical training, knowledge or others that are so desperate to help their
poor kitties, they’ll buy it because “why not? If there’s nothing in it that will hurt them.” But there nothing in it that will HELP them
either. Seeing as how a sick kitty takes so much medicine as it is, it’s pointless. AND, I do not give them anything with mystery
ingredients, no matter how “natural” they are said to be. ALWAYS ASK QUESTIONS! I’m so pleased that many of you have
really gotten into researching things and demanding answers. The more we make them accountable for what they’re putting on
the shelves, the more they’ll realize the consumer isn’t as trusting and ambivalent as we used to be. That’s exactly why
companies like Hill’s are now going on the defensive and realizing their bottom line is in jeopardy.
Barb and I also found a website that will make a custom diet canned cat or dog food with novel proteins for the purpose of
elimination diets to see what’s causing issues. One thing I didn’t like was that their food contains dextrose. I emailed them and
asked why and the answer I got was “Thank you for contacting us. The dextrose used is quite minimal, however, it has two
purposes: - complexes the vitamins and minerals to make them more stable (point from the veterinarian who helps us with the
nutrition) - contributes to the natural flavor system. Having said that, we do make custom diets and can certainly make the same
formula without the dextrose if that is a better fit for you.” Now, one good point is that they will make it without the dextrose
(because sweeteners or any kind can lead to more GI upset). So for that reason I’ll be adding them to my site but with a side
note. However, I’m finding contradicting information regarding dextrose as a binder. Apparently it acts as a starch. But there are
thousands of other vitamins and minerals in “vegetarian forms” being sold everywhere that do not contain dextrose that hold
together just fine. I did point that out and ask them about it but got no reply.
www.raynenutrition.com/felinediets.aspx?page=f.
Barb did find this site though which doesn’t mention that at all, although this is from 1998: FOOD ADDITIVES: WHAT THEY DO -
www.chymist.com/Food%20Additives-What%20they%20do.pdf.
I know many are always looking for a new food containing rabbit. This company is based in Atlanta, GA and for the most part
looks good. Two issues; they’re very expensive and the other is they contain brewer’s yeast. Have any of you noticed how yeast
is now becoming the “new grain”? Meaning we’re finally getting heard about removing corn, wheat, etc. but they don’t ever just
remove an ingredient without replacing it with something else. Again, be a vigilant consumer and let the company know what you
want and DON’T WANT in your pet’s food. Yeast has its benefits on occasion as it can settle the stomach. But for the most part,
any pet with any kind of allergies or intolerance at all will only get worse eating yeast.
http://houndgatos.com/cat-products.aspx.
And last but not least I would like you to please read about CeeCee in my tributes section. This case is extremely important as it
demonstrates the clear differences between a REALLY bad vet and a wonderful vet. As you can tell by where CeeCee’s info is
on my site, she did not make it despite every effort to correct the horrible treatment she previously received. It’s shameful!
http://ibdkitties.net/CeeCeeK.html.
I did have a lot more to go over but I’ll save it for the next newsletter seeing as how this is turning into a book, LOL. My
newsletters are keeping me as busy as the website itself! But there is so much to learn and it thrills me to see so many who want
to not only educate themselves but to help educate others. This is the only way things will change. “What you do makes a
difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” -- Jane Goodall
September 14, 2011
FDA establishes foodborne illness outbreak response network. The CORE Network is comprised of a multi-disciplinary team of
epidemiologists, veterinarians, microbiologists, environmental health specialists, emergency coordinators, and risk
communications specialists. Working full-time on outbreak prevention and response at headquarters, the CORE is
complemented by trained, experienced investigators in FDA field offices nationwide. CORE will coordinate closely with the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and state public health and
agriculture agencies in human and animal foodborne illness outbreaks.
www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm271742.htm.
August 2011 FDA Safety Labeling Changes:
Neurontin (gabapentin)
www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/Safety-RelatedDrugLabelingChanges/ucm154552.htm.
Tenormin (atenolol) Tablets www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/ucm271111.htm.
This is not good news. I don’t know if you’re all aware that there is a lot of shortages of drugs lately. It’s affecting our pets also, so
please read this:
Drug Shortages: A Problem for Pets, Too
www.petmd.com/blogs/thedailyvet/jcoates/2011/sept/drug_shortages_in_vet_medicine.
What’s not mentioned on that page is there’s also now a shortage of Cyanocobalamin Injection (B12)
www.ashp.org/DrugShortages/Current/Bulletin.aspx?id=769.
And also Famotidine Injection (Pepcid) & brand named pepcid tablets. Generic tablets are still readily available and frankly are
MUCH cheaper! I get mine at Target and use their Up & Up brand.
www.ashp.org/DrugShortages/Current/Bulletin.aspx?id=810.
(thanks to Barb for these links and info)
Concerning the last newsletter about “clinical trials” on some products. One of our members works for a pharmaceutical. Also,
my best friend here in my city does as well. This was the comment from both on that issue: Your vet is absolutely correct about
the "clinical trial." If a pharma had done a clinical trial like that, the FDA would be all over them. A real clinical trial must have a
control group, and it takes multiple trials to get a drug approved for human use. It's appalling to me that it doesn't seem to be the
case for animal medicine.
Last winter I was informed by my contact at Cornell University vet teaching school that there would be a stem cell trial developed
for felines with IBD. I could not have been more excited. I found out last week that this research and trial has been delayed for
awhile. I can’t tell you how disappointed I am. They did say it was only delayed and not halted but as of now they don’t have
anyone to do the research and trials. The person who was slated to do it didn’t follow through with his Ph.D. and is no longer a
candidate to do the work. And unfortunately all the other researchers are backed up with their own trials and studies so it may be
awhile. I’m really very bummed about this especially since I recently saw this on the news, check it out, it’s amazing stuff! Make
sure to watch the video to the right to see how bad his paws were.
Revolutionary treatment helped heal badly burned dog. www.whec.com/news/stories/S2269154.shtml?cat=566.
Also, I’ve had this in my mind for awhile and kept forgetting to mention it. I know many kitties love to drink out of the toilet (gross)
and it seems like a harmless thing. But think about what you’re putting into the toilet (ewww) and what you’re using to clean it.
VERY harsh disinfecting and cleaning chemicals like bleach, detergent, dyes, fragrance, thickening agents, and hydrochloric
acid. MMMMM, YUMMM! These agents are designed to stick to the walls of the bowl to keep disinfecting & cleaning for days,
they are not getting flushed down the toilet immediately. So if kitty is drinking out of the bowl, guaranteed they’re getting some of
the residues of these chemicals. So please keep the toilet seat closed at all times.
I also wanted to let everyone know that poor little Max who was in the hospital with renal failure from eating spinach, didn’t make
it. He passed away a few days ago. Needless to say his mom is devastated and really wants to emphasize again to know what
you’re feeding your pet is SAFE. And I also want to express my condolences to Tracey over in the UK who just lost her little Ollie
very unexpectedly. Ollie has had brain damage his entire life, 7 years, but this came on very, very suddenly. Tracey and her
husband have a large family of fur children and are just wonderful parents to them all.
September 17, 2011
Hi everyone, this newsletter is strictly links with really good information I found that I think is interesting and important to read. I’m
going to be restructuring the More Resources page so it’s easier to follow which topics are on there. So for now this is all new
stuff. I’ll be sending out another newsletter but with other information you should know about, probably tomorrow.
Zofran (ondansetron): Drug Safety Communication - Risk of Abnormal Heart Rhythms
www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts/ucm272041.htm
FDA Approves Atopica for Cats
www.veterinarypracticenews.com/vet-breaking-news/2011/08/15/fda-approves-atopica-for-cats.aspx
Diet, Kidney Disease and the Urinary Tract. http://feline-nutrition.org/health/diet-kidney-disease-and-the-urinary-tract.
Wound Treatment for Cats (Overview)
www.petmd.com/cat/emergency/accidents-injuries/e_ct_wound_treatment.
Drug Used to Treat Heartworm Disease Out of Production
http://blog.vetdepot.com/drug-used-to-treat-heartworm-disease-out-of-production
Developing DNA tests to diagnose cancer in cats
www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/blog/category/cat/developing-dna-tests-to.html
Researchers discover molecule that can starve cancer cells
www.news.cornell.edu/stories/Sept10/CerioneStudy.html
The answer is in the genes
www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/blog/category/dog/peering-into-the-future.html
Top 10 Questions to Ask about Your Pet’s Medications
http://blog.vetdepot.com/top-10-questions-to-ask-about-your-pet%E2%80%99s-medications
How to Syringe Feed Your Cat – Video instructional
www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9ygsA93vQc
California Assembly Passes Statewide Microchipping Law for Pets
www.petmd.com/news/care-safety/nws_multi_California_assembly_passes_statewide_microchipping_law_for_pets
Great info on finding pet friendly hotel chains! Pet Friendly Hotel Chains & pet Policies.
http://hotels.petswelcome.com/chains/
Introducing a New Cat to Other Pets
www.humanesociety.org/animals/cats/tips/introducing_new_cat.html
This is very cool! You can actually train your kitty at home and set up an agility training course of your own.
http://catagility.com/
Ten surprises about cats
http://network.bestfriends.org/3422/news.aspx
September 25, 2011
Pookie’s mom Diane supplied me with some great information about B12 as she’s currently reading the 2nd Edition of the book,
Could it be B12. According to the book, spirulina may actually "block the uptake of real B12." It states "a number of others take
spirulina or tempeh, supplements that are touted as being high in B12 but actually contain B12 analogues that block the
absorption of cobalamin. So basically be careful if you’re kitty is on B12 therapy and is also being supplemented with spirulina at
the same time.
On Sept. 7th during the flooding in Penn. A mom on Catster passed away from a sudden heart attack. She lived alone with her
cat Toulouse and because of the flooding, her daughter couldn’t get to her when there was continuously no answer to her phone
calls. Her neighbor was the one who found her and thankfully she also adopted Toulouse. Because he has health conditions that
need tending to, it’s extremely fortunate for him that she not only knew about them but is committed to his care from now on. And
Toulouse now has a new kitty brother that he already loved and got alone very well with. Since they are neighbors the two kitties
would visit each other. It’s a relief to know that he’ll be okay. This sad event reminded me that many of you are new at receiving
this newsletter and may never have read my good friend Barb’s article about being prepared for just such a thing:
http://ibdkitties.net/Estateplanning.html. It’s not something we want to think about but just as you make arrangements to have
someone care for your human children, it should be the same for your fur children.
Veterinary Q&A: How to find a good vet
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/tailsofseattle/2016198915_veterinary_qa_how_to_find_a_good_vet.html
More problems with tainted wipes used for insulin injections, etc.
Second wipe-maker issues recall after bacteria detected
www.msnbc.msn.com/id/44601608/ns/health-tracking_tainted_wipes/#.Tn9JeNSJ0q5
Take the pledge and stop puppy mills: I pledge that if a pet store sells puppies, I won't buy anything there.
http://nopetstorepuppies.com/take-the-pledge.
This is a GREAT article and basically says what we’ve been saying all along. That the bacteria in the gut, know how to trick the
immune system.
Intestinal bacteria can trick the immune system
www.nature.com/news/2011/110921/full/news.2011.550.html
September 29, 2011
MU Study Links Cat Cancer to Human Cancer Treatments
www.komu.com/news/mu-study-links-cat-cancer-to-human-cancer-treatments/
One line in this article that stands out to me is this: “the study is important because cats share the same environment as
humans.” So what’s in our environment or households doing this to us AND our pets? I hope they reach some answers.
How to recognize and relieve your pet's pain
www.tahoedailytribune.com/article/20110928/NEWS/110929883/1001&parentprofile=1056
Notice this sentence: Our best friends, especially cats, tend to hide injury and pain as a survival instinct.
Please keep a few kitties in your thoughts and prayers. Barb’s Bumbly is not doing well with her lymphoma and barring a miracle
it’s all comfort measures now, that just tears me to shreds. http://ibdkitties.net/BumblyA.html. Please send this black beauty as
many healing vibes and positive thoughts as you can. Also our member John’s kitty, Tigger who has FELV is in the hospital
tonight recovering from surgery for two 2 cancerous masses, one on his intestine, the other his stomach. He’s a strong little boy
and the percentages were WAY against him even making it through surgery. Tonight he’s resting comfortably and the next 48
hours are crucial. Tigger does not have IBD so he’s not on my site but we pray for all of them, no matter where they are or who
they belong to. We love them all.
| Newsletter Archive September 2011 |
| Copyright © IBD Kitties 2008-2012, all rights reserved |
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