You are here:

Cats/molly

Advertisement

Expert: Pati - 1/14/2008


Question
Molly had a steroid shot for flea dermatitis and 1 1/2 days later, became extremely listless, dull-eyed, and her appetite is off.  Is there a connection? Could something else be wrong that is causing this? She merely picks at her food, and seems "off". Another cat, Emily, died suddenly 2 weeks ago, with no symptoms.  Both cats were close - could she be grieving?

Answer
Hi Elizabeth,

It sounds like there is more going on than just miliary dermatitis here.  Was Emily elderly?  You said she died with no symptoms, was her death sudden and unexpected?  I would not think the steroid shot would affect Molly in this way a full day and a half later and you would have noticed her grieving for Emily earlier than this.  I would at least call the vet if not actually take her back in as this is not normal.

Cats

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Pati

Expertise

I am not a vet and therefore cannot answer specific medical questions but I do have a background in medicine and cat rescue/rehabilitation. I would like to help others in rescue by sharing my knowledge and what has worked for me. I can offer many tips and suggestions on rehabilitating cats and new born kittens, much of which have been passed on to me by veterinarians. I can also help with the day-to-day running of a rescue.

Experience

I have been rescuing kittens most of my adult life and have been part of a cat rescue for the last 6 years. I'm known for taking cats/kittens that no one thought would survive and giving them one-on-one attention until they are rehabilitated. "That cat lived?!?" is a question I often hear.

Organizations
I am currently vice-president of "Tigerlily Cat Rescue" and operator of "Precious Artifact's Black Cat Sanctuary." .

Education/Credentials
I am a licensed, registered x-ray tech with 27 years of experience in medical and surgical situations.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.