Expert: Karen Craft - 10/11/2008

Question
Our cat had surgery to remove a huge tumor under her nipple.  We brought her in for a follow up a couple of days ago and they said she was doing well. For the last couple of days we can't get her to eat anything, inc. baby food.  She's weak, topples over easily.  She comes out from under the bed every couple hours to meow plaintif way, like "help me".  

We are out of money.  Is she in pain? My heart says she is. Looking at her this way is breaking our hearts.  Do you think it's time?  
, Karen.

Answer
Hi Diane,

I know you are very worried about her. Sometimes after a big surgery it takes a little time for a cat to recover. Not eating though is something that is a big concern. Have you called your vet about matter? She may have an infection going on. This would put her off her food. She needs to be rechecked.
I will give you a recipe for my version of Kitty Glop. This is a high nutrition packed food. See if she eats this. It's very good for invalid cats. If she doesn't eat this and the vet doesn't help then it's time to make the hardest decision you will have to make.
I have been in your place when one of my babies had a tumor under her chin. She couldn't eat. And rather than let her suffer more I had her put down. I know you will cry, ( I did). But it is something that has to be done. Ultimately it comes down to being a responsible pet owner. And making that decision is part of being that.
Hopefully she will recover. 11 years old is not that old for a cat. Try her on the Kitty Glop and call the vet. I have you in my prayers. Good luck and let me know what happens.

Ciao, Karen

KITTY GLOP

INGREDIENTS:
1 can evaporated milk (not sweetened condensed)
2 tbsp. plain yogurt (not low or non fat)
2 tbsp. mayonnaise (real not light or No-Fat)
1 tbs. Karo Syrup (light)
1 pkg. Knox gelatin
1 egg yolk (beaten, )
1 cup Pedialyte (unflavored)
1- 2 jars Stage One Baby food (chicken or turkey)

INSTRUCTIONS:
Mix milk, yogurt, mayonnaise, baby food, and syrup together well. Bring 1 cup pedialyte to boil and mix in Knox gelatin. Set aside. Mix egg yolk with small amount of milk mixture and beat well.

Add gelatin and pedialyte to milk mixture and beat well. Add in egg yolk mixture and beat well. Remember to not use egg substitute and keep egg white to a minimum.

Pour into bowl (with cover) and set in refrigerator. Glop will last for two weeks covered in refrigerator. Try freezing the mixture in ice cube trays and store the cubes in the freezer, thaw as many as needed.
Always warm glop to room temperature ,(milk form), or a little warmer, before feeding