Two smiling women, the vet and her assistant, drove up as I was sweeping the sidewalk. One I knew already from treating a cat of the past (passed on). We settled into the living room. As we chatted about Miss Moppet’s troubles and my difficulties, my kitty watched from her corner.
We tried to quietly lure her out with treats. The vet went over to the corner and managed to get close enough for a touch before Miss Moppet bounded away. I felt it best to let her go off into the hall and not chase her. Three of us could have cornered her, but I worried it would stress her out too much.
Based on the evidence we had, and the vet’s quick glance and touch of Missy’s bald spot, a treatment plan was drawn up. The vet told me possibly allergy was involved and gave me prednisolone tables and instructions. Also flea medicine to be applied between the shoulder blades once a month.
We agreed to another visit soon. Her office called later with a date and instructions to give her gabapentin the night before, and in the morning. I had gabapentin at home already (still safe to use). The vet plans to give her a complete examination then, and administer some vaccines.
I was astonished at how quickly the prednisolone worked. Missy not only stopped scratching, but became much more vocal and trusting and extremely more affectionate. She still licks the bald spot, but calmly, now and then. Like regular grooming.
Since the vet visit, Missy Lee and I have progressed to lap cuddles. At first I put a cushion over my legs, but now she will hold her claws in or away from me. She purrs. She sits on my lap while I work at the computer or crochet. She is starting to come in the bedroom at night as I am getting ready for bed. Last night she stayed for a little while after the light went out.
I pat her according to her wishes, careful not to touch the bald spot, and if she turns away from me I stop patting. Often she rolls over and shows me her lovely tummy. I gently touch it, softly pat it, and she rolls over and over.
The vet said not to worry about the claws, so I no longer try clipping. Or brushing, since her hair is so short. Not now, anyway.
I am delighted beyond words.
missmoppets cottage 