Time to take a cat for a ride

This morning I took Butterball back to the vet to see if the two weeks on antibiotics and an anti-inflammatory has helped or if I had to decide that he needed dental work done that would entail putting him under.

Is there a sadder sight than a cat in a carrier on his way to the vets? I don't think so.

I was a little weepy all weekend thinking that I would need to make the decision to get dental work done which at his age and his problems with breathing could be very dangerous. I really wouldn't have a choice. I certainly don't want him to be in pain. I always think the worse in these instances and ride out the scenario in my mind until the sad ending. Somehow I always think this will make things a little easier.

So I was shocked when the vet looked at his mouth and said that it looked great! In fact, he was quite amazed at how well he responded to treatment. Yes, he still does have bad tartar on his teeth but it doesn't seem to be bothering him. His gums were no longer red and inflamed but healthy and pink and he was eating well. My vet said we should leave well enough alone. Now if I could get him back to eating his good quality dry kibble instead of the Fancy Feast!! My vet said he was at a conference and one of his colleagues described Fancy Feast as cocaine for cats! It is very palatable and has a high fat content that cats can't resist. But, it is nutritionally complete, although with lots of artificial junk and colors. My vet said at Butterball's age, it really wouldn't harm him if he just ate that the rest of his life. But, I'm still going to try to add a few Science Diet kibble to his Fancy Feast and try to wean him off of it.

Okay mom, if you promise not to take me for any more rides, I'll promise to eat well. I might even start eating my Science Diet again. Okay, B-man, I'll hold you to that promise.