From:
Gail Elsey
Date: 2002-06-06 12:45:00 UTC
Subject: Clyde
Well, it has been two weeks since the last weigh in. Clyde
has gone down 1/2 a lb. Let me give a quick reminder of the
symptoms:
4 weeks ago: Clyde was not playing much and only coming out
for treats. He had lost quite a bit of weight and seemed
tired. Went to the vet, blood work came back within normal
ranges. Put on a liquid (Chicken Gravy-BC's) diet and syringe
fed. for 2 weeks.
2 weeks ago: While being syringe fed, Clyde gained nearly a
lb. Activity level up and acts like a new ferret. However,
will only eat treats--raisins, cheerios, Yogies--on his own.
Teeth checked and not even enough tartar to clean. Ears
checked again and are perfectly clean. Vet said not to
syringe feed, but let eat on his own. Clyde ate very little
of the chicken gravy for two weeks. I would have to
practically shove his nose in it, and would only eat if spiked
with a bit of treat and if the consistency was watery-gruel
like. Only time rubbing chin or face is right after eating,
especially if I had to put some on his nose (got very annoyed
at that!)
Today--down 1/2 lb. Energy level high. Seems to feel OK, but
just not eaten enough to maintain weight, though not as bad as
before, he is losing what ground he gained.
Vet is unsure where to go next. I would like to hear ideas
on what to do. Vet wants me to not syringe feed unless he
drops another 2 OZ. I would like suggestions, ideas, anything
at all! I do not mind syringe feeding for the rest of his
life, but as he is between 3 and 4 years of age, max 5, that
could be a very long time :)
Gail