From:
Caitlyn Martin
Date: 2004-01-09 02:36:29 UTC
Subject: Cardiomyopathy and stroke
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-Id: <20040108213629.542d88b2@nyssa>
Hi, everyone,
Out of the blue Ker Avon, our very small five and a half year old male cuddle weasel, had severe hind end weakness, fatigue, and just plain seemed out of sorts. He was clingy in a way he only is when he really doesn't feel well. We took him to the vet this morning thinking that 21 months after surgery his insulinoma had returned all of a sudden. Our vet thought exactly the same thing until his blood glucose (checked twice) proved to be a nice, normal 105.
A bunch of blood work followed, and it will take an ultrasound (our next step) to absolutely confirm the diagnosis, but the current working theory is that Avon had a stroke (thrombotic episode) caused by cardiomyopathy. For the sake of discussion let's assume that the diagnosis is correct. What can be done, what medications (if any) can be given to prevent this happening again?
FWIW, now more than 24 hours later Avon's attitude is better but he still has little use of his hind legs. He literally drags himself around, pushing just a little with the rear legs. He seems to tire pretty quickly.
Most of what I've read about cardiomyopathy in the archives deals with later stages, use of lasix and anapril, congestive heart failure, etc... I'm more concerned about the early stages at this point and preventing another stroke if that's what Avon had.
I don't have the blood test results to post but I'll try and get them and post them as soon as I can. In the meanwhile any information, suggestions, and questions for the vet would be greatly appreciated as this is my first experience with these problems.
Regards,
Caity and the amazing eight