Hi everyone. Our vet has told us there’s no hope left for our 15-year-old Bagou. He’s had significant weight loss, vomiting, and bouts of diarrhoea lasting several days, despite short periods where he seems a bit better. He’s been diagnosed with pancreatitis and very advanced IBD. He’s on antibiotics and steroids, but they aren't making much of a difference. Despite the treatment, Bagou is still vomiting regularly, having diarrhoea, and losing weight. We’re losing him. We just can’t seem to stabilise him. Any advice at all would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Mag
Translated from French
The forum content is sometimes translated from another language, and posts may concern countries with different animal laws. Do your research before making any decisions.
Since the forum is translated by AI, the translations may contain errors.
Hi. I won't be getting back in touch with my vet. As far as she's concerned, Bagou is a lost cause and she certainly made that clear to us. Not a shred of empathy, she didn't even touch him—I'm so disappointed. Babou has eaten a few small amounts this morning. He’s had a bit to drink too. He had a wander around the garden with my husband and has been sleeping peacefully on one of my jumpers. I know it might not mean much as he could easily be sick this afternoon... We’re just taking it hour by hour...
Hello. Thanks for your reply. Bagou was sick during the night. No diarrhoea, but that’s not surprising as not much would have reached his gut. He was very hungry this morning. I’m giving him Integra Sensitive wet food and hypoallergenic dry food. He isn't very keen on the dry food. I’ve tried the gastro food but he refuses the biscuits and gets bored of the wet food quickly. The vet says there's no point in hospitalising him now. Mind you, she didn't suggest it any earlier anyway. He’s tired and often just sits in a 'sphinx' position somewhere: the sofa, the dining table, my son's lap... It’s hard to tell how he’s feeling. He’s on 10mg of Prednicortone a day and we’re just waiting...
How is your cat doing today? Is he acting lethargic or withdrawn? It’s a good sign that he’s still got an appetite; what are you feeding him?
Pancreatitis is a very painful inflammation of the pancreas that can manifest as acute flare-ups or as a chronic condition that is difficult to manage.
IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the lining of the gut. It prevents nutrients from being absorbed properly, leading to digestive issues and weight loss.
Have you considered having your cat hospitalised for a few days or a week to help him build his strength back up? They could provide him with IV fluids and assisted feeding.
If you feel he is becoming too weak, have you thought about letting him go...? Euthanasia is sometimes the kindest option when there are no other ways left to relieve the pain...
All the best,
Caroline – Vet student, Project Manager for ProVéto Junior Conseil
Thanks for your reply. The worst part is that he does still have an appetite; he’s actually ravenous. If he’d stopped eating, I wouldn't even be second-guessing things, unfortunately. But I think we acted too late. The inflammation has really taken hold and the medication isn’t managing to clear it. He’s been on steroids for three weeks now. He’s still putting up a fight, though! It’s just so hard.
