|
Post by skittish on Dec 30, 2022 23:40:50 GMT
I just reread the notes from the rescue and when he was surrendered all they knew about him was that he had been by himself for 3 years in a tiny wire floor cage So it's likely he is somewhat older than 5 depending on how old he was when he lost his companion(s) We discussed the tests further with the vet this morning. The vet said that in terms of identifying issues that are treatable the likelihood is slim or treatment would be very harsh (such as steroids) and not well documented in degus. The main reason to go ahead with the tests would be if we wanted to remove the lump (which will likely include the leg) and we first need to rule out other issues or spread, so that we knew removal would be worthwhile doing. We have decided we don't want to do the removal. I know it might be the reason for his weight loss and suppressed appetite but it's just so high risk and invasive, and the thought of it not working and to put him through all of that is too much. He's still bright and active at the moment, so we're going to take care of him as best we can for the next week, then reassess his condition. If there's any sign of his appetite returning or his weight stabilising, we'll consider another dental to burr down the overlong tooth. If not, then we are preparing to say goodbye while he's still has quality of life.
|
|
|
Post by teemu on Dec 31, 2022 3:11:38 GMT
It sounds like you've given this a lot of thought, and I think all that sounds very valid. It does sound like going into intensive treatment is a long shot at best, so at this point managing things and making most of the time you have with him is likely for the best. He's had a good long time with you, and I'm sure he's happy knowing that you're looking out for him.
About the teeth, did they tell you which tooth the problem is in exactly?
|
|
|
Post by moletteuk on Dec 31, 2022 13:55:22 GMT
Your choice and reasoning make sense to me too, I would do the same. Since you mention steroids, I can tell you that a couple of us on the forum have used steroids for our degus for quite long periods quite successfully and with good tolerance, my degu was on dexamathasone daily for getting on for a year with good results and tolerance, another forum degu has been on prednisolone. I also had another degu had a steroid injection that really helped. Obviously it depends entirely what the problem is for Monty, but something you could consider is just trying a steroid and seeing if it helps, if you wanted to try that, no pressure. There is a drawback that Monty would have to come off any metacam and clear it from his system before you could try a steroid. (Forum search for prednisolone brings up threads with dosing info for dexamethasone and prednisolone deguworld.proboards.com/search/results?captcha_id=captcha_search&what_all=prednisolone&who_only_made_by=0&display_as=0&search=Search )
|
|
|
Post by deguconvert on Jan 1, 2023 4:22:11 GMT
My goodness, I am behind the happenings of the forum. You've had a harrowing time, Skittish, and I am so, so sorry! I echo Moletteuk's words and feelings. Whatever happens, we are here to support you.
|
|