Diskospondylitis

My poor kitty, Tobey. . .we spent an hour and a half in the vet’s office today (Olivia did surprisingly very well.)  Tobey has a condition called diskospondylitis.  Here is another link.   Our vet has never seen it before in a cat and only a few times in dogs.  It’s basically a bone infection and pain caused by a compressed spinal cord.  Tobey has to continue on antibiotics as well as pain meds. . .in addition to shots that I will have to learn to give him at home.  We are most likely looking at lifelong pain management, which could mean shots or possible surgery (that would cost thousands of dollars.)  In addition, he has lost use of his tail and will most likely not regain use of it.  Because having a tail that just dangles there can be hazardous (he could get it caught on something, etc) he may have to have his tail amputated.  So. . .I got loaded up with a lot of information (and meds) today.  I feel so bad for our poor sweet Tobey.  Our once very active, very ornery cat now just lays around.  You usually find him like this:

So, lots of prayers that we can get rid of the infection and help control his pain and that he regains use of his tail.  Poor Tobey is only a year old and is one of Olivia’s very best friends.  In fact, most people who meet him fall in love with him. . .he’s such a good kitty. 

**Update** Just since I posted this, Tobey began lifting his tail (after one month of no use)  This is great news!  His first injection may be REALLY helping!