Yesterday, Oslo the Kitten (who recently turned one) barfed up a hairband. As he’d been trying to hack something up for a day or so beforehand (we assumed a hairball), we were relieved to see it. Obviously he’d gotten rid of the problem and we expected a swift return to form. (He’d been playful, cuddly, and good tempered up until the object was expelled.)
But then I got home Wednesday and found more hacked up hairbands. And a very listless little cat who wanted to play with his toys, but just couldn’t. After consulting friends and an emergency vet, I watched him for two more hours until Chris got home, and we took him to an all-night clinic.
X-rays revealed a little tummy full of “foreign objects.” He was given fluids and prepped for surgery immediately. The surgery took over two hours. The vet found two “clumps” of items, including 20+ hairbands, shoelaces, bits of plastic bag, etc. Basically, anything small enough to eat, he ate. And we never saw him do it, not even once.
After a sleepless night, we took Oslo from the emergency clinic to our regular vet’s office, where he will be monitored and given fluids. He’s also got a fever and they’re not sure why. We’ll pick him up in a few hours and take him back to the emergency clinic for another full night of monitoring.
He’s young and healthy, and we’re hoping he’ll bounce back from this despite how serious his situation is. Thanks to all of you who’ve offered support, prayers, and good thoughts via Twitter, Livejournal, and email. Oslo is our little boy, and we love him beyond measure.
Oh no! I'm sending positive energy and love to your wee furry boy.
Thanks so much, Dayle!!
Wow. The Universe was pretty brutal about teaching you the importance of feline-induced paranoia. I'm grateful it was gentler with me–a less stealthy cat and instant regurgitation of the undigestible objects in question. I learned to never leave rubber bands or curly ribbon unsupervised or well secured. Oolong could never be trusted them. EVER.
Once this is resolved, you may need to award your lil fella a new name, or at least a title (in addition to The Kitten). Perhaps "The Insinkerator," or "The Devourer," "The Sneak," or simply "Trouble."
Here's to a rapid return to full bounce for the whole family.
My current favorites are "Oslo, Ingester of Worlds" and "Oslo, Eater of Everything."
Yeah, though — I wish this lesson had been a little gentler. I'm very good about watching for string and tinsel and ribbons… I never saw this hairband thing coming. But now? UTTERLY PARANOID.
Wow, Jenn. Sorry to hear this. These little guys can certainly get themselves into trouble (and us in debt!). But he's very young and I have seen much older cats with similar do very well after such a surgery. Good thoughts going out to Oslo, and you hang in there. This too shall pass…
B
Thanks, Brooklyn. I hope you're right about his ability to bounce back!!
The little stinker!!! Hugs from me. I hope he bounces back quickly!
Thanks, Shelley!
Oh, poor little guy. Hope he feels better soon.
Thanks, Mandy. I think he's on the rebound.
Oh, honey. My heart is with you – you just never know what the kids will get into when your back is turned. Hopefully this is a mere, temporary setback and everything will be back to normal soon.
Sending love to all…
Thanks, Christine — and I really appreciate your patience and understanding about our canceled outing today. *HUGS*
That little hairband eater! Hoping the fever subsides! Take care, brc
Thanks, Bruce!
I'm so sorry that Oslo is that much of a non-edible gourmand. I have never heard of a cat that consumed that many "foreign objects" — especially of so many kinds. At least he's creative :(
Hugs and kisses to you all from me and my two little boy-cats!
Thanks, Susan! Yeah, the kid definitely has an interesting palate. :-/