Why Wouldn't the Vet Take Action

One of our visitors asks, "Why wouldn't the vet take action?"

Have you ever been in a situation where you and your vet just didn't seem to be communicating on the same level? Reaching a mutual decision can be difficult, especially in a stressful emergency situation. Should this vet have done anything differently? See which course of action the Cat Expert recommends.

Question: Why Wouldn't the Vet Take Action?

Hello,

My cat developed vasculitis. The vets decided it was an autoimmune disease/reaction to the distemper shot. I didn't notice swelling in the tissues until this week.

The vet first thought that it was a bruise, and then decided it was an insect bite. We ended up in emergency. My cat was treated with steroids and doing very well, but still had fluid in his body. After a second dose of steroids, his lungs began filling.

The vet called up and said it may be necessary to tap his lungs and discuss a game plan. I came to the hospital and she did not tap his lungs, but kept commenting on his options. At the time, I was too distracted by his panting and wanted him tapped at least once to see how he did. She was concerned that the lungs might fill again. I wanted him to have some relief first, and then hear all the options. I asked several times when she would tap him, and she said within the hour.

I thought she was waiting for the correct time. However, more than two hours after the first call my cat began gasping so much that I felt I had no choice other than to end his misery. Is there any reason why the vet would delay tapping so long? I'm feeling very confused over the fact that it was not done, considering my cat's obvious distress and my repeated requests .

Thank you~~ Diane

Expert Reply

Hello Diane,

First of all, let me express my condolences over your cat's passing. Losing a cherished pet is never easy.

I'm not a vet, but it does raise questions that the tapping was suggested by the vet, consented to by you and never carried out over two and a half hours on a desperately ill patient. I'm sure the vet had reasons for her reluctance, but there's no way to be sure of what was really going on unless you can access the record of treatment.

I suggest that you request a complete copy of the treatment records from the emergency vet. Be aware that you may have to pay for copies, but insist that you receive them. Then take them to another vet to have them inspected for errors. Please realize that you will likely have to pay for this service as well. What you're looking for is a second opinion on whether the course of treatment was accurate and timely considering the entire situation. A second vet can give you a far more educated opinion on this than I can.

I hope this will all lead to a better understanding of what went on in the ER that night and bring you peace of mind.

My very best wishes~~ Kelly

• Maine Coon Cat Pictures
• Holiday Cat Collars
• Cute Fuzzy Kittens
• Cat Breed Quiz

• Feline Hair Loss
• Cat Meow Sound
• Cats Illness Symptoms
• Illness In Older Cats Symptoms Of Dying
• Symptoms Bloody Stool in Cats