This photo was taken the evening of Sammy's surgery, December 17, 1999.  My precious baby had an IV, and a catheter --  and after all he'd been through that day, he still managed to purr and eat a little foodies when Mom came to visit him!  Sammy had half of his bladder removed due to a tumor.  The pathology report came back that Sammy has pre- transitional cell carcinoma.  Standing next to Sammy is Dr. Gustavsen, of All Creatures Animal Hospital, in Lake Zurich, Illinois.  Dr. Gustavsen is a great vet and a very good pal!

Sammy was diagnosed with kidney disease in June of '97.  He eats a homemade diet and receives a herbal concoction along with some healthy supplements.  His healthier lifestyle is probably the reason the pathology report came back pre- cancer instead of full blown cancer.  We are still in the process of fine tweaking a new crf/cancer regimen, but so far have added:
 

    Cat's Claw   anti-tumor, anti-cancer, autoimmune system booster

    Red Clover   anti-tumor, blood cleanser, nutritive

   Pau d'arco    blood cleanser, anti-tumor, natural antibacterial

February 25,  2000 update: Per Sammy's urinalysis, there is no sign of cancer or pre- cancer!

July 14, 2000 update:  Per Sammy's urinalysis, the cancer has returned.  His ultra sound revealed two tumors - one which is growing near his urethra.  We decided to try piroxicam (feldene) and after one week the drug had caused a stomach ulcer and his kidney and liver values to go up.

September 14, 2000 update:  It is with much grief that I report my precious baby has died from end stage renal failure, brought on by the piroxicam.

 Sammy's bloodwork   Updated 9/13/00

Cancer Links:

 An e-mail list devoted to feline cancer
 Total Cancer Management in Small Animals  by Susan Wynn DVM
 Kashmir's Story  Frequently asked questions, links and more!
 Holistic Cat Care links
 Cat Health Related Links