Atopica for FIV+ 3yo cat post-dental extraction

Exchange FIV advice and information here.
Post Reply
maddy+andy
New Cat Chatter
Posts: 1
Joined: Mon Apr 05, 2021 3:11 pm

Atopica for FIV+ 3yo cat post-dental extraction

Post by maddy+andy »

Hello!

My 3-year-old FIV+ cat underwent a full dental extraction back in November due to the intense discomfort his acute stomatitis was causing. This was not my first choice but eventually, it became the only option. About 2 months post-op he began showing signs of pain again (approaching food more timidly, the occasional yelp, trouble yawning). The vet gave him oral steroids and he did great, but the inflammation came back once the course of steroids ended. The vet then gave him a long-acting steroid injection which, again, worked until it stopped. We just went back to the vet again, who told me that, unfortunately, he will likely have chronic inflammation for the rest of his life. She gave him one more round of oral steroids and sent me home with Atopica, an immunosuppressant. She claims Atopica is our best long-term bet to keep his condition under control, as lifetime exposure to steroids would increase his risk of developing diabetes. While it may seem counterintuitive to give immunosuppressants to an immunocompromised cat, his oral inflammation is caused by an overreaction of his immune system.

I'm really concerned about the Atopica. The vet mentioned that if he is carrying toxoplasma, the lowering of his immune system could cause him to develop toxoplasmosis. She doesn't seem particularly worried about this outcome. She said that we could do a blood test for toxoplasma, but that it's expensive and she didn't think it necessary. To me, the whole thing seems a little fishy. I don't want to make an uninformed choice and end up with a sick/dead cat. I also don't know if I can afford to pay for this expensive product for the rest of his life.

To make a long story short, I'm wondering if others have been in this situation. If your FIV+ cat also underwent stomatitis surgery, what long-term measures have you taken to manage inflammation? Are there any holistic approaches that have worked for you? CBD? If your FIV+ cat has taken Atopica, how did that go? Could dietary adjustments help? Any input you have is greatly appreciated.

I want to manage his pain in the most humane way possible. It just doesn't feel humane to give him Atopica knowing that it could make him sick. If it is truly his best bet, I will spring for the expensive toxoplasma blood test.

Thanks for reading. My little guy means the world to me and I'm scared of losing him. I could really use some support from fellow FIV+ kitty parents.
meanjean86
New Cat Chatter
Posts: 1
Joined: Thu Feb 03, 2022 12:24 am

Re: Atopica for FIV+ 3yo cat post-dental extraction

Post by meanjean86 »

I sincerely hope you don't give your kitty atopica. My 3.5 year old cat Nico had to be euthanized within a month of taking Atopica to ease her constant scratching. Turns out she was FIV+ and the so called "specialist" did not test her for FIV before prescribing. The box and insert both clearly state "Do not use in cats infected with feline leukemia (FeLV) or feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)". Nico's death was absolutely preventable and the result of gross negligence. I trusted the vet. I wasn't even offered the option to test her before taking atopica, i would have gladly done it. I will never forget the pain of walking out of the vet clinic with an empty cat carrier. Nico was so sweet, feisty, and full of life. Such a senseless loss of life. Rest in Peace Nico 02.01.2021 💔
Post Reply