Devastated, cat from UK in Jan 2010, died from tick paralysis Oct 2010

[terry & Melanie]

Thanks Nicky,

I don't regret bringing him, but I do feel responsible. And unfortunately it was a lesson I learned a hard way - I'd just become less vigilant as he was really a house cat, and hopefully by sharing it'll help protect your loved pets.

Sylvester didn't have a chance having no immunity to ticks, and we find one on our other cat, Natasha every few days, even with the Frontline spray every 2-3 weeks. In addition to this, it can be fatal after between 2-6 days of an adult tick landing on them. (ticks have a 3 stage life-cycle and feed and drop off with the first two stages).

If you do find your cat acting mad like it's full moon - even if it is, and they will probably be scratching the area, so check for fleas and ticks. I almost ignored Tash's mad dashes round the house, but searched her anyway and found one. And since losing 'Vesty' I have been known to chase the cat and check her if she's having a mad moment round the house at 2am. Hopefully by being exposed to ticks, she'll build up something that will help in delaying the devastating paralysis I found Vesty in.

As I'd bought the Frontline spray from the vet, they offered to spray Tash for free, and I could bring her in every two weeks and they'd do her for me. I think the vets are so upset as they were full of tick cases when I was there, and it's hard for them too. When I took her in, it was the day I picked up Vesty's ashes. I was glad to have 'him' back with us, but the tears started again, and I had a final really good cry. The box is lovely and he sits - good as gold, inside the cupboard where he used to love to hide away.

Thanks for letting me share this with you all! and go and give your pets a good hug.

Awww..I don't know what to say....don't blame yourself, it sounds like you and your family gave him a wonderful life!xxx

Melanie x

[BUSIMOLL]

HI Everyone, we are nearing our one year anniversary and we have accepted it and keep the ashes with us. Our other cat Natasha is doing well, we keep up with the Frontline spray every 2 - 4 weeks (expensive but better than $1000's in vet bills & worse), but I am vigilant to check her every night/ every second night. She spends a lot of time outside. The vets around St Ives/Turramurra/Pymble/Wahroonga are all really upset as ticks cause havoc all year round - and it's so widespread, although the adult part of the cycle is the most dangerous, and nothing is 100% just vigilance, even indoor animals have to be careful as these critters can go on humans too, be brought inside. We have a new 'neighbour' which is the spitting image of Sylvester and odd to see him at the back door. Tash was pretty distant when Vesty was alive, but now she's the boss and seeks lots of attention. The kids are keeping me to my promise of 2 years after Vesty is gone, we would consider another pet. I'm sure Tash has other ideas!
Have a lovely day and love your pets! x

[The Pom Queen]

Lovely to hear from you, glad Tash is doing well.