Nugget, The Cat

“Nugget” arrived at Bonnie Brae one morning with severe full body muscle tremors secondary to being exposed to a flea product for dogs, not designed for use is cats, which affected her nervous system. He was aware of us at the time but in danger of life threatening seizure activity at any moment.

The nurses at Bonnie Brae quickly called Bayer which made the canine flea product to discuss treatment options. At the same time “Nugget” (the cat) was washed again (owner washed previously) to try to remove the chemical and prevent further absorption.

In order to try to decrease the muscle tremors a medication called methocarbamol was given intravenously.  At the same time,  IV fluids were given to maintain hydration and increase blood flow through the liver and kidneys to help prevent organ damage and to clear the toxin from the body. “Nuggets” temperature was monitored and her blood glucose checked to make sure hypothermia or hypoglycemia did not occur.

“Nugget” was observed closely while in the hospital. She continued to have moderate muscle tremors throughout the day “Nugget” was quite vocal throughout the day, possibly related to nervous system influences by the toxin. No seizures occurred during the day however. Two separate IV injections of  were given to counteract further muscle tremors. “Nugget” ate well in the afternoon and the muscle tremors continued to lessen. Due to the risk of seizure activity, temperature changes, and hypoglycemia the decision was made to refer “Nugget” to an emergency clinic overnight for observation. Methocarbamol was sent with her so the e-clinic could administer overnight.

“Nugget” returned to Bonnie Brae after an uneventful night and was happily discharged without any further side effects that morning. Due to the timely response of the client to allow us to treat “Nugget” appropriately and quickly, he returned to a healthy state without any further side effects.

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