Hi Jane. Thanks for the reply.
I'm no longer with Ian...he went up country. Although he is back now, he's in Dawlish..a bit further than I'd like to travel. We are in touch still though.
I see a chap called Richard Hazard now in Plymouth. Very good. Keeps African greys..of which I have 2 now lol..plus 2 other birds. Crazy house lol. I also got engaged a few weeks ago so I have my delicious, animal loving fiancee too.
Anyway, I digress.
Richard has diagnosed chronic kidney disease but it's all up on the air for a bit. Cheyne is responding well to pain relief and eating better too, although still quieter than normal.
Shouldn't Google but I did and got myself all het up...
So what can be done for my boy please Jane.
I heard that you had got engaged, congrats !!
He's a lucky chap to have found you. Hopefully the AGs will keep him in order :lol:
With chronic renal failure usually a drug called Benazepril hydrochloride, eg Fortekor, is prescribed
http://www.noahcompendium.co.uk/?id=-462288
In some cases an anabolic steroid may be given. These can stimulate the appetite, reduce uraemia, help with the retention of electrolytes and also slow the rate of muscle catabolism (muscle wastage).
Sometimes a potassium supplement may be needed if blood test results show a low Potassium level. If the Rabbit is anaemic then Erythropoietin could be useful. Erythropoietin is glycoprotein hormone that controls the production of red blood cells.
Some dietary modification is also necessary- ie moderating calcium intake, restrict phosphate intake (no carrots, tomatoes or banana) and optimum fluid intake (lots of fresh veg/herbs)
It may eventually become necessary to give fluid therapy, preferably IV.
Usually NSAIDs such as Metacam should be avoided
All of the above will not 'cure' the Rabbit, but it can certainly buy them more quality time. Also, as long as the Rabbit feels OK within themselves then they are blissfully unaware of their problems. Unfortunately it is the care giver who has to do all the worrying. I hope that your Vet will be able to get Cheyne onto some treatment soon and that he will start to feel brighter xx