Didn't mean to write so soon...as Slinky still is having a great ol' life...
However, I spoke with my mom today who let me know that Slinky's brother, Michie, had two episodes in the last week that were very much like seizures. He was brought to the vet and they examined and drew blood, which came back with a low level of blood glucose (56? not sure the reference range or am I confident of the number...will update this one...)
As Slinky's brother was likely her litter mate, we estimate his age to be 14 as well, and otherwise healthy minus some mild arthritis for which he takes Deramaxx.
First, I think it too ironic that both Slinky and Michie have low blood sugar (Slinky's is measured in mmol/mL while Michie's is in mg/dL I think). I looked back in Slinky's records and saw that her blood sugar was normal in the summer of 2008, and first dropped in the summer of 2009, about 5 months prior to her melanoma was discovered. Slinky's glucose has not changed since last year. Michie's on the other hand, was in for his regular annual physical earlier in the month and his bloodwork was normal. This week he tested low.
While there may be other reasons for low blood sugar, cancer is very much one of them. With Slinky, I wouldn't be surprised if it is related to her melanoma. She had an abdominal ultrasound in December which was clear.
Given the episodes (one was a near fall followed by some tight circling, the second was splayed out on the floor with some erratic head movements back and forth), I am wondering if Michie's could be due to an insulinoma, which I know won't be diagnosed without an ultrasound. I am encouraging my mom to be proactive here and consult with the experts. I don't think her primary vet can take this one on...I am also aware it could be related to something in the brain, but with the combination of low blood sugar am wondering if that is less likely.If anyone knows anyone good at Cornell U., please let me know privately.
Nothing will be known until he goes in for testing, and I truly hope I don't have to bring another pooch to the group, but please keep him in your thoughts this next week as we try to determine the cause of his recent seizures/episodes and low blood sugar. I am in BC and my mom is in upstate NY so it is difficult to manage from afar.
Thank you!
Cinda and Slinky, writing on behalf of Michie
Angels Buddy and Laci
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