I have a 12 year old kitty with chronic sinus infection who is on a strong transdermal antibiotic every 12 hours forever. Since starting the treatment last year, he has had chronic watery diarrhea. No luck with the probiotic he has been on for the past month, and now we’re looking for one that won’t be so easily killed by the antibiotic. Do you think the Gastriplex would tough it out? Also, since I’m administering the antibiotic every 12 hours, and do not work at home, waiting 4 hours between antibiotics and probiotics isn’t realistic. What is your opinion about this? This finicky kitty will NOT eat ANY human food, wet food, treats, yogurt, buttermilk. Essentially he eats ONLY his kibble. Oral antibiotics all made him vomit. �
Thank you,�
Amy
Hello Amy,
Probiotics can often help while on antibiotics but we need to address a much more important issue, the chronic sinus infection itself. This infection is a red flag in that it is a chronic state. Therefore the most important concern is why is it not responding to the antibiotics in the first place. It seems there must be a compounding problem with the bacteria such as a viral infection (calici or herpes) or the bacteria have developed resistance to the antibiotics. Also the fact that he doesn’t eat human food, wet food or treats and is incredibly finicky could be an underlying GI issue that goes beyond side effects of the antibiotics.
The primary concern should be to support the immune system. He appears to have a weakened immune system if this sinus infection is chronic and his diet consists only of dry food. One of the worst diets for cats is dry kibble. The best foundation for optimal health for cats is a high protein, moderate fat, low to no carbohydrate/grain diet, which is not well represented in dry cat food.
While keeping him on the antibiotics I would recommend offering immune support such as Immugen along with the Gastriplex. As well as try a top quality diet such as EVO, Wellness Core or even a dehydrated raw diet.
Optimally, I would recommend speaking with a holistic/acupuncture veterinarian to address the root problem of a poor immune system, which should directly effect the sinus infection and the GI issues. Best of luck.
Regards,
Colleen Smith DVM, CVA