So one of Mati's vets called today with test results... early and very welcomed! We weren't expecting anything until Monday. Although he didn't give us great news we at least have a diagnosis (er three).
Infection #1: Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. The vet said that they've only had three cases in the past ten years. This is the central cause of Mati's fever (not to be redundant) and her vertigo, which is nystagmus in veterinary term. He said that her neurological symptoms may never fully clear but we're still early in treatment, her recovery will be a long process, and we'll just wait to see how it goes. Even if they don't completely go away, she may be able to still live an athletic lifestyle. And I mentioned earlier how he was impressed with how coordinated she was given the degree of vertigo she had. So I have hope that she'll be able to run and fetch and ride and do all the things she did before this stupid tick made her so sick.
Infection #2: Also from a tick. Ehrlichia. I don't have much to say about this one.
Infection #3: Mati tested positive for toxoplasmosis. Her numbers were low, indicating that the infestation was currently inactive... ish. I'm still unclear about how exactly this works. However, I DO know that she's contagious to humans. So please say your prayers that we haven't and don't get it. It's especially harmful for preggos. (This is the same disease doctors worry about when changing kitty litter.) I'm really worried about it and go in on Monday for blood work to see if my body's fighting an infection or not.
With all three of these conditions, Mati's already on the antibiotics that treat them. However, her current dosage is half or even less of the treatment amount. So we'll be going to town to pick up tons more meds.
On another good note, Mati's fever continues to decrease. The vet was very pleased to hear that. So we finally have answers (over $800 in tests later). All I have to say is, we love our Mati. We love her a lot.
