Cicero Update

[Snazy]

On Wednesday the vet prescribed Ivermectin for Cicero. He got his first dose around 7 PM Wednesday night. By Thursday evening I could tell he was markedly better--he had taken a bath, was more active, and would sit on my hand and eat diced sweet corn kernels. Although still wheezing, clicking and coughing, he gave me 5-6 hoarse little peeps. I smiled.

Friday morning the television was playing a medley of Michael Jackson songs. Cicero began to sing along with the song ABC. Was a short little sing along but it was a song. I teared up but with a big smile on my face.

This morning he was peeping at me, usually his way of asking for a treat. He was still a bit hoarse but eagerly jumped on my hand for a treat of jalapeno pepper. Just a bit ago, he started singing. It began with a soft little trill and slowly developed into a full song. He doesn't have his usual volume or duration but he is SINGING again. Imagine the size of those tears and that smile!

I am off-the-charts relieved that he is recovering and hoping that the treatment for ASM is what did the trick. That said, I am continuing with the prescribed doses of Baytril but feel confident the Ivermectin is the reason he is getting better. I can still hear breathing noises but generally just early in the AM or when I catch him to give him his meds. I expect those symptoms will clear up as the ASM die off.

Thank you to everyone who offered comments about Cicero's illness. Your guidance convinced me to pursue the ASM diagnosis with my vet and get him started on the Ivermectin. A million thanks to all.

[melb]

Congratulations...I'm glad to hear that everything is looking positive. I don't know what I would do if Louie fell ill... =(

[CanaryLover]

So glad to hear that he is doing better! That is the other medication that they prescribed for Chipper and it really helped him too!
I'm so happy he is singing again for you!

[mabird]

Wonderful news, glad to hear it!

[Monica]

I'm glad to hear he's doing better, and glad that some softbill experts (at least compared to me! ) were able to step in and help as well!

[nixity]

This is great news! Thank you for updating us, and here's hoping he just continues to get better and sing more for you :))