Help, what do I do? My cat, Whiskers, just got an e-tube put in a few days ago, and I'm totally at a loss over how to feed him without messing up. The vet gave me instructions, but I'm still nervous every time I hold the syringe. I don't want to go too fast and make him sick, but I'm also terrified of going too slow and him not getting enough. It takes me about 20 minutes just to get through one feeding, and it feels like I'm doing something wrong because his breathing gets a little weird sometimes. It breaks my heart seeing him like this, and I just want to make sure I'm doing right by him. Any advice or experiences would really help ease my freak-out right now!
Thanks for reaching out! Managing feeding through an esophagostomy tube (e-tube) can feel a bit daunting, but you're doing great by seeking guidance. When feeding your cat through an e-tube, it's important to go slow and steady to ensure comfort and proper digestion. Generally, you should aim to administer the food over about 10β15 minutes per feeding session. This allows the stomach to gradually receive the food, reducing the risk of nausea or vomiting.
To get started, make sure your cat is in a calm environment during feeding, as stress can complicate the process. Use a syringe to slowly push the food through the tube, pausing frequently to allow the food to settle. You can slightly recline your cat, keeping their head above their stomach. This position helps the food move down easily.
Keep an eye out for signs such as coughing, gagging, or any sign of distress, as they might indicate your cat is uncomfortable or the food is going too fast. Also, be aware of any leakage around the tube site or any signs of infection, like redness or swelling.
If your cat seems to struggle with the feeding pace or if you notice any concerning changes, it would be a good idea to book a video consult with Dial A Vet to discuss your observations and get tailored advice.
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