heather Posted September 2, 2003 Share Posted September 2, 2003 My father has sclc and was just dx 2 weeks ago, it has spread to the adrenal as well. He has had 2 radiation treatments and now he is going on his 3rd day of his first batch of chemo.. He wants to come home as soon as he can. He has 2 cats at home that are the loves of his life. We keep getting conflicting information as to if they are a danger to his immune system or not when he comes home.. Can anyone tell us from experience? They don't go outside very often and they won't from now on.. Thank you, Heather Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dadstimeon Posted September 2, 2003 Share Posted September 2, 2003 Hi Heather, I have stage IV NSCLC and have 3 cats also. On chemo since last DEC02. Did not have any problems. Might want to double check with your father's doctor or nurse to be on the safe side. Good luck to your father and God bless. Rich Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
beckyg Posted September 2, 2003 Share Posted September 2, 2003 I have three cats. My doctor told me to stay away from the litter box, to make sure their shots were up to date, and to keep them inside, but otherwise he didn't see a problem. I didn't have any trouble with them. Becky Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
norme Posted September 2, 2003 Share Posted September 2, 2003 It's the litter box. Anyone taking chemo or radiation should not clean a litter box. We have one cat and it has not be a problem because I clean the box now...she sits on Buddy's lap all the time. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
teresag Posted September 3, 2003 Share Posted September 3, 2003 I'd echo Beckyg's and norme's replies. Plus, we all know the immune-enhancing effects of having our furry loved ones around, right? Keep the kitties, but be cautious. Best wishes to you, Teresa Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Carleen Posted September 3, 2003 Share Posted September 3, 2003 Hi Heather, I wouldn't be too concerned with having cats, especially if they are well cared for indoor cats. My husband and I have two cats, and I wouldn't be exaggerating if I said, one of them would prefer to be attached to him at all times. It hasn't caused any complications with Keith's chemo, which he has been receiving now for 5 months. The only change that has happened is that now I clean the litter box. We haven't heard from any doctors where that is necessary, however I felt that it was better safe than sorry, and if his immune system was low that cleaning urine and feces wasn't the best idea. A doctor did tell us it was important for Keith to was his hands often to avoid illnesses transferred from contact with surface bacteria and then to food and mouth. I would think that if your father spends a lot of time petting his beloved cats, he would want to make sure to wash his hands before eating. Other than that, being surrounded by love from all types of living beings is so beneficial and healing, I can't imagine giving that up. Carleen Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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