Large amount of porphyrin (maybe blood??) around nose

[cyanAstrologist]

For the past few days, I've noticed that Sandy has a rather large amount of red staining the fur around his nose (and some on his paws, presumably from trying to clean it). I've also noticed he seems slightly clumsier than usual, and his movements are somewhat sluggish. His behavior is normal otherwise, with nothing suggesting respiratory infections or the like. Any thoughts?

 

[lilspaz68]

How old is Sandy? His lungs are clear...even no sounds like a whine or clunk when you hold his side's to your ear? Can you gently feel his abdomen for lumps.

 

[cyanAstrologist]

How old is Sandy? His lungs are clear...even no sounds like a whine or clunk when you hold his side's to your ear? Can you gently feel his abdomen for lumps.

He's a little over two years old. I've come to the conclusion, after doing some more research, that he almost definitely has a pituitary tumor.

 

[lilspaz68]

Awww I'm sorry. Have you tried the cheerio test?

http://lilspazrathospice.blogspot.com/2016/11/pituitary-tumour-failing-cheerio-test.html

 

[cyanAstrologist]

Awww I'm sorry. Have you tried the cheerio test?

http://lilspazrathospice.blogspot.com/2016/11/pituitary-tumour-failing-cheerio-test.html

Unfortunately, he has spectacularly failed the cheerio test.
Which, ironically, I literally have never heard of until now. But I regularly use cheerios as treats, so I guess I was unwittingly testing him all along.
I'm now concerned he might not be drinking on his own. I tried syringe feeding him straight water while giving him some apple sauce (he is now unable to eat solid foods basically, so I'm hand-feeding him now). Do you have any advice for keeping him hydrated?

 

[lilspaz68]

Ensure. Calories/food/liquid...all at once.