Willy Update - Urinary Issues

FINALLY found a source for Ammonium Chloride to acidify Willy's urine (Background: Willy has had some mild urinary symptoms (hunching) which prompted me to have a urinalysis done, which indicated come crystal formation and a too-basic pH of 8). So, I how have a multi-lifetime supply of the stuff (only comes in a 25 kg bag). Started adding 1 T am & pm to his soupy meals a couple of weeks ago. Apparently it has a bad taste, but he seems not to notice in the mix of pellets, warm water, various supplements (glucosamine/chondroitin, children's chewable multi, Omega 3-6-9, cranberry capsules), and veggies/fruits.

However, this past weekend, he started not quite cleaning up his food, and seemed to have a diminished, slow, dribbly urine stream ... Crap.

I hypothesized that either 1. the Ammonium Chloride was starting to work, dissolving some of his crystals to the point that he may be passing them, or 2. he had a cystitis. So, I started him on some penicillin to protect/treat ... just in case. After 3 d of the antibiotic, and some extra effort to make his fluids appetizing (removed Ammonium Chloride for now, added apple juice, lots of veggies), he seems to be rebounding ... hopefully it will continue. Will continue the AB for 2 more days ... then maybe re-do the urinalysis.

He is such a sweet boy - very gentle in taking food from my hand ... makes cute little "oofs", and takes his shots with no restraint (I use a very fine needle).

We are all so eager fpr spring ... up to our eyeballs in snow - with more ( + freezing rain) in the forecast for the next couple of days. However, it *is* getting milder. I fantasize about getting all teh critters out into the sunshine & green grass. Sigh.