neuropathies...either connected or not at all. I believe that all of us in our trying to understand what we have, and learning about what we might have - well we have probably expended enough energy to power a mid-sized city at times!
Not to mention the 'energy' expended in the whole pain process?
I for one have found that the trying to SIT and read medical papers and learn as much as possible about what I might have, well, can and DOES divert my whole self from the pain and new pains and different pains. I have found that the understanding helps me understand what is going on and when, and at times what to do about it all. Not always, but, often. I have also found that folks here have helped me thru it all. A LOT!
I do know that many have experienced what I have at times...that is, the consideration that really drastic [I mean drastic] measures might make it stop. My reading and learning has told me that drastic doesn't change the key nerve problems and what has caused them-from those who have chosen such routes. I do seriously respect those folks for not only trying, but sharing their outcomes, both pro and con.

I just fear Michelle that you mite have gotten a bacteria, parasite or virus from that dear creature/catliness that you really didn't need, and well, YOU might need the CAT to find out what you both have that's unpleasant in common? Honestly, you might get more lucky asking your vet! Vets are very keen on keeping such issues OUT of all our lives. Ask the vet to test the cat for the key bacteria, viruses or parasites that might 'connect' to your issues, and then YOU don't/won't have to go thru the plethora of tests of could-be's...as the vet can rule out cat could-be's and zero in to the 'ares'. Get vet to call doc and IF doc listens you could be home free? I sure hope! But that's the way I'd play it!

BTW I live in a West Nile/Lymes and other ilk area... I know many who have the 'iffy' diagnoses for those. I know I am clear of those issues 'ostensibly' but I for one will not rule them out. I know I've been exposed to it all for years and realize how these diseases can overlap with what I probably have.
I know that WN and Lymes are not what I have...too many connections to other stuffs. So, keep searching, be prepared to be confused, and then ask for help when you need it-BUT make your own decision. 's - j