UPDATE !
We took max to the vet and found out max...had been shot by a pellet gun. The pellet is lodged by his spine in an area that makes it nearly impossible to remove. But he seems to be responding to pain meds and anti-inflammatory meds (you ever try to get a cat to swallow a pill? I might be taking Jim and Tawni to the doctor next!!!) We are keeping him locked in Tawni's room and watching him...if he does not get better the vet will refer us to a specialist. So keep him in your prayers !!