Purrs In Our Hearts - Cat Forum UK
Cat Health & Behaviour => Health & Behaviour General => Topic started by: Lotzy4 on February 09, 2018, 10:21:58 AM
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Lottie is 18 years old is showing increased signs of senility over the last 10 months, now constantly pacing, not wanting a lap, not even sure if she appreciates being touched etc. Until recently she's been eating well and still chooses to go outside to the toilet. However, the last week or so she's asking for food, having a small amount and then not really knowing what to do. We think she's having problems finding it as you can see her sniffing around, tripping over the bowl.
I've tried warming food up and putting small amounts down while she's next to me. Felix pouches and Gourmet tins (fish) have gone down reasonably well, but we're struggling with those now. Just wondered if anyone had any suggestions.
She saw the vet 3 weeks ago for a check up (physical examination fine, weight stable, full blood test showing her hyperthyroidism needs to be got back under control which I'm not worried about as an increase in meds normally sorts). She's got a further appointment next week and my husband thinks it'll show she's lost weight.
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the restlessness and losing weight (if she has) might well be down to her thyroid levels rising, and as you say an upping of her medication might sort it
if she is losing her sense of smell, you might find warming her preferred food a little, and adding a little salmon oil - one example here https://www.amazon.co.uk/Salmon-OIl-Dogs-Cats-500ml/dp/B00QCOC60A
will increase her appetite - and if there is any possibility of tooth or gum trouble, will she drink cat milk?
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Thanks for your reply. I'll certainly get some fish oil, anything is worth a try.
She used to drink cat milk, but refuses that now. I think I can rule out tooth, gum trouble as she had teeth removed last May and vet told me her mouth was looking good last month. When we've had to get her hyperthyroid levels back under control before she's been hyperactive, ie running around like crazy but this is different so I fear it's old age and we're on a slippery slope towards the end.
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Have you tried the Lick-E-Licks yogurt type thingys? My cats love them.
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Funnily enough, Lick-y-Licks go down fine (chicken only). I've been giving her one each day when she's had a few hours of being picky.
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I bought this for Sky when she was not eating. It is supposed to stimulate the appetite, as well as supplementing vitamins and minerals.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Nutri-vit-calorie-energiser-nutritional-supplement/dp/B000RXWXQ4/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1518619084&sr=8-3&keywords=cat+supplements