he doesn't use the litterbox anymore, even urinated on me the other nite. Wondering if it's time to say goodbye,
2006-11-02 09:03:04 · 9 answers · asked by jasv69 1 in Pets ➔ Cats
Hi there...the sypmtoms would be indicative of your cat's health failing, however consider visiting a vet to be sure as his illness may be something treatable. Most senior cats who suffer similar symptoms are diagnosed with Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) and sadly it is a painfully slow death if not treated. CRF cates can be managed for awhile if caught early enough, however it will require a change in diet and routine for kitty and you if you are up to the challenge of the care. Here is a wonderfully well written website on CRF and what to expect: http://www.felinecrf.com/what0.htm
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your kitty and hope the best decision will be made for him.
2006-11-02 10:08:59 · answer #1 · answered by ♪ Seattle ♫ 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
I also just went through the same situation with my little 19 year old kitty Bucky. I know I waited too long to deal with things but I just wasn't ready to give her up. I kept putting off taking her to the vet because I knew when I did take her I probably wouldn't be bringing her home. The days turned into weeks and that was wrong and selfish of me. I finally realized that if I loved her I had to let her go. It was so hard for me but the best thing for Bucky. I miss her but I'm OK because I know how blessed I was to have had her for such a long time. So do take your kitty to the vet and I'm sure together you'll make the best decision. My thoughts are with you.
2006-11-04 17:55:16 · answer #2 · answered by Squirrel 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Perhaps he's become "senile", 17 1/2 is getting up there.
This is a decision that only you can make. It's also the decision that none of us ever want to make. I'm sorry that after having him for such a long time that you're experiencing these problems.
You should take him to the vet for an examination and get their opinion, it may help you make yours.
No matter what decision you make, it's wonderful that you had so many years together, you obviously have given him excellent care. You have my best wishes.
2006-11-02 09:16:52 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
What does your vet say?
Does your cat have plenty of fresh water?
My cat is 17 and occasionally howled in the night because he was hungry or constipated. I stopped feeding him dry cat food once I realized he was having a hard time eating it, I give him canned food now and he's better all the way around.
Have a look at your cats teeth, he might have an abscess/lost teeth.
2006-11-02 09:42:25 · answer #4 · answered by tharnpfeffa 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
At 17 1/2 years he's probably ready to go. I would definatly make that decion if he is not doing the things he normally would do correctly. Sorry. It will be painful for you but he won't be in pain anymore. Say goodbye
2006-11-02 09:06:50 · answer #5 · answered by stacy g 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
These are signs of renal failure which causes the eventual death of most older cats. He can be evaluated and possibly treated by a vet. It sounds like you may have waited too long before coming to his aid.
All senior cats need yearly veterinary exams and blood work to determine if his organs are functioning properly.
At least have him euthanized as he is in pain and distress.
2006-11-02 10:16:41 · answer #6 · answered by old cat lady 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes. It's better to do it now rather than wait until he/she is in pain (sounds like the cat already is).
When we had my cat put down the vet pressed her paw into a little block of cement to keep for our memories. Was really nice.
My sympathies.
2006-11-02 09:12:00 · answer #7 · answered by G 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i went through the same thing with my 19 year old kitty. i know it's hard, but it sounds like his quality of life has deteriorated and it may be time to let go. i'm sorry, good luck to you.
2006-11-03 05:49:38 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes he is old and sick let him have some peace
2006-11-02 09:05:21 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋