Is it dangerous to put a cat under sedatives whos 16 years old?

Question

My cat has alot of mats, the doctor said she needs to be sedated to shave them off cause she gets agrresive.
is that safe for a 16 year old?
He wanted to give her a bath too but That may be too much i think for her.

Answer 1

Yes, there are dangers not matter the age of the cat, but they increase exponentially as the cat ages. Perhaps ask the vet if she can take an antianxiety medication while the mats are removed, that way she will still be awake but calmer. Afterwards, please brush her at least daily to prevent the mats. They cause pain for the cat, and that may be part of the reason for her aggression. Baths are stressful for the cat, yes, but it is preferable to having to give her anesthesia. Show cats get bathed before every show, and one of my cats just does not groom herself, so she needs a bath every few weeks. Every bath gets easier for you and the cat. The vet may prescribe antianxiety meds for you for the first few baths, too. Just be sure to get a moisturizing shampoo specifically for cats. Pet stores have many brands, and you can ask your vet for a specific recommendation. Good luck! Your kitty is lucky to have a caring, loving owner like you!!

Answer 2

I would not sedate her just for that. If it was for a medical reason I would allow it. My vet has agreed on Melatonin (you can get it at Walmart or any drug store). Check with your vet for the amount to give because it depends on the weight of your cat. It will relieve anxiety and make her want to take a nap. Then just clip off the matted hair. She doesnt need a bath, just keep brushing her. Make sure that you give her hairball jell so that she wont get any blockages in her intestines from licking her fur. My cats are 18 and older and I restrict any types or sedation, anesthisia, or operations that aren't absolutely necessary.

Answer 3

No, it should be ok, as long as the cat is healthy. I did it last year and my cat was 16 then. She's 17 now and still going strong. She had to be shaved also, but she also had to have a number of teeth taken out.

Answer 4

It depends on the type of sedation.
There is a risk to any anesthesia, and the risk will increase in older animals, but there are perfectly safe sedatives that can be administered to calm you cat without putting it to sleep.
Discuss your options and risks with your vet. I'm sure he will be willing to discuss them with you.

Answer 5

How is her general health? You are right to be concerned because of her age, so hopefully the vet will do blood work and make sure nothing is lurking.

If she has no health problems, then a mild sedative shouldn't harm your cat.

Answer 6

Yes, it is dangerous. I would suggest using a herbal calming supplement (available at most pet shops) and carefully removing the mats with comb & scissors. I'd forego the bath unless she really, really needs one for health reasons.

Answer 7

Only your vet can answer your question. He/she knows the cats history and should be able to sedate her safely..just ask.

Answer 8

Your vet really is your best resource. Vets have extensive knowledge in application of various drugs and sedatives in elderly patients. Ask your vet and let him/her know of your concerns. S/He can discuss the risks with you and why s/he thinks a sedative is appropriate in this instance for your kitty.

Answer 9

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