Is my cat dying???

Question

My cat is 21. The last few days he has been acting really different. He can not walk, he tries to but can's get up. When I try to help him he just takes one step and falls over. He has arthritus, but it's not that bad and he already takes medicine for it.When he is sleeping, he doesn't close his eyes all of the way. His whole body twiches a lot. When he mows, it's a lot quiter and higher pitched. He is eating though. He ate and drank quite a bit. Please help me. I love this cat more than anything!!! If hes not dying, what else could it be???

Answer 1

Firstly i would like to say well done for keeping a cat for 21 years! That is a VERY good age.
Secondly i need you to realise that your cat is getting on a bit, and he is going through things due to his age.
I know it hurts when a pet is ill, there is a life you love in front of you, and there isn't much you can do. I'm sorry to tell you that, and I'm sorry to hurt your feelings if i did, but last year i had to let go of an 8 year old rabbit, it absolutely tore me apart, I still cry nowadays.
His body is going to respond to age, no matter what medication you give him.
However, there ARE GOOD SIGNS HERE!
As he is eating alot, it is showing his body is still responding well.
And yes, keep his fluids up also with plenty of water.
Both are important for general good response of a cat and that is a good sign. But get him to a vet asap, call them up and ask when is the quickest you can get him in.
Of course when a life is loved, time cant be wasted.
All animals i have nursed before death, have refused to eat, because their body was shutting down and just wouldn't take it. So the fact he is eating well is very very good.
You should be happy with that!
But continue to stroke him, talk to him, make a fuss of him, and make him feel special.
Sometimes with those who are ill, there seems little hope.
But i wish you all the hope i can.
Stay happy around him, they can sense when we aren't happy
and you want him to think your ok.
He will want to know you are happy, so keep a smile and uplifted voice.
I wish you all the support i can.
But if you would like to chat to someone who has had to deal with many a heartbreak, and if you need some support, please do email me. I will be happy to reassure you.
The best of luck from me.

Answer 2

That is really some age for a cat and sadly it does sound as though he may be coming to the end of his life. I think it's probably the oldest pet cat I have ever heard of and to reach that age is a testimony to just how loved and well looked after he's been. If he seems to be suffering, you really do need to get him to a vet. If not, keep him comfortable and don't try to feed him if he doesn't want to eat. I know it can be hard to lose a loved pet but I am sure that you would rather see him at peace than suffering. Time will heal the loss you'll feel.

Answer 3

Your cat has had an exceptionally long life. 21 years is a great life span. Only a vet could tell you if there is anything wrong, and only God knows if he is dying. This makes me very sad because I just lost my cat. He was dying and there was nothing they could do for him. Keep your cat close to you and show him as much love as you can. If he seems in pain as my cat was, please do not let him suffer. It is the hardest thing I have ever had to do, but I had to let him go and be put to sleep. I don't want to seem negative because i know your pain, but if the reality is that he is in pain, please don't let him go that way. God bless you and help you through this. That is the only way I made it.

Answer 4

21 yrs is lots for a cat. So yes, as he is approaching the last stages of kitty life. Do call the vet and explain your concern. It may be best to put him to sleep at this point, especially if he has difficulty walking and getting up.

Do discuss this with the vet and see what they can do to help you guys. I know, I love my cat too, and she is almost 2 yrs. Very healthy and energetic.

Best wishes to your cat. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Answer 5

First, sorry that you're having problems with this.

21 is ancient for a cat, and he may be in his twilight. It's good that he's eating, but not being able to walk and having no strength is a bad sign.

Generally, animals seem to know when their health is going. If his behavior is changing is may be a sign of this. I'd recommend a visit to your vet, and have him take a look to see what options you have.

Answer 6

Whenever a cat begins behaving differently, there's often a health-related reason behind it. 21 years is actually pretty old for a cat, but there are cats who have lived into their late 20's/early 30's. Take him to the vet and have them do blood work and x-rays. It's better to be safe than sorry.

Answer 7

Wow, thats really old for a cat. I am sorry, but the poor thing is having a rough time. Do him a favor and put him to sleep. If you really care about him, you'll put him out of his misery. It's the best way to make him live longer in your heart, I mean, I would rather see my cat be put to sleep then to come home with him lying on my floor. Because he probabally would have suffered more, and when they put your cat to "sleep" he won't feel pain at all. And to cheer you up, you'll see him later in your lifetime! :)

Answer 8

It sounds like from his age that he could be dying. If he is acting different either he is dying or maybe he is sick. Either way if you really care for him you should have made him an appointment for the vet already. The vet will tell you what is going on so I suggest going to the vet.

Answer 9

Take him to a vet. My old 22 year old seems to be at the vet every couple of weeks with different things, but she still has a decent life as any problems are treated right awy.

I sure hope your vet can help, but to be honest it does not look good.

Please get him some help and don;t let him suffer.

Answer 10

Im really sorry, but your cat may be dying. His time has probably come. He probably is in a lot of pain, so the best thing to do is put him to sleep. He will probably be more happy. Im sorry about him, Best of Luck Getting a new cat, :)