The Cat Behavior Answer Book - Arden Moore [34]
I IS FOR INTERACTIONS. Cats with impaired mental function often display changes in their interactions with people. They’re less likely to greet people when they come home or to seek out a lap, as is the case with Sammy.
S IS FOR SLEEP. Cats who once slept through the night may prowl restlessly, vocalizing as they roam.
H IS FOR HOUSETRAINING. Proper bathroom habits often go by the wayside, not for medical reasons or displeasure with the state of a litter box, but because the cat just forgets to use it.
To ease the nighttime howling, try to break his daytime sleep cycle by frequently but gently waking him during the day. Or offer Sammy pieces of turkey or lactose-free milk at bedtime. Both contain tryptophan, an amino acid shown to possess sedative properties (which explains why you feel sleepy after a big Thanksgiving dinner). The idea is to make him more tired at night. Some golden oldies will snooze through the night if you treat them to a heated cozy or pad; look for one that plugs in at very low heat and has a washable cover. If these steps do not work, you may ask your veterinarian to prescribe an anti-histamine, which can cause drowsiness.
Try to stick to a routine as much as possible for Sammy. Add some extra litter boxes in different rooms and on each level of your home. This will help cut down on any “missed” litter box opportunities. Avoid litter boxes with covers, as old cats find it harder to get into them. Lower sides are best too as the hind legs are sometimes stiff.
Most important, shower Sammy with love. Spend plenty of time cuddling him and speaking to him in reassuring tones. Enjoy the time you have left with your ageless wonder.
Knowing When to Say Good-bye
Q I hate that cats don’t live as long as we do. My latest cat, Ozzie, has been diagnosed with liver disease. When I first adopted him 13 years ago, he was a spirited, spunky little ball of fur. Through the years, he has grown into a kind, loving cat. I am working with my veterinarian on a treatment plan, but I know this disease moves quickly. I worry about Ozzie. I don’t want him to be in any pain. How will I know when it is the right time to euthanize him?
A Deciding when to say good-bye to a loyal cat is certainly one of life’s hardest choices. When a cat or other family pet becomes terminally ill or is critically injured, or the cost for treatment is financially beyond your means, euthanasia may be the best option.
I applaud you for working closely with your veterinarian on Ozzie’s medical treatment. During one of your next appointments, make sure you discuss the specifics involved in the euthanasia procedure. You may be amazed at how peaceful and pain-free this procedure is.
Find out if your vet is willing to make a house call. You will need to decide if you want your cat’s body to be buried or cremated. Think about your own needs and determine if you would prefer to be alone after the procedure or if you want to spend time with a special friend.
As for the right time, that is certainly an individual call. Let Ozzie’s quality of life guide you. You will probably know when the time has come by paying careful attention to Ozzie’s signals. He may stop eating, be unable to use the litter box on his own, stop grooming himself, or begin to sleep all the time. Also look for any signs of pain or discomfort that cannot be eased with medication.
Please keep this final thought in mind: The definition of euthanasia is “easy death.” Being able to end physical suffering in our pets is truly the last gift we can give them.
PART III
Kitty Quirks and Funny Felines
My favorite television show when I was a child was Kids Say the Darndest Things with host Art Linkletter. He made his young guests feel at ease, and they responded to his questions with comments that surprised and amused viewers. At the time, I wished there was a show like that featuring cats and dogs.
After all, many strange and fun antics occurred in my childhood home thanks to our two dogs and one very amusing cat. If Crackers