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Cats/senior cats behavior

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Expert: - 1/31/2008


Question

9 year old chloe
i recently brought home a kitten to my 9 year old dmh. i noticed the other day my older cat looked a little slim. i don't think shes eating anymore and if she is it isn't very much. i understand stress from the kitty is normal. shes been the princess for 9 years uncontested,is she being ultra stubborn or should i worry she'll starve?they always have food available in separate dishes and neither are outdoor cats...help!

Answer
Hi Tyler,

First off, I would get her to vet to be checked out. She may be sick and it's just coincidental that it happens when you just got a new kitten. If Chloe checks out okay you will have to tempt her with some special treats. I would use deli chicken. Most cats love it. She may also need some extra attention from you. She could be feeling neglected or ignored. Try spending some extra quality time with her. She should be fine with the little one in a couple of weeks. She won't starve in the mean time if she isn't sick. Good luck.

Ciao, Karen

Karen Craft

Expertise

I can give advice on cat behavior. I can help about newborn kitten care. I can help with senior cat care. I can answer questions about cat proofing a home or making it cat friendly. I can answer diet questions. I can answer home treatments questions for cats. At present I have 13 cats in home and two ferals outside. And there's always room for one more!

Experience

I have over 40 year's experience with cats. Father was a veterinarian and I assisted him in his work. I have 15 cats at present. Most are shelter or feral rescues. I have one purebred cat. I have done cat rescues and foster care. Some thoughts to carry with you. A Cat's 10 Commandments My life is likely to last 15-20 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful. Give me time to understand what you want of me. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainments. But I have only you. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it. Before you swat me, before you strike me, remember that I have teeth that could draw blood. And claws to strike back. And yet I choose not to attack you. If I don't act right then have me checked to see what is wrong. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old. On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so. Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful thing without God's critters. Pass this on.

Education/Credentials
I have an A.A.S.

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