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Question
i have had two cats for 16 years mother and daughter momma cat has just been diagnosed with chin cancer and about 2 weeks ago my other cat stopped eating much and is always hiding and not being social does she know momma is dying
Hi Donna,
I'm sorry about your cat. I just had to put one of mine to sleep because of the same. From what my vet told me this is pretty common. I noticed a change from my cats too. I believe they can smell the change in the sick cat. She knows she has been to the vet and has come back with a whole bunch of strange odors. This is the most likely cause of her hiding. She is confused about her companion. Cats do notice when another is sick or has died. The best I can tell you is try to spend some quality time with the one that is upset. She will take it as hard as you when the other dies. I am really sorry that this is happening. Write back if you wish to talk more. Good luck.
Ciao, Karen
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Answers by Expert:
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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