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Cats/elevated testosterone levels

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Expert: - 3/20/2009


Question
My 12 year old neutered male started acting like a tom cat.  A couple months ago, he started with the guttural meowing, humping my other cats and his urine is pungent.  What would suddenly cause his testosterone to elevate?

Answer
Maryann,

Testosterone is produced in the testicles, your cat is neutered so he no longer has his testicles. His behavior is odd to say the least, but I feel pretty comfortable stating that unless he received a vasectomy his strange behavior isn't due to increased testosterone levels. I'd highly recommend that your vet assesses this kitty just in case there is something medical going on because in rare instances infections, tumors or other problems can contribute to a cat being more vocal and house soiling. I am wondering if the fact that he's mounting your other cats is a coincidence related to his wish to be top cat and dominate the others, but you know your cat's personality better than anyone else so it's something you would have to consider. If no medical problems are found I'd recommend speaking to your vet about a referral to an animal behaviorist specializing in cat behavior, this is a person who would be able to offer a program meant to modify this kitty's behavior.

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Ali

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I am the proud guardian of 5 mixed breed cats ranging from 12 weeks to 13 years old and one purebred ragdoll. I have 20+ years experience working with mixed breed cats from a variety of different situations. I have fostered cats/kittens with special needs/behavioral issues. I have rescued/rehabilitated/re-homed a variety of stray/abused cats. I can offer advice on managing feral cat colonies, rehabilitating strays and finding them forever homes. I can help you to determine whether a cat is stray or feral, there IS a significant difference. Improperly introducing a new cat/kitten can result in aggression between newly introduced cats because cats are territorial by nature and they don't like sudden changes in their environment. To learn more about a peaceful way to introduce a new cat into a home with other cats please check out my previous answers on this subject. Proper nutrition for cats can be confusing, I recommend checking out catinfo.org which was created by a veterinarian (Dr. Lisa Pierson) who takes a common sense approach to explaining feline nutrition. Cat behavior and instincts are different from those of humans, I can help you understand your cat's needs so that you can meet them adequately and have a balanced, psychologically and physically sound kitty. Cats vary in personality, energy level and intelligence, different approaches may be required to achieve results in terms of training and interaction with your feline companion. An intelligent, high energy cat must be kept busy or they will make their own fun. I am NOT a licensed veterinarian and I can't offer medical advice. If your cat is ill/injured my advice is always the same: get prompt medical treatment provided by a veterinarian. If finances are an issue I will try to find resources in your area that can help with medical costs or make other choices to ensure the welfare of your cat.

Experience

I have fostered feral and stray cats, rehabilitated and homed cats that many people recommended euthanasia for. I am willing to make an effort to do the research and ask questions because I care enough to find solutions to behavioral problems rather than giving up. I have an interest in the use of alternative therapies to help provide the best possible care for all cats and I can say in all honesty that I've seen some incredible things happen for some incredible cats and their human caregivers when the right alternative therapeutic modality is used by a qualified veterinarian with expertise and experience in the field.

Education/Credentials
I've earned my diploma as a veterinary assistant with honors.

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