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Expert: - 7/1/2009


Question
We have a cat who is 25 years old.  For the past 3 months she has not used the litter box for #2 -- instead going where ever it strikes her throughout the back of the house.  She uses the box for #1 and is able to still jump on the bed or chairs when she wants attention.  Her stool is liquid - and she is eating and drinking quite a bit.  I have no idea what to do.  We have tried the low box with wheat litter and short of diapers I'm at my wits end.  I am spending close to 2 hours a day (all in) cleaning up little piles of poop.

Answer
Hi Nancy,

It seems to me that your problem is her liquid stools. Control that and you will control her going all over the place. I would have her checked by your vet. Diarrhea combined with drinking a lot of water and an older age is usually a sign of Diabetes. This can be easily treated. Have your vet check her over. Once he finds what is wrong with her she should go back to her clean ways again. Make sure you have cleaned the area she uses with a good enzymatic cleaner. This is so she won't be tempted to use those areas again. Good luck and let me know what the vet says.

Ciao, Karen

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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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