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Cats/Cat binge eating?
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Question
My cat is about 9 1/2 years old. Lately it seems like he's binging and purging. He'll eat at a normal speed, but in a short time, pukes it all up, then eats more. We've tried the dish empty, dish full, and he's already on a grain free diet. We don't switch food very often-we have another cat who is 1 1/2 years old, no problems. We usually buy the 15lb bag of food, then switch to the other flavor by the same company at the end of that bag. Doesn't seem to matter which food it is, he still does it. He doesn't have problems with hairballs...and doesn't seem to puke as much when we feed him wet food mixed in. Any suggestions? Thanks!
Hi Erin,
First off I would take him to the vet to be checked over. It could be as simple as an intestinal parasite to something serious as hyperthyroidism. He needs a going over by your vet to rule out any major problems. Since you are already feeding him a grain free diet that eliminates my next suggestion. However, based upon what you have written I would next try and switch him over to just a canned diet only. Here's a great site with excellent info on feeding your cat.
http://www.catinfo.org/
Follow what it says. This should clear up your cat's problem. But make sure you take him to the vet first. I think you will find there is an underlying medical cause for this. 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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