Expert: Becky - 12/23/2005

Question
Hello! I have a 3 year old cat who I adopted about a year ago from the local humane society. She is a very skiddish cat because of her past but she has settled down very well with us in her new home. Lately she has been acting odd when it comes to responding to movements. for example i will wave my hand back and forth in front of her at least 2 foot away and she doesnt respond, she also has a hard time finding treats when they are placed more that a foot in front of her, i do know that cats have a small blind spot but this is begining to concern me. could it be that there is something wrong with her vision? I dont belive it is her sense of smell she can sniff out anything (she smells an empty tuna can from accross the house). She does respond when i move if i make a sound also if that is any help. thank you for your response!

Answer
Hi Erica!

Yes, It sounds like she may be losing her vision and maybe her hearing a little too.  She is really young to be experiencing this, but since you adopted her, she may be older.  Are you sure about her age?   If I were you , I would keep an eye on her.  If she is losing her vision, she will still live a normal life if she is kept indoors and you don't move the furniture around.  She will get used to where everything is and probably do just fine.  You can always take her to the vet and have her tested too, if you want to be sure.

God bless and Merry Christmas!
Becky