I took our oldest cat to the vet today. I went primarily to get her rabies vaccination since we could need it as we move into another state. I also wanted to ask them why she wasn't sitting anymore. I was pretty sure it was because she is overweight, but wanted to make sure. Yep, our kitty (who is 10 years old) has put on at least 2 pounds! She was overweight before those pounds.
I think a somewhat recent food change is the result unfortunately. And I know that it is hard for cats to lose weight, but I think we'll try our best to assist her. My vet suggested cutting the food amount in half, supplementing with tuna and green beans(if she would eat them). He said the hardest part is going to be tolerating her when she is hungry! I know exactly what he means. Cats are relentless. It will probably be feeding her small amounts but more frequently.
He also prescribed a transdermal gel called Amitriptyline for 10 days. We are to give it the five days before the move, each day we are traveling and finish up once we arrive to our new destination. Cost was $12 per cat. The also gave me free samples of Feliway wipes to wipe on their cages each day. I guess some sort of calming pheromone.
In total I spent $72 at the vet today. I have another appointment for our other cat to get vaccinated for rabies next week. So a little more money needed for that.
What tips do you have to keep a cat calm in the car? Anyone ever heard of a cat losing weight? My vet said he hasn't.
Vet Expenses
May 21st, 2015 at 08:37 pm
May 21st, 2015 at 09:18 pm 1432243092
I've used the doggie version of Feliway on a thunderstorm-phobic dog, with great success. (That was a diffuser, though. I might affix the wipe to the cage if there's a way to do so where they won't eat it.) Rescue Remedy might help, too; they make one for pets now, but the human one would work just as well. (Some people say you should find the non-alcohol-preserved version, but you're only giving a few drops. For a bird or small rodent that might be a lot, but I'd think it wouldn't bother a cat, although they sometimes don't like the taste.)
Also, if you aren't already, start leaving the carriers out in choice places so the cats can get used to them. Some catnip inside will help them associate Happy Times with the crate (and after the go-crazy period ends, catnip does have a calming effect).
May 21st, 2015 at 10:41 pm 1432248099
Their carriers have been out. I put carpet remnants in the bottom which I think they like.
May 21st, 2015 at 11:47 pm 1432252062
My Kari was fairly slim up til about two years old, and then she started gaining. I'm not really sure what caused it because I don't think I was feeding her more than before.
May 22nd, 2015 at 12:50 am 1432255827
And of course he lost a few pounds when he was lost the first time. No telling what he looks like now, if he's still alive. :/