My 13-year old inside cat?

Question

We have a cat that is about 13 years old. One of those that craves attention but won't let us pick him up. Over the last 3 months or so, he has started to lose weight to the point that I can feel his bones when I pet him. No change in appetite, activity level, or attitude. Doesn't seem to be sick or in pain. Called the vet and was told to get urine sample. How in the world would I do that?

I could get a wire carrier to take him to the vet, but don't know how vet would examine him. He's pretty aggressive (scratching and biting and thrashing around) when you try to pick him up.

Any suggestions or comments would be appreciated

Answer 1

To get him into the carrier just put some tuna in there and when he goes into eat- close the door- as for the vet exam, him he will probably be more cooperative in a strange place and with the vet- once at the vets office they may be able to draw a urine sample from the bladder- (if the vet thinks its a UTI)- he will also recommend blood work - vet will want to look for any T4 elevations for the thyroid disorder and the Bun and Creatine for his kidneys- and he may also want to see his blood glucose levels-  Thirteen year old male is at risk for diabetes and thyroid disorder- When you say that your cat is eating okay ... is it eating allot?  Drinking allot? Do you notice him hanging around the water bowl? Are you noticing that he is urinating more frequently?  These are things the vet will ask I'm sure.  good luck

Answer 2

I'm not sure what his problem is, he's probably just aging. You can get an urine sample by dumping everything out of his litter box, and rub it with the pellets so that it smells like the original litter box. First time that he pees in it, take it away and put in a test tube, or a small, clean container. ( Hopefully one you would never use again.)

To get him in the carrier, put it on the  throw some of his favourite treats in it. If you really have to, throw a heavy towel over him and bundle him up to the vets. Always bring a blanket or towel to the vets, so that your vet or you could use it. Tell the vet to give him some ocasional treats, so that your vet would be associated with good things.

Hope this helps!  

Answer 3

hi, it's normal to feel the bone unless u can see the bone sticking out or ribs when not patting him. because that means he is in proper weight. but if u think she is too skinny, u can buy weight maintance cat food from local pet store. since she is 13year old and getting old, u can start feeding her cat treats to support any nutrients that were left out. it's also good idea to mix the can food with dry food to gain her weight, and for easy digestion.  

Answer 4

From the text of it... he appears sick... for sure. For a urine sample... you could try taking hit kittly litter box away very temporarily and replacing it with an empty shallowrtubbermaid tub filled with plastic bags. This way you'd be able to collect the liquid.. as for the solid... you're on your own with that. =P

Answer 5

You need to get him to the vet.  Just because you can't pick him up doesn't mean the vet can't.  They deal with aggressive animals every day and they know how to do it with less stress.  I don't think there is any way for you to obtain a urine sample at home.  It will have to be done at the vet.  It sounds like he may be pretty sick and you REALLY do need to get him to see that vet.

Answer 6

Hmm tricky. As for the urine sample, double check with your vet on that. Everyone has different procedures and there's different tests etc, maybe a soaked bit of litter will be enough, otherwise you'll have to take him in. Vets deal with all kinds of animals big and small, with every kind of temperament. They'll know how to subdue him (if they don't they shouldn't be practicing!)

I'm guessing they want to test his kidney function, as that's a common problem in older cats, and could be the explanation of his weight loss. They may want him on medications to improve it or a special diet. Of course, I'm no doctor, this is specualtion because I've had older cats with similar problems, the ultimate diagnosis is up to your vet.

But trust me, they'll know what to do.  

Answer 7

Ur cat may have kidney problems which is causing the weight loss. Does ur cat drink a lot of water? If so then that's prolly y. Uhh I have no clue how u could get a urine sample. Maybe put some kind  of plastic down in the litter? Then once ur cat goes u can tilt it so it will collect in the corner and then pour it into a cup? Thatt would b my best guess. Goodluck <3

Answer 8

If he is eating what he always ate and has lost lots of weight recently then he clearly has a medical condition.  The vet should be able to tell a lot from blood work and urinalysis so please take him in to be seen.  It will take two people to get him there safely. We swaddle our most difficult feline (wrapping her up in a beach towel) when she needs to go to the vet.  Once she gets in the examining room she's so scared that she becomes submissive.  You can also try giving your guy catnip and wait until after the craziness wears off and he is in a more mellow mood.  Then you may even be able to get him into the cat crate.  As far as you getting a urine sample from him, I'd say that unless he will use an empty litter box, you really can't get a good sample yourself so leave it to the professionals.  Good Luck!