Your cat does sounds like she's ill, but it may be something very treatable. If shes current on her vaccinations (or has at least has them in the past couple of years), the problem isn't going to be one of those "deadly" killers. She may have a bacterial infection that will respond well to antibiotics, or it could be a heavy infestation of round worm - even if you don't see them in her stool, she may still have them. Round worm can cause the 'swallowing' problem and other difficulties not directly related to the digestive tract per se. Because she is having problems swallowing - it makes me think she may have an obstuction of some sort that is making it hard or uncomfortable to eat....so please keep that in mind and mention it to your vet. In all honesty, the best thing for her is to have a quick blood draw done by your vet to see exactly what is going on and get her on the proper antibiotic supportive therapy if necessary. I would definitely keep her inside until this is cleared up.
Cats are unusually resiliant creatures and can bounce back in literally a matter of hours if the right diagnosis and treatment is made. Since she is feeling so poorly, if your vet gives you a prescription to start her on at home, ask if he can give her an injectable before you leave - they usually get things moving faster and your cat will feel better much sooner with an injection than with oral antibiotics.
I know I wasn' much help as to a diagnosis. Unfortunately, you are going to have to have her examined to get that. I don't think I would write her off yet. There is an excellent chance she will be just fine. I especially want you to emphasize to the vet that she was missing, and seems to have difficulty swallowing -- it may be as simple as some non food item she ate that is stuck and needs removal.
Please let me know how she is after seeing the vet and what he discovers.
Edited by kydoll on June 23 2006 at 7:42am
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Lori McLaughlin
Your veterinarian should ALWAYS be consulted first and foremost when your pet's welfare is at stake.
