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17+ yr old cat has begun yowling, any ideas why?

Sent to Cat Experts October 20, 2006 9:10 a.m.

We have a tortise shell female. She was born ferrel, but we took her in at aprox 8 weeks, and she has been a house cat for the last 17+ years. She is very affectionate, loves to groom my beard and sleep bbetween my wife and I. Lately (last 6 - 8 months) she has been yowling a lot. Sometimes it sounds very distressed. She will begin at all times of the day and night, but there does not seem to be any problem. Often it appears that she is looking for us, but other tmes she will walk into the same room while yowling, and then other times she will begin immediately after she walks out of the room where we are. Could this be a sign that she is in some sort of pain, or is it a common quirk of an older cat?

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Status: Closed Value: $10

Answer
October 20, 2006 9:18 a.m. (8 minutes and 7 seconds later)

ACCEPTED

Dear friend,

Do not worry. She is not in pain. This yowling is related to hearing loss. She can still hear but her voice sounds so different - to her - that she will often test the tonal quality by making those sounds. You can help by leaving a radio on at night so she will not "hear" so much quiet. A nightlight is also comforting. At 17 most senses decrease so her behavior is completely normal.

The fact that your girl is will at 17 is a tribute to you and the wonderful care you have give her. May God bless all of you and keep you healthy and happy.

Warmest best wishes,

Terri

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Terri Riba -- Feline Healthcare Expert -- 100% Positive Feedback on 7722 Cat Accepts
20+ years in vet care experience in medicine, behavior, nutrition, holistics

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