Thank you everyone for your thoughtful replies. I think that only makes sense to let a vet evaluate Gizmo as a cat his age will be prone to diseases like kidney problems etc. I almost wish that when you buy an animal or adopt one, that they would give you a pamphlet on how to take care of your animal beyond the obvious basics. I had another dear cat that was almost humanlike in her ability to sense people's moods and was like a 'referee' whenever one of the other cats were being a bully. Anyhow I didn't realize that she'd dramatically cut back eating and by the time she saw the vet, I was so depressed and stunned to learn there is a certain kind of liver disease where the fat builds up suddenly in that organ when a cat stops eating for even a couple days. (we had to incorporate my brother's three cats for awhile and it threw her for a loop so she'd taken to being super reclusive). Plus the problems with urinary blockages, I had another cat that had that and I thought I was doing fine giving him a good quality dry food and avoiding the so-called more calorie dense wet foods. There are just so many things a new pet owner really should be made aware of.
I'm just glad to have these boards as a resource, too bad I didn't have this back then! Thanks again everyone for your advice and for the interest you took. I didn't expect to find so many replies. I really appreciate it!
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