Elderly Blind Cat

[emily_the_spoiled]

I have two cats that are blind (one born blind and one blinded as a kitten). They have adjusted quite well to not being able to see. I have created a house where they can "climb" up and do not have to jump. If any of the other cats "pick on" the blind one, please put a collar and bell on them. That way it gives a little warning, so they can defend themselves.

I think you will find that having a blind cat is almost no different than having a sighted cat (except they don't jump on top of the fridge )

[critters]

I have two cats that are blind (one born blind and one blinded as a kitten). They have adjusted quite well to not being able to see. I have created a house where they can "climb" up and do not have to jump. If any of the other cats "pick on" the blind one, please put a collar and bell on them. That way it gives a little warning, so they can defend themselves.

I think you will find that having a blind cat is almost no different than having a sighted cat (except they don't jump on top of the fridge )

Exactly right! After all these years, Spunk, my blind punk, will jump to a few non-changing places like the toilet top, the window seat, etc. Cats are very adaptable, so you may not notice much difference in her.

[Medusa]

My Creamsicle is partially blind (and totally deaf) and she's learned to navigate just fine. I concur w/the others; don't rearrange the furniture and she should be fine.

[LionHart]

Thank you all for your comments/suggestions. My first thought was taking Nikki (the elder) her to the vet, but money is tight at the moment and there doesn't seem to be any other issues. She's eating, drinking, pooping, peeing and bathing herself as usual. The suggestion of collars w/bells for the others is one I never thought of. I think we'll try it. Nikki has always been 'funny' about her personal space so announcing someone nearby might be a good thing for her. In the mean time, my room mate/friend has a knack w/cats. In fact the vet has called her the Cat Whisperer! She has taught them 1-2-3...on 3 if someone hasn't done what she asked, it's time out! Time outs are few and far between! The comments on not moving furniture makes sense, duh, why didn't I think of that Thanks again.

[emily_the_spoiled]

You may also find that Nikki's sister will be around her more. I have a pair of brothers (one sighted and one not). When they first came to my place, the sighted one seemed to act like a "seeing eye" cat. They have some kind of communication that helps out the blind one.

[kittykatharine]

I agree with everyone else - don't rearrange the house and put collars with a bell on any other animals that may "attack your kitty" to warn them. Cat's are extremely adaptable and she will in time figure her environemnt out. If there is any furniture that she may bump into, you may initially want to put a pillow or pad there, just till she has her routine down. I know cueing certain places with sounds is useful - for instance, your cat knows the sound of a food bad opening one mile away! Good luck!