a kitty question....re my Ash...

[carole]

As you all know my Old Boy Ash is in the later stages of renal failure, however lately he has just started pulling his fur out, was a big pile there last night and we just saw him doing it again a few moments ago, has anyone any ideas as to why he is doing this, is it a dementia type thing? or stress related, he does not appear to be stressed though, and Ash has always been a very laid back kitty, nothing worries him too much.

Any clues? your input appreciated , thanks.

[Medusa]

When cats are in late stage CRF, they do things like pull out their fur, lick cement floors, etc., according to my vet. W/my Puddy, subQ fluids stopped that behavior for a while anyhow. It's a form of dementia and Puddy later went on to do other things and had to go on meds for dementia but the subQ's helped a lot.

[Freedom]

I am glad Mary had some info for you. Poor Ash, chin rubs for the sweet boy.

[slick]

Yes, Mary is right. Max is not pulling his hair out (I might be though...) but he is displaying what I believe to be dementia. If I open up the fridge, he's in there licking the veggie drawers. Sometimes I find him on the window sill licking the inside of the window - giving it a good clean, I might add. He seems to love licking objects that are cold. One time I found him licking the mirror on the outside of my closet door. I suppose I could put him on drugs for it but why bother. He's a menace to pill and I don't believe it would make his quality of life any better. I am watching for signs of hair-pulling though.

It's so hard to see this isn't it Carole? Prayers on the way for dear Ash.

[catmandu]

It is so very hard when Our Cats get older and start to behave in odd ways.
My Older Cats Moose the MagnfiCat and Bodacious Bo Bo became so reclusive that it was hard to find them and see if they were all right.
We are adding prayers for Your Senior Kittyzen Ash that hes not in pain, and can be with you as long as possible, and as long as his health is good.

[Catty1]

I know Ash is getting the best of care possible, but I seem to recall he is not getting the fluids under the skin (SubQ). That is certainly worth a try, even if the vet does it the first time. Then you can see if it makes a difference or not.

Hugs and prayers for Ash.