Has anyone here used Cosequin?

[snowshoe2]

Hi CatLady,
Yes the food switch was made gradually and like you I hate dyes in food, but since the Snowshoes were eating it and keeping it down and doing well, I've stayed with it. These cats seem to have very sensitive systems.

Now you've got me wondering if I should discontinue with the Metacam. I gave it to him once a day for 3 days, and then gave it once every other day for 3 days.
I stopped it for about a month and the limping started again, so I started the regimen again and this was the first of the every other day doses. In that months time he gained another pound and seemed bloated. I mentioned that to the vet, but they didn't seem like it was a concern.

Back in August before he had his dental work done, his blood work came back with everything fine. Then it was mid September he went back in with his limping and that's when the Metacam was prescribed. How often is it recommended to have lab tests?

Anyway, I don't like giving it to him even though he is so good about taking it. That's why I was looking for something else that might help without the worry of side effects. I called our pet supply store today and ordered a package of the Hip Action treats and next week when they come in I will start giving him those.

I am home most of the time, just maybe one or two days a week when we'll be gone for several hours. I have no place to separate him and don't know anyone that would stop by to check on them.

Emeraldgreen, I walk the boys on leashes. They love going outside, but now with winter nearly here they won't be going out much. Of course, when Cocoa goes out, it's straight to the catnip patch he goes.

Columbine mentioned vitamin E as an appetite suppressant. That's something else I might consider.

[Catty1]

Dollar store. Cheap little laser pointer thing - about half the length of a ballpoint pen, and thicker. My fat boy was NUTS about it!

With five cats, I think the idea above was good - measured feeding in the morning, put the stuff away, same in the evening.

Good luck!

[Emeraldgreen]

Snowshoe2, taking him for a walk! That's a great idea. I hadn't thought of that. We have a big outdoor enclosure for them but as you said, with the weather turning cold and wet and now with some snow, they sure don't want to be out there. But if a sunny day comes around I might try taking him for a walk. I'll have to find an extra large cat harness first though. Hope they make them that big!
Catty1, the laser is also a really good idea too. I'll pick one up and see how it goes.