Thanks, Karen. I had really been measuring his food - and that of the other cats - and felt badly. That so much of the weight gain could be caused by the arthritis which becomes its own vicious circle was somewhat of a relief to me. Easing or stopping the pain may break that cycle and allow Cole to get healthier. And of course, no pain is a real gain for my fluffy boy!

Next week Oscar goes in. A small wart-like growth on his neck/chin area was checked last year and we decided to keep an eye on it. I noticed recently that it has about tripled in size. It doesn't bother him at all, even if I touch it while giving chin rubs. I can afford for the vet to use a general for about 10 minutes to scoop it out and stitch Oscar up. Of course, that nasty lump will be sent away for tests. I guess older cats - and people too - get funny bumps here and there.