elderly cat has forgotten how to drink

by Penny
(Aurora, IL U.S.A)

my 16 yr old cat has had trouble drinking without getting water in her nose for past yr. or so. has become progressively worse until she finally became dehydrated and ill. She used to drink some from my glasses of water so I left them out especially for her but she soon developed that same problem in them. I have tried every size bowl and glasses at different heights, even a watering fountain, but she seems to have forgotten how to drink. If she has developed senility how can I help her drink. She shows clear signs of thirst and continues to try without success. She is otherwise out of pain, eats and purrs. Vet says it doesn't seem as though she is in pain and that it should be o.k to let her pass quietly at home with me instead of terrified at the hospital. she sleeps next to my head often nuzzling in my hand and has become affectionately attached to me in the way she was as a kitten. I resorted to using a syringe which she took eagerly at first but has now forgotten how to do that as well tries to lick the middle of it by my fingers instead of the tip. I've been putting alot of water in her food but she is still thirsty. I don't expect her stay much longer but would like to find a way to keep her comfortable at home if i can before choosing euthanasia. leaving the house for any reason has always terrified her but, the vet visits have always been traumatizing. I would hate for her farewell to be such. Is there anything else I can do to help her drink when she is thirsty? She won't drink from drips or faucets or toilet bowls and have never heard of any one else with this 'nose' problem before, or senility interfering with this particular function.

Reply
Hi
I am a little puzzled. Has the vet diagnosed her with anything such as diabetes etc? I am not sure from your question whether or not the vet has told you that she is dying or if she has a condition which would make her extra thirsty.

Most cats get most of their water from their food, so the fact that she seems extra thirsty may suggest an under lying illness. If this is the case then your decision to euthanasia may be easier to make at this stage.

You seem to have done everything to try and help her drink. Apart from squirting water down her throat with a syringe i can't see how else you can help her.

It is a very difficult situation for you. If you thought your cat was in distress or pain etc then as you say euthanasia may be the best option. But if this is not the case then all you can do is to provide her with all the home comforts and old cat deserves.

I do feel for you and i hope you find a solution soon

best wishes kate