Endless Howl, Howl, Howling, Howling, Howwwlll

Hi there,

Excellent site! thank you for being responsible and compassionate pet owners. I particularly support the BARF regimen.
I'm the proud owner of an 18-year-old female calico, who seems pretty healthy except for almost incessant howling, which gets pretty bad in the morning. She's up to date with her vaccinations, and her appetite is always good (we feed BARF to all of our cats) but her howling has GOT to stop. I have found that if I feed her when she demands it (which is pretty frequently: once every 4 hours or so, a tablespoon at a time) it tends to cut down on the howling, but I am wondering if I am missing something.
It sounds horrible, but I make less than $15,000 per year and can't afford some of what my vet proposes (lab work, etc). They also won't negotiate prices with me. I think maybe I should find a new vet?
I think she deserves to be comfortable in her old age.
Any thoughts?

RESPONSE:

It sounds like your elderly kitty is suffering from Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, a form of dementia similar to Alzheimer's. While not well researched in cats, it is estimated that 50% of cats aged 15 and over suffer from it.
Howling is often the symptom that triggers a visit to the vet. Unfortunately, there is no cure. And we completely understand your desire not to put your senior through a bunch of expensive tests.
It is suspected that the howling is caused by some confusion in that the cat doesn't know where they are, where you are, where their food bowl is, etc. They tend to react very badly to any change in their routine. Moving the litter box can cause them to start going elsewhere because they can't remember where the box is. While her behavior can be frustrating, it is also very sad because it is a sign that her life expectancy is likely limited. And you are right, she deserves to be comfortable in her old age!
Try giving her Graceful Aging from Spirit Essence. We have found it beneficial in our older cats. (Use our code "HOUSEFULLOFCATS" to get 5% off your order).
Spend time petting and grooming her. Spending time with her is especially important. She needs your attention and reassurance to help her feel more secure. Make sure she has easy access to her food, water and litter box. If she has a favorite treat, give it to her more often. In other words, spoil her. She deserves it. After all, in human age, she is around 90! Anybody that lives that long deserves some extra TLC!
Just do your best not to be angry with her. When she howls and wakes you, remember that she is not doing it on purpose, she is feeling confused and needs your love and reassurance. Be patient, tolerant, and give her the attention she deserves.
Sorry we can't give you any solid answers but I hope this will help.

Donna
House Full Cats Mom