Loud meowing

Doctorbob

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My elderly cat recently (about 2 months ago) starting meowing very loudly and constantly. Was previously rather quiet and shy.

Should I be concerned?

Thanks in advance!
 

Furballsmom

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Hi has your cat been in to a veterinarian recently for a wellness check? If not, I would strongly suggest it. Dementia could be a factor or possible deafness, but there are other physical health issues that can cause a cat to yowl which are typically treatable.

Have you tried leaving a nightlight on for her? Cat Music such as Relax My Cat or MusicForCats?
 
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Doctorbob

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Thanks all.....

Do you put her to rest if it is dementia?
 

danteshuman

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I don’t know about euthanasia just for dementia. I think your vet needs to advise you on that! My mom’s cat lived with nighttime dementia for 3 years. Night lights help.
 

FeebysOwner

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Hi. Other than howling, are there other changes you've noticed in your cat? How old is he?

There are calming meds that can be given for cats with dementia. Aside from that, and the things mentioned above, howling can also be the result of arthritic pain (or as noted above pain in general), hyperthyroidism, or kidney disease to name a few. Boredom, insecurity (not all that uncommon as a cat ages) or even hunger can cause cats to howl at times too.
 

Hellenww

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There is also the possibility of hearing loss (from old age or a solvable medical issue) and trying to hear their own voice.

Has anything changed in or around the house recently including outside animals? If it is only happening in a certain area check the outlets for heat.

In prep for her vet visit:

- make noises in back of her to test her hearing
- give her a gentle all over massage. Does she react to being petted in spots she was ok with before.
- try getting her to play and watch to see if she favors any legs/hips
- has she stopped jumping up on furniture or her cat trees? It could be loss of muscle from age but could also be pain.
 
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Doctorbob

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There is also the possibility of hearing loss (from old age or a solvable medical issue) and trying to hear their own voice.

Has anything changed in or around the house recently including outside animals? If it is only happening in a certain area check the outlets for heat.

In prep for her vet visit:

- make noises in back of her to test her hearing
- give her a gentle all over massage. Does she react to being petted in spots she was ok with before.
- try getting her to play and watch to see if she favors any legs/hips
- has she stopped jumping up on furniture or her cat trees? It could be loss of muscle from age but could also be pain.
Yes, her hearing seems to have diminished.
 
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Doctorbob

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Hi. Other than howling, are there other changes you've noticed in your cat? How old is he?

There are calming meds that can be given for cats with dementia. Aside from that, and the things mentioned above, howling can also be the result of arthritic pain (or as noted above pain in general), hyperthyroidism, or kidney disease to name a few. Boredom, insecurity (not all that uncommon as a cat ages) or even hunger can cause cats to howl at times too.
approximately 15 years old. She used to be very shy, hiding from new visitors. Not so much any more.
 
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