Can I give Klonopin to my cat? Maybe Thyroid problems

[catlover100]

I know most people are going to say consult a Vet first. But I have noticed my 15 yr old cat doesn't seem to be sleeping enough and he has lost weight. He seems like he may be going to sleep now after I gave him 1/2 a Chlorotab but he knocked some things off a top shelf before he seemed to relax. This has made me so upset today!

I have been reading and it seems like it could be his thyroid. I really can't afford the Vet bill. This would happen on a weekend when you can't call their office and ask any questions. 

Could anyone give me an estimate of what kind of cost is involved in the Thyroid test and treatment. If this continues I will have to decide if I should put him to sleep because I don't know what options I have. The Vet does allow monthly payments but I am still paying for another one of my baby's bills for urinary blockage.  

Thanks

 

[catlover100]

No, he dozed maybe 5 minutes and now he is back awake. This is so upsetting when you can't do anything for them.

 

[mrsgreenjeens]

It's really impossible for any of us to diagnose what might be wrong with him, or even how much it might cost for you to get him diagnosed at a Vet because every single Vet in every single town in the world charges a different amount for the same test, it seems.  I know in my little town that's the case.  You just need to call around and ask each Vet how much they charge for an initial visit and specific tests.  But before you start thinking you need to have him put to sleep (which isn't always that inexpensive either), please at least give him a chance!  It might be something very inexpensive to treat.  You just never know. 

Maybe you can find some help here:  http://www.thecatsite.com/a/no-money-for-vet-care-how-to-find-help-and-save-your-cats-life

 

[stephanietx]

I would call around on Monday morning to different vets and ask what they charge for a blood panel including a thyroid test.  Until you get a diagnosis, I wouldn't give him any meds.

 

[catlover100]

I am thinking now it may be more Anxiety. He has always been more of a nervous cat anyway and my Jack is in one of his more aggressive spells now. I tried putting Buddy in the bedroom with me yesterday but he wouldn't stay. 

He is always wanting to stay up on something, a chair or a shelf and doesn't stay long on the floor even when he eats. Sometimes I hold the food up to him in a chair and he will finish it.

I am going to put them in separate rooms when I am gone to work during the day. I was reading about anxiety in cats and they said sometimes if the cat will tolerate it a cat carrier will help. So I have him in one now and he is curled up inside in a fabric grocery bag. He's quiet so I guess thankfully he is sleeping. Poor boy!

 

[stephanietx]

You can try using some calming agents such as Feliway diffusers and see if that helps. However, a trip to the vet for bloodwork is still  a good idea, especially at his age.  It could even be something like dental problems and he'll need a cleaning and maybe have some teeth pulled.