Cat Age 20 health

Hello, Meisha is approximately 20 years old. I adopted him from the AntiCruelty Society in Chicago and then moved him to ireland with me about 10 years ago. When my vet saw him less than 2 years ago he really didn't think he'd survive until his next visit due to his age. However, today here he is. Meisha is showing his age, sleeps a lot, and can't quite make the same jumps he used to. I can see that his back legs are bothering him, a bit stiff. However, I feel he still has quality of life as his appetite is good, eats the same as before and drinks water; still enjoys sleeping with the kids and loves his attention.

Now the problem, he is starting to urinate everywhere, including his litter box. And when he sleeps he is leaking a clear brownish liquid from his bottom. I feel it is age related, failing kidney or liver thing. There is a terrible smell off him as I don't think he is able to groom down below anymore. And when I try he gets a little nippy.

Has anyone had any experience with this. I pray that he will be allowed to pass away peacefully in his sleep one day but if I thought he was in pain or suffering I would consider putting him to sleep. Any input is welcome.

Sense he seems to be doing well for his age other than this issue, I would make an appointment with his vet to see if there is anything internal going on that he can get help for. If he is urinating everywhere, maybe he has an infection. If he does, it's at least good that he is able to urinate,

(no blockage), but you need to get him to the vet for testing. It could be a UTI. In that case, he needs antibiotics at the very least.

Good luck, I hope that's all it is. Keep us posted.

Bloodwork wouldn't be too invasive, and would tell you where his kidneys are right now. Is he eating all canned food? IMO, that's important for elderly cats, as it's easier on the digestion and helps to keep them well hydrated.

Keep in mind that cats rarely die peacefully in their sleep . It will most likely be necessary to have him put to sleep at some point so he doesn't suffer. Right now, if he's eating well and otherwise functioning as well as can be expected at his age, it's probably not time yet.

I agree that a blood test might help determine the issue.  It may be something easy to contain or treat.  It sounds like he's doing well otherwise.  If you get a bad test back you will at least know what course of action to take in order to help him pass peacefully and hopefully pain free.  Best of luck to you and I sure do hope it's nothing real serious.
 

thanks all for your comments. Everyone around me thought i was insane to move my cat with me overseas so I don't feel I can trust any advice from this side to be empathetic. i will be calling the vet today.

Yes, I second the other comments, but I want to say that you need to get him to the vet ASAP if he seems to have trouble peeing at all. A UTI causes the symptoms you're describing but it can also cause a blockage that will become life threatening if left untreated.

Could he possibly be becoming incontinent because of his age?  I know dogs can get that way but I have never had an elderly cat.  But yes, I think bloodwork is a smart choice and a good place to start.  Please keep us updated.  I hope Meisha is well.

On top of all that, if he is unable to groom himself anymore, you will need to start bathing him even if he doesn't like it; it's important for him. :nod: