Really worried about cats change in behaviour

Hi there,

I'm new to this... Ive just been looking online for help with my cats change in behaviour and found this forum which looks great. I'd really apreciate any advice from you guys!

I have two cats who are brother and sister, Peeka (female) and Boo (male). I got them from a rescue home over two years ago as young adults so they must be about 3-4 now. Peeka has always been timid but loving on her terms... whereas Boo has always been a complete attention glutton... jumping on anyones lap the second they sit down, and purring like an engine. He follows you about rears up and rubs his head against you, basically the most affectionacte little guy ever.

Over the past week however, his behaviour has completely changed. He seems quite spooked, never sits on your lap or rubs against you like he used to. When you pet him he walks away immediately. He sometimes goes to jump on your lap, but immediately jumps back down again. He's still eating, drinking and using his litter tray, but other than that he's a different cat altogether. He used to stride around the flat but now he skulks. Strangely enough the normally timid cat seems to be coming out of her shell more (?!).

I'm really really worried about Boo, has anyone experienced anything similar? Does anyone have any suggestions? I'd be incredibly grateful for any insight!

The experts will be along shortly
But, any change in an animal's behaviour indicates a vet visit is warranted..NOW.
Especially if he seems to be moping about like this.

Hopefully things will turn out alright.

Thanks very much. I'm going to take him down to the vets tomorrow. Theyre actually both due their vaccination boosters anyway so the vet can look at him then too.

Totally agree. Good luck with it, and don't be fobbed off with just advice. Insist on a full exam with blood tests if nothing obvious is found. Apologies if your vet would do this anyway, but as many TCS members will testify, there are some who don't, and the cats have to suffer for much longer than necessary. I hope you get it sorted soon.

Thanks for your responses. I took Boo to the vets today and it turns out that he's hurt his back somehow. I'm relieved in some ways that its not a disease or something! The vet has given him painkillers and I'll take him back in a few days to make sure he's healing ok.

Its very interesting how the dynamics have changed between my two cats. Now that Boo is a bit reclusive because he is hurt Peeka has totally come out of her shell. I always though she didnt like much attention but its obvious thats not the case!

I'm glad you got to the bottom of what was wrong- poor Boo. I hope he's feeling better soon!

Originally Posted by nima

Thanks for your responses. I took Boo to the vets today and it turns out that he's hurt his back somehow. I'm relieved in some ways that its not a disease or something! The vet has given him painkillers and I'll take him back in a few days to make sure he's healing ok.

Its very interesting how the dynamics have changed between my two cats. Now that Boo is a bit reclusive because he is hurt Peeka has totally come out of her shell. I always though she didnt like much attention but its obvious thats not the case!

Click to expand...

The dynamics in a multi-cat household are quite something to observe, aren't they? *smile* I am fascinated by it.

I hope your little Boo is feeling better very soon and that things get back to normal quickly.

~gf~