Overly Need Cat

Both of my parents have recently died (my mother died about three years ago and my father died about 9 months ago) leaving four cats behind at their house. We found great homes for three of the cats and I took in the oldest.

Ramses is seventeen years old and very healthy. He and I are no strangers to each other, in fact I am the one who brought him into my parents house when I was about 10, so he is very comfortable with me.

When I brought him into my house I already had three cats but he handled the change REALLY well, he just took no notice of the other cats and went about his business. Since being here he has become very attached to me, which is understandable under the circumstances, but he has also become SO NEEDY. This is not like him at all, he always used to be an affectionate but independent cat and now I can't even go to the bathroom alone. He follows me around waiting for me to sit down and then he immediately jumps up and stands on me (he hardly ever settles down and sits he just stands on me). When I have to move him he gets very upset and then just comes right back and stands on me or follows me around again.

I'm not sure what has caused this drastic change in personality but I do know it is not health related. Any suggestions or advice anyone has would be greatly appreciated

Some cats just become more affectionate as they get older.

I have had new cats do that before also, he might be scared that you are going to go away like your parents did.

When my elderly cat got elderly...she became very needy.
It was like she wasnt ashamed about needing us! after all those years of being sweet but aloof and very much on her own terms.

My friends 14 year old cat has started to become the same way.

Maybe it is just because he is elderly or he sees you as his rescuer.

It is highly plausible that he just doesn't want to lose you too- which is why if he keeps you in his sight all the time, that can't happen. This is a very real response to grief in cats and he will work it out eventually. Try setting up a routine with him, food at certain times in the day, playtime scheduled, petting and grooming scheduled. Keep to the routine and don't change it up on him and he should relax soon.

aww he could be afraid your going to go away....or yes it could just be the age factor..and you brought him in so your his savior.

I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of both of your parents. I'm sure it was also no easy task finding good, caring homes for your parents cats. I think Hissy hit in on the nail about feeling insecure about you leaving too. For Ramses to all of sudden not have your dad and kitty siblings can be a bit overwhelming. Setting up a routine will give him some reassurance that you won't be going away too.

I agree plus give him lots & lots of love.

Originally Posted by Gabby

I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of both of your parents. I'm sure it was also no easy task finding good, caring homes for your parents cats. I think Hissy hit in on the nail about feeling insecure about you leaving too. For Ramses to all of sudden not have your dad and kitty siblings can be a bit overwhelming. Setting up a routine will give him some reassurance that you won't be going away too.

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