Cat vocalization mystery solved!

[sjde]

I am writing this in hopes of helping someone else who may be searching for answers. I have a 14 yr old The first one was going on for 7 years before we found the problem. He'd for no reason, hiss and growl and spin around like something was attacking him from behind. We thought it was something called feline hyperesthesia. A new vet suggested his anal glands be expressed. That was 1 1/2 years ago and it stopped the problem!

The second one was a change in vocalization. For 2 years it went on. I mentioned it to the vet but it was hard to describe. I called it moaning. Some might call it howling. I wondered if it was dementia. Or if he was in pain. He has some kidney issues. Another cat we had that lived to 18 did it in her later years. I knew thyroid problems can cause vocalization but his TSH was normal. Then he started eating a lot more and not gaining weight and urinated outside the box twice. The vet suggested we do a more specialized thyroid test--free T4-and sure enough, he is hyperthyroid. He's been on meds a month and is MUCH better.

Sue

[Auntie Debbie]

I'm so glad you're so in tune with your kitty so that you can pick up on his changes that could be a health issue.
I too once thought my Sals had hyperesthesia when a vet was unable to detect an ear infection. Long story short, the twitching and running about was her trying to get away from what was causing her pain. Too bad it went with her wherever she went. An good for you for putting two and two together with the change in vocalization.

Not that every little change will result in something physically wrong or emotionaly, it is a very good idea to really know what makes your pet tick.
Thanks for your post!

[mamabear]

KUDOS to you knowing about your kitty!!!

I am hyperthyroid as well but i'm a human. I'm so glad that the meds are working. I do hope the meds aren't causing too many side effects, if so please speak to vet about it.

Thanks for sharing this. I am sure it will help others regarding certain sounds they hear from their kitties!!!