Does my Tigger need a vet?

[Kristjanna]

Hey all,

my cat Tigger, (who is now 14 yrs old) has started urinating like crazy. He uses the litter box, but the litter that used to last a month, I go through in a week. He has also tripled the amount of water he drinks. The amount he eats is the same. What should I do?


Tigger background: Used to be an outdoor cat, became indoor cat in august of last year, he is also a very big kitty... 18.5lbs

~Kristjanna

[chico2]

At 14yrs old,yes,I think he needs a vet to do a blood panel,could be he has Hyperthyroidism or is Diabetic,both which is treatable.
When a cat gets older,he will need regular bloodwork to see if everything is functioning normal.
Good Luck!

[nurseforchrist]

Hi!

Yes, I would say that he does. I'm not a vet, but these are serious symptoms which need to be assessed. Make an appointment today and let us know how Tigger makes out.

[badger]

Yep, he needs a vet. It could be a urinary infection or his kidneys aren't working as well as they should. Please don't delay, but don't worry either, it sounds fixable.

[Shamrock]

Yes.. as the others state.. these symptoms need diagnosing. The excessive water drinking is one symptom of hyperthyroidism - but of other conditions too. A vet and blood work is the only way to find and treat the cause.

Good luck with your kitty Let us now how he is coming along, wont you?

[Kristjanna]

Thanks you guys, I will let you know what happens with him

[Shamrock]

Aww,what a beauty your big boy is, Kristjanna

Best wishes to sweet Tigger.., will watch for your update on his condition.

[chico2]

He's a chunky little guy,lots to love
I am certainly no vet,but drinking a lot can also be a sign of diabetes,if it is, don't be scared,it too is treatable.
I had a pleasantly plump cat once who was diabetic...he was fine with treatment.
But lets not jump the gun,we'll wait and see what the vet says

[Kristjanna]

So the news is in.... Tigger does have diabetes. I'm very sad and confused about it. His level was 22.1.

My fiancee and I have talked in over, and we are going to go ahead and treat Tigger, it will be rough at first, but I love my Tigger's and do anything for him. I'll keep you all posted.

~Kristjanna:sad:

[chico2]

Kristjanna,the good news is,you got a quick answer to Tiggers problem and it is not a death-sentence
My diabetic kitty lived to be 17yrs old when he succumbed to cancer.
Someone I know had a diabetic female Himalayan who lived to 21yrs old.
I don't remember much about levels to compare,in the beginning my Peppi was on a special diet,but was eventually needing insulineshots.
I am sure your Tigger will be fine,when my Rocky was diagnosed with Hyperthyroidism I was sad,but he's doing good on medication,I was just happy the vet found a reason for his behaviour and it was not the big C word.
Good Luck!

[CyberKitten]

Diabetic cats can do very well and there are organizations and info online abouy it. I'll try to ifnd some later when I have time. In the meantime, it is better to know now whwat it is and have the ability to treat it. Good luck to both you and Tigger - he is an adorable looking kitty and you are both lucky to have each other!!!