Is my cat's behavior changing because my husband has cancer?

Hello. It does sound like some event occurred to him. You indicate he is eating, which is good, but are you sure he is using the litter box, especially urinating? If not, this might be a concern. Sometimes when there is a personality change, it is best to first rule out the possibility of an underlying illness or injury. If he is eating & you are sure he is having no difficulties urinating, just watch him over the weekend, but consider having him examined sometime next week if he still seems off. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

A sudden change in behavior, such as being more clingy, can be a sign of illness in cats. I'd have Sylvester checked out by a vet this week just to make sure everything is ok with him. If he is healthy, it may just be he's feeling rather cuddly, and wants a lot of love and attention from your husband. Cats can be fickle, and he may decide to get attention from you as well eventually.

Hello, some cats can undergo different behaviors and may prefer different people at times. This is typically not associated with anything major. However, there are some diseases that may cause changes in attitude. This includes hyperthyroidism and rarely acromegaly. Other signs with these diseases include increased drinking and urinations, a ravenous appetite, and weight loss. This can be screened with routine bloodwork, so have him evaluated by your veterinarian for these. If normal, other causes could include a different fragrance from perfume, body lotion, or laundry detergent that you could be using. Hope this helps and best of luck.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Hiding as you well pointed out can be a sign of sickness in cats. I think that her more outgoing behavior could mean that she is feeling better now and perhaps something was going on before. Another likely possibility is that there was something causing her stress and making her hide that is no longer present which is why she is being more outgoing. Regardless, this is good news. If she ever goes back to hiding, have her evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment. Hopefully, she will continue to be just fine! Good luck!

Stress can cause cats to hide or act abnormally. For example if you had house guests or got a new pet this could stress your cat out. However medical issues can also cause cats to hide. Cats may hide if they are feeling bad. I would keep a very close eye on your cats appetite, water intake, BMs, and urine if your cat is hiding. If you notice anything that is not normal I would take your cat in for a thorough exam and some basic bloodwork. Older cats can be prone to things like diabetes, renal disease, and hyperthyriodism. These can be fairly well managed with meds once daignosed. If your cat is a male, keep a very close eye on the litter box and be sure he is urinating ok. Male cats can get thier urethra blocked and become unable to urinate. This is an emergency and can be fatal very quickly if left untreated. If it turns out to be just stress I reccomend trying a product called Feliway. Feliway mimcks the phermone produced by mother cats and has a calming effect on cats. Feliway should be available over the counter at your local vet. hope this helps

I'm so sorry Lilo has mammary cancer! Yes, cats can hide after being given medication. She's already not feeling well due to the cancer, and giving her medication (even though it's necessary!) will add some stress as well. I would let her hide for now, and she will come out when she's ready. I certainly hope she makes an appearance soon!

Cats may hide if scared or not feeling well. Try to determine is anything has changed around the house that may have spooked her. Any new people or pets, a move, or sudden change in schedule. If you can't think of anything then monitor health closely. Eating, drinking and litter box habits. Notice any vomiting or diarrhea. And if she is acting ill take her in for a vet visit.