Why is my senior cat foaming, lethargic, and shaking its head?

Mr Whiskas could have bad tooth or something else in his mouth that is occasionally causing irritation. It’s also possible that he’s eating something that has a bad taste like some kind of insect when this is happening. Some cats can have atypical seizures or other neurologic episodes where they act frantic and foam at the mouth. I would recommend making an appointment with your regular vet to have his mouth examined - if you’re able to video an episode to show the vet it might help determine what could be going on.

I am sorry to hear this! I know how worrisome it is to have vague signs with no other hints! If not done already, I would recommend having bloodwork and an x-ray done. Some things I would want to rule out- heart/lung disease, signs of infection, and parasites. If this all appears normal I would also consider a sedated exam to see if there are any abnormalities in his ears or mouth- like a polyp. If the behavior worsens and you do not find any answers on the other tests I would also consider advanced imaging like a CT. I hope it is nothing serious but it is good to know your options!

Poor SoCo sounds extremely ill, and the symptoms you are describing are a medical emergency. As a senior cat, he could have many things wrong with him including dental problems, diabetes, kidney failure, hyperthyroidism, liver failure, or cancer among others. He needs veterinary care now to diagnose what is causing all his symptoms so he can be treated. Please take him into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website.

Those are abnormal signs. Cats try not to show problems when they are sick so if he’s acting this way then I’d listen to him and take him in for an exam and treatment. He may have an injury or underlying medical condition causing these symptoms. From the photo he looks a little dull. They will feel him all over for pain or injury causing the abnormal walking, and check for infectious disease and organ function. Once they have a diagnosis then they can start the appropriate treatment. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Junior.

Please take Simon to an out of hours veterinarian or pet ER right now. It looks like he found something toxic. He will need to be hospitalised and treated symptomatically (iv fluids, etc) if you do not know what he could have ingested. Please take him to a vet now.

This could be something serious like a seizure or a problem with his heart. Next time it happens, try to video the episode on your phone, and then take him into the vet. You can show the vet the video, and the vet can diagnose what is causing this so he can be treated. I hope this helps!

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Harley! Look closely at Harley's eyes...are they moving quickly side to side or rolling? If they are then he could be having a vestibular event. The most common cause is a middle ear infection (under the ear drum) that causes inflammation of the peripheral nerve that control balance. Other causes could be more serious: stroke, seizure, brain tumor, metabolic issues or bleeding that is causing weakness. Harley should see your Vet ASAP this morning for an exam. I hope this helps and I wish Harley the very best!