Why is my senior cat suddenly clingy, meowing more, and needy?

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I recommend taking Princess to a vet for an exam and blood work. It is very common for older cats to have an overactive thyroid. One of the signs of hyperthyroidism is increased meowing. Another is matted hair coat. The blood work will test for this and determine if she needs treatment. If so, the vet can discuss your options. If she is hyperthyroid and she gets medications to control this, the increased meowing will stop. Kisses to Princess!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I'm so sorry to hear about Bayleigh! My very first thought is that she needs to go in for an exam and to have bloodwork done. Hyperthyroidism can cause everything you're describing and is treatable. Another medical explanation could be pain. A hurt back, etc. can make even the nicest cat an absolute nightmare. Finally, though I hate to say it, brain tumors, adrenal gland tumors, and dementia are also possible (though usually they do not come on so quickly). Long story short, take her in to your vet for a good exam and work up. Best wishes to you and Bayleigh. I hope she is back to her happy self soon!

That’s a tough one! I don’t think the vet would think you are wasting their time as it’s always beneficial to have a physical exam and I think in Stinky Pete’s case, it would be beneficial. Hyperthyroidism can cause increased activity and increased vocalizing and is common in older cats. Older cats can also get dementia which presents the same way. Lastly, older pets can be more prone to anxiety, just like older humans. The vet may test the thyroid and go from there based upon the results. Many of these cats will get sedatives at night if anxiety is suspected. You could also try a pheromone diffuser called Feliway. There is also a prescription diet called Calm which some cats respond well to. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

I'm so sorry that Cleo is having these problems. Since you mentioned that she is hyperthyroid, I would be sure to check her thyroid level and her blood pressure. If either is high, it could be responsible for the behavioral changes that you are noticing. I would also recommend checking a urine sample since urinary tract infections are common in older female cats to make sure that isn't playing a role in her sudden changes. Cleo is certainly an older girl and not eating as much is certainly a worrying sign, but I would make sure there isn't any treatable explanation for her recent behavioral changes. Good luck! I hope that was helpful and answered your questions. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding your cat. I would recommend a trip to the veterinarian to ensure she is not suffering a medical problem causing this behavior change. A disease known as hyperthyroidism can cause increased vocalizations in a cat. It is usually accompanied an increase in thirst and urination, hyperactivity, possibly vomiting/ diarrhea and weight loss. She will likely have blood work performed to rule out this as well as other internal diseases. If she is found to be healthy, then you can discuss behavioral modifications at home. I hope this information helps!

Sorry you are having some troubles with Monster! I recommend that you take him to your vet for a senior blood panel. They can check his thyroid as well. Hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid gland) is not uncommon in older cats and can lead to behavioral changes, more vocalization, eating more, acting odd. Get him in for bloodwork when you can! Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Charlie! There are a lot of things that can change metabolically as cats age. One thing that can cause increased night time vocalization in cats is an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). I think due to Charlie sleeping more and his other changes in behavior having him checked by your Vet and getting senior blood work done would be a good idea. Sometimes cats vocalize more if they lose their hearing. I would also suggest getting him dewormed due to his hunting. I hope this helps and good luck!