Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Hi Tipawd community/vet,
I have a question about my cat. He is 9 years old, a little over a year post op from a front leg amputation. He used to be an indoor/outdoor cat but for obvious reasons he is indoor only now. He cries CONSTANTLY to go outside- like constantly. He has these deep, mournful meows. It makes me so sad, it drives me absolutely crazy, and he seems miserable. I have tried harnesses, he hates them. I have tried supervised time outside, but it seems to make him even more crazy because he cries even more to get out. He is truly uninterested in toys (always has been), and has a cat tower and plenty of spaces to climb and look out the window. It just doesn't seem like its enough for him. Other than the crying, he is very social and we give him A LOT of attention, play with him, etc. Uses the bathroom regularly- so he doesn't really exhibit other 'symptoms' of depression, other than crying all the time.
I LOVE my cat, he is perfect- a kind and gentle, wonderful soul. He is also driving me absolutely bonkers. I don't know what to do! I thought it would get better with time, but it hasn't. I'm wondering if putting him on some antidepressant would be a good option? Any advice on how to proceed? I feel like I've read and tried everything besides pharmaceuticals but it just doesn't work with him.
Great question for Dr. Pam. I'm curious to know her thoughts.
It's sooo hard to keep a cat inside when they were used to having outdoor access. You are such a great cat mom for looking out for his safety by keeping him inside now. But I totally get how tricky this situation is!
Have you considered building out a catio for him? They are such a great way to give a cat the freedom of the outdoors without getting into any dangerous situations. Our friends at Catio Spaces even have plans for window catios in apartments and small condos.
You can try the catio; those are great but he still will probably cry to go out unless you can somehow attach it to the house.
You can try medications; Buspar works the fastest and I have used that before for other behavioral issues. Fluoxetine (Prozac) can also be helpful it just takes a while to kick in. Gabapentin has minor sedating effects that also may help. I think the goal would be to put him on medication for a few months and never let him out again then see if you can wean him off.
Contacting a board certified animal behaviorist is ideal if there is one in your area.
Pam
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