Cat has Cancer what to do now?

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Emsie971
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Hi

so my cat is 16 years old, she was a rescue and has had various health issues over her years.

she was diangosed with intestinal lymphoma 2 years ago and it has been somewhat difficult finding food she will eat that doesnt get her awful toilet.  I have sort of got there with that.

At the time of her diagnosis she had lost a lot of weight, but this was due to another issue (blockage, had surgergy, cost £12,000, and now she has to be flushed every 6 months).

She has never regained the weight but remained stable.

My problem now is daily, and yes it is daily, she is pooing and weeing outside her litter trays.  She has 3 of them and sometimes just goes right next to them.  they are clean and in quiet places.

She is also sick most day, not brining her food up, its like a white foam, apparently this is common in her condition.

Its really causing me a lot of stress.  I am of course cleaning the areas but I just cant continue. But i love her to bits.

Part of me thinks it time to let her go, but then I feel bad, and think just get on with it...

Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

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    Ginglis-ext
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    Hi Emsie971,

    I'm so sorry to hear things have been so difficult with your girl. Caring for an older cat with chronic illness is incredibly stressful, and it sounds like you’ve already done so much for her out the love you have for her, but I do understand it must feel very overwhelming at times. 

    With the toileting, a few things that may help in situations like this (especially with older or cats) are more about making things easier for them as opposed to actual training:

    • Using a very low-sided litter tray, or even a puppy pad in and around the tray itself can help, as urgency or discomfort may make it difficult for her to get properly positioned.
    • Placing a tray or pad exactly where she's choosing to go- and using an enzygmatic cleaner to clean the other areas. Even when we can't smell it, cats sometimes still can, which may draw them back to the same spot.
    • Trying different litter textures (sore joints and GI difficulty can make some substrates harder for older cats to use)
    • Placing a large waterproof mat underneath the area- this isn't a solution in itself obviously, but it may help minimise stress and clean up for you. 

    Your vet may also be able to advise on some GI options for sensitive stomachs, and possibly also some pain relief if you feel she is experiencing discomfort. 

    You’re clearly doing your best for her during such an emotional and challenging time, and she’s very lucky to have you supporting her with so much commitment and dedication. Wishing you both all the best, and I hope the above may at least help a little with the day to day.

    Greta, BSc. (Hons), applied animal behaviour

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