17 year old at staying out in rain

[Grannyworrywart]

I am worried about my baby. She always went out, used the toilet, then came back in again when it was raining, now she just sits outside in a sheltered spot, looking forelorn. No matter what I do she won't come in. On the other hand, when my husband calls her she comes straight away.

She is also not eating as she used to. I keep trying her on different food and the only thing she really likes is Lik-e-Lix, cat yoghurt.

I know she is getting old and I know I should take her to the vet, but she gets really scared going in the car and I don't want to cause her any trauma.

Take her to the vet, regardless of how much she hates it.

Bring her in and take her to the vet for a check up. She might need her teeth sorted out. Also get some chicken breasts, white fish, something that's a real treat to see if she's tempted to eat them.

Some vets will come out to your house, might be worth looking into if you think the car will be too difficult for her

My old boy was a bit like this, he spent a huge amount of time outside in the last year of his life (aged 20 when he finally went). We ended up putting a tent outside for him which he loved. .

And I concur with everyone else - I would definitely sort a vet appointment.