Time to let go?

[stairlift]

About 5 years ago we took on a cat that had been abandoned by a neighbour.l - a long haired ginger Tom
He was in a sorry state; wouldn't go near anyone and had to be neutered and shaved.

We were originally told he was probably about 3 but when we moved vets they thought he was much closer to 10-12.

We also suspect he has been hit by a car at some point as he walks very stiffly and has never groomed himself resulting in annual shaving under sedation as he won't let anyone do it for him.

He probably sounds like a nightmare from this description but we love him!

However over the last year or so he has been increasingly searching for food and although eating tons is getting skinnier and skinnier. What is probably the clincher for me is that he's soiling round the house now and not bothering to use his litter tray.

He had tests about a year ago for the weight loss and was put in thyroid meds but it just seems to be getting worse.

I've probably answered my own question from the above but time to let go?

First of all, thank you for giving him a loving and supportive home after what must have been a traumatic and sad time for him.

I would have a chat with your vet. Our old boy is getting slower and stiffer but our vet said she would let us know when it is time.

In your heart you know what is best. You have given him happy, safe and loved later years and eventually, whenever it comes, an ending with dignity which is what we all want after all.

Very best wishes for whatever decision you make.

I think if you are asking yourself the question, it may be time. But speak to your vet.

Thank you for your gentle words. Will see how things go over next few months and take it from there...

I was just coming to post a very similar question to yours @stairlift.

My 16 year old girl has irritable bowel disease - she doesn't wash any more, her fur is dull, she's constantly stealing food but getting skinnier, and soils around the house numerous times a day (horrid runny diarrhea, and has even done it a couple of times on the kitchen work surface 😩).

Part of me thinks she must be in distress, but she's still going outside, and lays in front of the fire at night. But dealing with a cat who is toileting in the house is awful, and you have my sympathy.

I don't know what to do for the best either. So no advice, just solidarity ❤️

Sorry to hear you're in the same boat.
So difficult to make the right call but will see what the vet thinks. I can deal with most things but the constant defecting in random places 🤮

How are you getting on @stairlift? My little cat has taken a turn for the worse, just sitting by her water but not drinking and looking very miserable 😔

I think as some other posters said, you know when it's time. I knew my girl was unwell but before today I didn't think it was time. Now, I think it might be. You know your little cat best - you'll be able to tell ❤️