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The litter tray

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Elderly cat strongly smelling of urine.

3 replies

sundayslush · 19/04/2026 13:04

Our old girl who is nearly 18 has been getting thinner over the past few months. Still eats ok but we’ve noticed she doesn’t groom herself as well and she’s looking very ratty now.

This morning I’ve come down to a very strong smell of urine and have realised it’s her - she is reeking.

Is this possibly a urine infection or kidneys failing? I will take her to the vet tomorrow but I’m not sure if it will be a euthanasia conversation or something that can be treated. She isn’t a cat that will tolerate daily tablets nor a lot of vet visits or intervention - she’s been mainly an outdoorsy cat.

Any idea on how best to proceed? Poor baby, I feel sorry for her as she’s quite rickety so I don’t want to prolong pain or suffering but she’s eating ok, drinking more though and is sleeping in odd places. I think she’s unhappy but as animals do is powering through. I don’t want the vet thinking I’m heartless and want her gone.

OP posts:
pinneddownbytabbies · 19/04/2026 13:25

Yes, it could be progressive kidney failure, and it is fairly common in senior cats. They do start smelling of wee. Take her to the vet and ask for advice about whether there's something you could do about her diet.

As long as an animal is contented in themselves and not in distress or pain, these things can be managed. Your vet will tell you if they think her time has come. So be prepared for that conversation just in case.

Flowers
Selloonacup · 19/04/2026 13:27

Yes this is one for the vet.

I don’t want the vet thinking I’m heartless and want her gone.

This is the last thing the vet will think. Being open to a conversation about quality of life and when to PTS is a sign of a good owner.

BillieWiper · 19/04/2026 14:05

Yeah it could well be kidney failure. Or lots of illnesses like cancer make it too painful for them to groom their back end. Weight loss while eating could be a number of quite serious things too.

Once poor kitty isn't able to clean himself properly and keeps losing weight it can mean it's sadly nearly the end. You wouldn't want them to suffer any more than necessary. 18 is a good age. I'm sure he had a very happy fulfilling life. X

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