Indoor cat is sneaking around
Dear Dr. Forsythe: I am worried about my cat, who has recently started sneaking outside during the day and even stayed out overnight several times. How dangerous is it for him to become an indoor/outdoor cat instead of the indoor exclusive cat he was when I adopted him from Pets Lifeline?
JZ,
Sonoma
Dear JZ : There are several reasons why indoor cats live longer, safer lives. Cats that spend time outdoors can be hit by cars and suffer the detrimental effects of severe weather. They can be stolen and abused by cruel people. They can be mauled, killed by wild animals, aggressive dogs and sometimes get caught in traps. They can also become infected with parasites, bacteria and fungi from exposure in the environment.
Not to “bust you,” but the adoption contract from Pets Lifeline specifically states cats are to be kept indoors to avoid the risks I mentioned above. It would be so much better for your cat if you could make an effort to keep the kitty inside and out of harm’s way. In addition to honoring your adoption agreement, your pet would most likely live much longer and you would probably save a lot on veterinary bills as well! Thanks for your question.
Dr. F.
Dear Dr. Forsythe : Our cat “Tinkle” has gotten a big belly over the last year. Now her tummy sways back and forth. This started after she had her litter and got fixed. What is going on, she is only 3 years old now?
Does she have a problem?
Tammy,
Boyes Hot Springs
Dear Tammy : I call that belly you are referring to a “jungle pouch.” This is the mammary tissue that is no longer being used after your pet was spayed. Cats have eight mammary glands, I suspect after your cat finished nursing her litter, her breast tissue “dried” up, began to hang down, and creating the saggy tissue you are noticing. It is completely normal, and in my opinion, rather endearing to see. As long as you make sure Tinkle stays within normal weight, and you don’t feel any abnormal lumps or bumps in that “pouch,” there should be nothing to worry about.
Dr. F.
