This month, we’re celebrating the lovely Henry, the beautiful 14-year-old Ragdoll who has truly stolen our hearts!
Henry helping his owner (he's very good at it)
Henry was rehomed around a year ago after his previous owner sadly had to go into care. As you can imagine, that was a big life change for a senior cat, and Henry was understandably a nervous and sensitive boy. To help reduce his stress and make vet care easier for him, we’ve been seeing him through home visits, where he feels much more relaxed and can be his sweet, affectionate self.
Hello Henry!
Recently, Henry’s owner noticed a few worrying changes; he was urinating little and often, having difficulty passing poo, seeming stiff, and showing some unusual behaviours that just didn’t seem like himself.
These changes can sometimes be subtle in senior cats, but they can be an important sign that something more is going on. Henry’s owner did exactly the right thing by getting him checked.
Henry making sure everything is in order
After some initial tests with us, Henry was referred for a specialist scan to help us get a clearer picture of what might be causing his symptoms.
Henry having some cuddles with Nurse Estelle at a home visit
Although Henry is usually much more settled and cooperative during his home visits, the referral environment was understandably very stressful for him. He became much more difficult to handle there, which is not unusual for nervous cats in unfamiliar settings, and he needed sedation so the team could examine him safely and complete the scan.
Henry’s results confirmed one of his kidneys had shrivelled and was no longer functioning properly, meaning that the other kidney was compensating by becoming larger. This on top of his arthritis, as well as signs of cognitive dysfunction.
Getting work done like no other!
The good news is that Henry is now on medication to help manage his arthritis and supplements to help support his brain, and we’re very happy to say that he is doing well!
Senior cats can develop several changes at once, and Henry’s case is a lovely reminder of just how important it is to pay attention to subtle signs and investigate them early.
Henry enjoying the wonderful kitty creation that is lick-e-lix
Henry continues to be such a lovely patient and an absolute pleasure to care for. We’re so pleased we’ve been able to help him feel more comfortable.
Well done, Henry - you’re the bravest boy. You are a very deserving March Cat of the Month!
The comfiest, cosiest boy
Add comment
Comments