behaviour problem

[Donna]

Found this on a problem site for feeding pets. Dont know if this helps at all:


Thin Maine Coon Cat
Q: I have a 3 year old silver and white Maine Coon cat. He does not seem
to exhibit many of the traits of his breed. First, and foremost of my concerns, is
the fact that although has has a very large frame, he always seems thin.
He has a good appetite, but he is not a competitive eater (he shares
his world with 3 other cats, all indoor) He ways about 9 or 10 pounds
which I know is not what he should be weighing. He has been tested
for everything including FIP and FIV. He had a lot of nervous problems
when he was younger that included incessant scratching that literally took
the fur and skin off of his head. He out grew that and seems more relaxed
all around. Is there something that I can supplement his diet with, or perhaps
some high-calorie food that I should try him on? Also, he has incredibly long
fur that mats like nothing that I have ever dealt with. Even when I have him
groomed, he looks like you-know-what within minutes. I have a groomer's
comb that does seem to work on the mats but the poor kiity sees me coming
and beats a hasty retreat...any suggestions? Thanks! Carole A: Carole-It is usually pretty easy to add calories to any diet and it doesn't affect
the rest of the diet much (doesn't usually alter the vitamin/mineral balance, etc.).
Just add a teaspoon of vegetable oil to the food you normally use to add calories
to the diet. Before you do this it would be a good idea to ask your vet if he or she
agrees that your cat is underweight. It sounds like he may be but many people
want their pets to weigh more than they should. Also, it may be a good idea to
make sure that your vet checked for cardiomyopathy. It sounds like it from your
description of many tests being run but it is a difficult to diagnose disorder than
can lead to thinness and a "laid back" attitude.

[Donna]

You have got me thinking now!!!! Do think Chloe could benefit from a few extra calories!!!


Problems Gaining Weight

Some older cats may be at risk for becoming underweight. In fact, a greater proportion of older cats is underweight than for any other age group.

Older cats may eat less because they lack the desire to eat or because of a decrease in their sense of smell or taste. Dental problems or chronic disease conditions also may contribute. Some older cats may consume the same amount of food but are less efficient at digesting or absorbing nutrients, perhaps due to disease.

If poor appetite is a problem, intake may be encouraged by:

• choosing a palatable super-premium diet;
• moistening dry food;
• warming food to body temperature;
• offering fresh food frequently;
• encouraging the cat during feeding;
• minimizing noise and stress during feeding.

Another cause for weight loss could be a change to a lower-calorie diet recommended for older cats. If an individual cat is not inactive, consumption of a lower-calorie diet may lead to inappropriate weight loss.

For underweight cats, it is important to be sure they receive adequate calories to support their nutritional needs. If weight loss is not attributed to a specific diagnosis, a high-calorie, nutrient-dense food should be recommended. Most geriatric diets are designed for low-calorie density and are not appropriate for these cats.

[Bengal Cat Rescue]

I've seen a number os 'black' Bengals recently all kittens. He could have some Bengal in him. Its common for them not to like being picked up and being very vocal.

i have a professional behaviourist who works with me, she is available by phone if you want to talk to someone.