QUESTION

Two years ago, my 16 year old tabby was given 6 months to live due to extensive cancer in her intestinal tract and bowels. I have been taking her for chemotherapy and steroid treatments and she seems to be doing well. She has the occasional times when she rejects food and she has dropped from 15 lbs down to 5 1/2 lbs, but she is holding steady at the lower weight. Lately, however, she has taken to using any surface she can find to leave her bowel movements. I wouldn't care if it were just the carpets - they are easily cleaned and replaceable. She has taken to using the couches in both the family room and living room, she has used my bed, (where she also sleeps, so I found that highly unusual), and throw pillows. If I kick off my shoes and leave them on the floor, she will eliminate on them. I have two litter boxes in the house for her, but she only uses them to pee in. The solid waste goes everywhere else. I started locking off the family room and living room and leaving her with only the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom to use. I am ready to lock off the bedroom as well. I have attributed this behavior to her medical condition, but at times, it seems almost malicious. What can I do to get her to stop?

Susan Taraschuk

ANSWER

It is highly unlikely your cat is messing in the house in a deliberate or malicious way.

Much more likely is the medication, or a combination of her condition and the medication. It is, unfortunately, unlikely that there is any way to avoid the problem.

Some cats (and dogs) develop an old age related problem where they defecate in unusual places, a bit like senility.

Julian Norton