Advice for my sister's cat.

[bmccasland]

Pets do react to the stress in the house. Since Lorelei's family has been dealing with her illness for so long, maybe Kitty needs a foster home for a while, and to be seen by a Vet. Between being in a stable calm home, and being treated for her medical issues, hopefully she'll recover.

I know Lorelei's family loves Kitty, but she is a living creature that needs love and attention too, and if the family can't manage that because Lorelei is taking all their energy, then Kitty deserves a new home. It is a sad conundrum.

[Kris]

They could try calling the vet and explaining the situation. Some vets do charity work, or will make arrangements to be paid "whenever".
If that doesn't work, I think the idea of finding another place for the kitty, either temporarily or permanently is a good one. If friends or family won't help, get the kitty on the waiting list for a no-kill shelter.

[PamNY]

From what I've heard, the Feliway is worth a try.

Pets do react to stress in the family. Rehoming an animal under such circumstances is truly an act of love.

My very best wishes to all who are involved in this situation, and all who try to help.

[Brandi]

Thank you all for the advice! We have talked a few times today about it. I have passed on the advice from you all. She can't imagine giving him away unless it was to me. And since I am on the road right now with work that would be hard. But the tone in her voice was very "Please don't ask me to do that". They are going to take him to the vet. I have told her to start giving him a better food right now too and start bushing him at least once a day for the attention. I know my cats love it.
One of my kitties rip out his hair on his belly when we are away from stress I am sure. But it is tiny spots. And his siter is a huge help for him to stay busy. I wonder if he had another cat? Yea just what they need another mouth to feed. Stupid! (smacking my head)

[bmccasland]

I wonder if he had another cat? Yea just what they need another mouth to feed. Stupid! (smacking my head)

No not really. I started with one cat, who would get in trouble while I was at work, then drive me crazy when I came home. Duh, she was waiting for her playmate! My vet suggested I get her a friend - so off I went to the local shelter and adopted another kitty 6 months younger than her. Took about 24 hours before I caught her in the act of grooming him. They've been friends ever since. Bonnie is now 16 and Herald (her Christmas present) is 15.

So Lorelei's Kitty might take to a playmate of her own species. But making sure she gets a little human quality time like brushing is definitely good too. All the while the human is telling her that she's a sweet pretty kitty and is loved.