Question:
I have a 12-year-old Persian cat. Within the past year, he developed a hyperactive thyroid, which we are treating with medication.Our problem is that within the past month or so he does not sleep through the night and generally doesn't sleep more than one or two hours at a time. He goes into our upstairs bath around 2 a.m. and begins to howl or cry loudly, which becomes louder and louder until someone comes up and stays with him.Could this behavior be connected to the thyroid disease, or could it be due to his age? We have taken him to see our veterinarian on several occasions but haven't had much success in solving this issue. Your professional advice would be greatly appreciated. We desperately need a good night's sleep.
A.K., Albany, NY Feb 03, 2008
Answer:
You join the ranks of many who get no sleep because their cat has developed what I term "nocturnal dysphoria." Another term is senile dementia. Some cats actually develop the equivalent of Alzheimer's disease. Other cats are restless at night because of chronic pain -- like that from arthritis. A hyperactive thyroid gland could also be a contributing factor.I recommend giving him a warm heating-pad-lined nest or heat lamp to sleep under. Give him a late-night snack of two tablespoons of chopped, very lightly cooked (parboiled) fresh turkey.If these measures do not help, ask the vet to prescribe Selegiline medication that can be an effective remedy for your cat -- and give you peaceful nights. Alternatively, under veterinary supervision, try a late evening dose of Valium or Valerian or a combination of melatonin and 5-HTP (hydroxytryptophan).
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