Question:
We have an indoor cat. She is 15 years old and has always lived inside. She's a large cat (not fat, just tall and long) and has been in good health.
One morning a month or so ago, she opened her mouth but no sound came out. What causes this problem? She tries, but no sound. She eats her dry and canned food and drinks plenty of water (no milk, though).
K.H., Chesapeake, Va Dec 26, 2011
Answer:
If your cat used to meow audibly (and some cats never do) and she now seems to be trying to communicate but is incapable of making a sound, a veterinary examination is called for.
There are various medical conditions that can result in paralysis of the cat's vocal cords, including viral infections, cancer and stroke. For your peace of mind, I would advise a veterinary appointment. She may have lost her voice for reasons that will never be known, but her attempt to vocalize could mean she is in pain, perhaps from arthritis -- a common, distressing affliction of older cats. The veterinarian will consider this and other possible geriatric issues needing professional attention.
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