21 year old cat changed behaviour

My 21 year old cat has always been a inside cat now he stays outside even in the heat and rain. I bring him in and he eats then runs back outside. It is like he is afraid in house. He used to sit in lap and let us rub/pet him now he is panicking to get back outside. He is eating and drinking when u bring him in but then right back outside. Should I be worried? Thanks Rose

Reply
Hi
Have you checked your cat for fleas and also your house. I know this sounds odd but i have known cats who don't want to walk on floors because they know there are fleas there. Its only a possibility though.

As your cat is very old now he may be suffering from some sort of dementia which may be changing his behavior patterns. it may be that he simply feels safer outside. Your never know he may have eye sight problems and feels that the enclosed house is a bit claustrophobic for him.

My advice would be to take him to the vets for a through health check. he will check his eyes and ears etc and see if there are any possible reasons for your cats change in behavior.

I don't think it is anything to be overly worried about and is most likely just age related and a change in behavior but it is worth having him checked over just in case.

senior-cat.html

best wishes kate

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