Our diabetic cat is licking her litter.

[hollihedge]

Can anyone offer advice please? Our 14 year old diabetic girl has started licking her cat litter. She has been a little quiet for the last couple of days but we had out this down to the heat as she has very thick long haired fur. We are going to make an appointment to see the vet tomorrow but any advice gratefully received.
Many thanks.

[Mrs Kane]

It's possible that your cat has anaemia. When cats have a low blood count they will start to crave odd things( It's called pica syndrome. Cats can get it at any time but it's normally down to some kind of chemical imbalance). Litter is a typical one because it contains salt. If she's also licking you more than normal that's a sure sign. You excrete salt through the pores of your skin.
I would check your cat's gums. If they are very pale then I would recommend (after consulting with a vet) giving her Vitamin B or Iron supplements. You can also get Anabolic steroids if the problem is severe but for that you will need to get a check-up.
Has she been very sleepy lately or seemed like little things will make her lie down? (I know the weather is a factor here but is she overly exhausted?) If so I think maybe you need to take her to the vets and check and see if her medication is up to par.

I hope my theory is correct. But I also hope that your cat is having a weird weekend and is perfectly fine. Either way I hope she feels better soon!

[Millie]

Two of our cats do similar things - one licks concrete and bricks, and the other likes to chew on plastic bags!
We've been told it's nothing to worry about. Both these cats have quite a few allergies, and the vets told us that physical health problems with cats can also result in mental health problems. Apparently the licking and chewing is an effect of this.
Also, the fact that your cat is diabetic may indicate that she feels she is lacking something in her diet, hence the craving (as mentioned earlier).

[Crewella]

I wondered about pica as well, this page will give you some general info that might help:

http://pets.webmd.com/cats/guide/unusual-cat-cravings

[hollihedge]

Many thanks all. Our Pumpkin has spent the weekend at the emergency vets (was indeed found to be anaemic) and has now spent the day at a specialist referral centre about 25 miles from us. They have done an ultrasound and she unfortunately has suspected GI lymphoma. We are waiting aspirate results and bloods on Wednesday and if they are not conclusive she may need an endoscopy and biopsy. She can hopefully have chemo if it is lymphoma, but we are worried sick. She is home with us whilst we await the results. She is being such a brave girl xxx

[JulieJulie]

I was told that cancer drains all the nutrients from your cat so they have to get more vitamins etc and cat litter of certain types can contain these. I took my Lucy off the treats (chicken tuna etc) and onto the professional foods (luxury ranges as she has oral issues ) and straight away she stopped eating the litter. Perhaps talk to your get about supplements too.

[Mrs Kane]

Sorry to hear that lymphoma might be the problem Fingers crossed that it isn't.

Lots of kisses and hugs to her from me!

[Mayday21]

Hi Hollyhedge hope things are ok for Pumpkin. Thinking of you & your fur baby. Vivian

[booktigger]

Fingers crossed it isn't lymphoma

[hollihedge]

Thanks all - we are worried sick. Some more bloods back today at specialist centre - still anaemic (bit worse) and others up and down. Tomorrow is D day as aspirate results back

[Crewella]

Everything crossed for her (((hugs))).

[hollihedge]

Thanks Crewella. Pumpkin does sadly have GI lymphoma. I have posted detail on the other thread which I think you have posted on.

Thanks for your support xx