Problems with eating

Question
I have a 17 yr old cat who has always been an indoor cat.  Lately i have noticed her limping her back legs and the past few days she hasn't eaten much if anything.  I am concerned about her but im unable to bring her to the vet.  For once you cant pick her up and never have been able to and she would go nuts at the vet and wouldnt even let the vet touch her.  Any suggestions or ways i can get her to eat?

Thank you

Answer
Hello Rikki,
There are many, many reasons your cat is limping and has decreased appetite. After all, she is quite old and 14-16 is generally reported as the average lifespan of most cats. She may be sick, so I would do anything in your power to get her to the vet - she may not like it, but sometimes there are veterinarians that can make housecalls, so you may wish to look for one of them, or at least call a veterinarian and see if they have any advice.

For now, I would try and buy her some rich, wet cat food as opposed to dry. One of my cats is 17 years old as well, and although he doesn't limp, he is visibly weaker, has teeth problems, and thyroid problems. The thyroid problems make him extremely hunger, however, but he will not eat dry food because it hurts his teeth. Wet food is preferable to most cats anyway, so I would try feeding her some very rich wet food.

However, I think it is very important that you receive the opinion of a veterinarian one way or another. Even if you can't bring her in, I'm sure they can talk to you on the phone or make a housecall for your cat, and they will probably be a much bigger help than myself. For the time being, try to give her food that you know she likes, and food that has high nutrient content (fats, carbohydrates, proteins), so that when she eats, she doesn't have to eat as much.

I think this likely coincides with her old age, but it is worth a professionals opinion. Best of luck.