Older, spayed cat that howls frequently

Question
Norm,

Hello.  We have an older female cat (12-14 yrs per the vet) that howls frequently, day and night - sometimes even when in the same room as us.  We rescued her about 4 months ago; she was abandoned, flea-ridden, anemic, etc.  She's much healthier now - vet did blood work, antibiotics, etc., over last few months and she's been on thyroid medication for 3 months.  We thought that would reduce the howling, but in the last few weeks, it's been increasing.  Several times a day and night.  The vet believes she's been spayed.  Our kitty is very sweet, loving, affectionate and spunky for an older cat, but the howling is keeping us up at night.  She's an indoor cat that also likes to go explore the backyard often.  Can you help us narrow the possible reasons and suggest some steps to get this under control?  Health and being 'in heat' don't seem to be the issue here.  Thanks.


Answer
Don,

It sounds to me as if she is exhibiting behavior of being in season.  However at age 12-14, she should no longer be displaying symptoms of being in season.

Are you sure she is spayed?  It is possible that if she has been spayed, the vet who spayed her did not get everything and she is still producing hormones consistent with being in season.  Your vet can test for this.

It is also possible that there is another cat coming around at outside night to which your cat is strenuously objecting.

If her hormone levels are correct for a spayed cat, and there are no other cats hanging around your house at night, then I cannot think of any reason she would engage in this howling behavior.  I suppose you could try something like prozac to relax this cat.

One point to remember is that once a cat is over 10 years old, it should be considered geriatric.  Other than that I really do not know what to suggest.

I am sorry I cannot be of more help.

Best regards... Norm.