health and behavior

Question
Hello Amanda,We had two cats,one has left home 4 weeks ago young adult male (he was totally spoilt):2nd cat old female long hair and deaf, used to be an indoor cat and a lap cat whenever either of us sat down. Now, She lives outdoors and sleeps most of the time under a thick bush,coming in only to eat and go straight out again. Will not sit on our laps indoors or have anything to do with us (in and out fast) She will however, cry to sit on our laps when either of us in the garden. So we sit and give her some fuss: She has changed to her outdoor habit since "charlie" went missing: I have spent many late nights and early hours, trying to coax her indoors, but no go. She will sleep out in the rain get soaked and towelled dry, then she is out again. Yes, She howls to be let out: What a hard job to brush or comb her and of course her coat is matted and some fur balls under her neck."Precious" hates it, lets us know, cries,and goes out: We are at our wits end and worry.Must get her to a 'Vet'her nails want clipping as well. Going to be hard to get her for a 'Vets' appointment, but we are worried about her health: What would you suggest please:

Answer
Not much to worry about..... recently I've had a very similar situation.  I believe your kitty not only misses the other cat, but she's discovered the joys of outdoor living.  That is what most cats are meant to do.  After years of refusing to let my cats out due to fear, I finally gave in and thay are much happier now.  They spend time in the rain and only come in to eat then dash back out...... They're also healthier and losing extra weight.  They come in to sleep a bit every other day and nuzzle.
I would make sure to take Precious to the vet, have her shaved down for the summer (it's best for LH cats) update all her shots, make sure she's fixed, pop on a flea and tick collar and you should be all set.
Hope this helps.  Let me know how the vet visit goes!

Amanda