12-yr old siamese female behaviour problems

Question
I have known our cat, Zoe, for 7 of her 12yrs. My husband had her from a kitten.  Since I've known her she seems to have a severe problem with vomiting her food up (everyday)!  Also, she has been around children all her life, but when we had our daughter 3 yrs ago, she got worse, adding urinating and pooping around the house.  Is it a jealousy issue or some other underlying problem?

Answer
Hi Trish.  I would get her to the vet.  Vomiting daily is a concern.  It could indicate obstructions, cancer, parasitic infections, or Inflammatory Bowel Disease, a serious illness that requires treatment before complications arise.

I will say, though, that vomiting is very common in Siamese cats.  One, they have sensitive bellies.  Two, they tend not to chew.  Many of my Siamese do best on canned food only diets.  Requires less chewing, less digesting.  If you want to feed dry, you could try a food with large pieces, like Nutro Natural or Royal Canin's Siamese formula, which will encourage her to chew before swallowing, or soak her regular dry food with warm water before serving.  Just be sure to discard leftovers after 2 hours.

The urinating and pooping around the house is another thing that may be related to health issues.  Or, it may be completely behavioral.  If the vet rules out physical issues, you can try:

1.  Feliway.  This product helps reduce stress-related litter box problems.  Personally, I recommend the diffuser, called Comfort Zone for cats.  It's available at pet stores and through their website, www.felineway.com.

2.  Cat Attract.  It's a litter that uses herbs to encourage cats to use their litter box.  It's money back guaranteed.  Learn more and find a retailer at www.preciouscat.com.

3.  Wash any soiled areas with an enzymatic cleaner, such as Nature's Miracle, available at pet stores.  I personally use Greased Lightning Orange Blast, available in the auto section at most stores.  This will remove the scent of the stain.

4.  If all else fails, consider treating her with an antidepressant.  Most times, the treatment can be discontinued after a few months, once she's been on good beahvior for some time.