#nugbug

Today’s blog is about Nuggets! We know him to be about 14-15 years old. He was originally from Modesto (according to his chip) but was found by my hubby in Turlock wandering around on the streets. My mother in law took care of him for almost 10 years when she couldn't anymore and gave him to my hubby and I on Christmas Eve 2019. On Christmas Day we took him to the vet since he was very sick and he was diagnosed with diabetes. In addition to diabetes, he has chronic kidney disease, arthritis, and some constipation. He recently a few months ago suffered from pancreatitis. He is an older, senior cat with issues but it doesn't make him less loving! 

He really is a good cat. He loves his long cat naps. He loves to EAT! That is his favorite hobby and he eats everything! He is not a picky cat at all. He loves to spend time with his humans when he is awake usually snuggling with us on the couch. He can't jump anymore but he can climb stairs still. During the past year, we nursed him back to health. He is on insulin and medication for nerve pain/arthritis and constipation as well but he is doing very very well! Bright eye, good energy and overall a sassy cat! 

I would say it’s not easy to take care of a senior cat. You definitely need to provide the care and time for medications and doctor appts. You need to be accommodating to the senior cats wants and needs. Whether it’s changing the water a few times a day (he makes a mess with his dirty paws sometimes), giving him extra hydration with water pouches/stews. Whether it’s carrying him to certain spots that he can’t reach. Nuggets is a big boy too (17lbs) so getting him an extra large litter box is needed. Most stores do not sell extra large litter boxes so I did a make shift box from a plastic storage box and cutting an extra large hole so he can crawl in and do his business. It’s all about being accommodating and making sure he has what he needs for disease and pain management and ease of lifestyle.