UrbanAnimal

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Dear UrbanAnimal,

Almost 16 years ago I adopted two kittens, Fred and Ginger, from the same litter. Ginger died last week of kidney failure and Fred appears to be depressed. He was always a vocal cat but, at the risk of sounding like a crazy woman, his meow is now very plaintive. He follows me throughout the house and appears to be searching for his sister. He's off his food but will eat small amounts from my hand and he's still drinking water. Fred is almost 16 years old and I don't know if I should get him another cat for company. Is there anything else I can do for him?

Caley

I'm so sorry to hear about your cat, Caley, and I think you're correct that Fred is grieving the loss of his sibling. Much has been written about the grieving process in humans who have lost a beloved pet but we're now learning our pets can be similarly affected.

My own experience tells me that pets that are missing their pack members (whether human or animal) can react in a number of ways. Some may seem oblivious while others react much like Fred with signs that can include lethargy, loss of appetite, changes in vocalization and clinginess.

Should you get another cat to help Fred cope? Unfortunately, I don't think anyone can answer this question for you since each cat will react differently and Fred may greet a newcomer with delight, neutrality or resentment. But you know him best and since he's not able to tell you, you'll need to decide which route to take.

You identified yourself as a "crazy woman" but, in reality, you've formed such a strong bond with these cats that you're able to identify every change in Fred's behaviour. It's not a case of being crazy, it's a case of love and compassion and I think you're wonderful for taking the time to find the best solution to help Fred through this trying period.

According to Pam Johnson-Bennett, a U.S.-based feline behaviourist, "Don't be in a rush to get another cat until your kitty has gone through the grieving process. Rushing this decision can cause him to become extremely hostile toward a newcomer. Too many owners rush their pets by forcing them to deal with a new pet on top of all the other confusing emotions they're feeling."

My best advice is to take Fred to your veterinarian for a checkup if it appears that he's taking "too long" to adjust to the change in his life. It's reassuring that he's still drinking water and eating, even if it's given by hand but, just like people, an extensive grieving process can compromise health and a checkup may be in order to make sure Fred remains healthy.

Your veterinarian can also help you decide if adopting another cat might be just what Fred needs to perk him up. Also, spend more time playing with him and try using a happy, upbeat voice whenever you speak to him. Animals are adept are mirroring our emotions. This is a sad time for you and Fred and I hope you'll soon be able to exchange the sadness for the wonderful memories you have of Ginger.

The Ontario Veterinary College at University of Guelph offers a Pet Loss Support Hotline at 519-824-4120, ext. 53694.

Note: I received the following from Tressie Dutchyn of Ferret Rescue Society of Ottawa in response to my recent column on ferrets: "For the most part you represented this vibrant little animal well. However, I wish to correct an error.

"Ferrets should never be fed fruits or vegetables. They are carnivores and cannot break down the components in fruits and vegetables, which can cause obstructions and, in the case of raisins, even renal failure. And, technically, spayed 'jills' are referred to as 'sprites' and neutered males are 'gibs'. I did enjoy the article - it's nice to see a positive spin on these amazing animals."

Thank you for your input, Tressie.

E-mail jacque-newman@rogers.com with a question, comment or suggestion.