My family’s pets; Grace the Maine Coon

Grace is my mother’s cat, and like my own pets, she came into our family a rescue cat, but at first, she wasn’t all that she appeared to be. Named by my mum after the character in the books by Peter James, Grace was dumped at the reception where I used to work as a veterinary nurse. She was found, emaciated, and covered in old infected wounds. Upon examination she would lie flat to the table, scared of being touched, we guessed she was around two or three years old at this time. In order to start dressing and cleaning the wounds she had to have a full-body clip, this is when I noticed the type of fur she had. The fur texture was very dense and I was almost sure she was a Maine Coon.

A gentle giant, badly treated

Maine Coons get their name as they are the official state cat of Maine in the United States. Known for their large build, thick fur which has two layers, and long bushy tails, Maine Coons are very usually very playful and intelligent but Grace, it would seem, had been abused. She was left with a contact telephone number that did not exist. So, she remained with us at the surgery while we supported her through her recovery. During this time she came into season, so she may have been a stud cat and used for breeding. However, she would cower, scared when people approached her, especially men.

A new home, a time to heal

Once she was fully recovered it was time to find Grace a home. My brother had always wanted a Maine Coon, he lives with my mum, so we decided to let Grace go to them, and she has been with them now for about seven years. She was nursed back to health, her wounds treated with antibiotics and eventually, her fur grew back. Like many Maine Coon she has big tuffs on her ears, a big chin, and likes water and climbing. She is still very scared, won’t use a cat flap, and sits under shrubs, running in should anything spook her.

Sadly the life she once had has taken its toll on her bones. After appearing very quiet and unable to jump onto her favourite window ledge, radiographs were recently taken. They showed she has very severe arthritis.

Arthritis in cats

At least 90% of cats get Arthritis and will hide their pain and discomfort. It is not something you may notice right away but gradually over time, you may see slight behaviour changes. Your cat may not jump to higher places as they would do, they may seek out warmer places. As cats are solitary animals they will not show pain as much and usually just get on with this condition, so it is important to understand these changes and help your cat grow older comfortably. It can be treated with anti-inflammatory medications, which need to have a prescription, please ask your vet for details. There are plenty of supplements available and also feeds that are beneficial for those that have arthritis. Owners can also help with home management, by elevating bowls, allowing stepping stones access to get up to favourite places, putting bedding in warmer spots, bringing in a litter tray, and make life more comfortable. Alternative treatments include acupuncture and laser therapy, again ask your veterinary practice if these are available.

Senior cats

If you do have issues with your cat, feel free to get in touch, I offer nail clipping services and cat behavioural services.