Cat’s skin condition troubles owner

Dear Dr. Fox: My old cat is suffering from hyperesthesia syndrome. Are there any home remedies that I can try for him? M.K., St. Louis

Dear M.K.: Hyperesthesia syndrome is as yet a condition of unknown cause and is not uncommon in cats. It is associated with agitation and anxiety, with the skin rippling and the cat becoming hypersensitive to touch during an episode.

In all cases, I would advise the veterinarian to check first for hyperactive thyroid, which can bring on somewhat similar symptoms — especially when the cat pulls on its fur and engages in self-mutilation.

Wrapping the cat in a towel while comforting and cradling it can help during an episode. Some people have found that giving the cat dried catnip herb can also have a calming effect. An approximate dose of 1/4 teaspoon of dried catnip in the morning and early evening may help, although some cats don’t respond to catnip.

At bedtime, I would also give 1 to 3 mg of melatonin. If you have difficulty pilling your cat, crush the tablet in a little canned sardine.

Your veterinarian may wish to prescribe Prozac, which can help alleviate anxiety, or low-dose Gabapentin. Also discuss a nutraceutical supplement to increase brain serotonin, such as tryptophan or L-theanine.

I would also advise feeding your cat a good-quality canned, frozen or freezedried cat food that’s free of corn and other cereals and of additives.

AVMA BOARD CONTINUES TO OPPOSE DEVOCALIZATION, EXCEPT AS LAST RESORT

The AVMA board of directors decided not to update the organization’s stance on canine devocalization, which should be performed only “by qualified, licensed veterinarians as a final alternative to euthanasia after behavioral modification to correct excessive vocalization has failed and after discussion of potential complications from the procedure with the owner.” The AVMA’s Animal Welfare Committee recommended reaffirming the policy and developing educational resources for veterinarians and owners of dogs that exhibit undesirable barking. (From JAVMA News, Dec. 12.)

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