Odd behavior: Twitching, darting off, and licking self vigorously
Question:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> The problem isn’t my vet. He had already told me about the changes in > protocols. The problem is state law, and the fact that I travel > frequently. > State law is the same here, and I also travel frequently. I wasn’t > recommending skipping the rabies vaccine; I was referring to other > vaccines. > I always get a health certificate when I drive or fly > out-of-state, and I do not want to take any chances that my cat would be > quarantined because I failed to comply with various state laws. In my > home state (Texas), for example, annual rabies vaccination is still > required. > As it is in my state. > At the same time, I really hate giving medications that could > potentially be harmful, particularly since my cat is always indoors. > The only cats she could come in contact with are my sister’s, when we > visit her in Ohio (and they are also indoor-only cats). > Then I’d skip the Feline Leukemia and FIP vaccinations. (and > actually, I now do.) > Laura > — > Thanks, Laura. I guess there was some miscommunication because it was actually rabies vaccine that I was talking about (state law requiring annual vaccination even though the vaccine is now certified for 3 years). I eliminated the other vaccinations a few years ago, on the advice of my vet. But thanks for the feedback. It helps to get information from various sources.
MaryL
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>First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very >quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his >body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking >it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From >looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person >pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway. I already ruled >out fleas; he doesn’t have them, and I use Frontline. I thought maybe >mosquitos were biting him but I don’t see any around.
My cat used to do this alot. She seems to have outgrown it. Chris
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>>First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very >quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his >body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking >it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From >looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person >pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway. I already ruled >out fleas; he doesn’t have them, and I use Frontline. I thought maybe >mosquitos were biting him but I don’t see any around. >My cat used to do this alot. She seems to have outgrown it.
If severe, the condition described is called feline hyperesthesia, or sometimes "rolling back syndrome." The condition is not well understood. According to my vet, if it only happens once in a while and for only a few seconds, it’s nothing much to be concerned about. Some cats react this way when stressed. If it becomes more frequent and longer duration, or if the cat becomes aggressive during attacks, there are a variety of treatments possible.
Response:
> > Thanks, Laura. I guess there was some miscommunication because it was actually rabies vaccine that I was talking about (state law requiring annual vaccination even though the vaccine is now certified for 3 years).
Ah, gotcha. This state (Pennsylvania) is the same way- requires yearly, even though it’s totally unnecessary. Frustrating, isn’t it? Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Megan, > This may depend on where you live. My sister lives in Ohio and gets > rabies vaccine every 3 years. I live in Texas, and laws here require > rabies vaccine every year (even though the vaccine is supposed to > provide protection for 3 years, as you say). My cat is an indoor-only > cat and I would like to avoid giving the vaccine any more often than the > protocols call for, but state law says otherwise. I’ll check with my > vet again this year, in case there have been changes. > The law here also requires annual rabies vaccination. However, some > vaccines are not indicated at all for indoor cats in closed > households, and Cornell’s studies over twenty years showed that three > years is a suitable revaccination interval in most cases. American > vets tend to be a little slower in accepting this research, it seems. > The best ones will perform titers to determine if the cat still has > sufficient antibodies and therefore doesn’t require revaccination > yet. The less enlightened simply push a plethora of vaccinations at > yearly intervals. > I can say from experience- if your vet is insistent on yearly > boosters, look for a new vet. > Laura > — > Laura,
The problem isn’t my vet. He had already told me about the changes in protocols. The problem is state law, and the fact that I travel frequently. I always get a health certificate when I drive or fly out-of-state, and I do not want to take any chances that my cat would be quarantined because I failed to comply with various state laws. In my home state (Texas), for example, annual rabies vaccination is still required. At the same time, I really hate giving medications that could potentially be harmful, particularly since my cat is always indoors. The only cats she could come in contact with are my sister’s, when we visit her in Ohio (and they are also indoor-only cats). MaryL
Response:
> The problem isn’t my vet. He had already told me about the changes in > protocols. The problem is state law, and the fact that I travel > frequently.
State law is the same here, and I also travel frequently. I wasn’t recommending skipping the rabies vaccine; I was referring to other vaccines. > I always get a health certificate when I drive or fly > out-of-state, and I do not want to take any chances that my cat would be > quarantined because I failed to comply with various state laws. In my > home state (Texas), for example, annual rabies vaccination is still > required.
As it is in my state. > At the same time, I really hate giving medications that could > potentially be harmful, particularly since my cat is always indoors. > The only cats she could come in contact with are my sister’s, when we > visit her in Ohio (and they are also indoor-only cats).
Then I’d skip the Feline Leukemia and FIP vaccinations. (and actually, I now do.) Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hello, > One of my cats has been repeating this odd behavior several times daily > for the last week. > First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very > quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his > body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking > it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From > looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person > pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway. I already ruled > out fleas; he doesn’t have them, and I use Frontline. I thought maybe > mosquitos were biting him but I don’t see any around. > I could be getting all worked up over nothing, but I am worried. > Otherwise he continues to be affectionate, seems to be eating normally > and has motor coordination. > The only thing in his life that changed this week is that we got some new > oak furniture (he hid under the bed for half a day when it came–it’s not > normal for him to be so skittish). He did stop hiding, though, started > exploring the new furniture, and seems okay with it now. I can’t think > of what this has to do with it, but anyway, there you have it. > Thanks in advance if you have any ideas. > Swedey
I have a cat with inhalant allergies and this is how he acted in the beginning. I have vigorously "de allergized" as much as I can. This behaviour has almost ceased now, but he does lick thin spots in his fur. I can’t find his "trigger", but HEPA purifier, closed windows and frequent vacuuming seem to help. Perhaps there is some allergen that came in on the new furniture. Is there any "cushion" material on the furniture? If so, try vacuuming it all thoroughly. Karen
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I once had a cat > that was afraid of Christmas trees — I’d get a little 4-foot tree, > and the cat would stay in the kitchen for the next day, terrified of > the new object in the living room.
Oh NO!! You just made me remember that I have to train a kitty all over again about Christmas trees come December!!!! AAAAAAAHHHHH!!! lol The new one is just about a year old right now and was a stray so there’s a good chance he’s never seen a Christmas tree! ;-)
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My guess would be flea allergy or some other irritation to the skin. This is the height of the flea season, and one bite is all it takes for the allergic animal to behave just as you describe. Worth a vet visit.
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>First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very >quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his >body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking >it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From >looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person >pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway.
Fleas. >I already ruled out fleas; he doesn’t have them, and I use Frontline.
It’s not perfect. We have a cat with a flea allergy, but if you go over him with a flea comb you find nothing, or maybe one flea after substantial combing. For a cat who’s either allergic, or not used to fleas, it only needs one to cause a problem. >I could be getting all worked up over nothing, but I am worried.
If he is otherwise normal then there is probably nothing much to be worried about, but a vet will hopefully be able to put your mind at rest.
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> > Hyperesthesia Syndrome > This sounds very accurate, except my cat doesn’t get violent or meow a > lot.
I’m no expert, but from the reading I’ve done, the symptoms vary; not all cats vocalize or react violently. > What is the prognosis for this syndrome? The web pages don’t > really say. Is is always progressive into a full-blown seizure disorder?
Nope. > Will it significantly shorten life?
Probably not. Generally, it’s just something that the cat "has", and doesn’t affect the cat’s life span. If it affects the cat’s quality of life, medications are sometimes tried. Which medication works depends on what’s causing the hyperesthesia- sometimes antidepressants do, other times anti-seizure drugs help. > He’s going to the vet anyway for annual vaccinations, so I will mention > this.
I’d be curious to hear what the vet has to say. Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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Ah, this is the condition I was thinking of. Thank you for posting Karen. As with Swedey’s cat our Molly is not aggressive, but she displays the other characteristics. I’m curious to see what the vet has to say. Many thanks –
> Our cat Molly has recently exhibited the same physical signs and behavior only > nothing is new in our environement. I have heard about an actual condition > that covers the desciption of her actions, but I have no idea what it’s called > so I can’t look it up.
Hyperesthesia Syndrome<
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I mean Laura! Thank you LAURA. Not sure where I got Karen from.
Ah, this is the condition I was thinking of. Thank you for posting Karen<
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I’m the one who suggested allergies. Karen
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I mean Laura! Thank you LAURA. Not sure where I got Karen from. vigorously > Ah, this is the condition I was thinking of. Thank you for posting Karen<
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> I mean Laura! Thank you LAURA. Not sure where I got Karen from.
I was kinda wondering that myself. 
Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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Ah, but now I know where I got Karen from…LOL! Thanks to all of you :) Early here on the west coast and I hadn’t sipped my coffee yet at the time I posted.
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>He’s going to the vet anyway for annual >vaccinations, so I will mention this.
Annual shots are no longer recommended. The vaccine protocols have changed due to the emergence of deadly vaccine site related cancers, and the fact that vaccines provide much longer protection than was originally thought. Your cat should only be vaccinated every *3* years (and never by the shoulders, only in the rear leg.) The Leukemia vaccine should not be given to any but very high risk cats at it is one of the main culprits in VAS, and also does not provide anywhere near 100% protection. FIP should not be given at all. Megan "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." -Edmund Burke Learn The TRUTH About Declawing http://www.stopdeclaw.com Zuzu’s Cats Photo Album: http://www.PictureTrail.com/zuzu22
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> >He’s going to the vet anyway for annual >vaccinations, so I will mention this. > Annual shots are no longer recommended. > The vaccine protocols have changed due to the emergence of deadly > vaccine site related cancers, and the fact that vaccines provide much > longer protection than was originally thought. Your cat should only be > vaccinated every *3* years (and never by the shoulders, only in the rear > leg.) > Megan
Megan, This may depend on where you live. My sister lives in Ohio and gets rabies vaccine every 3 years. I live in Texas, and laws here require rabies vaccine every year (even though the vaccine is supposed to provide protection for 3 years, as you say). My cat is an indoor-only cat and I would like to avoid giving the vaccine any more often than the protocols call for, but state law says otherwise. I’ll check with my vet again this year, in case there have been changes. MaryL
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Please have your cat checked for fleas. Years ago, I had a cat who suddenly exhibited similar characteristics. In addition, he was pulling out big tufts of fur. I "thought" I checked him carefully but couldn’t find anything. My vet recognized the symptoms, did a very careful check — and found a pocket with a large number of fleas, all burrowed deep in the groin area (or its equivalent in a cat)! I realize that you say you have ruled out fleas, but I thought I had, too. Of course, I may be way off base with this since you say you are using Frontline — but it’s worth checking. MaryL – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Hello, > One of my cats has been repeating this odd behavior several times daily > for the last week. > First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very > quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his > body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking > it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From > looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person > pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway. I already ruled > out fleas; he doesn’t have them, and I use Frontline. I thought maybe > mosquitos were biting him but I don’t see any around. > I could be getting all worked up over nothing, but I am worried. > Otherwise he continues to be affectionate, seems to be eating normally > and has motor coordination. > The only thing in his life that changed this week is that we got some new > oak furniture (he hid under the bed for half a day when it came–it’s not > normal for him to be so skittish). He did stop hiding, though, started > exploring the new furniture, and seems okay with it now. I can’t think > of what this has to do with it, but anyway, there you have it. > Thanks in advance if you have any ideas. > Swedey
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>Oh NO!! You just made me remember that I have to train a kitty all over >again about Christmas trees come December!!!! AAAAAAAHHHHH!!! lol The new >one is just about a year old right now and was a stray so there’s a good >chance he’s never seen a Christmas tree! ;-)
I’ve only had one cat who liked to climb Christmas trees, my tiger-striped male Tigger. ANd of course he was also the heaviest cat I’ve ever had (about 15 pounds if I remember correctly). He did at least have enough common sense to stay on the trunk, not the branches. It was quite an amusing sight to look at the top of the tree and see the head of an orange cat where the angel used to be. Especially when he’d then give you one of his cutest meows. Dan Mahoney
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> Megan, > This may depend on where you live. My sister lives in Ohio and gets > rabies vaccine every 3 years. I live in Texas, and laws here require > rabies vaccine every year (even though the vaccine is supposed to > provide protection for 3 years, as you say). My cat is an indoor-only > cat and I would like to avoid giving the vaccine any more often than the > protocols call for, but state law says otherwise. I’ll check with my > vet again this year, in case there have been changes.
The law here also requires annual rabies vaccination. However, some vaccines are not indicated at all for indoor cats in closed households, and Cornell’s studies over twenty years showed that three years is a suitable revaccination interval in most cases. American vets tend to be a little slower in accepting this research, it seems. The best ones will perform titers to determine if the cat still has sufficient antibodies and therefore doesn’t require revaccination yet. The less enlightened simply push a plethora of vaccinations at yearly intervals. I can say from experience- if your vet is insistent on yearly boosters, look for a new vet. Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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> Our cat Molly has recently exhibited the same physical signs and behavior only > nothing is new in our environement. I have heard about an actual condition > that covers the desciption of her actions, but I have no idea what it’s called > so I can’t look it up.
Hyperesthesia Syndrome http://www.purelypets.com/newsletter/september2001/felinehyperesthesi aNL.htm http://www.tica.org/vet/vet58.htm http://www.tica.org/vet/vet27.htm http://members.aol.com/paws2tails/private/columns/11_28_98.html http://webcenter.petplace.aol.com/articles/artShow.asp?artID=1991 Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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> One of my cats has been repeating this odd behavior several times daily > for the last week. > First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very > quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his > body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking > it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From > looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person > pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway. I already ruled > out fleas; he doesn’t have them, and I use Frontline. I thought maybe > mosquitos were biting him but I don’t see any around.
That sounds like skin irritation/allergy to me. Is there any dandruff? Is the skin reddened? Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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Our cat Molly has recently exhibited the same physical signs and behavior only nothing is new in our environement. I have heard about an actual condition that covers the desciption of her actions, but I have no idea what it’s called so I can’t look it up. Perhaps Phil can assist here?
Hello, One of my cats has been repeating this odd behavior several times daily for the last week. First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway.<<
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writes: >The only thing in his life that changed this week is that we got some new >oak furniture (he hid under the bed for half a day when it came–it’s not >normal for him to be so skittish). He did stop hiding, though, started >exploring the new furniture, and seems okay with it now.
This is no small event in a cat’s life. New furniture is bigger than him, smells different, and changes his environment. I once had a cat that was afraid of Christmas trees — I’d get a little 4-foot tree, and the cat would stay in the kitchen for the next day, terrified of the new object in the living room. It sounds like your cat is just getting used to the new furniture. His licking himself is a sign of nervousness. The racing around is probably nervousness, though cats also play by racing around. He’s probably just adjusting to the new objects, which he doesn’t understand. I don’t think there’s anything to be worried about, quite frankly. Enjoy your new furniture! Daria Timing is everything.
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> The problem isn’t my vet. He had already told me about the changes in > protocols. The problem is state law, and the fact that I travel > frequently. > State law is the same here, and I also travel frequently. I wasn’t > recommending skipping the rabies vaccine; I was referring to other > vaccines. > I always get a health certificate when I drive or fly > out-of-state, and I do not want to take any chances that my cat would be > quarantined because I failed to comply with various state laws. In my > home state (Texas), for example, annual rabies vaccination is still > required. > As it is in my state. > At the same time, I really hate giving medications that could > potentially be harmful, particularly since my cat is always indoors. > The only cats she could come in contact with are my sister’s, when we > visit her in Ohio (and they are also indoor-only cats). > Then I’d skip the Feline Leukemia and FIP vaccinations. (and > actually, I now do.) > Laura > — > Thanks, Laura. I guess there was some miscommunication because it was actually rabies vaccine that I was talking about (state law requiring annual vaccination even though the vaccine is now certified for 3 years). I eliminated the other vaccinations a few years ago, on the advice of my vet. But thanks for the feedback. It helps to get information from various sources.
MaryL
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>First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very >quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his >body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking >it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From >looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person >pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway. I already ruled >out fleas; he doesn’t have them, and I use Frontline. I thought maybe >mosquitos were biting him but I don’t see any around.
My cat used to do this alot. She seems to have outgrown it. Chris
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>>First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very >quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his >body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking >it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From >looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person >pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway. I already ruled >out fleas; he doesn’t have them, and I use Frontline. I thought maybe >mosquitos were biting him but I don’t see any around. >My cat used to do this alot. She seems to have outgrown it.
If severe, the condition described is called feline hyperesthesia, or sometimes "rolling back syndrome." The condition is not well understood. According to my vet, if it only happens once in a while and for only a few seconds, it’s nothing much to be concerned about. Some cats react this way when stressed. If it becomes more frequent and longer duration, or if the cat becomes aggressive during attacks, there are a variety of treatments possible.
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> > Thanks, Laura. I guess there was some miscommunication because it was actually rabies vaccine that I was talking about (state law requiring annual vaccination even though the vaccine is now certified for 3 years).
Ah, gotcha. This state (Pennsylvania) is the same way- requires yearly, even though it’s totally unnecessary. Frustrating, isn’t it? Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Megan, > This may depend on where you live. My sister lives in Ohio and gets > rabies vaccine every 3 years. I live in Texas, and laws here require > rabies vaccine every year (even though the vaccine is supposed to > provide protection for 3 years, as you say). My cat is an indoor-only > cat and I would like to avoid giving the vaccine any more often than the > protocols call for, but state law says otherwise. I’ll check with my > vet again this year, in case there have been changes. > The law here also requires annual rabies vaccination. However, some > vaccines are not indicated at all for indoor cats in closed > households, and Cornell’s studies over twenty years showed that three > years is a suitable revaccination interval in most cases. American > vets tend to be a little slower in accepting this research, it seems. > The best ones will perform titers to determine if the cat still has > sufficient antibodies and therefore doesn’t require revaccination > yet. The less enlightened simply push a plethora of vaccinations at > yearly intervals. > I can say from experience- if your vet is insistent on yearly > boosters, look for a new vet. > Laura > — > Laura,
The problem isn’t my vet. He had already told me about the changes in protocols. The problem is state law, and the fact that I travel frequently. I always get a health certificate when I drive or fly out-of-state, and I do not want to take any chances that my cat would be quarantined because I failed to comply with various state laws. In my home state (Texas), for example, annual rabies vaccination is still required. At the same time, I really hate giving medications that could potentially be harmful, particularly since my cat is always indoors. The only cats she could come in contact with are my sister’s, when we visit her in Ohio (and they are also indoor-only cats). MaryL
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> The problem isn’t my vet. He had already told me about the changes in > protocols. The problem is state law, and the fact that I travel > frequently.
State law is the same here, and I also travel frequently. I wasn’t recommending skipping the rabies vaccine; I was referring to other vaccines. > I always get a health certificate when I drive or fly > out-of-state, and I do not want to take any chances that my cat would be > quarantined because I failed to comply with various state laws. In my > home state (Texas), for example, annual rabies vaccination is still > required.
As it is in my state. > At the same time, I really hate giving medications that could > potentially be harmful, particularly since my cat is always indoors. > The only cats she could come in contact with are my sister’s, when we > visit her in Ohio (and they are also indoor-only cats).
Then I’d skip the Feline Leukemia and FIP vaccinations. (and actually, I now do.) Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hello, > One of my cats has been repeating this odd behavior several times daily > for the last week. > First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very > quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his > body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking > it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From > looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person > pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway. I already ruled > out fleas; he doesn’t have them, and I use Frontline. I thought maybe > mosquitos were biting him but I don’t see any around. > I could be getting all worked up over nothing, but I am worried. > Otherwise he continues to be affectionate, seems to be eating normally > and has motor coordination. > The only thing in his life that changed this week is that we got some new > oak furniture (he hid under the bed for half a day when it came–it’s not > normal for him to be so skittish). He did stop hiding, though, started > exploring the new furniture, and seems okay with it now. I can’t think > of what this has to do with it, but anyway, there you have it. > Thanks in advance if you have any ideas. > Swedey
I have a cat with inhalant allergies and this is how he acted in the beginning. I have vigorously "de allergized" as much as I can. This behaviour has almost ceased now, but he does lick thin spots in his fur. I can’t find his "trigger", but HEPA purifier, closed windows and frequent vacuuming seem to help. Perhaps there is some allergen that came in on the new furniture. Is there any "cushion" material on the furniture? If so, try vacuuming it all thoroughly. Karen
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I once had a cat > that was afraid of Christmas trees — I’d get a little 4-foot tree, > and the cat would stay in the kitchen for the next day, terrified of > the new object in the living room.
Oh NO!! You just made me remember that I have to train a kitty all over again about Christmas trees come December!!!! AAAAAAAHHHHH!!! lol The new one is just about a year old right now and was a stray so there’s a good chance he’s never seen a Christmas tree! ;-)
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My guess would be flea allergy or some other irritation to the skin. This is the height of the flea season, and one bite is all it takes for the allergic animal to behave just as you describe. Worth a vet visit.
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>First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very >quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his >body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking >it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From >looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person >pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway.
Fleas. >I already ruled out fleas; he doesn’t have them, and I use Frontline.
It’s not perfect. We have a cat with a flea allergy, but if you go over him with a flea comb you find nothing, or maybe one flea after substantial combing. For a cat who’s either allergic, or not used to fleas, it only needs one to cause a problem. >I could be getting all worked up over nothing, but I am worried.
If he is otherwise normal then there is probably nothing much to be worried about, but a vet will hopefully be able to put your mind at rest.
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> > Hyperesthesia Syndrome > This sounds very accurate, except my cat doesn’t get violent or meow a > lot.
I’m no expert, but from the reading I’ve done, the symptoms vary; not all cats vocalize or react violently. > What is the prognosis for this syndrome? The web pages don’t > really say. Is is always progressive into a full-blown seizure disorder?
Nope. > Will it significantly shorten life?
Probably not. Generally, it’s just something that the cat "has", and doesn’t affect the cat’s life span. If it affects the cat’s quality of life, medications are sometimes tried. Which medication works depends on what’s causing the hyperesthesia- sometimes antidepressants do, other times anti-seizure drugs help. > He’s going to the vet anyway for annual vaccinations, so I will mention > this.
I’d be curious to hear what the vet has to say. Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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Ah, this is the condition I was thinking of. Thank you for posting Karen. As with Swedey’s cat our Molly is not aggressive, but she displays the other characteristics. I’m curious to see what the vet has to say. Many thanks –
> Our cat Molly has recently exhibited the same physical signs and behavior only > nothing is new in our environement. I have heard about an actual condition > that covers the desciption of her actions, but I have no idea what it’s called > so I can’t look it up.
Hyperesthesia Syndrome<
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I mean Laura! Thank you LAURA. Not sure where I got Karen from.
Ah, this is the condition I was thinking of. Thank you for posting Karen<
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I’m the one who suggested allergies. Karen
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I mean Laura! Thank you LAURA. Not sure where I got Karen from. vigorously > Ah, this is the condition I was thinking of. Thank you for posting Karen<
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> I mean Laura! Thank you LAURA. Not sure where I got Karen from.
I was kinda wondering that myself. Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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Ah, but now I know where I got Karen from…LOL! Thanks to all of you :) Early here on the west coast and I hadn’t sipped my coffee yet at the time I posted.
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>He’s going to the vet anyway for annual >vaccinations, so I will mention this.
Annual shots are no longer recommended. The vaccine protocols have changed due to the emergence of deadly vaccine site related cancers, and the fact that vaccines provide much longer protection than was originally thought. Your cat should only be vaccinated every *3* years (and never by the shoulders, only in the rear leg.) The Leukemia vaccine should not be given to any but very high risk cats at it is one of the main culprits in VAS, and also does not provide anywhere near 100% protection. FIP should not be given at all. Megan "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." -Edmund Burke Learn The TRUTH About Declawing http://www.stopdeclaw.com Zuzu’s Cats Photo Album: http://www.PictureTrail.com/zuzu22
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> >He’s going to the vet anyway for annual >vaccinations, so I will mention this. > Annual shots are no longer recommended. > The vaccine protocols have changed due to the emergence of deadly > vaccine site related cancers, and the fact that vaccines provide much > longer protection than was originally thought. Your cat should only be > vaccinated every *3* years (and never by the shoulders, only in the rear > leg.) > Megan
Megan, This may depend on where you live. My sister lives in Ohio and gets rabies vaccine every 3 years. I live in Texas, and laws here require rabies vaccine every year (even though the vaccine is supposed to provide protection for 3 years, as you say). My cat is an indoor-only cat and I would like to avoid giving the vaccine any more often than the protocols call for, but state law says otherwise. I’ll check with my vet again this year, in case there have been changes. MaryL
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Please have your cat checked for fleas. Years ago, I had a cat who suddenly exhibited similar characteristics. In addition, he was pulling out big tufts of fur. I "thought" I checked him carefully but couldn’t find anything. My vet recognized the symptoms, did a very careful check — and found a pocket with a large number of fleas, all burrowed deep in the groin area (or its equivalent in a cat)! I realize that you say you have ruled out fleas, but I thought I had, too. Of course, I may be way off base with this since you say you are using Frontline — but it’s worth checking. MaryL – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Hello, > One of my cats has been repeating this odd behavior several times daily > for the last week. > First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very > quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his > body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking > it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From > looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person > pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway. I already ruled > out fleas; he doesn’t have them, and I use Frontline. I thought maybe > mosquitos were biting him but I don’t see any around. > I could be getting all worked up over nothing, but I am worried. > Otherwise he continues to be affectionate, seems to be eating normally > and has motor coordination. > The only thing in his life that changed this week is that we got some new > oak furniture (he hid under the bed for half a day when it came–it’s not > normal for him to be so skittish). He did stop hiding, though, started > exploring the new furniture, and seems okay with it now. I can’t think > of what this has to do with it, but anyway, there you have it. > Thanks in advance if you have any ideas. > Swedey
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>Oh NO!! You just made me remember that I have to train a kitty all over >again about Christmas trees come December!!!! AAAAAAAHHHHH!!! lol The new >one is just about a year old right now and was a stray so there’s a good >chance he’s never seen a Christmas tree! ;-)
I’ve only had one cat who liked to climb Christmas trees, my tiger-striped male Tigger. ANd of course he was also the heaviest cat I’ve ever had (about 15 pounds if I remember correctly). He did at least have enough common sense to stay on the trunk, not the branches. It was quite an amusing sight to look at the top of the tree and see the head of an orange cat where the angel used to be. Especially when he’d then give you one of his cutest meows. Dan Mahoney
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> Megan, > This may depend on where you live. My sister lives in Ohio and gets > rabies vaccine every 3 years. I live in Texas, and laws here require > rabies vaccine every year (even though the vaccine is supposed to > provide protection for 3 years, as you say). My cat is an indoor-only > cat and I would like to avoid giving the vaccine any more often than the > protocols call for, but state law says otherwise. I’ll check with my > vet again this year, in case there have been changes.
The law here also requires annual rabies vaccination. However, some vaccines are not indicated at all for indoor cats in closed households, and Cornell’s studies over twenty years showed that three years is a suitable revaccination interval in most cases. American vets tend to be a little slower in accepting this research, it seems. The best ones will perform titers to determine if the cat still has sufficient antibodies and therefore doesn’t require revaccination yet. The less enlightened simply push a plethora of vaccinations at yearly intervals. I can say from experience- if your vet is insistent on yearly boosters, look for a new vet. Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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> Our cat Molly has recently exhibited the same physical signs and behavior only > nothing is new in our environement. I have heard about an actual condition > that covers the desciption of her actions, but I have no idea what it’s called > so I can’t look it up.
Hyperesthesia Syndrome http://www.purelypets.com/newsletter/september2001/felinehyperesthesi aNL.htm http://www.tica.org/vet/vet58.htm http://www.tica.org/vet/vet27.htm http://members.aol.com/paws2tails/private/columns/11_28_98.html http://webcenter.petplace.aol.com/articles/artShow.asp?artID=1991 Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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> One of my cats has been repeating this odd behavior several times daily > for the last week. > First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very > quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his > body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking > it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From > looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person > pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway. I already ruled > out fleas; he doesn’t have them, and I use Frontline. I thought maybe > mosquitos were biting him but I don’t see any around.
That sounds like skin irritation/allergy to me. Is there any dandruff? Is the skin reddened? Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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Our cat Molly has recently exhibited the same physical signs and behavior only nothing is new in our environement. I have heard about an actual condition that covers the desciption of her actions, but I have no idea what it’s called so I can’t look it up. Perhaps Phil can assist here?
Hello, One of my cats has been repeating this odd behavior several times daily for the last week. First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway.<<
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writes: >The only thing in his life that changed this week is that we got some new >oak furniture (he hid under the bed for half a day when it came–it’s not >normal for him to be so skittish). He did stop hiding, though, started >exploring the new furniture, and seems okay with it now.
This is no small event in a cat’s life. New furniture is bigger than him, smells different, and changes his environment. I once had a cat that was afraid of Christmas trees — I’d get a little 4-foot tree, and the cat would stay in the kitchen for the next day, terrified of the new object in the living room. It sounds like your cat is just getting used to the new furniture. His licking himself is a sign of nervousness. The racing around is probably nervousness, though cats also play by racing around. He’s probably just adjusting to the new objects, which he doesn’t understand. I don’t think there’s anything to be worried about, quite frankly. Enjoy your new furniture! Daria Timing is everything.
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> The problem isn’t my vet. He had already told me about the changes in > protocols. The problem is state law, and the fact that I travel > frequently. > State law is the same here, and I also travel frequently. I wasn’t > recommending skipping the rabies vaccine; I was referring to other > vaccines. > I always get a health certificate when I drive or fly > out-of-state, and I do not want to take any chances that my cat would be > quarantined because I failed to comply with various state laws. In my > home state (Texas), for example, annual rabies vaccination is still > required. > As it is in my state. > At the same time, I really hate giving medications that could > potentially be harmful, particularly since my cat is always indoors. > The only cats she could come in contact with are my sister’s, when we > visit her in Ohio (and they are also indoor-only cats). > Then I’d skip the Feline Leukemia and FIP vaccinations. (and > actually, I now do.) > Laura > — > Thanks, Laura. I guess there was some miscommunication because it was actually rabies vaccine that I was talking about (state law requiring annual vaccination even though the vaccine is now certified for 3 years). I eliminated the other vaccinations a few years ago, on the advice of my vet. But thanks for the feedback. It helps to get information from various sources.
MaryL
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>First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very >quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his >body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking >it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From >looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person >pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway. I already ruled >out fleas; he doesn’t have them, and I use Frontline. I thought maybe >mosquitos were biting him but I don’t see any around.
My cat used to do this alot. She seems to have outgrown it. Chris
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>>First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very >quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his >body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking >it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From >looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person >pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway. I already ruled >out fleas; he doesn’t have them, and I use Frontline. I thought maybe >mosquitos were biting him but I don’t see any around. >My cat used to do this alot. She seems to have outgrown it.
If severe, the condition described is called feline hyperesthesia, or sometimes "rolling back syndrome." The condition is not well understood. According to my vet, if it only happens once in a while and for only a few seconds, it’s nothing much to be concerned about. Some cats react this way when stressed. If it becomes more frequent and longer duration, or if the cat becomes aggressive during attacks, there are a variety of treatments possible.
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> > Thanks, Laura. I guess there was some miscommunication because it was actually rabies vaccine that I was talking about (state law requiring annual vaccination even though the vaccine is now certified for 3 years).
Ah, gotcha. This state (Pennsylvania) is the same way- requires yearly, even though it’s totally unnecessary. Frustrating, isn’t it? Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Megan, > This may depend on where you live. My sister lives in Ohio and gets > rabies vaccine every 3 years. I live in Texas, and laws here require > rabies vaccine every year (even though the vaccine is supposed to > provide protection for 3 years, as you say). My cat is an indoor-only > cat and I would like to avoid giving the vaccine any more often than the > protocols call for, but state law says otherwise. I’ll check with my > vet again this year, in case there have been changes. > The law here also requires annual rabies vaccination. However, some > vaccines are not indicated at all for indoor cats in closed > households, and Cornell’s studies over twenty years showed that three > years is a suitable revaccination interval in most cases. American > vets tend to be a little slower in accepting this research, it seems. > The best ones will perform titers to determine if the cat still has > sufficient antibodies and therefore doesn’t require revaccination > yet. The less enlightened simply push a plethora of vaccinations at > yearly intervals. > I can say from experience- if your vet is insistent on yearly > boosters, look for a new vet. > Laura > — > Laura,
The problem isn’t my vet. He had already told me about the changes in protocols. The problem is state law, and the fact that I travel frequently. I always get a health certificate when I drive or fly out-of-state, and I do not want to take any chances that my cat would be quarantined because I failed to comply with various state laws. In my home state (Texas), for example, annual rabies vaccination is still required. At the same time, I really hate giving medications that could potentially be harmful, particularly since my cat is always indoors. The only cats she could come in contact with are my sister’s, when we visit her in Ohio (and they are also indoor-only cats). MaryL
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> The problem isn’t my vet. He had already told me about the changes in > protocols. The problem is state law, and the fact that I travel > frequently.
State law is the same here, and I also travel frequently. I wasn’t recommending skipping the rabies vaccine; I was referring to other vaccines. > I always get a health certificate when I drive or fly > out-of-state, and I do not want to take any chances that my cat would be > quarantined because I failed to comply with various state laws. In my > home state (Texas), for example, annual rabies vaccination is still > required.
As it is in my state. > At the same time, I really hate giving medications that could > potentially be harmful, particularly since my cat is always indoors. > The only cats she could come in contact with are my sister’s, when we > visit her in Ohio (and they are also indoor-only cats).
Then I’d skip the Feline Leukemia and FIP vaccinations. (and actually, I now do.) Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hello, > One of my cats has been repeating this odd behavior several times daily > for the last week. > First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very > quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his > body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking > it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From > looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person > pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway. I already ruled > out fleas; he doesn’t have them, and I use Frontline. I thought maybe > mosquitos were biting him but I don’t see any around. > I could be getting all worked up over nothing, but I am worried. > Otherwise he continues to be affectionate, seems to be eating normally > and has motor coordination. > The only thing in his life that changed this week is that we got some new > oak furniture (he hid under the bed for half a day when it came–it’s not > normal for him to be so skittish). He did stop hiding, though, started > exploring the new furniture, and seems okay with it now. I can’t think > of what this has to do with it, but anyway, there you have it. > Thanks in advance if you have any ideas. > Swedey
I have a cat with inhalant allergies and this is how he acted in the beginning. I have vigorously "de allergized" as much as I can. This behaviour has almost ceased now, but he does lick thin spots in his fur. I can’t find his "trigger", but HEPA purifier, closed windows and frequent vacuuming seem to help. Perhaps there is some allergen that came in on the new furniture. Is there any "cushion" material on the furniture? If so, try vacuuming it all thoroughly. Karen
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I once had a cat > that was afraid of Christmas trees — I’d get a little 4-foot tree, > and the cat would stay in the kitchen for the next day, terrified of > the new object in the living room.
Oh NO!! You just made me remember that I have to train a kitty all over again about Christmas trees come December!!!! AAAAAAAHHHHH!!! lol The new one is just about a year old right now and was a stray so there’s a good chance he’s never seen a Christmas tree! ;-)
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My guess would be flea allergy or some other irritation to the skin. This is the height of the flea season, and one bite is all it takes for the allergic animal to behave just as you describe. Worth a vet visit.
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>First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very >quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his >body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking >it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From >looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person >pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway.
Fleas. >I already ruled out fleas; he doesn’t have them, and I use Frontline.
It’s not perfect. We have a cat with a flea allergy, but if you go over him with a flea comb you find nothing, or maybe one flea after substantial combing. For a cat who’s either allergic, or not used to fleas, it only needs one to cause a problem. >I could be getting all worked up over nothing, but I am worried.
If he is otherwise normal then there is probably nothing much to be worried about, but a vet will hopefully be able to put your mind at rest.
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> > Hyperesthesia Syndrome > This sounds very accurate, except my cat doesn’t get violent or meow a > lot.
I’m no expert, but from the reading I’ve done, the symptoms vary; not all cats vocalize or react violently. > What is the prognosis for this syndrome? The web pages don’t > really say. Is is always progressive into a full-blown seizure disorder?
Nope. > Will it significantly shorten life?
Probably not. Generally, it’s just something that the cat "has", and doesn’t affect the cat’s life span. If it affects the cat’s quality of life, medications are sometimes tried. Which medication works depends on what’s causing the hyperesthesia- sometimes antidepressants do, other times anti-seizure drugs help. > He’s going to the vet anyway for annual vaccinations, so I will mention > this.
I’d be curious to hear what the vet has to say. Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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Ah, this is the condition I was thinking of. Thank you for posting Karen. As with Swedey’s cat our Molly is not aggressive, but she displays the other characteristics. I’m curious to see what the vet has to say. Many thanks –
> Our cat Molly has recently exhibited the same physical signs and behavior only > nothing is new in our environement. I have heard about an actual condition > that covers the desciption of her actions, but I have no idea what it’s called > so I can’t look it up.
Hyperesthesia Syndrome<
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I mean Laura! Thank you LAURA. Not sure where I got Karen from.
Ah, this is the condition I was thinking of. Thank you for posting Karen<
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I’m the one who suggested allergies. Karen
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I mean Laura! Thank you LAURA. Not sure where I got Karen from. vigorously > Ah, this is the condition I was thinking of. Thank you for posting Karen<
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> I mean Laura! Thank you LAURA. Not sure where I got Karen from.
I was kinda wondering that myself. Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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Ah, but now I know where I got Karen from…LOL! Thanks to all of you :) Early here on the west coast and I hadn’t sipped my coffee yet at the time I posted.
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>He’s going to the vet anyway for annual >vaccinations, so I will mention this.
Annual shots are no longer recommended. The vaccine protocols have changed due to the emergence of deadly vaccine site related cancers, and the fact that vaccines provide much longer protection than was originally thought. Your cat should only be vaccinated every *3* years (and never by the shoulders, only in the rear leg.) The Leukemia vaccine should not be given to any but very high risk cats at it is one of the main culprits in VAS, and also does not provide anywhere near 100% protection. FIP should not be given at all. Megan "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." -Edmund Burke Learn The TRUTH About Declawing http://www.stopdeclaw.com Zuzu’s Cats Photo Album: http://www.PictureTrail.com/zuzu22
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> >He’s going to the vet anyway for annual >vaccinations, so I will mention this. > Annual shots are no longer recommended. > The vaccine protocols have changed due to the emergence of deadly > vaccine site related cancers, and the fact that vaccines provide much > longer protection than was originally thought. Your cat should only be > vaccinated every *3* years (and never by the shoulders, only in the rear > leg.) > Megan
Megan, This may depend on where you live. My sister lives in Ohio and gets rabies vaccine every 3 years. I live in Texas, and laws here require rabies vaccine every year (even though the vaccine is supposed to provide protection for 3 years, as you say). My cat is an indoor-only cat and I would like to avoid giving the vaccine any more often than the protocols call for, but state law says otherwise. I’ll check with my vet again this year, in case there have been changes. MaryL
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Please have your cat checked for fleas. Years ago, I had a cat who suddenly exhibited similar characteristics. In addition, he was pulling out big tufts of fur. I "thought" I checked him carefully but couldn’t find anything. My vet recognized the symptoms, did a very careful check — and found a pocket with a large number of fleas, all burrowed deep in the groin area (or its equivalent in a cat)! I realize that you say you have ruled out fleas, but I thought I had, too. Of course, I may be way off base with this since you say you are using Frontline — but it’s worth checking. MaryL – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Hello, > One of my cats has been repeating this odd behavior several times daily > for the last week. > First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very > quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his > body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking > it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From > looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person > pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway. I already ruled > out fleas; he doesn’t have them, and I use Frontline. I thought maybe > mosquitos were biting him but I don’t see any around. > I could be getting all worked up over nothing, but I am worried. > Otherwise he continues to be affectionate, seems to be eating normally > and has motor coordination. > The only thing in his life that changed this week is that we got some new > oak furniture (he hid under the bed for half a day when it came–it’s not > normal for him to be so skittish). He did stop hiding, though, started > exploring the new furniture, and seems okay with it now. I can’t think > of what this has to do with it, but anyway, there you have it. > Thanks in advance if you have any ideas. > Swedey
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>Oh NO!! You just made me remember that I have to train a kitty all over >again about Christmas trees come December!!!! AAAAAAAHHHHH!!! lol The new >one is just about a year old right now and was a stray so there’s a good >chance he’s never seen a Christmas tree! ;-)
I’ve only had one cat who liked to climb Christmas trees, my tiger-striped male Tigger. ANd of course he was also the heaviest cat I’ve ever had (about 15 pounds if I remember correctly). He did at least have enough common sense to stay on the trunk, not the branches. It was quite an amusing sight to look at the top of the tree and see the head of an orange cat where the angel used to be. Especially when he’d then give you one of his cutest meows. Dan Mahoney
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> Megan, > This may depend on where you live. My sister lives in Ohio and gets > rabies vaccine every 3 years. I live in Texas, and laws here require > rabies vaccine every year (even though the vaccine is supposed to > provide protection for 3 years, as you say). My cat is an indoor-only > cat and I would like to avoid giving the vaccine any more often than the > protocols call for, but state law says otherwise. I’ll check with my > vet again this year, in case there have been changes.
The law here also requires annual rabies vaccination. However, some vaccines are not indicated at all for indoor cats in closed households, and Cornell’s studies over twenty years showed that three years is a suitable revaccination interval in most cases. American vets tend to be a little slower in accepting this research, it seems. The best ones will perform titers to determine if the cat still has sufficient antibodies and therefore doesn’t require revaccination yet. The less enlightened simply push a plethora of vaccinations at yearly intervals. I can say from experience- if your vet is insistent on yearly boosters, look for a new vet. Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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> Our cat Molly has recently exhibited the same physical signs and behavior only > nothing is new in our environement. I have heard about an actual condition > that covers the desciption of her actions, but I have no idea what it’s called > so I can’t look it up.
Hyperesthesia Syndrome http://www.purelypets.com/newsletter/september2001/felinehyperesthesi aNL.htm http://www.tica.org/vet/vet58.htm http://www.tica.org/vet/vet27.htm http://members.aol.com/paws2tails/private/columns/11_28_98.html http://webcenter.petplace.aol.com/articles/artShow.asp?artID=1991 Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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> One of my cats has been repeating this odd behavior several times daily > for the last week. > First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very > quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his > body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking > it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From > looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person > pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway. I already ruled > out fleas; he doesn’t have them, and I use Frontline. I thought maybe > mosquitos were biting him but I don’t see any around.
That sounds like skin irritation/allergy to me. Is there any dandruff? Is the skin reddened? Laura — Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. -Groucho Marx
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Our cat Molly has recently exhibited the same physical signs and behavior only nothing is new in our environement. I have heard about an actual condition that covers the desciption of her actions, but I have no idea what it’s called so I can’t look it up. Perhaps Phil can assist here?
Hello, One of my cats has been repeating this odd behavior several times daily for the last week. First, his skin will twitch on his back, or his tail twitches very quickly almost as if he were in "fast-forward". He’ll look around his body, maybe vigorously attack a spot on his back or stomach by licking it, and then he’ll dart off as if to run away from something. From looking at him, it seems almost as if there’s an invisible person pricking him with a pin–that’s how he’s acting anyway.<<
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writes: >The only thing in his life that changed this week is that we got some new >oak furniture (he hid under the bed for half a day when it came–it’s not >normal for him to be so skittish). He did stop hiding, though, started >exploring the new furniture, and seems okay with it now.
This is no small event in a cat’s life. New furniture is bigger than him, smells different, and changes his environment. I once had a cat that was afraid of Christmas trees — I’d get a little 4-foot tree, and the cat would stay in the kitchen for the next day, terrified of the new object in the living room. It sounds like your cat is just getting used to the new furniture. His licking himself is a sign of nervousness. The racing around is probably nervousness, though cats also play by racing around. He’s probably just adjusting to the new objects, which he doesn’t understand. I don’t think there’s anything to be worried about, quite frankly. Enjoy your new furniture! Daria Timing is everything.
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