Q. I have an 18-year-old cat that recently started walking around and crying aloud, almost as if she is looking for something. The vocalization becomes so loud at times it appears that she is hurt or something, but when I go to her, talk to her and pick her up, she stops. She is a strictly indoor, spayed cat that has never had kittens. Should I be concerned about this unusual vocalization? 

A. I am convinced that your cat is trying to tell you something. The first thing you need to do is have her thoroughly examined by your veterinarian, including blood pressure, the eyes and a complete laboratory workup (CBC, chemistry panel, U/A and T4). 

Many older cats with physical or metabolic abnormalities will display this kind of behavior. If she is physically and metabolically normal, then she may be exhibiting signs of cognitive dysfunction. Ask your vet about selegiline (Anipryl®), and if this is necessary your veterinarian can guide you on the dosing.