2 Days ago in the morning we let our 16 year old healthy ginger cat in and he wasn't himself. He is wobbly on his legs and he seems tired. He was trying to hide himself which we thought he was getting ready to die but being so sudden didn't seem right. He seems really tired and doesn't move a lot, he hasn't been to the toilet much and from what we know he hasn't eaten or drank anything. We put food near his mouth and he just stares straight forward. I noticed yesterday that his eyes look as if they have sunk back and I thought I had noticed his left eye seems to be a bit lazy, his eyes react to light and dark fine. I also noticed I think the same side of his mouth might have been a bit limb aswel. I think he might have had a stroke but I don't know what to do I heard cats can recover from strokes? I want to take him to a vet which I probably will do but I'm worried in case they decide because he is old it would be best to put him down because I really don't want to lose him. Could someone please help?

I've had cats all my life and know that 16 is getting old for a cat. There could be something fairly innocent or fixable, so taking him to the vet would be a good thing. It doesn't sound like he's in pain, but you don't want him to starve to death. The vet won't put him down without your say-so, and if the cat is on his last legs, your vet will give you ideas on how to keep him comfortable.

Let us know how he's doing after you've been to the vet.

Took him to the vet, his bladder was extremely huge and was dangerous, he could have an operation but his kidneys could have given way. They said that his heart didn't sound right and the toxins from his bladder could effect his brain. We had to get him put down. It was so hard because he struggled a bit but I can't help feel that he wasn't ready and it wasn't his time. Im gutted I miss him so much already. He's been around since I was 7 and I'm 23 now... I've grown up with that lovely ginger Max. so sad :(

I'm so sorry! Two and a half years ago, I had to put down My Best Cat Ever (Thomas). Within six months, I was able to rescue two ferals from my yard, tamed them, and now one of them is taking on the characteristics of My Best Cat Ever, even plays with his toys and sleeps in his bed. Princess Dido may be my angel cat bearing Thomas's soul.

Please consider eventually adopting a rescued cat and honor Max's memory.