(Ga) My female cat is 10 years old and 9lbs. Neutered. No previous medical history prior to this problem.
She has been consistently gnawing at her foot to the point she’s created open wounds and sores. This has been happening for over a year. Originally it was every here and there and she wasn’t doing it frequently enough to notice. Over time I started to notice small scabs on her foot. As time passed, it got to the point of concern with her chewing at it every day. Every time I try to get her to stop, she will hide somewhere I can’t reach her and continue doing it. I’ve taken her to the vet numerous times and have gotten different suggestions as to what to do. Originally, the vet said it was probably inflammation/ irritation in the foot and noted that he thought he heard a heart murmur as well. He recommended Cosequin. I had a hard time getting her to take it consistently due to her eating a dry food diet for her entire life (which I’m working on changing), so I was unable to know if the medication was ever able to work properly to notice a difference. Took her back to the vet and he suggested an x-ray to see if anything may be impacting the foot. Saw another vet at the same hospital and she said my cat didn’t need an x-ray, but gave her a shot of Depo Medrol. She also stated that she did not hear a heart murmur. That was 10 days ago and since then she has been chewing on her foot nonstop. I don't notice her ever limping on it, and she doesnt hesitate to jump up and down from things, but I’ve noticed the frequency of her chewing at it has increased. To add, she is an indoor/ outdoor cat. Being outside for most of the day, and coming inside at night.