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Why is my old cat peeing inside, drinking more, and has dandruff?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed

Our 12 year old female cat has suddenly started to pee on clothes or rugs inside, she always peed outdoors. She’s also got dandruff and started to drink water from odd places like paddles, which she never used to. We travel a lot, could this be behavioural or stress or is it likely medical?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 23rd, 2018

Given Beyonce's age, I would be concerned there is a medical cause behind this behavior. Increased drinking and urination can be caused by diseases such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism, or kidney disease, all of which are common in senior cats. Hyperthyroidism can also causes changes in a cat's coat. I would take her into the vet in the next day or two for a physical exam, geriatric blood panel, and urinalysis, which are tests which will help diagnose if she has one of the diseases I mentioned above. Should she have one, the vet can discuss treatment options with you. Good luck, I hope this helps!

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