Accepted Answer

Hello, and thanks for your question.

It's possible, that during Lucy's bath, she may have swallowed some water containing shampoo, and this has irritated her throat. However, although she's acting normally in all other respects (which is great!), due to her senior age, it would be a good idea to have her evaluated by her vet, as soon as possible, to find if there is any underlying medical condition causing her loss of meow.

Older cats are more prone to develop hyperthyroidism, which causes the thyroid gland, located on the side of the throat, to enlarge. If this has happened, the swollen thyroid may be pressing on her voicebox.

http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/hyperthyroidism2.html

It's also possible that she has scratched her throat while eating too quickly, her tonsils are enlarged, due to infection, or she has developed a mass on/near her vocal chords, larynx, or throat.

I hope, once you have Lucy seen in person by the vet, the problem will be diagnosed and treated so she gets her voice back.

Cher

Expert:	Jessesmom
Pos. Feedback:	99.7 %
Accepts:
Answered:	9/4/2009

Feline Specialist Health/Behavior

Feline Healthcare and Behavior Specialist 40+ years Experience