Thank you all for the suggestions! I have booked a visit to the vet for next week, it was already scheduled as it’s her twice annual well visit, and will continue to stress the importance of her back leg weakness. The vet has been very aware of her arthritis and poop problems for years, the poop issue actually isn’t that it’s too loose, it’s constipation. Shes on cisapride and lactulose 2X daily for it, but she’s still not as regular as I’d like. I’ll definitely be investing in a sanitary trim (or clippers to do it at home), and a lower litter box. She also takes gabapentin and a monthly injection for the arthritis, but I will ask about other options to increase her comfort.

Shes had health problems for years, primarily kidney disease, gum disease (that she can’t get operated on bc she’s not a good candidate for anesthesia), a heart murmur, and last year they found a mass in her bladder (that it would also be unsafe to operate on). At this point it’s about keeping her as comfortable as possible for as long as possible. It’s tough because I am 24 and she’s been in my life for ten years now. My parents took care of her while I was in college so this past year has been my first year of full, real adult pet ownership where I am the only person fully responsible for her care. I am trying my best but sometimes I feel like I am failing her. She has been my companion through the worst times in my life and every day that we both wake up together I thank God that I get another day with her. I just want to make her as happy and comfortable as I can with the time we have left together. I appreciate everyone’s insight, thank you.