my kitty is 19 years old. she does the same circling behavior. i think it is because she is blind and loosing her hearing. i've watched her and she seems to have a pattern of circling to figure out where she is in the house - to get to her water, or food or the litter box.
my kitty goes sideways after sleeping for long hours and not having any water. she requires a warm sleeping area and easily dehydrates after sleeping 12 hours.
i try not to watch her doing this because it is very repetitive and it is upsetting. if it goes on for too long i will interrupt her by petting her and speaking calmly - she cannot hear me - but she does respond.
my kitty lost all of her teeth a couple of years ago and it took me awhile to realize she could not chew her kibble. we have gone through many trials with various wet foods she can eat and does not have to chew. right now, she is favoring an "extra gravy" wet food with small enough meat chunks she can eat/swallow.
by the way, it is recommended cats without teeth still be given some dry kibble because it keeps their gums toughened up.
hugs to you and your kitty. my chloe is my sweetest companion.
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