Senior Cats

   Cats are living longer than in the past and regular veterinary visits help contribute to your cat’s long and healthy life. Cats age faster than people do, so health problems can develop more rapidly, especially in older animals. Dramatic changes in health can occur in as little as 3 to 6 months. We want to catch the small problems before they become major medical conditions. With today’s medical and nutritional knowledge, the lifespan of an indoor cat can easily approach 15 to 20 years. Cats over 10 years of age benefit from physical and diagnostic exams every 6 months (which is equal to every 2 years for people), in order to detect illnesses early.

Major health problems:
• Kidney failure
• Cancer
• Thyroid Disease
• Heart Disease
• Diabetes mellitus
• Liver Disease/ pancreatitis
• Dental Disease
• Arthritis
• Constipation

Early Symptoms of Disease:
• Bad breath or drooling
• Change in activity level
• Change in weight or appetite
• Change in attitude or responsiveness
• Change in sleeping patterns
• Change in urination (amount of frequency)
• Change in water consumption
• Confusion or disorientation
• Constipation, diarrhea, or vomiting
• Coughing
• Heavy or rapid breathing at rest
• Lethargy
• Sneezing
• Stiffness (such as trouble jumping, climbing stairs, or walking)
• Lumps or bumps on or under the skin
• Loss of vision (bumping into furniture, etc.)

   Most cats are considered “seniors” at 7 years of age. As cats move into their senior years, they experience changes similar to what people go through. Approximately 20% of cats over 7 years of age have some disease process that is only detectable with advanced physical and diagnostic workups. Fortunately, many of these diseases can be treated and have a favorable outcome if diagnosed early. Routine laboratory testing, along with radiographs, EKG’s, ultrasound examinations, blood pressure testing, and a though physical examination can reassure you of your older cats continued good health, or can help us being treatment early, giving you and your cat a formidable advantage over disease.

   Age is not just a number but also a measure of the effect of aging on the body. Variable such as genetics, nutrition, and the environment all contribute to your cat’s age. A proper diet and suitable environment are critical to your cats’ continued health and comfort. We can advise you on any modifications for your ageing cat, including special diets based on your cat’s specific needs: easier access to litter boxes, extra assistance with grooming, and modifications to the environment such as ramps to beds, heating pads, etc.