Geriatric Care

1. A complete physical examination, with an emphasis on geriatric conditions, including a dental and oral exam.

2. Vaccination. Because immunity is often lowered in the older cat, yearly boosters may become increasingly important for both indoor and outdoor cats.

3. Diagnostic screen for cats 5-10 years of age
• Urinalysis – screens for kidney failure, diabetes, and bladder disease
• PCV/Total Protein – detects anemia and dehydration
• BUN, Creatinine – screens for kidney disease
• Glucose – screens for diabetes
• ALT – screens for liver function

4. Diagnostic panel for cats 10 years and older
• Urinalysis – screens for kidney failure, diabetes, and bladder disease
• CBC – detects anemia, dehydration, infection, and bone marrow dysfunction
• Chemistry Profile – checks for diseases in major organ systems such as the kidneys and liver. Also indicates diabetes and electrolyte imbalances
• T4 – checks the thyroid function which is often abnormally high in older cats


Other Services:

1. Blood Pressure – test for kidney disease, high thyroid

2. Feline Leukemia Test/Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Test – recommended for outdoor cats and those exposed to other cats

3. X-Rays – diagnostic follow-up to check for heart disease, tumors or increases in organ size

4. ECG – diagnostic follow-up for abnormal heart sounds, rhythms

5. Complete dental services

6. Dietary consultation


Questions? The geriatric exam is the ideal time to ask.