Senior Cat Health Care

As cats get older they are faced with more cat health care problems. Just as with humans, the older a cat gets the more its health deteriorates. People with older cats should always make cat health care a priority and keep close watch of their pet’s condition. Many of the cat health care problems faced by older cats cannot be avoided or treated, but vets can do a lot to manage illness and make the cat’s last few years as comfortable and happy as possible.

One of the most common afflictions developed in our senior feline friends is osteoarthritis. The condition affects cats in the same way it does humans, meaning that it causes painful inflammation of the joints making mobility difficult. Normally, it is quite easy to tell when a cat is suffering from osteoarthritis. Typically the cat displays stiffness, difficulty standing up or lying down, problems in climbing the stairs, walking awkwardly or general lameness. Owners who suspect this cat health care problem might be affecting their pets should visit the vet. There is no specific treatment for the condition but owners can buy a range of cat foods targeted at arthritic senior pets to help ease their pain.

Heart disease is another common cat health care problem in older cats. Vets typically find around a tenth of cats to have some type of heart condition. Symptoms of heart disease are not so obvious but may include coughing, particularly at night and a noticeable reduction on appetite. A vet will be able to confirm suspicions of heart problems and suggest ways to improve the pet’s condition. This might include altering the animal’s diet or exercise regime. There are also some treatments available which might prolong the cat’s life.

Finally, chronic renal failure commonly affects senior cats. Basically meaning a deterioration in kidney function, this is a progressive and irreversible cat health care problem. Several factors can cause this illness, including cancer, polycystic kidney disease, infections or even toxic poisoning. Amongst its many symptoms are excessive drooling, increased thirst and urination, vomiting and mouth ulcers. However, not all cats will develop all of these symptoms. There is no cure for the illness but it can be effectively managed to improve the animal’s quality of life. Preventing the cat from becoming dehydrated should be an absolute priority. feeding moist cat food and providing a ready supply of fresh water should be top of the priorities list. Feeding a cat food which is lower in proteins and phosphate will limit the amount of toxins in the blood and therefore reduce the workload placed on the kidneys.