How Will I Know When My Cat Is
“Old”?As cats age and enter into the geriatric phase of their lives, they experience gradual changes that are surprisingly similar to those of aging humans. (Greying hair, bodies are not as limber as they once were, and reflexes start to delay.) Normally the first sign of aging for a cat is a decrease in activity, combined with a tendency to sleep soundly, longer and more often. Such signs may start to develop between ages 7- 11 years. It is believed that a strictly “indoor” spayed or neutered cat that has been kept on a vaccine regimen will live longer than that of a cat that is an “outdoor” cat. Although just like humans, the aging process depends greatly on the individual. Our veterinarian will be able to justify when it is time to consider your cat a “senior.”
What Should I Feed My Senior
Cat? Furthermore, as your cat ages they will need different nutritional requirements. (Example: you could notice that your cat is eating less yet still putting on weight. This could be from a slowdown of its metabolism combined with a decrease in activity. Or you could notice that your cat is eating more yet seems to be losing weight, which could be a result of various feline medical issues such as feline diabetes, hyperthyroidism. If your cat is not jumping or slowed in activity it could be related with different arthritic conditions. So diet in this case involves support with glucosamine supplementation. Whatever the requirements are our vet will make a protocol specific to your senior cat nutritional requirements.
How Often Should My Cat See The Vet?
As cats age they will need to visit the vet more often. Normally it is recommended that you have your cat see the veterinarian once annually. However, senior cats and even dogs require more frequent checkups (Every 6 months). These exams will keep your pet happy and healthy longer, and can even include a urinalysis, fecal test, and a complete blood screening. If your cat is both an “indoor” and “outdoor” cat, or lives in a multi cat household, then our veterinarian may also recommend that your cat be dewormed regularly and is up to date on flea preventatives.
Keeping Your Veterinarian Informed!
It is most important to keep your Vet informed and up to date on any physical or behavioral changes that your cat may exhibit. Regular (Semi annual- every 6 months) checkups can help our veterinarian figure out a suitable and preventable health program for your cat and catch any disorders earlier to provide effective treatment(s). Working together will ensure that your cat’s senior years will be happy, healthy and purrfect ones.