People with older pets 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 felines cannot be avoided or treated, but vets can do a lot to manage illness and make their last few years as comfortable and happy as possible.
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common afflictions to affect them as they get older. The condition affects them in the same way it does humans, meaning that it causes painful inflammation of the joints making mobility difficult.
Signs of osteoarthritis are normally quite obvious.
- Typically the cat displays stiffness, difficulty standing up or lying down,
- problems in climbing the stairs,
- walking awkwardly or general lameness.
Cat owners who believe that their pet is affected by this particular health problem should take him or her to the vet’s practice. There is no specific treatment for the illness, but owners can buy a wide range of food which is targeted specifically at arthritic older cats.
Heart Disease
Heart disease is another common problem in older cats. It is estimated by vets that around one in ten has a heart condition of some description. Although the symptoms of heart disease are not so obvious, owners should look out for a reduction in appetite and a cough which is more prevalent at night. A vet will be able to confirm suspicions of heart problems and suggest ways to improve the pet’s condition. Changes to the diet and its exercise regime may help. Other treatments could also be suggested to try to prolong the pet’s life.
Feline Renal failure
Finally, chronic renal failure commonly affects senior cats. This is a progressive and irreversible cat health care problem which basically means a deterioration of the kidney function. 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.
Remember though that not all cats will develop all of these symptoms. Although there is not specific cure for the illness, medication can be prescribed and diet altered to improve the it’s quality of life. It is important to manage it’s diet to keep it hydrated. Feeding moist foods is important, as is providing plenty of water. Reducing the number of toxins in the blood stream by feeding low protein and low phosphate food will lower the workload of the kidneys.
Remember also that old age comes to us all eventually and at this stage the best treatment is to keep your pet as comfortable as possible, with a soft place to sleep, gentle grooming and as much exercise as is comfortable.
