Older cats naturally face more cat health care problems as they get older.Just like humans, cats age and their health deteriorates. Those people who own senior cats are advised to keep a close eye on their pet’s health and to keep cat health care an absolute priority. Sadly, the majority of cat health care problems which older cats face are untreatable, but vets can provide medication and diets to manage the illnesses, providing the best possible quality of life for the pets.

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common afflictions to affect older cats. The illness affects felines in the same way it does humans, that is it causes painful join inflammation and makes moving around more difficult.Signs of osteoarthritis are normally quite obvious. Normally the animal will appear stiff, have trouble getting up or sitting or lying down, appear to find climbing stairs difficult, walk awkwardly or generally appear less mobile. Owners who suspect this cat health care problem might be affecting their pets should visit the vet. Although there is no exact treatment for the illness, a range of cat food aimed at senior, arthritic cats is available and this can ease pain.

Heart disease is another common cat health care problem in older cats. It is estimated by vets that around one cat in ten has a heart condition of some description.The symptoms are not too obvious but can include coughing which is more noticeable at night and a decrease in appetite.Owners who believe that their pet may be suffering from a heart condition should consult a vet who will be able to suggest ways of improving the cat’s condition. Changes to the diet of the cat and its exercise regime may help. There are also some treatments available which might prolong the cat’s life.

Finally, older cats are also often affected by chronic renal failure. Basically meaning a deterioration in kidney function, this is a progressive and irreversible cat health care problem. The factors that can cause this illness are many, but they include: toxic poisoning, cancer, polycystic kidney disease and other infections. Some of the symptoms include excessive thirst and urination, weight loss, excessive drooling, 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 foods is important, as is providing plenty of water.Try to use a cat food that is lower in protein and phosphate, this will reduce toxins in the bloodstream, reducing pressure on the kidneys.

Tagged with: •

Filed under: Pets Advice

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!