HOW TO TAKE CARE SENIOR CAT
Ages ago, cats were taken into consideration by seniors at 8 years old. Nowadays, it’s not uncommon to have feline patients in their twenties. As generation advances, step forward in nutrition, dwelling indoors, and veterinary medicine, cats stay longer and are taken into consideration older at 12 to fourteen years. some senior cats are prone to different conditions while some live perfectly healthy. Older cats tend to be much less energetic and playful. They tend to sleep extra throughout the day, benefit or shed pounds, and feature problems accomplishing their preferred places. Not all fitness or conduct adjustments are related to vintage age. Such adjustments may be symptoms and symptoms of not unusual place illnesses or dental issues that ought to be addressed via way of means of your veterinarian.
1. Periodical wellness check-ups
It is advised to visit your veterinarian even if they are healthy. Your veterinarian can get to recognize your cat and stumble on diffused adjustments that could suggest a fitness situation or disease. Your precious feline needs to visit their veterinarian more often as they age, generally every six months, even if your cat appears healthy. As 6 months in the cat is equal to 2 years for humans and loads can alternate in that time.
2. Prepare your cat for vet visits.
Cats can become stressed before veterinary visits. Make your cat get used to staying in the carrier, this would be easier to get your cat into the carrier on the day of the appointment. Depart earlier so that your beloved pet stays calm and relaxed. While waiting, have a list of questions in mind, to ask your vet.
3. Monitor behavioral changes.
Cats can hide their illness. Health and behavior changes are often subtle and easily missed. If you observe a distinction between their ordinary behavior, which includes snoozing or hiding, don’t ignore it. Contact your veterinarian and inform them approximately any adjustments to your cat’s behavior, even supposing they’re minor.
4. Monitor any physical changes.
Weight gain and unplanned weight loss require veterinarian visits. Weight benefits could make your cat much more likely to get continual sicknesses and feature a shortened life span. Sudden weight loss often indicates underlying health problems. Some of the maximum not unusual place illnesses inflicting weight reduction encompass hyperthyroidism, intestinal disease, and diabetes. Is difficult to notice a gradually decreasing weight, that’s why it is important to monitor your cat’s weight regularly.
Slowing down is mostly a signal that your cat is experiencing underlying soreness or pain. As arthritis is commonly diagnosed in older cats, suitable supplementation can help your cat to have a comfortable life. If your cat has difficulty climbing up or down steps, does not jump like he used to, or isn’t using the litter box, contact your veterinarian.
5. Observe their litter box.
Monitor the consistency and color of your cat’s stools. Extended urine output can sign a number of the maximum not unusual place ailments in older cats along with diabetes or an overactive thyroid gland to kidney disorder and excessive blood pressure. If your cat misses the litter box and has accidents around your house, there may be a medical issue causing him to house soil. Your veterinarian can look into medical problems and help you with home or environmental concerns that may cause a change in your cat’s behavior.
6. Understand your cat’s needs.
You may need to adjust your household for your senior cat. As cats develop older, they regularly want more padding and heat for comfort. Making their favorite sleeping and resting spots easy to access with stepping stools, ramps, and other assistance is important.
7. Know How Much Your Cat Eats
Cat’s diet relies on their age and respective health condition. Ask your vet regarding a suitable diet plan for your cat. Monitor your cat’s intake, and consult your veterinarian in case there is any change in the appetite. Most importantly, experience your unique bond together with your older companion.
Al Barsha Veterinary Clinic emboldens you to schedule an annual or periodic examination depending on your pet’s age. When your pets are regularly examined, our vets can identify potential health issues early and recommend a plan of action. Early diagnosis allows us to control underlying life-threatening conditions. Contact us nowadays to schedule a well-being appointment.
Written by: Camila Sousa Da Silva – Veterinary Nurse
