Older Cat Health Problems
As cats get older then they require special attention to their health care. Like humans, as they age their facultie begin to wane, their strength diminishes, their teeth fall out and they can become stiff and infirm. But a well looked after cat can live to twenty years old and beyond, but to do so they need a loving home and lots of care and attention.
Cat Health and the Problems of Aging
Cats are suscetible to many of the same age related health issues as us humans. These include stiffening joints and arthritis, tooth decay, deafness, incontinence and the loss of their ability to taste and smell. A common ailment that can bring about the end of a cat's life is kidney failure. Another is strokes. Cats will often experience a whole series of strokes up until the final one that results in death.
Signs that your cat is experiencing age related health issues will include a reducing inclination to adventure outdoors, chasing birds and staying out all night, much like humans. You may notice changes in your cat's eating habits and you should pay attention to dental health as many cats develop horrendously bad breath as their teeth decay and fall out as they age.
Incontinence is another common issue. But this can be managed using cat diapers, but you may experience some difficulty in persuading your moggie that wearing them is actually beneficial.
Good Cat Health Care
As cats get older its important that they are given regular health checks by a qualified vet. The vet will inspect the cats mouth, ask for details of the cats eating habits and stick a thermometer up the cats rectum. Your vet will advise you on the best way to take care of your cat as it shuffles toward the end of its life.
How to Feed an Aging Cat
Diet is an important factor that can significantly affect your cats health, its ability to withstand the effects of aging and keep its teeth healthy. A varied diet that includes a healthy mixture of dry and wet food is recommended. And cats must always have access to a plentiful supply of clean water. This is particularly important in warm homes with central heating and cats can quickly become unhealthily dehydrated in these environments. And be certain to include a few of your cats favourite treats in the diet as getting to a ripe old age means that these are well deserved.
Putting Cats to Sleep
It is the authors opinion that pet ownership is a responsibility and this includes caring for pets into their old age. Many people think that once an animal is beginning to show the signs of age its then time to inject them with a poison and get a replacement. This should not be the case. The only circumstances under which it is humane to take an animals life is if that animal is suffering and that suffering cannot be alleviated.
So look after your cat or cats well and they will live long and happy lives. Look out for the signs of aging and be sure to get your cats checked by a vet regularly.
Category: Cat Health
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