Cat Health Care for the Older Cat
It is natural and logical that as a cat ages it beings to face more and more cat health care problems.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.Many of the cat health care problems faced by older cats cannot be avoided or treated, but vets can do a lot to manage illness and make the cat’s last few years as comfortable and happy as possible.
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common afflictions to affect older cats. Osteoarthritis affects cats by causing inflammation of the joints meaning that moving around becomes difficult, in much the same way the condition affects humans. It is usually quite obvious to see that a cat has osteoarthritis. 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.If you believe that your cat is suffering from this particular cat health care problem then you should take him or her to the vet. There is no specific treatment for the condition but owners can buy a range of cat foods targeted at arthritic senior pets to help ease their pain.
Another common senior cat health care problem is heart disease. 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. if you believe that your pet has a heart problem then you should consult a vet who can suggest ways to help. Options include altering the pet’s diet or exercise regime. Alternatively, some other treatments might be able to lengthen the cat’s life.
Lastly, senior cats are also commonly affected by chronic renal failure.This is a progressive and irreversible cat health care problem which basically means a deterioration of the kidney function. The factors that can cause this illness are many, but they include: toxic poisoning, cancer, polycystic kidney disease and other infections. Amongst its many symptoms are excessive drooling, increased thirst and urination, vomiting and mouth ulcers.However, 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 cat’s quality of life. The most important thing is managing the pet’s diet so that it remains hydrated.Feeding moist foods is important, as is providing plenty of water. Feeding a cat food which is lower in proteins and phosphate will limit the amount of toxins in the blood and therefore reduce the workload placed on the kidneys.
