YOUR SENIOR CAT

Old age is not a disease
As a result of advances in veterinary medicine and improved nutrition, cats are now living longer, healthier lives. But, just like in humans, as our pets age their metabolism slows down, joints become less fluid, and vital organs work less efficiently. Older cats are at risk of many health problems, including kidney disease, periodontal disease (dental disease), hyperthyroidism, obesity, and diabetes. Some signs of illness you may observe in your pet are unexplained weight loss or gain, decreased activity level, poor hair coat, constipation, tooth loss or decay, and increased thirst and urination. Cats are more subtle than dogs in showing when they are sick or in pain, so it is very important to monitor your senior cat’s behavior closely and alert the veterinarian to any changes you observe. A problem that you think is simply related to your pet aging may actually be the result of a treatable medical condition.