Elderly Cat Health Problems
Cats are living longer than ever, due to more cats being exclusively indoors, improved nutrition, and advances in veterinary care. On average, cats are living 15 years. Some cats live 20 years or longer. As a result, elderly cat health problems are a concern for many cat owners.
There are several things you can do for your cat to give him the best chance of living a long, healthy life and to reduce health problems as he gets older. These include making sure he is eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of fresh water, getting exercise, and getting lots of love from you. It is also very important to adhere to the recommended schedule of vaccinations and dental care. In addition to all those, keeping your cat restricted to living indoors will protect him from many things that often significantly shorten the lives of outdoor cats.
However, even with the best of care, as with all creatures, with age come inevitable health issues to some degree. That being said, don't assume a decline in your cat's health is "just old age". Many ailments, if treated early, can be at least improved if not cured.
As your cat ages, he will become more sedentary and his grooming will show some decline. His appetite will likely change over time and his diet will need to be adjusted to accommodate his decreased caloric needs as well as to provide the proper nutrition for his aging body. The nutritional needs of a senior cat are different than those of a growing kitten or younger adult cat.
While regular checkups are important at all stages in your cat's life, they are especially crucial for your aging cat. Generally, older cats will require more frequent exams than younger cats, usually at least every 6 months. You can also watch for problems in your aging cat. As you cuddle, pet and groom your cat, feel and look for anything unusual such as lumps or skin problems. Regularly check his teeth and mouth, eyes, ears, and claws for any signs of trouble. Checking your cat's weight on a regular basis is also important. A half pound change in a month could signal a serious health issue.
Arthritis is common in older cats. Watch for signs of pain as he gets in and out of the litter box or attempts to jump up on the sofa or negotiate the stairs. Sometimes irritability or aggressive behavior can be a signal that your cat is in pain.
Kidney disease is also common in aging cats. Increased thirst and urination may be indicators that your cat's kidneys are starting to decline. Cats in the early stages of kidney disease can often live for many years with the proper diet and care. Increased urination may also be an indication of diabetes. This may be treated with insulin and a specific diet.
Just like humans, an aging cat is also more susceptible to life threatening health issues such as cancer and heart disease. Any changes in behavior, toileting, energy level, mood, appetite or appearance should be brought to the attention of your vet, and the sooner the better.
Your elderly cat health problems are your responsibility. Your aging feline friend is entirely dependent on you for providing the best possible care for him. Most veterinarians have a recommended plan for senior pets that you can follow to keep your pet as healthy and happy as possible as he ages.