Senior Cat Care

Aging Cats

Again, cats are like aging people in many ways.  They may walk stiffly and have problems going up  and down stairs.  You may notice gray hair developing, a duller, drier coat and hazy eyes.  They can have many of the same physical problems people do - failing eyesight and hearing, arthritis, heart, kidney, liver, and dental problems.

Obesity

Obesity can reduce life expectancy 30 - 50%!!!  A diet especially formulated for the needs of your aging cat is very important.  Slowing metabolism and lower activity levers make older pets more prone to obesity.  Extra pounds place a burden on the heart, lungs, kidneys, pancreas, joints, and muscles.  We can help determine a nutritionally balanced diet for your older cat.

Senior Medicine

Geriatric Medicine is a special service we are able to provide to extend the life span and improve the quality of life for your aging cat.  By the time your cat is 6 years old, the aging process has begun.  A complete health evaluation of your older cat is needed not only to determine current health status, but also to compare changes occurring from year to year.  Many problems can be detected in their early stages to slow down progression of the disease before the damage becomes severe or irreparable. 

This exam includes:

* Complete Blood Count

* Blood Chemistries

* Urinalysis/Urine Culture

* Blood Pressure

and if indicated:

* Electrocardiogram

* Chest/Abdominal X-ray

* Thyroid Testing

* Ultrasound or Endoscopy

Please use this checklist  You can discover many problems before they become serious and cause undue pain and expense.

My Cat...

___ is acting normally - active and in good spirits.

___ has a normal appetite with no chewing or

       swallowing difficulty and finishes the same amount

       of food consistently.

___ breathes normally, without straining or coughing*

___ urinates the usual amount and frequency*

___ has normal appearing bowel movements.

___ walks without stiffness, pain or difficulty.

___ has a full, glossy coat in good condition.

___ has skin that is free of dry flakes and is not greasy.

___ is free from fleas and ticks.

___ has eyes that are bright, clear, and free of matter.

___ has ears that are clean, debris free, and not itchy.

___ has clean white teeth that are free of plaque

       and calculus.

___ has gums that are pink with no redness

       and non-offensive breath odor.

___ has a body that is free of lumps/bumps as I run

       my hand over its entire body.

* Problems with breathing or urination may be life

   threatening - Call Immediately!

Call us if you answer no to any question.

Major Problems in Older Cats

* Obesity                             * Cancer

* Arthritis                             * Rear Leg Weakness

* Kidney Disease                 * Poor Hair Coat

* Heart Disease                    * Impaired Senses

* Liver Disease                        (hearing, sight, smell)

* Tooth/Gum Disease           * Memory Loss

* Diabetes                               (loss of habits/learning)

In Sickness and in Health

We thank you for choosing Westside Hospital for Cats.  While we emphasize strong preventive care, we are also here to provide advice and treatment for your cat if he or she ever becomes ill or injured.  Certain signs of illness, such as poor appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, persistent sneezing, or lameness, may be obvious.  But in cats even subtle behavioral changes, such as lethargy or hiding may indicate illness.  If you are unsure if your cat needs veterinary attention, please call for advice.  We are happy to answer any questions you may have!