What are common health concerns for senior cats?
What are common health concerns for senior cats?
We all know it’s coming and we know it will be hard. It’s the worst thing about pet ownership but eventually they age and just like the rest of us, with old age come health concerns. Some are simply “everyday variety” issues—moving a little slower, not feeling on top of the world, less energy, maybe more ornery than before. Seems like only yesterday when they were just kittens.
But as our beloved cats near the end of their homestretch, more concerning health maladies often emerge that make their days a little less enjoyable. At Feline Medical Clinic, we know well the emotional pain you endure as your cat endures the physical. Fortunately, awareness of common health concerns in senior cats helps you recognize downhill slides before they get worse and at the very least, allows an opportunity for comfort.
When does a cat become a “senior?”
Back in the “old days,” cats were lumped into the senior ranks at just eight years old and seems like only rarely did we see a grizzled old tom pushing 20. Similar to medical and nutritional advances in humans, the same has taken place with pets and today it’s not uncommon at all to see a cat live into its 20s.
Regardless of extended life spans, cats still technically reach their senior years at about age 7. Think of it like this: a child’s 65-year-old grandfather is considered a senior citizen even though he might live another 30 years. Realizing that life cycle fact in your pet is the first step in addressing corresponding health concerns.
Signs of aging
Staff here at Feline Medical Clinic agree that cats show many of the same signs of aging as humans. One of the most common is slowing down. Activity levels drop, she doesn’t spring up the side of the cat condo like she used to, and has far less interest in any extra physical exertion.
Fluctuations in weight is another aging indicator, although this can be weight loss or weight gain. While it might simply be associated with change in energy levels, weight change could be a symptom of more a more serious problem.
Closely matching human aging issues, most cats will someday face issues such as arthritis, hearing or vision loss, dementia, thyroid trouble, cancer, gum disease, and more. Knowing what to look for will help your closing months with your cat as comfortable and memorable as possible.
For more advice on senior cat health concerns, contact Feline Medical Clinic at (360) 892-0224.