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Senior cats are
those above ten years of age, and as is the case with all species, aging in
cats brings its fair share of health concerns. It's difficult for even the most
loving pet parents to identify serious signs of illness in cats simply because
they are pros at hiding their discomfort. Regular vet check-ups are recommended
for senior cats, and pet parents should be aware of health concerns at this
age.
Arthritis
Scraping of
bones against each other due to wearing of cartilage around the joints may be
due to genetic factors, excess weight, or prior injury. The pain will make your
cat less active, unable to reach elevated surfaces or jump, seem stiff while
standing or walking, and may even result in peeing elsewhere if the litter box
has raised sides. It is possible to prevent its progression and relieve your
cat’s pain, so watch out for these signs!
Kidney disease
Kidneys function
to remove waste products from the body through the process of elimination.
Acute kidney failure in cats results from the ingestion of poisons, while
chronic kidney failure is generally what senior cats experience. The failure of
the kidneys results in a build-up of waste in your cat's blood, increasing
thirst, the volume of urine, vomiting, loss of appetite, and weight. Early
detection can add quality years to your cat's life.
Hyperthyroidism
Excessive
secretion of the thyroid hormone occurs in this disease, making cats lose
weight, become more active, thirsty, and hungry. It can even result in nausea,
diarrhea, and more serious concerns like heart disease and hypertension if left
untreated. Cardiomyopathy, a disease of the heart muscle, can eventually result
in congestive heart failure.
Cancer
Lymphoma is the
most common type of cancer in cats, where there is swelling of the lymph nodes.
Gastrointestinal forms of cancer are also common, affecting the stomach and
intestines. If your cat shows signs of weight loss, diarrhea, vomiting, and has
unusual lumps, contact your vet immediately!
Dental disease
Gingivitis, a
disease of the gums, develops into periodontal disease, characterized by red,
swollen, bleeding gums and bad breath. Swelling in the mouth can also be
accompanied by ulcers in a condition called stomatitis. The pain makes it
difficult to eat and can result in weight loss and lethargy. Dental clean-ups
and oral care practices will help protect your cat.
Diabetes
mellitus
Increased blood
glucose levels in diabetes can result from being overweight or having a
sedentary lifestyle. Remission is possible with early detection, diet change,
and insulin shots, but lifelong injections will become necessary if remission
fails.
Monitor your feline
friends closely – it could keep them with you for longer.
