As cats grow older, their bodies become less able to cope with physical or environmental stress. Their immune systems become weaker and they are more prone to developing certain diseases such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism, kidney disease or cancer.
With many cats living well into their teens or even their early twenties, we often wonder "when is a cat truly a senior citizen?" Below is a guideline to give you an idea of how the ageing process may be affecting your cat's health:
- Mature to middle-aged: 7 to 10 years
- Senior: 11 to 14 years
- Geriatric: 15+ years
It's time to see the doctor!
As with people, it is important for cats to visit the doctor more frequently as they age. A feline senior wellness examination is designed to promote the longest and healthiest life possible, recognise and control known health risks for older cats and/or detect any signs of disease at their earliest stage, when they are most treatable.
Most experts agree that the senior cat should visit their veterinarian every six months. Cats age much more rapidly than people and health problems can occur quickly. Your vet will carry out a complete physical examination and also offer additional laboratory tests (if appropriate) that may include blood tests, urine tests and blood pressure monitoring.
Things to look out for in your senior cat
Keeping a close eye on your cat in between wellness exams is a great help! Some common signs or symptoms that show they need to visit their vet can include any change in eating/drinking habits, toileting habits or behaviour. Any unexplained weight loss or gain should also be a cause for concern.
Don't forget the basics!
Along with paying close attention to your cat's health as he or she ages, you should also continue routine wellness care including parasite control (fleas and worms), prophylactic dental care, nutritional management and vaccinations.
For more information regarding wellness care for your feline friend, or to make an appointment for a senior wellness examination, please ring or call in and see us at the Totally Vets Feilding branch.
