How to Care for Your Older Cat
What You Should Know About Looking After Your Senior Feline
Aug 28, 2008
A senior cat requires extra care to ensure that he or she will enjoy a good a quality of life. At the age of eight, cats become seniors and develop special needs.
Older cats thrive in quiet, peaceful environments with a lot of love and minimum stress. Thanks to advances in veterinary science your cat can live for up to twenty years or more. Caring for a senior cat requires specific considerations.
Nutrition
Your senior cat has unique nutritional requirements and will benefit from a diet containing less protein, lower fat and higher quantities of fiber. There are a variety of excellent senior cat food brands. Ask your veterinarian to recommend one that's right for your cat.
Body Weight
As cats get older, it's important for them to maintain a steady weight. Most cats are prone to weight gain but bear in mind that a pronounced increase or decrease in your cat's weight may indicate a serious health issue like diabetes, lever disease, kidney disease or cancer.
Exercise
Exercise is good for your cat's general health. Not only does exercise benefit a cat's circulatory and muscular system but it also prevents weight gain. Try to make sure your cat exercises for a period of ten minutes twice a day. Appropriate activities include playing with your cat or walking your cat on a leash. While your cat is exercising, pay attention to his or her breathing and make sure it is not labored. Labored breathing may be a sign of respiratory problems.
Be Observant
Pay attention to your cat's behavior. Cats are very good at hiding their illnesses. Keep a watchful eye on your senior cat so that any changes in his or her behavior won't slide under proverbial the radar. Early detection of irregularities in your cat's health increases the chances for early treatment and successful recovery.
Grooming
Common health issues the affect older cats such as obesity, rheumatism and arthritis make it difficult for them to look after their coats. Make sure you gently brush and comb your senior cat regularly. Not only does grooming your cat remove excess fur and prevent hairballs but it also stimulates the circulation and increases metabolic activity.
Older cats are less prone to make use of their scratching posts so don't forget to trim your cat's claws. Once every two weeks is sufficient.
Make sure your senior cat has a litter box that is easy to access and with walls that aren't too high for your kitty to climb over.
Health Care
Take your older cat in for a complete physical examination every six months instead of once annually.
It's also important to have your vet examine your cat's teeth. Many middle aged cats frequently develop tartar on their teeth and gums which can cause painful inflammations and tooth loss.
Many of your senior cat's health issues can easily be managed under the guidance and supervision of your veterinarian. With a little bit of extra time and a lot of love, your feline friend is sure to be around for many years to come.
Further Reading
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