They’re Not Just “Slowing Down” • Slowing down is often a sign of underlying discomfort or pain. If your cat has difficulty going up or down steps, does not jump like he used to, or isn’t using the litter box, talk with your veterinarian. • Arthritis, or degenerative joint disease, dental disease are present in most older cats. Appropriate treatment can help them remain active and engaged. • Dental disease is proven to be painful and also is a constant source of bacteria circulating throughout the body. Do not fall into the misconception that “my cat is eating, they don’t oral pain” that is not true, dental disease absolutely is painful and needs to be treated. Your veterinarian will perform pre-anesthetic tests to ensure your pet is able to undergo anesthesia. • No pet should have pain and your veterinarian can be there to prescribe appropriate procedure, medications, proven supplements, laser therapy and more to make your cat comfortable. Beware of Changes in Weight • Both weight gain AND unplanned weight loss requires a visit to the veterinarian. • Weight gain can make your cat more likely to get chronic diseases and have a shortened life span. • Weight loss in senior cats is usually a sign that something is wrong. Some of the most common diseases causing weight loss – hyperthyroidism, intestinal disease, and diabetes – occur with a normal or even increased appetite. • Gradual changes in weight are hard to notice. Monitoring your cat’s weight is one of the most important reasons for routine examinations by your veterinarian. Look When You Scoop • Are your cat’s stools softer, harder, or changing color? Is your cat defecating daily? Constipation is a common, yet under recognized sign of dehydration in older cats. If attended to early, your veterinarian can help your kitty feeling comfortable again. • Has the amount of urine in the litter box changed? Increased urine output can signal some of the most common illnesses in elderly cats including diabetes or an over active thyroid gland to kidney disease and high blood pressure. Take a “Cat’s Eye View” of the Litter Box • If your cat starts to miss the litter box and or have “accidents” around your house, there may be a medical issue causing your cat to inappropriately urination.
• Urinary infections (UTI), constipation, arthritis, and muscle weakness are just a few of the reasons an older cat may develop litter box issues. • Your veterinarian can assess the various medical issues and help address home or environmental concerns that may be contributing to changes in your cat’s behavior. • Is the litter box easy for your elderly cat to get into (i.e. there a high step into the box)? • Does the location of the litter box make it easy for your cat to access so they don’t have to go up or down stairs? Are you scooping and cleaning the litter box often enough to keep up with that increased urine output? Is the litter gentle on your senior kitty’s paws? • The litter box is a valuable insight to your cat’s health and monitoring is essential. Know That Your Senior Cat’s needs change with age • You will need to make some adjustments in your household to accommodate your senior cat. As cats grow older, they often need extra padding and warmth for comfort, so provide soft sleeping places. Make their preferred sleeping and resting spots easily accessible by using stepping stools, ramps, and other ways to assist. At the end of the day, cats will be cats and will jump to get to places they need to go regardless of pain they may be feeling. It is best to accommodate a senior cat’s needs as they age. Know How Much Your Cat is Eating • Nutritional needs change with chronic diseases and for some healthy older cats as well. Discuss nutrition with your cat’s veterinarian and get recommendations for your cat. • Monitor food intake so you know immediately if your cat is eating less. This helps your veterinarian intervene when there are problems. Enjoy Your Special Bond • Bonds with our older companions are special and we rely on our cats as much as they rely on us.
