Most
pet owners fail to realize that pet’s age more rapidly than humans,
and the gradual onset of old age problems in a previously healthy cat
may be both unexpected and distressing. The average life span of a
cat should be 12-14 years. The oldest cat on record lived to be 36.
As cats age, stress on vital organs, such as the heart, liver, and
kidneys, are more likely to become serious. Vitamin requirements generally
increase, and nutritional needs differ greatly from younger cats. Sources
of chronic infections, such as tooth and gum disease, can adversely
affect internal organs and contribute to failing health. Aging also
increases the risk of arthritis, disc disease, and other skeletal problems.
Many of these problems are readily detectable and controllable if diagnosed
early.
Major Problems in Older Cats Include:
-
Constipation due to decreased blood supply to the colon.
-
Rear leg weakness due to loss of muscle tissue, which does not
regenerate.
-
Anemia due to leukemia, kidney disease, or improper nutrition.
-
Bad breath/sore mouth due to tartar buildup on the teeth.
-
Fading memory (loss of habits) due to poor blood supply and oxygen
to the brain.
-
Poor hair coat due to loss of sex hormones or vitamin/mineral
deficiencies.
Recommendations for Health Care of Cats Over 5
Years of Age:
-
Feed HIGH QUALITY balanced DIET
-
Cats eat on a 3-4 day cycle don't worry
if it does not eat every day
-
Cats require a much higher protein level than dogs. (NO dog food.)
-
Maintain teeth and gums. Check twice a year for need of dental
hygiene. Use pet Dentifrice daily as directed.
-
Annual Vaccinations for Feline Distemper, Rhinotracheitis,
Calicivirus, Rabies, Feline Infectious Peritonitis
and Leukemia.
-
Annual Fecal Examination for internal parasites.
-
Annual Blood Counts for the presence of anemia.
-
Blood Profiles checking liver and kidney function each
year.
-
Encourage water consumption provide
clean, fresh water daily.
-
Daily brushing and bathe every
10-14 days to remove chemicals
on the hair
picked up off carpets, furniture,
etc. These chemicals are often
thought to
be the
reason cats develop liver failure
since they are often ingested
when the cat
cleans itself.
-
Vitamin A, B, C, D, E, and
Zinc Supplements.
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