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When your cat reaches it's senior years, you will need to pay extra attention to detect health issues and potentially make some small changes to accommodate your cats needs.

Care Advice for Senior Cats

Starting off your cat’s life with good nutrition, scheduled veterinary appointments and a happy home life sets the blueprint for a high quality of life in older years. Most cats are considered geriatric by the age of 8 to 10. Much like humans, time takes its toll on vital organ functions as your cat ages. Cats are more subtle than dogs in showing you when they are sick or in pain. Paying attention to your cat’s behaviour will make detecting problems easier and help them live healthier lives well into their teens.

Common Problems

Obesity

Obesity is a big health risk. An older cat is a less active cat, so adjustments to your pet’s diet to reduce calorie intake are imperative. This will relieve pressure on the joints as well as manage the risks of heart failure, kidney or liver disease, digestive problems and more. Other changes to nutrition should include increasing fibre, fatty acids and vitamins while decreasing phosphorus, sodium, protein and fat.

Diabetes

This is common in older cats, it is a disease where your cat’s pancreas can no longer produce enough of the hormone insulin. Increased thirst is a possible sign of diabetes, kidney failure or hyperthyroidism.

Arthritis

Severity of arthritis can range from slight stiffness to debilitation. You may detect this problem when he/she becomes less attentive about grooming and litter box habits. These signs may also indicate the slowing down of cognitive functions. Anti-inflammatory medication can help relieve the pain. Your veterinary surgeon will prescribe any necessary medication.

Immune System

Frequent colds or infection may indicate and impaired immune system. Ensure you cat has a check-up, you veterinary surgeon will determine this and prescribe the appropriate medication.

Hormones

As your cat gets older it will product less hormones and may become intolerant to hot and cold temperatures. Try moving your cat’s bed closer to a heat source and not letting them go outside on cold days.

Dental

Tooth loss or decay not only makes it harder to chew but also increases the likelihood of infection and tumours. Cats are very sensitive to oral pain. Brushing and cleaning a cat’s teeth will keep tartar, gum disease and gingivitis at bay.

Digestion

Constipation may point to colon problems or hairballs. A diet that is easily digestible and rich in nutrients is essential.

Skin and Fur

Problems with skin and coat in ageing cats means the skin loses elasticity, making your pet more susceptible to injury. Regular grooming to maintain the coat’s lustre and fatty acid supplements are highly beneficial.

Appetite

Decreased sense of smell may impact your cat’s appetite. Try serving smaller portions more often throughout the day and ask your vet about foods for geriatric cats.

What can i do?

* Check your cat’s mouth, eyes and ears regularly. Watch for loose teeth, redness, swelling or discharge.
* Keep your pets sleeping area clean and warm
* Make fresh water available at all times
* Maintain a regime of proper nutrition and loving attention

If you have an older cat and are worried about any of the above, or notice any unusual behaviour or symptoms, contact your vet and ensure to get regular check-ups.

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OUR LOCATIONS

Veterinary Hospital Northampton

Spinney Vets Kettering Road
491 Kettering Rd
Northampton NN3 6QW

Normal Opening Times:
Monday - Friday: 08.00 - 19.00
Saturday: 08.00 - 12.00
Sundays: Closed
Bank Holidays: Closed

Outside of these times you will be directed to our dedicated out of hours emergency service provider,
Vets Now.

Telephone: 01604 648221

OUT OF HOURS COVER
Telephone: 01604 648221

OUR LOCATIONS

Veterinary Hospital Northampton

Spinney Vets Kettering Road
491 Kettering Rd
Northampton NN3 6QW

Normal Opening Times:
Monday - Friday: 08.00 - 19.00
Saturday: 08.00 - 12.00
Sundays: Closed
Bank Holidays: Closed

Outside of these times you will be directed to our dedicated out of hours emergency service provider,
Vets Now.

Telephone: 01604 648221

OUT OF HOURS COVER
Telephone: 01604 648221

Veterinary Surgery Northampton

Spinney Vets Wootton Fields
3-5 Tudor Court
Wootton Hope Drive
Wootton Fields
Northampton NN4 6FF

Opening Times:
Monday - Friday: 09.00 - 18.30
Saturday: 09.00 - 12.00
Sunday: ClOSED
Bank Holiday: CLOSED

Telephone: 01604 700366

OUT OF HOURS COVER
Telephone: 01604 648221