Older cats naturally face more cat health care problems as they get older.Just like humans, cats age and their health deteriorates. People with older cats should always make cat health care a priority and keep close watch of their pet’s condition. Although unfortunately many of the cat health care problems associated with older cats are untreatable, vets can make life as comfortable as possible for the pet through medication or diet.
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common afflictions to affect older cats. Osteoarthritis affects cats by causing inflammation of the joints meaning that moving around becomes difficult, in much the same way the condition affects humans. It is usually quite obvious to see that a cat has osteoarthritis. Normally the animal will appear stiff, have trouble getting up or sitting or lying down, appear to find climbing stairs difficult, walk awkwardly or generally appear less mobile. Cat owners who believe that their pet is affected by this particular cat health problem should take him or her to the vet’s practice. Although there is no exact treatment for the illness, a range of cat food aimed at senior, arthritic cats is available and this can ease pain.
Older cats are also more likely to suffer from the cat health care problem heart disease. Vets typically find around a tenth of cats to have some type of heart condition.The symptoms are not too obvious but can include coughing which is more noticeable at night and a decrease in appetite. if you believe that your pet has a heart problem then you should consult a vet who can suggest ways to help. Options include altering the pet’s diet or exercise regime.Other treatments could also be suggested to try to prolong the pet’s life.
Lastly, senior cats are also commonly affected by chronic renal failure. Basically meaning a deterioration in kidney function, this is a progressive and irreversible cat health care problem. Several factors can cause this illness, including cancer, polycystic kidney disease, infections or even toxic poisoning. Amongst its many symptoms are excessive drooling, increased thirst and urination, vomiting and mouth ulcers. Remember though that not all cats will develop all of these symptoms.There is no cure for the illness but it can be effectively managed to improve the animal’s quality of life. The most important thing is managing the pet’s diet so that it remains hydrated.Feeding moist foods is important, as is providing plenty of water. Feeding a cat food which is lower in proteins and phosphate will limit the amount of toxins in the blood and therefore reduce the workload placed on the kidneys.
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