Older cats naturally face more cat health care problems as they get older. Just as with humans, the older a cat gets the more its 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.

For senior cats, one of the very common illnesses is osteoarthritis. The condition affects cats in the same way it does humans, meaning that it causes painful inflammation of the joints making mobility difficult. Normally, it is quite easy to tell when a cat is suffering from osteoarthritis. Usually the cat appears generally less mobile and might display difficulties in getting up or down stairs as well as standing or lying down, they may also appear to walk awkwardly. Owners who suspect this cat health care problem might be affecting their pets should visit the vet. 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. It is estimated by vets that around one cat in ten has a heart condition of some description. 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. This might include altering the animal’s diet or exercise regime. Alternatively, some other treatments might be able to lengthen the cat’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. The factors that can cause this illness are many, but they include: toxic poisoning, cancer, polycystic kidney disease and other infections. Symptoms include excessive urination, thirst, vomiting, drooling, loss of weight and mouth ulcers. However, not all cats will develop all of these symptoms. Although there is not specific cure for the illness, medication can be prescribed and diet altered to improve the cat’s quality of life. It is important to manage the cat’s diet to keep it hydrated. feeding moist cat food and providing a ready supply of fresh water should be top of the priorities list. Try to use a cat food that is lower in protein and phosphate, this will reduce toxins in the bloodstream, reducing pressure on the kidneys.

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