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Senior Cat Care

Senior Cat Care with our Reisterstown Veterinarian

Cats are fairly self-sufficient; however, as they age, their nutrition and exercise requirements change and in order to monitor their health, senior cat care generally includes more frequent checkups from the veterinarian. Cats are good at hiding health problems, but with preventative care and regular checkups with our Reisterstown vet, you can ensure that your senior cat remains happy and healthy.

senior cat during a wellness exam with a veterinarian in Reisterstown

Life Stages

Just like humans, some cats in Reisterstown age more quickly than others. Typically, cats are considered to be a senior at around the age of eleven, but many cats live well into their teens and some even into their 20’s. The typical ages when senior cats reach various life stages include:

  • Middle aged-7-10 years
  • Senior-11-14 years
  • Geriatric-15 years and over           

Health Issues

Your pet is not only unable to tell you what is wrong, but most cats are excellent at hiding signs of illness. It is important to take into consideration that cats age much quicker than humans, so paying close attention to any signs of illness or injury between their regular exams is critical. Things to be aware of include, change in appetite, limping, lethargy and decrease in activity. Some of the most common senior health issues to be aware of include:

  • Arthritis
  • Dental disease
  • Cognitive disorders
  • Deafness
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Vision problems
  • Kidney disease

Behavioral Changes

As your cat ages, there may be noticeable changes in their behaviors, including:

  • Aggression-senior cats may become aggressive toward people or other animals in the household. Keep in mind; this is often the result of a medical problem, such as arthritis that is causing pain. Consulting with your veterinarian about pain management may help to reduce the aggression.
  • Fear and anxiety-health problems, such as vision or hearing loss, neurological disease, stress and/or pain can contribute to fear and/or anxiety in your pet.

Regular veterinary wellness check-ups increase as your cat ages. Unless your veterinarian has diagnosed a serious illness or disease, it is recommended that your senior cat have veterinary exams every six months. Along with veterinary care in Reisterstown, your senior cat may also require different care than a younger cat. For example, arthritis is a common condition in older cats, changes in their environment, such as easier access to food, litter box and perches may be necessary. As they age, your pet may also have special dietary needs.

Meet With Our Reisterstown Veterinarian Today!

Contact TLC for Pets to learn more information about caring for your senior cat and to schedule a wellness exam. Our Reisterstown veterinarian is here to answer any questions you may have about caring for your senior cat. Call us at (410) 833-1717.