Senior Maine Coon cat walking on table.

As cats age, their nutritional needs, health challenges, and preventive care needs change. As a responsible pet owner, it’s important to make sure that you provide your senior cat with the best care possible. This article will provide a comprehensive look into cat senior care, including how age will impact your cat’s health, what nutritional needs to consider, signs and symptoms of slowing down, common health complications, preventive care that can extend their life, and why wellness exams are important. By the end of this article, you will better understand what kind of care you should be providing your senior cat. If you’re located near Hamburg, NJ, Veterinary Center of Hardyston is here to help make sure that your cat gets the best care possible.

How Will Getting Older Impact My Cat’s Health?

As cats age, their immune system weakens, and their risk of chronic diseases increases. Their skin becomes thinner and less elastic, making them more prone to infection. They are also more likely to experience changes in behavior, such as sleeping more, avoiding human interaction, and having difficulty grooming themselves. Common medical problems experienced by older cats include overactive thyroid, intestinal problems, cancer, pancreatitis, diabetes, and renal disease.

How Do a Cat’s Nutritional Needs Change As They Age?

As cats age, their body changes, and so do their nutritional needs. Senior cats may need fewer calories due to decreased activity levels but still require a balanced diet high in protein and healthy fats, as well as antioxidants. Additionally, wet food can help with hydration, which is important for senior cats who may not recognize thirst as well as they did in their younger days. Always consult your veterinarian before switching your cat’s diet to ensure that their nutritional needs are being met.

Senior maine coon cat at veterinary hospital for senior panel blood work.

What Are Signs and Symptoms of Slowing Down in Cats?

As cats age, they naturally slow down, and their energy levels decrease. Some common signs and symptoms that your cat may be slowing down include:

  • Difficulty jumping onto high surfaces
  • Sleeping more than usual
  • Less interest in playing
  • Being less social

If you notice these signs or any other changes in your cat’s behavior, it’s important to take them to the vet for an evaluation.

What Are Some Common Health Complications and Diseases in Senior Cats?

The most common health complications and diseases experienced by senior cats include:

  • Chronic renal (kidney) disease
  • Heart disease
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Arthritis
  • Hyperthyroidism

Symptoms of each vary but may include increased thirst or urination, weight loss or gain, vomiting or diarrhea, lack of appetite, poor coat quality, and difficulty accessing high surfaces. It’s important to bring your cat in for regular checkups so that these conditions can be detected and managed early.

Senior gray cat being pet by owner.

What Kinds of Preventative Care Can Help Extend My Cat’s Health and Life?

Preventive care is a vital part of keeping your senior cat healthy and happy. This includes providing them with a balanced diet, regular exercise, preventive medications, and vaccinations as needed. Additionally, regular vet visits are important for the early detection of any health concerns or diseases.

Why Are Wellness Exams and Regular Checkups Important for Senior Cats?

Wellness exams and regular checkups allow veterinarians to detect potential issues at their earliest stages, making them easier, less expensive, and more successful to treat. During your senior cat’s wellness exam, the vet will ask questions about any noticeable changes in their weight, eating or drinking habits, respiratory health, urination, and bowel movement. Additionally, they’ll record your cat’s vital signs and compare them with past records to check for changes. Depending on their health and age, your veterinarian may recommend other diagnostic screenings.

What Tests Might a Senior Cat Need?

Common tests for senior cats include:

These tests help vets detect underlying problems that may not be visible during a regular physical exam, enabling them to diagnose and treat these diseases in their earliest stages.

What Is The Most Important Thing to Know About Caring for a Senior Cat?

The most important thing to know about caring for a senior cat is that they require more attention and care than younger cats. This includes regular vet visits, providing a comfortable environment, meeting their nutritional needs, addressing behavioral changes, grooming them regularly, and making necessary lifestyle modifications. With the right care and attention, your senior cat can live out their golden years in comfort and health.

Conclusion

Caring for a senior cat is an important responsibility that requires patience, understanding, and dedication. With the right care and attention, you can ensure your feline friend has the best quality of life possible as they navigate their golden years. Regular wellness exams are key to detecting potential health issues early so they can be treated quickly and successfully. Additionally, providing your cat with a balanced diet, regular exercise, preventive medications, and vaccinations will help keep them healthy and happy.

At Veterinary Center of Hardyston, we understand the special bond between you and your pet. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment!