Caring for your senior cat should always remain a top priority. As your pet ages, you’ll need to take a few extra precautions to safeguard it against certain illnesses. Let’s take a look at the top five ailments found in senior cats.
Kidney Disease
A feline’s kidneys aren’t much different from your own. They‘re designed to filter out waste products from the body. If your cat’s kidneys aren’t properly functioning, it’s only a matter of time before trouble arises. Toxins will gradually start to build up within the bloodstream. Some of the common symptoms of kidney disease include weight loss, vomiting, increased thirst, and a poor appetite.
Heart Disease
Heart disease is an ailment that needs to be treated as soon as possible. Failing to take action puts your cat at risk of experiencing cardiac failure. The best approach is to allow Whitworth Animal Clinic to perform an annual physical exam. Diagnostic tests enable Dr. Whitworth to fully evaluate the condition of your pet’s heart. Difficulty breathing, extreme fatigue and a weak pulse are some of the most common signs of heart disease.
Diabetes
Some older cats are more at risk of developing diabetes than others. Overweight cats that don’t get enough exercise are definitely more susceptible. Diet also plays a major role in the occurrence of this disorder. Luckily, diabetes can be effectively managed with regular insulin injections. When properly treated, diabetic cats are able to enjoy a high-quality life. In some instances, insulation treatments may no longer be needed.
Arthritis
Arthritis subjects pets to a great deal of pain and stiffness. If your senior cat has suddenly become less active and starts to sleep more than usual, there’s a good chance that arthritis is to blame. Quickly taking action will help prevent the use of powerful medications. Because prescription painkillers can cause serious side effects, they should be the last result. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are two of the most popular over-the-counter dietary supplements.
Dental Disease
Some cat owners tend to overlook the importance of dental health. When excess plaque and tarter is allowed to develop on a cat’s teeth, the amount of bacteria inside its mouth will increase dramatically. This could lead to a number of other issues, including a dangerous infection. A dental cleaning is a highly recommended preventive measure.
If you have any questions about caring for your pet, be sure to contact Whitworth Animal Clinic. While our facility is located in Madison, we proudly serve all of the surrounding areas in northern Alabama. From flea control to emergency veterinary surgery, Whitworth Animal Clinic offers a wide range of different services.
*This article is not meant to take the place of professional veterinarian advice. If you have questions, call the staff at Whitworth Animal Clinic or make an appointment with a vet in your area.
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