If your cat is getting older, he or she may have trouble walking, jumping, or running. This happens because the bones in their hind legs become weak. You can help your kitty stay strong and healthy by following these tips:
Hip dysplasia is a common problem in older cats.
This condition can cause pain and lameness, which can be difficult for your cat to manage. If you notice that your cat has difficulty getting up or walking around, it could be because of hip dysplasia.
- Feed your cat a diet that contains high levels of protein and fat with low carbohydrate content (such as Hills Science Diet® Feline Adult Advanced Fitness™ dry food). These foods are designed to help maintain strong muscles and joints while reducing inflammation associated with aging or injury.
- Make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for exercise throughout the day by playing games like "Fetch" or "Tag" with your pet!
Declawing can be a painful experience, especially if the cat chews on her paws.
Declawing is a painful process, and it can lead to other health issues. The cat's paws may be chewed on as she tries to cope with the pain. Declawing isn't recommended for cats that are kept indoors or outdoors; it's also not recommended for indoor-only cats if you have reason to believe that your pet will be allowed outside in the future.
If you're thinking about getting your pet declawed, consider talking with an animal behaviorist first. Your vet might refer you or even perform this service themselves!
Cancer is the most common cause of death among senior cats.
This disease occurs when cells in your cat's body begin to grow out of control and form tumors, which can be benign (not harmful) or malignant (cancerous). Cancer does not spread from one cat to another like a virus would; rather it develops inside the body on its own.
Cancer can be caused by genetics and environmental factors such as toxins from cigarette smoke or pesticides used on lawns near where you walk your pet every day. Sometimes there are no known causes for cancer in pets--it just happens! Your veterinarian will be able to tell you if there's anything you could have done differently that might have prevented your pet from developing this condition later in life.
Hyperthyroidism is the most common endocrine disorder in older cats.
The thyroid gland, located in your cat's neck, produces hormones that regulate metabolism and energy use. Hyperthyroidism occurs when there is too much of this hormone being produced by the thyroid gland. It can be caused by an overactive thyroid gland (Graves' disease) or an enlarged thyroid gland (thyroid adenoma).
Symptoms include:
- Weight loss despite a good appetite;
- Increased thirst;
- Increased urination;
- Rapid heart rate;
- Lethargy/fatigue;
The treatment for hyperthyroidism depends on whether it is caused by an overactive thyroid gland or an enlarged one. If you suspect that your senior kitty may have hyperthyroidism, take him to see his veterinarian as soon as possible so they can determine if further testing is needed to diagnose him with this condition!
The average life expectancy of a Persian cat is 14 years old, which is lower than many other breeds.
For healthy senior cats, there are no known causes of senility or dementia as seen in humans. However, they do experience unique health challenges that require special attention and care.
Senior cats can develop arthritis as they age and may also suffer from dental problems due to tooth decay or gum disease. Because of this, it's important to pay close attention when brushing your pet's teeth daily--or even twice daily--using toothpaste designed specifically for cats.
Declawing can be a painful experience for the cat if she chews on her paws; especially if she has developed calluses over time from walking around barefoot inside the house! These calluses can then become infected due to bacteria being trapped under them which will cause discomfort when walking around outside where dirt may get stuck between them too."
For healthy senior cats, there are no known causes of senility or dementia as seen in humans.
Senility and dementia are not common in cats. The physical capabilities of cats decline as they age, but their mental capacity does not.
Cats can live relatively long lives--up to 20 years or more--and some may experience senility at an earlier age than dogs do. Senior cats need a diet that is high in protein and fat, especially if their joints have started to ache from arthritis. As your cat ages, he or she may develop urinary tract infections (UTIs) or suffer from cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS).
Senior cats have unique health challenges that require special attention and care
They should be monitored more closely than younger cats, fed a special diet, socialized more often, groomed more often and sometimes put into foster care if they are having behavioral issues. Many people want to adopt kittens over senior cats because they are cute and easy to handle but finding a suitable home for an older cat can be difficult.
Conclusion
Keep in mind that aging is a natural process, and the most important thing you can do for your cat is to keep them comfortable and happy. There are many options available to help with mobility issues, so make sure you talk with your veterinarian about which will work best for your pet.
