Common Health Problems Of Older Cats
The health of older cats can be affected by a number of different diseases, so regular veterinary care is very important.
All cats should be examined by a veterinarian at least once a year, but for older cats, twice a year is recommended. In this way, it is possible to prevent or treat any inconvenience in good time. Do not forget most diseases are easier to treat if they are diagnosed early.
Older cats can hide their health problems
Older cats can mask illness very well. Therefore, not only do you have to take him to the vet for check-ups, you also need to pay attention to possible changes in his behavior.
On the other hand, it must be taken into account that an older cat can suffer not only physical diseases, but also mental conditions.
Let’s look at some of the most common diseases that older cats can suffer from below.
Dental disease
Although periodontal disease is not specific to older cats, there is a higher incidence as the years go by. In fact, it is estimated that at least 2/3 of cats older than three years suffer from problems with the teeth and the rest of the oral cavity.
Dental disease can be a serious problem for older cats. It affects the teeth, gums, ligaments, roots and even the jawbone or maxilla. Also, it can be very painful.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is a condition of the thyroid gland in which excessive amounts of thyroid hormone are produced. And this hormonal excess has different effects on your body.
Many hyperthyroid cats show weight loss and, simultaneously, increased appetite. Other symptoms can be: vomiting, diarrhea, thirst and increased urine volume.
Chronic kidney disease
The kidneys act as a filter system for the blood. When they function normally, they eliminate the waste produced by feline metabolism through the urine.
However, when the kidneys are damaged, be it a matter of aging or some other physical process, waste products are no longer filtered effectively, leading to their accumulation in the cat’s bloodstream.
Some of the symptoms seen in chronic kidney disease include: increased thirst, increased urine volume, weight loss, poor appetite, and vomiting.
Heart disease
It is important to keep in mind that there are different types of heart disease. One of the most common in older cats is cardiomyopathy, others are degenerative valve diseases.
Regardless of the underlying cause, the end result of heart disease is congestive heart failure. In this condition the ability of the heart to pump blood effectively and efficiently is compromised.
Arthritis
Unfortunately, it is common for cats to suffer from arthritis and not be aware of it by their owners. This is often the case because arthritis symptoms are easily mistaken for “normal” aging changes.
Commonly, arthritic cats often become less active, sleep longer, and may have difficulty accessing elevated surfaces.
Mellitus diabetes
Diabetes causes an increase in the level of sugar in the blood. It is important to note that risk factors for feline diabetes include being overweight and leading a sedentary lifestyle, affects the health of older cats.
For the most part, cats diagnosed with diabetes will require insulin injections. Remission is possible when aggressive treatment is started early in the disease. If remission occurs, insulin will no longer be needed.
Cancer
Cancer of various origins is also a common condition in older cats. Of course, there are many types of cancer that can affect cats. Thus, the symptoms depend on the type of cancer involved.
Final note
Since there are several diseases that can affect older cats, it is important not to skip any of their veterinary check-ups and to pay attention to any changes in their behavior. The sooner a problem is found, the more likely treatment is to be successful.
