Retirement And Your Aging Cat's Health

Cat, just like people, will someday be ready for retiremen. And just like people, we should treat their retire the same way.

Age is not just a number. A person, at the age of 70 may act like a young adult, while another person, the same age, may look and act as if he/she is on their death-bed. Cats are no different. 

If your cat has been with you for 10 years, he is the equivalent of a 70 year old person, and subject to their own set of health problems. Your pet may act like a kitten for many years or may be gray and achy quite young. The breed of your cat, his environment, and genetics play a role. However, a well-cared for house cat usually lives to be at least 15 years old. Some cats are said to have lived to be well over 30.  My first cat died at the age of 20, of nothing more than old age.

There are things you can do, to provide your cat with the chance to grow as old as possible. For example, have your cat spayed or neutered. Statistics show that "fixed"  cats live longer, which causes  them to stay closer to home and not be exposed to dangerous situations and diseases. Good nutrition is also important. Make sure that you are buying cat food that is appropriate for your cat’s age.

Aging cats have as many medical problems as we humans. As your cat ages, certain medical conditions may cause you to make special considerations for your pet. They can exhibit reduced tolerance to extreme temperatures, decreased sensory perception, susceptibility to infection, arthritis and joint stiffness, digestion problems, liver and kidney problems, weaker bones, cancer, muscle weakness, slow reaction, memory loss, high blood pressure, and irritability. You need to be on the lookout for symptoms as your cat grows older.

Not only does he need a good diet, but a healthy amount of exercise is also needed. You can do this by allowing him to go outside and by playing with him/her every day.

Toys and environmental pieces, like scratching posts, are great for encouraging your cat to exercise. Cats spend several hours of the day sleeping, which is fine. If you are overly concerned, talk to your vet about your cat’s sleeping habits.

Exercising preventative health care measures is imperative. Make sure that your cat has regular checkups with the vet. You should also brush your cat’s teeth daily and have  him groomed regularly to prevent skin diseases. As cats age, most grow to love grooming. Monitor your cat for changes in diet, sleep habits, and drinking too much water.

Your cat will age gracefully if you become completely involved in his or her life. Make sure that you provide advanced care for your cat as he or she grows older, and your pet will be with you for a very long time.