Simple Tips For Geriatric Cat Health Care

Owners of aging cats will probably be more than familiar with cat health care, having spent several years caring for their feline friend. However as the car ages, cat health care takes on a new importance, with extra vigilance required to ensure the cat remains in good health into its old age.

Geriatric cats should be checked regularly by their owners to ensure they are growing old healthily. This should include looking for lumps and bumps on the cats body which could indicate cancer, or hair loss which may indicate disease of nutritional deficiency. It is also a good idea to look out for any significant changes in the cat's behaviour, particularly in respect to eating and sleeping habits, because this could signify a problem.

Caring for an aging cat requires many of the same considerations as caring for an aging human. Mobility might be reduced as the cat ages, so stairs may become harder to tackle. Make sure that all the things the cat needs such as litter tray and food are all one the same level of the house to avoid difficulty.

As cats age, they need food that is easier to digest because their digestive system slows down significantly, so it is a good idea to buy cat food which is specifically intended for geriatric cats. Older cats whose coats look less lustrous than previously may be suffering with disease or nutritional deficiency, so see the vet. A simple fatty acid supplement could be all that is needed to resolve this. Grooming and brushing takes on greater importance as cats age too, because they are more prone to dry skin and regular brushing will stimulate production of natural oils and alleviate dry skin.

Dental problems and sight problems both become much more likely with age as well. If you suspect your cat has either of these problems then the best thing that you can do is to take them to the vet who will be able to suggest a course of action.

Remember that cat health care takes on a greater importance than ever in your cat's later years. Being vigilant and keeping the pet comfortable could really make a difference to promoting a longer life.

Jess Moss is a writer from England. She enjoys writing about current affairs, the home and animals, including promoting cat health care. Visit http://www.pethealthinfo.org.uk/cats for more, free information.