Caring for an Older Cat
Older cats require increased attention to their needs, care, and love. Over the years, your cat has come to trust you, and as they age, they need your support more than ever.
Although modern medicine offers a wider and better range of veterinary care, aging in cats varies depending on numerous factors: whether the cat lives indoors or outdoors, how regularly and promptly they receive vaccinations, the quality of their nutrition, and the presence of any health issues.
Typically, indoor cats live longer than outdoor cats or those allowed to roam outside. An indoor cat can live up to 18 years or more, while the lifespan of an outdoor cat is often half that, although there are exceptions.
Signs of Old Age
The first signs of old age in cats include stiffness, slow movement, increased sleep, and avoidance of unnecessary jumps. Cats tend to remain mobile longer than dogs and are less prone to back pain and arthritis.
Gradual hearing or vision loss may not be immediately noticeable. You may observe this when your cat reacts less to your hand movements or vocal calls. With age, cats may experience frequent diarrhea, constipation, and urinary incontinence. These issues can be age-related or tied to kidney disease or diabetes. In such cases, consult a veterinarian to establish the causes and appropriate treatment. For constipation, vets may prescribe nutritional supplements to soften the stool and recommend adding oil to the diet. However, avoid increasing the amount of oil without a vet’s guidance, as some oils can deplete the cat’s natural vitamin supply, causing health issues.
If you notice an unpleasant odor from your cat’s mouth, consult a veterinarian. This may indicate gum inflammation or the need for tooth extraction. Diseased teeth are usually not a concern, as even toothless older cats can eat their usual food, including dry food.
Ensure your cat’s coat remains clean and inspect their skin and fur regularly. Dirt can lead to various skin diseases and parasite infestations.
Nutrition and Weight
Monitoring your cat’s weight is essential. Overweight cats face more health problems as they age, such as difficulty breathing and walking. In these cases, choose an appropriate diet for your pet.
When regulating your older cat’s diet, don’t be alarmed if they appear to lose weight dramatically or have more prominent bones. Older cats should follow a strict, low-fat diet.
Cat Care
Provide increased care, peace, and comfort for your elderly cat. Closely monitor their condition, checking for tumors, skin and coat health, and other potential issues.
Older cats need warmth, so create a warm, comfortable space for them. Avoid placing their bed too high, as it may be difficult for them to jump up.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your aging cat receives the care and attention they need to live a comfortable, happy life.
Modern Vet, in partnership with Blue Sky Pet Relocation, proudly offers a comprehensive and personalized pet travel service tailored to the unique needs...
Modern Vet's Home Veterinary Service in Collaboration with VetLiveryAt Modern Vet, we continually strive for innovation, excellence, and utmost care...
We provide a complete evaluation of all organ functions during your pet’s visit to Modern Vet. We examine for the following conditions:
Dental...
A pet needs all the affection and attention you can provide. Health care is a significant component of their daily routine. Vaccinating them promptly is...
Like emergency hospitals for people, Modern Vet provides 24 hour emergency pet care, any day of the year, even on holidays. If you think to yourself that...
Your reliable partner in caring for your pet's health
At ModernVet, we understand the importance of your pet's health and wellbeing. Our clinic...
At ModernVet, we are proud to offer advanced ophthalmology services, dedicated to the eye health of your pets. Our state-of-the-art clinic is equipped...
Veterinary orthopaedics focuses on the treatment of musculoskeletal problems in pets. Joints, soft tissue, bones, muscle, ligaments, and tendons are all...
DENTAL CARE FOR PETS
If you have a pet, it’s essential to know that they can have dental problems. Your dog or cat may need a checkup from their...
We at Modern Vet Hospital provide veterinary physiotherapy and rehabilitation services that are created to help your pet recover as quickly as possible...
Our pets are our life partners, and we want them to be happy and healthy. We know you don't have the time to spend on your pet. That's why we...
Ten thousand years ago when humans first began domesticating animals, they fell sick in detention and also due to the ailments of old age. In order to...
Feeding your pets high quality food gives them a chance at a longer and healthier life. Like humans, pets also require essential vitamins, minerals, and...
In Dubai, our unique Pet Taxi service is tailored exclusively for our furry friends, ensuring they travel directly from and to our clinics with ease and...
Grooming is a process that helps maintain your pet's health and beauty. It enhances the overall appearance of an animal by removing dead hair,...
Skin-related issues are not limited to human beings and can plague animals too. Much like their owners, pets should also have regular visits to the...
The Modern Vet Hospital is the leading pet charity in Dubai, working closely with many animal welfare organizations to provide price concessions for TNR....
Veterinary neurology is the branch of medicine that studies and treats the brain, spinal cord, muscles, and nervous system in pets. Epilepsy, Meningitis,...
ModernVet Clinic is renowned as the only cardiology-focused veterinary hospital in your region. When searching for a 'veterinary cardiologist near...
At ModernVet, we're committed to enhancing the wellbeing of your canine companions through our specialized dog spay and neuter services....
At ModernVet, we specialize in providing top-notch cat spaying and neutering services, ensuring the best care for your feline companions. Recognizing the...
Vaccination is the process of immunization, which enhances an animal's immune system and helps it fight diseases. Vaccines are made from killed or...
You must know the pros and cons of vaccinating your cat if you're a pet owner. While some cats can be healthy without vaccination, others may not...
The modern Vet Clinic is a full-service animal hospital that provides comprehensive veterinary care for dogs in Dubai. From preventative treatment and...
At Modern Vet, we solely provide veterinarian care, boarding, and grooming for cats. Modern veterinary clinics are committed to delivering superior care...
