It is not unusual to have a cat of 20 years and older because of advances in feline nutrition and medicine (including vaccinations). The fact that so many cats are neutered and kept in safe environments has significantly helped also.
As they age cats needs change. Older cats may have poorer hearing and sense of smell, reduced mobility and are more likely to have chronic diseases. (Dental disease, osteoarthritis, diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism and chronic renal disease ).
It is said that older cats collect diseases rather than having just one. Arthritis, kidney disease and constipation commonly occur together as do kidney disease and high blood pressure. Regular vet checks are essential for the older cat.
The signs of disease may be subtly and difficult to detect.
I believe that it is worth implementing a few changes in the older cats environment and seeing what effect this has.
There are many things that we can do in the home to help improve the quality of the lives of older cats with chronic disease.
Small changes like placement of steps/chairs close to beds and counter tops means that arthritic cats can more easily reach their favourite perches and look outs
Litter trays
A cat that normally goes outside may be afraid to do so as she gets older. Older cats are less well able to defend themselves so we should introduce litter trays to these cats as they age.
A cat needs a litter that that is longer that his body, The older cat needs an even larger tray.
A cat with kidney disease or cystitis will urinate more so there is an argument for providing deeper litter trays, however, an older cat may have difficulty stepping up into a high sided litter tray, so for me the better solution is to offer more litter trays that are shallower and to clean them more frequently.
The location of the tray is important and the ideal location may vary as the cat ages. For example a young cast may be happy going up stairs to use a litter but an older cat may have difficulty with stairs. Older cats may feel vulnerable if the tray is in an exposed location.
It is important that the litter is not harsh (coarse) on the cats paws, alongside your cat's existing tray so that she has a more comfortable option.
Try offering several trays at a time, in different locations (away from windows) with finer-textured litter options.
Note: I would caution about making to many changes to the cats environment, for example rather that removing the tray from up stairs I would add offer an alternative tray downstairs also.
Read more about the perfect litter tray HERE.
Grooming and Nail Clipping
Arthritic, weak cats or cats with dental disease may find it difficult to groom themselves in certain areas leading to matted fur. Grooming may relax the cat, as well as removing dead skin and loose hairs.
The mistake most often made by people is using a harsh brush. Cats especially older cats are very sensitive and will resent hard bristles. I always say that if your cat enjoys being rubbed then they will enjoy grooming with a soft gentle brush that feels like they are simply being rubbed. As with anything else, start slowly, with shorts periods of brushing when your cat is relaxed.
I really like the soft, rubber tools or a grooming glove for this job.
Grooming your cat should be a positive experience for both cat and owner.
Also older cats can be at higher risks hairballs as their digestion slows, Removing loose hair means that the cat is consuming less hair and less at risk. Hairball supplements and special foods are available and are helpful in some cases
Clipping some hair/matts may also be useful. I would avoid using a scissors as it is so easy to inadvertently cut the skin. I would recommend a quieter clippers. Many are available on Amazon.
It may be helpful to clip your cats claws. Excessively long claws can cause discomfort when walking and even grow into the pad causing infections. Read more HERE. if excessively long and ingrown you will need to get a vet to clip the nails and treat the infection.
Scratching
Scratching is a natural behaviour in cats. Facilitating normal behaviour reduces stress in cats.
Arthritic cats may have difficulty with the classic vertical scratching post, horizontal “posts” offer an great alternative for cats as they age.
Accessible scratching posts are essential to allow the older cat to stretch, mark territory and avoid overgrown claws.
Treatments for Arthritis
Your vet can advise on the best treatments.
Supplements including Omega-3 fatty acid (may reduce inflammation within the joint) and prescription joint care type diets can also be helpful.
No comments:
Post a Comment