The Older Cat and the Golden Years

Senior Moments

Does your older cat, your once frisky feline, scamper through the house certainty on her face, only to stop mid-stride with a blank look on her fluffy face. Yes my friends, your cat is having a senior moment.

There are various changes to cats as they age, and as they age they will need special care. Some are normal, and others may indicate problems. Small changes start to take place at around 7 years, at age 8 they are official seniors, and from 10 on cats are in their "golden years".

Cats in this stage of their life (10+) should have semi-annual health examinations. Pay close attention to any changes in your cat, no matter how subtle. Alert your vet to anything you have noticed so the problem can be identified and dealt with early on.

Major health concerns:

• Arthritis
• Cancer
• Dental disease
• Diabetes
• Hyperthyroidism
• Kidney failure
• Urinary tract infection

A normal occurence of old age in cats is that their digestive system becomes less efficient. Your older cat will appreciate being fed several smaller meals a day rather than two main meals. Look for cat food that has easily digested protein so the kidneys don't have to work so hard. If you are unsure there are "life stage" foods available for older cats and less active cats.

Preventative health care is the best way to make sure your cat has a long and healthy life. Periodontal disease is a major problem in aging cats so check their teeth often and brush them routinely.

Your aging cat also needs regular exercise. Find time in your day to help get your cat up and about. This play time will provide mental stimulation, encourage bowel function, and help maintain your cat's strength.

Older cats also enjoy being groomed. Since cats lose some of their mobility as age progresses, they really appreciate weekly brushing from their humans. Brushing removes dead hair from the coat and helps prevent matted fur. After brushing, a fined toothed comb will help remove any parasites.

Enjoy your cat in this mellow stage of his life. Older Cats are content to sit on your lap for long hours purring away. Not much seems to matter in the golden years. Your company, nutrious food, and a warm bed will give your cat those "9 lives".

Natural Supplies for your Senior Cat

Petrodex Dental Care Kit for Cats "Dental care is just as important for your cat as it is for you. Dry food can help clean some of your cat's teeth, but it does not replace brushing at the gumline where most dental problems begin. Introducing your cat to brushing is not at all difficult. It only takes a few minutes a day and can add years to your pet's life. Fortunately, the outside surfaces of the teeth need the most attention and can easily be reached. Brushing is an important part of the Chew, Rinse and Brush program."

Pet Tabs with Calcium for Dogs and Cats 60 TABS "Pet Tabs is a nationally recognized, trusted name in Dog Vitamins. Pet-Cal is formulated for both cats and dogs, especially older pets and pets under physical stress where a daily supplement of Calcium and Vitamin D are needed. Calcium and Vitamin D are associated with the maintenance of healthy bones and joints. Pet-Cal tabs may be given in tablet for or crumbled into your pet's food. Each Pet-Cal bottle proudly documents a GUARANTEED analysis per tablet."

Animal Essentials Plant Enzymes & Probiotics All natural digestive aid with plant enzymes and probiotics. Assists in the digestion and absorption of nutrients which are necessary to maintain good health.

JW Gripsoft Cat Comb Is your pet catÕs fur matted or tangled? Are you finding it hard to manage your felineÕs coat? Get him JW Gripsoft Cat Comb, a unique comb designed specially for cats with difficult-to-handle coat.

Cosequin for Cats, Chicken and Tuna, 80 Capsules Cosequin is a nutritional supplement to help cats maintain healthy joints. Keep your cat on his or her feet so you can enjoy every moment with them. Cosequin is an exclusive formula to support and maintain the health of the catÕs joints. Cosequin should be in every cat supply cabinet.