Senior cats should ideally get routine twice-yearly veterinary exams. Small changes in behavior can be normal, however there are certain symptoms that should concern you.
If you notice any of the symptoms detailed in this article you should report them to your veterinarian as soon as possible. Any one or more of the following symptoms could be caused by a range of minor or major illnesses.
Remember, it's not your job to diagnose the disorder. It's your job to observe your cat, evaluate all of his bodily functions and report his symptoms to your veterinarian as soon as possible.
If your cat is having severe symptoms such as struggling to breathe or loses consciousness, take him to your veterinarian immediately.
Your Senior Cat Needs to See a Vet When He . . .
Drinks water or urinates more often than usual
Loses weight
Is unusually hungry
Vomits repeatedly
Has diarrhea lasting for more than 3 days
Finds it difficult to pass stool or urine
Forgets his litter box habits
Exhibits lameness for more than five days or in more than one leg
Has trouble seeing
Develops open sores on the skin that persist for more than one week Develops a foul mouth odor or drools excessively
Appears to gain weight only in his abdomen
Spends more time than usual sleeping or gazing into space
Loses hair or scratches, especially if only in specific areas
Is unable to eat dry food
Collapses suddenly or has a bout of weakness
Has a seizure (convulsion)
Coughs or gags often
Has bleeding from the mouth, nose or rectum
Has a significant decrease in appetite or doesn't eat for more than 2 days
Related Articles
-
1
Grooming Your Senior Cat - Special Concerns
As your pet ages, taking an active role in grooming becomes even more important. Older pets often groom less, may have trouble cleaning those "hard to reach places," or may develop skin conditions that...
» Read More
-
2
Feeding Your Senior Cat
Providing the proper diet is important in the care of an aging cat. However, there is no best food to feed a geriatric cat; that depends on the specific problems or nutritional requirements of each animal....
» Read More
-
3
10 Common Disorders of Senior Cats
By being aware of some concerns regarding older cats, you can be a more educated and prepared guardian for your aging companion. Here are some of the most commonly diagnosed illnesses known to afflict...
» Read More
-
4
Keeping Your Senior Cat Healthy
Much as you hate to see it happen, your cat will eventually enter his senior years. Although you can't hold back the clock, there are many things you can do to help keep your cat healthy and active as...
» Read More
-
5
Geriatric Cat Care
Understanding the aging process and the most common problems that face the geriatric cat is the first step in providing the best possible care to your older animal. The main focus is owner education and...
» Read More
