CATS are the UK’s favourite pet.The UK domestic cat population is approximately 9.2 million and more and more of these cats are living longer. In fact around two million are over eight years old and many are between 16 and 20.And because of their independence and ability to hide illness, maintaining the wellbeing and quality of life of these ‘older’ cats can be particularly challenging.
So,how old is ‘old’?
Age Equivalent of human Age of cat
1 year 15 years
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2 years 24 years
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3 years 28 years
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6 years 40 years
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9 years 52 years
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12 years 64 years
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15 years 76 years
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18 years 88-91 years
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21 years 100-106 years
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It is generally agreed that a cat may be classified as ‘senior’ at around 11 to 14 years old (60 to 72 cat years) and ‘geriatric’at over 14 (over 72 cat years).The term ‘geriatric’ is often used in a derogatory fashion that implies disease rather than the normal ageing process.
The cat is remarkably good at masking when it is not feeling well.So it falls upon you to be aware of the most common problems that can afflict older cats.The most common diseases of older cats include kidney problems, thyroid problems,high blood pressure,diabetes,dental problems and arthritis.It is beyond the scope of this section to discuss each of these conditions in detail,
In the Next page you can find some facts that will help owners to identify and sometimes prevent potential problems.
Arthritis
Arthritis is not generally considered a common
condition in older cats.This is a mistake.Owners should not assume that
the reason their cat sleeps more and is reluctant to go out,play with
toys or jump up on the kitchen table is just part of ‘getting
old’.Joints need to be used to keep them working smoothly.Sleeping more
and doing less exercise can lead to further deterioration of joints and
muscles and more pain.Appropriate pain relief can transform the cat’s
quality of life.
Grooming
Older cats spend less time grooming themselves and
keeping their coat in tip-top condition.This renders the coat a less
efficient insulator.Owners should therefore groom their cats regularly
to remove excess hair and debris and spread natural oils.In addition,the
ability to regulate body temperature decreases in older cats and
adequate provision of coolness and ventilation in the summer,and warmth
and protection from draughts in the winter is vital,particularly in thin
and frail cats.
Dental problems
Dental disease is very common in older cats
and can be extremely painful and unpleasant.Common signs are loss of
appetite and weight loss,running away from food, chattering
teeth,clicking sounds when eating,bolting down food and bad
breath.Surprising as it may seem, some cats suffer in silence despite
advanced dental decay and painful teeth.
Thyroid problems
An overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) is a common condition in older cats and the first signs are often unexplained changes in behaviour such as inappropriate elimination around the house,changes in grooming and eating habits,together with weight loss, vomiting and diarrhea.It can also be related to high blood pressure which,apart from damaging vital organs, could also cause unpleasant effects such as headache, migraine and dizziness.
Dehydration
Older cats do not respond so well to being thirsty and so can become dehydrated – this can be a serious problem if they are already unwell.Ensuring a good supply of easily accessible fresh water in wide bowls strategically
positioned around the house can help . Some cats can be encouraged to drink more by flavouring the water with a little fresh fish or chicken stock.
