Caring for your ageing cat

Press, 11 October 1986, Page 14

Caring for your ageing cat

The first of a three-part series on ageing gracefully by guest columnist ROY BAILEY.

Remember the day you first brought home your new kitten? You were probably so amused by his nimble antics that you never imagined he could become a mellow senior citizen who prefers his cosy niche by the fire to the excitement of the chase. Just like the rest of us, kittens age. They experience the same aches and pains and the same joys and tribulations as they grow older. To their credit, though, cats age gracefully. Once they have joined the ranks of the elderly they may complain occasionally, but mostly they adjust to their infirmities with a minimum of fuss.

They sleep more than they once did and they may seek extra attention and reassurance, but the signs of their ageing are seldom dramatic.

In fact, if you’re not careful, you may overlook the fact that time .is catching up with your old friend. Now is the time when your cat needs you most. By giving him a little extra attention, thoughtfulness, and care, you can help him live comfortably and happily through his autumn years. When is your cat old? As with people, it’s impossible to predict exactly when old age will arrive. In general though, a 10-year-old cat is roughly equivalent to a 55 to 60-year-old human. That doesn’t mean that your pet is necessarily old, but it probably means that significant physiological changes have begun to take place. The ageing process is

gradual in both people and pets. It is possible to have a positive influence on your cat’s ageing and longevity, especially if you start early. Choose a veterinarian when your cat is young and begin a programme of regular visits. Good professional health care — administered over a life-time — can improve the quality and length of your cat’s life. A well-balanced, nutritionally sound diet will also help him weather the storms of old age with a stronger constitution. Spaying or neutering, according to recent United States information, may extend your cat’s life by as much as five to seven years. Your cat will also enjoy a longer life if you keep him indoors at night when the danger of automobile accidents (the number one cat-killer in a town) and fights are greatest.

Under ideal conditions your cat may live 18 to 20

years. Some cats which have good care and nutrition, and come from a sound genetic stock (be it pedigreed or "nature’s lucky mix”) make it well into their twenties. Home care Your veterinarian has the expertise, but you know your cat better than anyone else. When he is curled up contentedly on your lap, let your stroking serve as a gentle, home examination. If you follow this practice regularly you will be able to detect growths, inflammations, or para-

sites before they have the chance to become serious. Also be on the lookout for significant changes in behaviour or appearance. A sudden crankiness in an otherwise even tempered cat, a loss of appetite or a rough haircoat may suggest that something ails him besides old age. If your cat looks and acts sick, he usually is. What’s more, old cats fade fast so don’t wait until your pet is desperately ill to contact your veterinarian.

Part II will cover ‘Danger Signals, Nutrition, Stress and How You Can Help.’

Your Pet