Pet Health

Caring for Senior Cats

Cats, who can live to be 18 or even older, benefit from proactive veterinary care to stay healthy. Cats are masters at hiding illness. Semi-annual vet visits help monitor a cat’s wellbeing. Since six months is like two of our years, a number of health changes can happen. During a wellness exam, a veterinarian will check a cat’s weight and body condition, skin and coat quality, eyes, ears, thyroid, heart, lungs, joints, mouth and abdomen.

A veterinarian may also conduct diagnostic blood work and parasite screenings. While physical changes are easily noticed (e.g., weight loss or change in coat quality), internal changes are more difficult to detect. Diagnostic tests provide an important snapshot of a cat’s internal health and can detect problems such as hyperthyroidism, kidney disease and hypertension. Wellness exams also help evaluate a cat’s dietary needs. Cats with kidney problems should have a diet low in protein and phosphorus. Less active cats may need to be fed less to prevent weight gain and obesity.

Older cats may become disinterested in food, resulting in weight loss. Cats that lose their sense of taste and smell may also lose interest in eating.

Just like humans, cats will have different wellness needs as they age. Some cats may need a special diet while other cats may need medication to manage a chronic disease. Your veterinarian will make specific recommendations based on your cat’s wellness needs.

If you enjoyed this article, visit Dr. Scot M. Trefz, DVM – Tierra Verde resident and medical director at Bay Moorings Animal Hospital. Dr. Trefz, a 35-year experienced DVM, and his amazing team of veterinary professionals are located at 3695 50th Ave S., St. Petersburg, FL 33711 (next to the Maximo Moorings Marina and Bay Pointe Plaza Publix) 727.867.0118

Bay Moorings Animal Hospital • Dr. Scot Trefz, D.V.M., Medical Director & Owner • 727-867-0118 • 3695 50th Ave South, St. Petersburg, FL 33711 www.baymooringsanimalhospital.com • facebook.com/baymooringsanimalhospitaldrtrefz

DOG WALKING & 20-30 MIN. PET VISITS • BONDED & INSURED WE FEED, LOVE, CAREFOR PETSON: BEACHES, SEMINOLE & W. ST. PETE Pete@PetesPerfectPetCare.com • CALL 727.742.2599