While cats have different health needs as they age, they are not able to complain about stiff bones or aching joints like humans. When caring for an elderly cat, it is crucial for owners to be vigilant.
These are some tips to help your feline friend age gracefully
* Stay current on vital vaccinations. Cat Flu and Feline Illness Enteritis are more common as cats age. Although it is easy to forget, older cats are more likely to contract disease. Most older cats only need booster shots. You can start vaccinations at any age, even if your cat is not currently vaccinated.
In most areas, vaccinations can be obtained for Cat Flu, Enteritis and FeLV. You can ask your veterinarian for more details.
* Don’t hold your breath on oral health care. The American Veterinary Dental Society states that 70 percent of cats suffer from some type of oral disease by the age of three. By age 10, it is safe to assume that cats’ mouths are susceptible to infection.
For cats, home-based oral care programs can be a great way to address their daily hygiene needs. Most veterinarians recommend that cats brush their teeth regularly to maintain good oral hygiene. Teddy’s Pride Oral Care has a new kind of probiotic designed to help cats and dogs with their oral health needs.www.MyTeddysPride.com. These probiotics are also useful for brushing, as well as for a separate oral care routine.
* Eliminate pesky parasites. Fleas are the most common parasite on cats’ skin. They can cause itchy reactions in many cats. Flea bites can be prevented by using a flea powder or spray specifically made for cats. Tapeworms and roundworms can be a problem for older cats, especially those who live outdoors. Most vets recommend that cats are treated for worms at least once every three to six month. Indoor-only cats might have longer gaps between treatments. For the best treatment, consult your vet.
