As our feline friends grow older, they undergo several normal changes that affect their organ systems. These transformations are a natural part of aging, but it’s crucial to be aware of when these changes escalate into diseases that require medical attention. In this article, we’ll delve into the common diseases that affect senior cats, their signs and symptoms, and how we can support our aging pets through these changes.
Common Diseases in Older Cats
| Disease | Signs and Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Cancer | Persistent or growing swellings, non-healing sores, weight loss, loss of appetite, bleeding or discharge, offensive odor, difficulty eating or swallowing, reduced exercise tolerance, breathing, urinating, or defecating difficulties. |
| Dental Disease | Bad breath, difficulty eating, drooling, food dropping from mouth, weight loss. |
| Hyperthyroidism | Increased activity, appetite, weight loss, thirst and urination, vomiting, rapid respiration, increased heart rate. |
| Kidney Disease/Failure | Increased urination and thirst, weight loss, vomiting, loss of appetite, depression, lethargy, diarrhea, blood in vomit or stool, bad breath, oral ulcers. |
| Inflammatory Bowel Disease | Diarrhea, vomiting, mucous or blood in stool, increased defecation frequency, defecating outside litter box, weight loss. |
| Diabetes Mellitus | Increased thirst and urination, weight loss or gain, decreased activity, weakness, appetite change, vomiting, walking on hocks. |
| Obesity | Overweight, exercise intolerance, unkempt hair coat, especially around the anal area. |
| Feline Hepatic Lipidosis | Obese cat with sudden appetite loss, subsequent weight loss, depression, vomiting, yellow gums, behavior changes. |
| Anemia | Exercise intolerance, very light-colored gums. |
| Mitral Insufficiency/Heart Disease | Exercise intolerance, labored breathing, weight loss, rear leg paralysis. |
| Liver Disease | Vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, abdominal distention, yellow or pale gums, behavior changes, weight loss. |
| Bladder Stones | Difficulty urinating, outside litter box urination, blood in urine. |
| Arthritis | Difficulty jumping or climbing stairs, irritable or reclusive behavior, outside litter box urination or defecation. |
It’s important to note that while these diseases are common in older cats, early detection and treatment can significantly improve your cat’s quality of life. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to catch any health issues early. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can help prevent some of these conditions.