| In cooperation with Antech Diagnostics, we
have implemented a Senior@Seven Wellness ExamsTM program at
Sunnyvale Veterinary Clinic. The following information is from Antech
Diagnostics' Senior Health Program brochure. These brochures are also
available at the clinic. Statistics
show that cats are living longer. We all cherish the companionship of our
feline friends. It is important that we help ensure that these extended
years are the happiest and healthiest possible. Working with us,
your veterinarians, you can make a significant difference in the life of
your senior cat.
Senior Cats Have Special Needs
|
COMPARATIVE AGES
OF CATS AND HUMANS |
|
As cats move into the senior phase of life, they experience changes that
are very similar to aging humans. Diseases and conditions that are
commonly known to affect older people also affect our feline companions:
kidney, heart and liver disease, tumors, cancer, diabetes, depression,
arthritis, neuroses and loss of sensory perception. Understanding these
changes and how you can provide for your pet's needs are essential to
quality of
life.Age is never just a number
but rather a measure of the effect of aging to the body. Variables such
as genetics, nutrition and environment all contribute to how your cat
will handle the aging process. In general, your cat is considered to be
"senior" at 7 years. Since cats age more rapidly than people (see age
chart), dramatic changes in health can occur in as little as 3 to 6
months. |
|
Cat Years |
Human Years |
|
|
1 |
15 |
|
|
2 |
24 |
|
|
5 |
36 |
|
|
7 |
45 |
|
|
12 |
64 |
|
|
15 |
76 |
|
|
18 |
88 |
|
|
21 |
100 |
|
|
Senior@Seven Wellness Exams Provide Hidden Answers
Studies have shown that as
many as 17% of middle age and older cats that appear healthy upon
physical examination have an underlying disease. A Senior@Seven Wellness
Exam includes laboratory tests so sensitive they can detect diseases and
conditions early, when treatment and prevention are most effective. |
|
There
are a growing number of ways we can help "slow the clock" and promote
healthy, long lives for our senior cats. |
|
Several non-invasive tests and procedures preformed regularly can help
us detect early-stage disease when control or even prevention is
possible and more cost effective. Senior@Seven Wellness Exams also
provide a baseline from which we can measure
changes. These tests include:
|
|
While an annual exam may be sufficient for younger cats, we may want to
see your older cat at least every 6 months. For a cat, this can be comparable to
as many as 4
to 6 years in the life of a human. Special attention will be paid to
your cat's teeth and gums, skin and coat, heart, lungs, kidneys,
digestive system, and joints.
A
proper diet and suitable environment are critical to your cat's
continued health and comfort. We will advise you on modifications for
your aging cat: a palatable, highly digestible diet with proper balance
of calories and nutrients based on your cat's specific needs, easier
access to litter pans, heated bedding, and extra assistance with routine
grooming.
Use
this
checklist to help you observe behaviors and symptoms that may
indicate potential health problems in your senior cat. If your cat is
experiencing one or more of these signs, please let us know.
The
goal of a Senior Wellness Exam is to maintain the highest quality of
life for the longest possible time. Together, we can make the senior
years the most rewarding you and your cat have ever shared.
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