Cats, like humans, are mammals, and as such, the aging process is quite similar. Veterinarian Dr. Bruce Fogle in Natural Cat Care states that a ten-year-old cat is the equivalent of a fifty-six-year-old human. Like humans, cats should undergo an annual physical examination to check their health status.
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Significance
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There may be changes in your cat's behavior, such as lower activity level, due to changes in his body, such as fluctuating hormone levels. He may need a lifestyle change, such as becoming a strictly indoor cat, to protect him from delayed reaction time to danger.
Time Frame
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A cat's life expectancy is fifteen years, on average. At seven to eight years, his metabolism will begin to slow and it is advisable to switch to a senior formula pet food to prevent obesity. A ten-year-old cat should have a veterinarian perform what Dr. Bruce Fogle in Natural Cat Care calls an older cat health check-up, which includes an examination and blood test.
Features
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Outward signs of the aging cat are diminished eyesight and hearing, as well as weight changes. Muscles may also begin to weaken as your cat decreases his physical activity.
Identification
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A veterinarian can determine if the underlying cause of discomfort is a physical ailment that can be treated with medication, such as diabetes. A blood test can also help diagnose poor liver function and kidney disease.
Effects
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A cat may become more irritable as it grows older, since a condition, like arthritis, can cause physical distress. Your cat may no longer want to be picked up and held, since he may feel pain if his body is contorted in a certain way.
Considerations
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Daily grooming and massage can help you and your cat bond, while providing an opportunity to check for skin conditions, or tumors. Massage can also bring physical comfort to your cat.
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