Senior Wellness Program

One year is a long time in a cat’s life. Below is an age conversion chart that compares cat years to the human equivalent years. It is generally accepted that cats are seniors at 9 years of age and are geriatric at 14 years of age. Dr. Jacob Mosier, a recognized authority in feline gerontology (the scientific study of all aspects of aging and its related problems) reports that cats would commonly live to be 24 years old if they had optimum nutrition and dental care from birth. Cats reportably can live to be 35 years of age!

Age Analogy Chart
Cat's age in years	Equivalent "human age"
	Kitten/Young adult	Adult	Senior(Silver)	Geriatric(Golden)
1	15
2	24
3		28
4		32
5		36
6		40
7		44
8		48
9			52
10			56
11			60
12			64
13			68
14				72
15				76
16				80
17				84
18				88
19				92
20				96
21				100
22				104
23				108
24				112
25				116

Aging is not a disease. It is a complex biologic process resulting in progressive reduction in function of multiple body systems. This inevitable process occurs in all species of animals that live long enough. The variable rate of aging is influenced by breed, genetics, nutrition, and lifestyle. The challenges of geriatric medicine are to identify age related risk factors, institute preventative health care measures, and to detect disease processes early enough to intervene with medical or surgical management.

The senior and geriatric wellness programs are the continuation of the kitten and adult cat wellness programs. The foundation established in the younger years plays an important role in the health and well-being of the older cat. Below are common risk factors and diseases which affect the quality and longevity of the golden years.

Nutrition is important in all phases of the lifespan. Many cats enter the geriatric phase overweight. Studies have shown that obesity is directly related to a decreased life span in the cat. As the cats ages, muscle mass decreases and the content increases. These factors, combined with a decreased metabolic rate, allow the cat to become more overweight. Obesity is associated with a wide range of serious diseases that can reduce health, happiness and longevity. Diabetes mellitus, respiratory and cardiovascular disease, FLUTD(feline lower urinary tract disease), arthritis, hepatic lipidosis, impaired immune response, poor hygiene, anesthesia, and surgery are just some of the disease conditions or medical challenges that are associated with, or complicated by, obesity.

Conversely, some cats become thin during this phase. Many diseases will cause the cat to lose weight. Moreover, as he ages, his sense of smell and taste may diminish causing an already picky eater to become pickier.

There is no one diet that can be formulated for all geriatric cats. Each cat is an individual with specific nutritional requirements.

Periodontal disease is a disease of the supporting tissue of the teeth. It is the most common infectious disease of animals and man today. 85% of cats over the age of 3 years old are affected. Periodontal disease is progressive and irreversible by nature, and can lead to severe health problems including loss of appetite, generalized infections, kidney, liver or heart disease, and behavioral changes. Severe periodontal disease is a painful condition for the cat. Remember, your cat cannot tell you that he has a tooth ache. In most cases, he learns to tolerate the pain. Periodic dental exams and cleaning are essential for the comfort and well-being of the geriatric patient.

Chronic renal failure (CRF) is one of the most common diseases diagnosed in middle-aged to older cats, and is the leading cause of death in the geriatric cat. Deterioration of kidney function is a slow but natural part of the aging process. It happens to all of us but the body adapts and compensates for this decreased function. The cat only needs 25% of one kidney to function. As these changes progress, toxic by-products begin to build up and metabolic and electrolyte disturbances develop. By the time the cat becomes symptomatic, he has less than 25% function remaining. The prognosis for cats with CRF is variable and the disease appears to progress at different rates in different patients.

The earliest signs of kidney disease are increased urination (polyuria) and increased thirst (polydipsia). Polyuria is indicated when the litter box must be cleaned more often, or if using clumping litter the clumps become larger and more numerous. Polydipsia is indicated when water dishes have to be filled more often or the cat is constantly asking for water. A normal water intake, including water in the food, should not exceed 1 to 1 � ounces (30-50 ml)/lb/day. These signs are usually present for months before the cat is actually in renal failure. As the disease progresses, there is a decrease in appetite (anorexia), weight loss, lethargy, vomiting, and poor haircoat. As the cat is no longer able to compensate, he will become severely dehydrated, have complete anorexia, and be very lethargic.

Early detection of decreasing kidney function will allow treatment to begin while the cat has greater than 25% of function remaining. To intervene at this point, we must be looking for it. Beginning at 7 years of age, all cats should have baseline blood work, urinalysis, and blood pressure checked as a part of the annual physical exam. As the cat ages, these tests should be performed more frequently. Remember, most cats are not diagnosed until less than 25% of function remains and they are already in failure. Approximately 60% of cats with CRF have hypertension. The majority of untreated cats with hyperthyroidism are also hypertensive. This is a "silent killer" in cats as it is in people. Symptoms include lethargy, seizures, stroke-like episodes, and acute blindness. The hypertension is usually found during the early stages of the disease. Most experts agree, if hypertension is diagnosed early, treatment will definitely delay the progression of renal failure.

Hyperthyroidism is one of the most frequently diagnosed disorders in the geriatric cat. This condition is the result of excess secretion of thyroid hormone which causes an increase in the body’s metabolic rate. In cats, 98% have benign hyperplasia or benign tumor of the thyroid tissue. The remaining 2% have cancer of the thyroid tissue. The disease is most often diagnosed in cats seven years old or older.

Clinical signs include weight loss, increased thirst and urination, increased stool production with possible diarrhea, vomiting, behavioral changes (nervousness, hyperactivity, increased vocalization), cardiac changes, and hypertension. New information suggests that hyperthyroidism will mask early kidney disease. Diagnosis is usually made by measuring the level of thyroid hormone (T4) in the blood. In a small percentage of cases, additional tests may be required. Fortunately, this disease is treatable in most cases either with oral medication (Tapazole), Radioiodine (I-131), or surgery.

Approximately 60% of cats with CRF have hypertension. The majority of untreated cats with hyperthyroidism are also hypertensive. This is a "silent killer" in cats as it is in people. Symptoms include lethargy, seizures, stroke-like episodes, and acute blindness. The hypertension is usually found during the early stages of the disease. Most experts agree, if hypertension is diagnosed early, treatment will definitely delay the progression of renal failure.

Diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes) is a common endocrine disorder in middle- aged to older cats. There is a higher incidence in overweight cats, and males outnumber females 1.5 to 1. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that allows glucose (sugar) to be utilized by the cells in the body. Body cells need glucose as fuel just as automobiles need gasoline to function.

Excess glucose in the blood will "spill" into the urine carrying water with it. This excess urine production is known as polyuria. To prevent dehydration, the cat will increase his water intake (polydipsia). Weight loss is always present despite increased appetite (polyphagia). Often an owner will think the cat’s weight loss program is finally working. As the disease progresses vomiting, loss of appetite (anorexia), weakness, dehydration, hair and skin problems, kidney and liver disease, and cataracts may become evident. If left untreated, death may follow. In rare cases, the cat will develop a nerve disorder where he walks down on his hocks ("ankles"). This may or may not resolve with treatment.

Elevated blood glucose (hyperglycemia), glucose in the urine (glucosuria), and weight loss are needed to diagnose diabetes mellitus. All of these must be present because cats are prone to stress hyperglycemia due to epinephrine (adrenaline) release. A thorough physical exam and blood testing are needed to assess the overall health of the patient and rule out other conditions.

A "new" heart murmur (i.e., one not previously present) or an abnormal rhythm requires further investigation in all cats. Approximately 80% of these cats will have hypertrophic cardiomyopathy which is a disease of the heart muscle. However, in the geriatric cat, hyperthyroidism and hypertension must also be ruled out as the underlying cause. The following procedures are recommended to formulate a treatment plan: 1) blood work to evaluate and compare to previous baseline values: 2) chest radiographs to evaluate heart size and lung tissue: 3) blood pressure measurements: and 4) referral to the cardiologist if indicated. Some geriatric cats will present in congestive heart failure where fluid accumulates in the chest or abdomen. This is a medical emergency and may require the immediate transfer to a cardiologist or 24 hour facility.

Cancer is an unrestrained growth of cells that can originate from any cell of the body. Cats are more likely than other species to have malignant tumors. Common signs of cancer published by the Veterinary Cancer Society include: 1) abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow; 2) sores that do not heal; 3) weight loss; 4) loss of appetite; 5) bleeding or discharge from any body opening; 6) offensive odor; 7) difficulty eating or swallowing; 8) hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina; 9) persistent lameness or stiffness; and 10) difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating.

Degenerative joint disease (arthritis) is a common aging process in all species of animals. Any joint may be affected. Symptoms include lameness, reluctance to jump or go up and down stairs, and behavior changes. Most cats can be made more comfortable through weight control and medication. NuCat and Cosequin are "nutroceuticals" which are safe nutritional substances that help protect and repair joints. Remember, never give Tylenol to a cat. Aspirin, Ibuprofen, and other anti-inflammatory drugs are potentially toxic to cats, and should not be given unless directed by a veterinarian.

The behavioral changes associated with cognitive dysfunction (senility) may have a medical or behavioral cause. Often it is the combined effects of the environment and health status (organ function decline, sensory decline, degenerative conditions causing pain, central nervous system changes, or a combination of medical problems) of the cat. Clinical signs include house soiling, persistent vocalization especially at night, disruption of the sleep-wake cycle, confusion, disorientation, decreased interaction with the owners, decreased interest in food, repetitive and compulsive behaviors, and listlessness. These symptoms are usually found in cats greater than 15 years of age. An exhaustive search for medical problems should be made prior to treatment. Several drugs may be of benefit to these cats.

Older cats often decrease their grooming efforts. The haircoat may become dull, oily, and matted. These changes may be related to underlying disease. Toe nails often become thickened and not shed on a regular basis. Due to this, the nails often grow into the pads.

2. Blood work to include red and white blood cells, kidney and liver values, electrolytes, glucose and thyroid level (FeLV and FIV if indicated)

Senior /Geriatric Program II - Recommendations for Senior Cats with Health Concerns and Geriatric Cats

This level of care includes all the aspects of Program I. However, more frequent monitoring is needed based on the cat’s condition. Additional testing procedures may be needed. Risk factors are discussed and therapeutic plans are initiated.

1. Older cats cycle more water through their bodies; therefore, they need to drink more water. We suggest multiple water bowls placed throughout the house. The water should be kept filled and fresh.

2. For cats that will not drink an adequate amount, canned food can provide extra water and nutrition. We can suggest a type and brand of food based on your cat’s weight and health status.

3. Consider placing a litter box on every floor of your home. Older cats have increased urine production and sometimes decreased mobility. Multiple litter boxes can minimize the chance of "accidents". The sides of the box should be low enough that he can easily get in and out.

4. Arthritis and decreased muscular strength can mean diminished jumping and climbing ability. Foot stools, boxes, or small ramps made of wood planks can help your cat get where he wants to go. Nutritional supplements (nutraceuticals) and pain medications are available to decrease arthritic pain and stiffness.

5. Extra warmth is often enjoyed by older cats. Fleece pet bedding and pet-safe heating pads are available since human heating pads and electric blankets are not safe for pets. They can cause burns and fires. We recommend the Lectro-kennel heating pad available in some pet stores or from 1-888-THAT-PET (a mail order pet supply company. Be sure the bedding is placed in a draft free area and never leave the cat unattended on a heating pad if he cannot get off of it should he get too hot.

6. As a cat ages, he may not pay as much attention to grooming as in earlier years. Therefore, you may need to comb, brush, and "ZoomGroom" to keep the older haircoat at its best and hair ingestion to a minimum. Older cats tend to develop thicker, longer nails. Regular nail trimming is needed to prevent painful ingrown nails and to prevent nail snagging in carpet and furniture. A member of our staff can teach you how to do this (with the cat’s cooperation) if you are not comfortable with your manicure skills.

7. Help us to help your cat. Cats in their golden years benefit from more frequent check-ups, usually every 6 months or as advised by the doctor. We may recommend urine, blood, and blood pressure tests to complement a thorough physical examination. We also like to monitor body weight, dental health, heart health, kidney function, thyroid hormone, etc.