In cooperation with Antech
Diagnostics, we have implemented a Senior@Seven Wellness
ExamsTM program at Bay Hill Cat Hospital. 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.
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 on
left), 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.- Diagnostic Senior Wellness
Exams
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:
- More Frequent
Examinations
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.
- Nutrition and
Environment
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.
- Senior Wellness
Checklist
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. Call and schedule your cats Senior
Wellness Exam today. |
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