How the Aging Process Affects Your Cat

By: Christian Yost

March 28, 2009

Just like their human companions, cats experience a gradual decline in organ function as they age. These age-related changes include a natural slowing of the cat�s resting metabolic rate (RMR), resulting in a decrease in muscle and an increase in body fat, which also increases the likelihood of obesity. While energy needs vary from pet to pet, cats between the ages of 7 and 9 years are at the highest risk for obesity. It is important for you to watch your cat�s intake, weight status and physical activity to help offset age-associated loss of muscle.

Remember that your aging pet has the same nutrient needs as during her earlier years. However, the quantities and the way in which they are provided may have to change. As her metabolism changes, select a diet that�s less energy-dense, while still providing essential nutrients.

Visible Signs of Aging
A sure sign that your cat is entering old age is when she does not jump onto her favorite perch as easily, sleeps more and moves more slowly when awake. In addition, her skin loses its elasticity and becomes less pliable. The decrease in skin elasticity may result in areas of hair loss. Old age also brings a decrease in bone mass. This may be due, in part, to the inadequate absorption of calcium. The age for these developments is around 12 years in cats. Arthritis commonly occurs in mature cats, too, and can be made worse by obesity. Some of this can be managed by proper nutrition, medical therapy and nutriceuticals.

Old age in general may result in a reduction in response to a cat�s surroundings and partial loss of vision, hearing and taste. To avoid startling your loving pet, it�s a good idea to let your cat see your hand in front of her face before touching her and to call her name before approaching.

Special Dietary Needs for Your Mature/Senior Cat

• Hairball Prevention
  A mature cat can still develop hairballs and some may experience an increase in hairballs. To help minimize the development of hairballs, feed your cat a diet with a unique combination of beet pulp and cellulose fiber.
• Mature/Senior Cat Needs
  Aging pets should be fed a diet with a higher percentage of calories from high-quality animal protein and with antioxidants and essential amino acids, like taurine, to help maintain healthy muscle mass and immune function. A little less fat in the diet may also help mature cats if their  diet remains rich in fish oils to promote overall health and a beautiful, shiny coat.

Special Dental Needs
Proper tooth and gum care is also important for older pets. Dry foods may assist in maintaining good dental and oral health.  You may also need to schedule regular appointments with your veterinarian to prevent dental scaling or periodontal disease.

Behavioral Changes in Your Aging Pet
One of the most noticeable changes in mature pets is their resistance to change in their daily routines. Older cats may become more finicky about their eating habits. With a decreased sense of smell and taste, it may be necessary to provide a food with a stronger smell and taste. Lower quality pet foods are not recommended for elderly pets because some of them may not have enough of the right nutrients.

As your mature cat slows down, short, sustained periods of physical activity will help to enhance circulation, maintain muscle tone and prevent excess weight gain. The level and intensity should be adjusted to your pet�s medical condition. Encourage a healthy exercise routine by playing games with your cat for 15 to 30 minutes at least twice a day.

How Old is Your Cat in Human Years?

While the aging process varies from cat to cat, the chart below demonstrates your cat�s probable �human age�.

Cat	Human
1 Year	20 Years
2 Years	24 Years
3 Years	28 Years
4 Years	32 Years
5 Years	36 Years
6 Years	44 Years
7 Years	48 Years
8 Years	52 Years
9 Years	56 Years

Please visit us at  www.siamese-cattailscattery.com

How to Brush Your Cat’s Teeth

How to Brush Your Cat’s Teeth

By: Christian Yost

March 23, 2009

Dental disease (especially Periodontal diease) is the most common disease in our feline companions. It is also one of the most preventable and treatable disease. We can reduce or even prevent dental disease by feeding a crunchy diet and daily tooth brushing. The following are steps to guide you on how to brush your cat’s teeth:

The first step is to start with a clean,healthy mouth, such as with a young pet with healthy new teeth and gums or after your cat has had a professional dental cleaning.

You will need a soft-bristled tooth brush and veterinary toothpaste. Human toothpastes and baking soda may cause problems. Veterinary toothpastes have flavors that are appealing to cats. Anything other than a bristled tooth brush will not get below the gum line (the most important area to brush).

There are several important facts about our pets’ mouths that tell us when, where, and how to brush.

pper, back teeth first and worst. Plaque builds up on the tooth surface daily, especially just under the gum line. It takes less than 36 hours for this plaque to become mineralized and harden into “tartar” (calculus) that cannot be removed with a brush. Because of this progression, brushing should be done daily, with a brush to remove the plaque from under the gum line.

Pick a time of day that will become a convenient part of your pet’s and your daily routine. Brushing before a daily treat can help your pet actually look forward to brushing time. Take a few days to let both of you get use to the process. Follow with praise and a treat each time.

Brushing your Cat’s Teeth

Start by offering her a taste of the veterinary toothpaste. The next time, let her taste the toothpaste, then run your finger along the gums of the upper teeth. Repeat the process with the tooth brush. Get the bristles of the brush along the gum line of the upper back teeth and angle slightly up, so the bristles get under the gum line. Work from back to front, making small circles along the gum lines. It should take you less than 30 seconds to brush your pet’s teeth. Do not try to brush the entire mouth at first. If all that your pet lets you brush is the outside of the upper teeth, you are still addressing the most important area of periodontal disease – prevention. If your pet eventually allows you to brush most of her teeth, so much the better.

Even with the best tooth brushing, some cats may still need an occasional professional cleaning, just like humans. By brushing your pet’s teeth daily and curtailing the amount of periodontal disease, you may reduce the frequency and involvement of dental cleanings and provide your pet with a healthier, sweeter smile. Please visit us at www.siamese-cattailscattery.com