As our feline companions routinely live well into their teens or even twenties, many owners and veterinarians wonder - when is a cat truly a senior citizen? Though there is no specific age at which a cat becomes officially senior, the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) has suggested the following age ranges to help you assess how the aging process may be affecting your cat's health: 

• At least one annual veterinary exam with blood panel, urinalysis and blood pressure 
• Weight checks every 4-6 months
• Continue routine vaccination schedule and monthly flea prevention
• With any symptoms of illness, please schedule a veterinary appointment as soon as possible

As a cat guardian, you know that kitties tend to hide many symptoms of illness, making it difficult for pet owners to detect an emergent problem. Some of the key symptoms and behaviors to look for are:

• Hiding and decreased interaction with people or other pets in household
• Seeking increased interaction - acting more affectionate or clingy than usual
• Increased vocalization
• Any increase in drinking or in the amount of urine in the litter box
• Urinating or defecating outside of the litter box
• Weight loss or gain
• Increase or decrease in appetite
• Odor from the mouth, trouble chewing or grinding teeth
• Difficulty jumping up
• Bumping into things or failing to navigate stairs/obstacles
• Change in breathing patterns - noticeable breathing effort, breathing with mouth open, coughing, or change in voice
• Vomiting, especially if associated with weight loss
• Overgrown nails - they can become embedded in paw pads
• Changes in skin or coat - dull coat, increased matting, hair loss

Our Feline Wellness Center

We know that visits to the veterinarian can be especially stressful for our feline companions - no matter their age or medical condition. Our Feline Wellness Center is a tranquil space that provides your beloved cat with a quiet, calming environment free of the noise and stress of a typical veterinary hospital.  When you arrive, your kitty will be greeted by our team of cat-approved veterinarians who have a special interest in the care of feline companions.  In fact, all of our Feline Wellness Center veterinarians are also active members of the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP). 

For more information about our Feline Wellness Center and to download a coupon for your first exam, please visit our Feline Wellness Center website.

Meows & Purrs,

Dr. Chris Lundy