Kitties can experience changes in their bodies and behaviors as they grow old, just like humans. These changes are often a result of a decline in organ system functioning and can transition to deeper health problems when ignored.
Kitty cats are pretty good at hiding illnesses to protect themselves from bigger animals and other threats in society, which makes it quite challenging to identify their distress and get them medical help as soon as possible.
This is one reason cat owners should regularly monitor their feline’s health. Also, they should consider being prepared with pet insurance so that providing their sick pet quality medical care need not be a significant economic challenge.
Cat insurance covers a furry baby for accidents, particular illnesses, dental conditions, emergencies, and much more, depending on the level of cover chosen. Contemplate purchasing a policy that best suits your feline’s health needs and your budget to ensure your furry family member is adequately covered.
Meanwhile, read this article to learn why senior cats are more prone to illnesses.
Why?
A senior feline’s immune system may not be as efficient as that of younger felines. Reduced capacity to deal with foreign bodies, pathogens, and other disease-causing agents can put an older cat at grave health risk.
Deteriorating organ functions coupled with age factors make fighting even an infection at the perimeter an arduous task. A senior feline’s body is less likely to resist a foreign invasion and may also need to tackle secondary health issues due to the weakened immune system.
Dehydration is another serious issue that often plagues the senior cat population. Prolonged dehydration hampers blood and other body fluids’ circulation, leading to the accumulation of toxic substances in blood, constipation, and elimination problems.
An older cat’s skin can be less elastic, thin, and dry (in case of dehydration), making it more vulnerable to infections. This is one reason why cat owners should focus on grooming their older pet regularly. Feeding it a spoonful of organic coconut oil along with food or applying some on its coat can help restore the skin’s oils, but check with your vet first.
Senior cats may not be as interested in using scratch posts to file their nails. Check your older cat’s nails and trim them repeatedly so it doesn’t have to deal with thick, brittle, and overgrown nails. There are more chances of such a pet’s nail hooking onto things and getting injured.
Hearing and vision loss is another common complaint in senior pets because their senses may lose functionality over time. Also, a senior cat suffering from chronic health issues like high blood pressure and diabetes is more likely to suffer from vision impairments.
Bi-annual health checkups can help you know your aging pet’s health status. Don’t skip the dental cleaning sessions, either. At the same time, consider being prepared with cat insurance so your older pet gets the medical care it deserves with minor economic hassle.
Pet insurance allows a cat owner to support their furry pet with basic health benefits during distressing health situations and medical emergencies at affordable costs, which is why they should contemplate purchasing a policy.
