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Comparative ages of cats and humans
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| Cat Years |
Human Years |
| 1 |
15 |
| 2 |
24 |
| 5 |
36 |
| 7 |
45 |
| 12 |
64 |
| 15 |
76 |
| 18 |
88 |
| 21 |
100 |
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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), dramatic changes in health can occur in as little as 3 to 6 months.
Studies have shown that as many as l7% of middle age and older cats that appear healthy upon physical
examination have an underlying disease. A Senior Wellness Exam inclucles laboratory tests so
sensitive they can detect diseases and conditions early, when treatment and prevention are most
effective.
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Diagnostic Senior Wellness Exams
Several non-invasive tests and procedures performed regularly can help us detect early-stage disease when control or even prevention is possible and more cost effective. Senior Wellness Exams also provide a baseline from which we can measure changes. These tests include:
- Complete Blood Count
- Serum Chemistry Profile
- Complete Urinalysis
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- Fecal Exam
- Thyroid Hormone Levels
- Other tests recommended bv vour veterinarian
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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 represents 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, eyes and joints.
Nutrition and Environment
A proper diet and suitable environment are critical to your cat's continued health and comfort. Our hospital staff may 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.
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