Senior Cats have special needs

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, cancer, diabetes and other hormonal conditions, arthritis, neurologic diseases, and a variety of metabolic conditions. In addition, cats’ nutritional requirements can change as they age due to a change in their metabolic rates and nutrient need.

Comparative Ages of Cats and Humans
Cat Years	Human Years
1	15
2	24
5	36
7	45
12	64
15	76
18	88
21	100

Your cat is considered to be a “senior” at 7 years of age. 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 17% of middle age and older cats that appear healthy upon physical examination have underlying disease. Once signs appear, the conditions may be more difficult or costly to diagnose or treat.

Irvine Veterinary Services has developed a healthcare program specifically for our senior patients. Our goal is to maximize the length and quality of your pet’s life through nutritional counseling, careful evaluation of body systems, and detection of diseases and conditions early, when treatment and prevention are most effective.

Our Senior Wellness Package includes the following:
Complete Physical Exam	Routine check of ears, eyes, skin, heart and lungs, abdomen, etc.
Full Dental Exam	Detects disease of the teeth and gums
Senior Blood Profile	Checks organ function, red and white blood cell counts, electrolyte levels, screens for hormonal disease
Urinalysis	Checks kidney function and screens for urinary tract disease
Ultrasound of the Urinary Bladder	Detects the presence of bladder disease, tumors, and stones
Radiographic Study of Abdomen and Chest	Checks the appearance of heart, lungs, and abdominal organs. Screens for arthritis and other skeletal diseases. The package includes a CD of your pet’s radiographs for you to keep
Blood Pressure	Checks for hypertension
Diet Counseling	Analysis of metabolic and nutrient requirement specific to your cat
Nail Trim	Older cats’ nails tend to overgrow, and can cause problems with nails themselves, or with the footpads

We recommend that these tests and counseling sessions take place at least once a year to ensure optimal healthcare and the best quality of life possible for your beloved pet.

IVS is dedicated to promoting a long and happy life for both you and your pet! Give us a call to set up an appointment for our Senior Wellness Package at either of our Irvine locations. For further information on senior wellness and care, visit the AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association) website, www.aaha.net.