Cats now live longer than ever before, with one-fifth of U.S. cats being at least 11 years old. Many live beyond 15 years old and even into their 20s. Veterinarians should consider the normal, physiological changes that occur with age and the appropriate monitoring of them.
Source: Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, July 2016.
This issue is dedicated to the issues of cat aging. The table of contents is linked for your review and consideration.
Also see: Science Daily, July 6, 2014. What does a healthy ageing cat look like?
As well as reviewing the available data in cats, the authors have discussed resources used in other species that have application in cats. For example, in terms of cognitive abilities, they define a healthy aged cat as one that shows none of the so-called ‘DISHA’ pattern of signs described in dogs; namely disorientation, interaction changes, sleep/wake disturbances, house-soiling and changes in activity. The authors have also developed new resources, such as serum biochemistry and complete blood count reference intervals specifically for mature to geriatric cats, which were generated from a population of over 600 healthy aged cats.
Also see: Huffington Post, July 7, 2016. This is how to tell if your cat is aging well.
INSIGHTS: These studies have implications for all animal health professionals who deal with feline health issues, products, diets and treatment protocols.