Older cats need MOTs

It’s not uncommon for cats to live well into their late teens or twenties. But as cats get older, their bodies change making them more vulnerable to many age-related health conditions. And because cats hide discomfort, many of these conditions aren’t obvious.

VETS LIKE TO EXAMINE SENIOR CATS (AGED 11 AND OVER) AT LEAST TWICE A YEAR. DURING THESE ‘MOTS’ WE’LL

FULLY EXAMINE YOUR CAT PAYING PARTICULAR

ATTENTION TO THEIR:

BODY CONDITION SCORE (changes in bodyweight can indicate conditions such as kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, and diabetes mellitus).

BLOOD PRESSURE — hypertension (high blood pressure) is very common in older cats.

TEETH — older cats are more likely to have dental disease due to wear and tear.

CLAWS — if your cat finds it difficult to scratch, or doesn’t go out much, their claws may need trimming.

FUR — cats in pain might overgroom or find grooming more difficult. Bald patches and matted fur are the signs we check for.