Healthy old cat

Ludi the Yard Fool · 04-15-2004, 08:22 AM

We're down to just the one old cat now. Bud, who is 17. I want to give him the best care in his last years. He seems to be very healthy in general, has a good layer of flesh all over, coat condition is good. He has occassional troubles with constipation and sometimes vomiting.

What are some suggestions to continue his good health or improve it?

Thanks!

Candycane · 04-15-2004, 10:44 AM

Geriatric cats need to be kept warm and should usually be put on a lower percentage protein as their aging kidneys have trouble with the nitrogen. Chronic renal failure is very common in older cats so it may be wise to switch, if you haven't already.

Now, when do we get to see pictures of the old man?

neuroleptical · 04-15-2004, 02:08 PM

Hi Ludi

. The supplement I started Hank on recently www.leapsandbounds.ca seems very good & is recommended for older animals in particular. It is a mixture of natural plant extracts, good for the whole body (antioxidants, polyphenols, potassium, etc.). Hank is only 4 but I plan on keeping her on it a looong time.
My ex's mom's cat Lillith was almost 20 when she died, & the secret to her longevity was lots of love &, in later years, pumpkin mixed w/ her soft cat food, 50/50. (Canned pumpkin). The lower protein is great for older animals & pumkin is a soothing food.

Ludi the Yard Fool · 04-15-2004, 04:48 PM

Bud is rather a picky eater. If I change his food, it will have to be very gradual. It's interesting, though, he has started begging at the table, something he rarely did when the other cats were around. But he doesn't really eat what he begs for, even if it's something he likes, like chicken, he'll just have a taste.