With a little attention, even an inexperienced pet owner can determine that a cat or kitten is close to retirement age.
Several signs unmistakably indicate an aging animal.
Experts have listed the key ones.
Age
If a cat was brought into the house as a kitten, then at the age of seven the pet will cross the line after which its life will approach its end.
When your pet turns 11 years old, you can safely call him an old man.
Cats aged 15 years and older, depending on the breed, can be considered long-lived.
External signs
If you don't know how old the animal is, take a closer look at its behavior.
Loss of appetite and weight loss may indicate the approach of old age.
Dental problems are the most obvious sign of old age.
Animals' teeth wear out and gums become inflamed.
Along with this, problems with joints begin, and the animal’s activity decreases.
The cat tries to jump on high objects less often, sleeps more and plays less often.
The animal's fur becomes dull, discharge from the eyes appears, and digestion deteriorates.
What should the owner do?
Consult your veterinarian and choose the right food for your pet.
Create comfortable living conditions for your pet, make sure that the bed is located in a warm place and not in a draft.
Be alert to changes in your pet's behavior and contact your veterinarian if necessary.
