Feline Aging: Promoting Physiologic and Emotional Well-Being

Abstract

Caring for an increasingly aging population of pet cats presents challenges. The interplay between emotional and physical health is an important consideration; their ability to cope with stress is reduced. Optimizing the environment can improve quality of life at home and within the clinic, as does early diagnosis and treatment of medical or behavioral problems. This may be complicated by multiple, often interacting diseases, and the overlap of clinical signs, including behavioral change. Client education evenings and elderly cat clinics play a crucial role in making owners aware of normal aging changes. Differential diagnoses behind behavioral changes such are considered.

Keywords: Cognitive dysfunction; Dementia; Feline aging; Gerontology.