Wellness Exams for Older Cats

Advancing age signals the need for more frequent check-ups to the veterinarian to catch signs of disease early so treatment can begin when it's more cost-effective and easier for the cat. Twice-a-year wellness examinations are often recommended for older cats.

A baseline wellness examination should be performed around age 7, so it can be used as a benchmark for measuring changes in cats as they age. This examination should include a complete physical and recording of body weight and body condition score. Increases or decreases in body condition should trigger further evaluation to determine if increased or decreased food intake or nutritional problems or disease contribute to the changes.

Older cats may experience physiological changes that require different nutritional needs. A nutritional assessment begins with a wellness examination to assess a cat's general health and to determine whether its activity and lifestage correspond to its diet.

A cat's thin, brittle hair and dry, flaky skin could indicate a nutritional deficiency. Likewise, a cat's body condition could indicate either a nutritional deficiency or surplus. A thin cat might benefit from a high-calorie diet, and an overweight cat might need a reduced-calorie diet. A nutritional assessment should include an oral examination to check for damaged teeth or other oral problems that could contribute to decreased food consumption.

Feeding habits should be reviewed, as well as nutritional information about the brand of food fed, the amount and frequency of feeding, and a cat's acceptance of its diet. Dietary management of older cats must be considered on an individual basis. While most cats require fewer calories to maintain a normal weight because of a decrease in physical activity and a slower metabolic rate, others may tend to eat less or lose weight for various reasons and require a higher-energy diet. Requirements for specific nutrients vary widely among older cats because of environmental and health-status factors.