Elderly Feline Ailments And Cat Insurance

As cats begin to age, they become more susceptible to certain diseases and illnesses. Similar to humans, diabetes, kidney disease, heart problems, and cancer are all serious and very common diseases in elderly cats. With problems more likely to occur, it is important to invest in pet insurance so that you are not overwhelmed with medical costs. Trips to the veterinarian and medications can be inexpensive with cat insurance.

Hepatic lipidosis, also known as fatty liver disease, is when a large amount of fat cells develop in the liver and the liver is unable to use them. The disease is often associated with diabetes, but the cause is unknown. Symptoms of the disease include, loss of appetite, lethargy, rapid weight loss, yellowing of the eyes and skin, vomiting, and swelling of the abdomen. The treatment is a prescribed diet with vitamin supplements that must be force fed in order to get your cat back to its proper weight.

Chronic renal failure is a very serious condition that leads to the deterioration of the kidney. Healthy kidneys filter and reabsorb fluids, but when they fail, toxins build up in the blood. The disease is diagnosed by a blood panel to measure the levels of blood components. Signs include weight loss/loss of appetite, excessive thirst and urination, vomiting, difficulty urinating, and a dull coat. Your cat will have to be rehydrated. A low protein diet will most likely be recommended, along with medication.

A third common feline ailment is hyperthyroidism. It is caused by an enlarged thyroid gland which overproduces hormones. Difficulties with the disease can arise because it is often associated with other kidney or heart diseases. Warming signs of hyperthyroidism are weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst and urination, and hyperactivity. The easiest treatment is medication, which unfortunately will have to be for the rest of the cat's life.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is related to the previously mentioned diseases. It has only been recently that this disease has become frequent. It can sometimes lead to heart disease and blindness. Rapid heart rate, dilated pupils, and sudden blindness are all symptoms. Blood pressure can be monitored with a device called a Doppler. A low sodium diet and medication can remedy this ailment.

Cancer is the number one cause of death for older cats -- usually leukemia, sarcomas, and breast cancer. Early diagnosis can increase the cat's chances of survival. Lumps and swelling are both warning signs, along with weight change, weakness, and vomiting. Radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery are all possible treatments depending on the severity and type of cancer.

Regular check-ups are a must as your cat begins to age. Just like a human's health can deteriorate, so you can your pet's. Pet health insurance and its alternatives can help you give your cat a long and healthy life.