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Senile Moments in Felines

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Image: Pixabay

What is CDS in Cats?
As your kitty ages, you may unknowingly accept symptoms of senility as par for the course of aging, however feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome is now classified as a medical condition. A sad but true statistic is that 50% of cats older than 15 years of age tend to suffer from some degree of dementia, otherwise known as CDS.

Feline CDS is caused by the production of a wax-like protein sediment (beta amyloid) in the brain. The syndrome is associated to Alzheimer’s disease in humans as they both display similar physical and behavioural characteristics.

Symptoms:

Disorientation

  • appears confused and lost
  • doesn’t remember people or places that were once familiar to them
  • roams mindlessly
  • becomes trapped in corners
  • gets lost in their once familiar home

Changes in Social Interactions

  • withdraws from attention
  • social relations with other animals change
  • doesn’t greet family members like they once did
  • disregard for meal times/appetite loss
  • no longer grooms themselves

Changes in Sleep Cycles

  • sleep cycles are either reversed or interrupted

House Soiling

  • unable to recall litter box training
  • unable to recall where the litter box is located
  • unable to recall what to do once in the litter box

Compulsive Behaviour

  • wails for no apparent reason
  • paces continuously
  • mindlessly licks objects
  • experiences tremors
  • restlessness and/or anxiety

Diagnosing CDS
Diagnosing CDS is more challenging than one would expect. CDS takes on symptoms similar to that of other diseases such as arthritis, kidney disease, deafness, blindness, brain tumors or hyperthyroidism, therefore these conditions must first be ruled out before CDS can be accurately diagnosed.

Treatment
Unfortunately, there is no cure for CDS. However, your veterinarian may prescribe certain medications and behavioural therapy to increase your cat’s cognitive function and slow down any associated decline.

Feed your kitty a wholesome diet enriched with antioxidants, vitamin E, beta carotene and essential fatty acids.

Rearrange your home environment to better accommodate your cat’s condition, such as:

  • placing numerous food and water bowls as well as litter boxes around the home so they are more accessible to your kitty
  • adhering to regular feeding times so your kitty’s expectations to a certain routine are met
  • replacing old litter trays with wider, more shallow rims so your kitty can access them easily. Using sand-like litter is also gentler on their sensitive aging paw pads
  • ensuring any changes to their environment are done incrementally so to avoid your kitty from developing unnecessary anxiety and stress
  • preparing soft and cosy resting spots throughout the home, preferably with a ramp or stairs so your kitty can easily access their numerous safe havens
  • imparting as much love that your cat desires but don’t smother them as this may agitate or stress them out

Prevention
Studies have proven that by physically and mentally stimulating your cat from an early age, you are able to prevent or even offset the negative effects of dementia by keeping their brain young and active. Try some of the following to stimulate your kitty:

  • Provide your cat with mentally-engaging entertainment such as placing bird feeders and bird baths outside your windows for your cat’s amusement.
  • Cat trees are a great source for climbing, discovering and resting.
  • By teaching your cat to walk on a leash, you’re able to expose them to an array of new opportunities, places and discoveries.
  • Food-incentive treats are a terrific way to teach your cat new tricks that stimulate both their mind and body.
  • Disperse limited amounts of cat food around the home in bowls so your kitty is encouraged to seek the food.
  • Puzzle toys reward the cat for their interest by releasing treats. This behaviour imitates that of felines’ natural hunting tendencies and will keep your kitty stimulated both mentally and physically.

Feline senility can be a very traumatic experience, not only for you, but your cat too. Remember to continuously invigorate and entertain your kitty throughout their life so their bodies remain agile and able and their minds sharp. When your cat reaches their “geriatric” years, it’s essential to realise that undesired actions are unintentional on their part and they too, are undergoing stress and frustrations, if not more, than what you are, so acceptance, patience and compassion are key.

Written for inFURmation
by Taliah Williamson

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Disclaimer: The information produced by Infurmation is provided for general and educational purposes only and does not constitute any legal, medical or other professional advice on any subject matter. These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Always seek the advice of your vet or other qualified health care provider prior to starting any new diet or treatment and with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you suspect that your pet has a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider.

Neuropathic Pain in Dogs

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Neuropathic Pain in Dogs - image

Neuropathic Pain in Dogs can take on many forms, and our beloved pooches can’t express to us in words how they’re feeling, so it remains our responsibility as pet parents to watch out for any changes in their behaviour that indicate they are in physical pain and take them to an experienced veterinarian to identify the primary source of the pain and advise on the correct treatment. By doing this we can ensure vet care is provided at the earliest possible opportunity, saving our dogs from what could be intense and prolonged physical pain.

What is Neuropathic Pain in Dogs?

Neuropathic pain is when a sense of pain transfers from the initial source and neural pathways become abnormally sensitised. The pain can occur with or without provocation.

Causes of Neuropathic Pain in Dogs

The most widely known causes of neuropathic pain in dogs can be associated with any disease (such as a tumour) or injury which impacts the functioning of the spinal cord and the nervous system. Any irregularity in the normal functioning of the peripheral or central nervous system can be attributed to this pain. The following are other potential causes of neuropathic pain:

  • phantom pain caused from amputation of a limb
  • hyperthyroidism
  • diabetes (link to
  • intervertebral disc herniation

Symptoms

If the pain is a result of tissue or nerve damage, pet owners will notice that a light touch to the affected area will intensify the pain for their pooches (allodynia). Their dog may also experience increased sensitivity to the area (hyperalgesia) and move away from them because of the heightened sensitivity to touch (hyperpathia).

However, if this condition is a result of spinal cord related issues, then the most common symptoms would most likely manifest as mobility issues. Pet parents may notice the emergence of the following symptoms:

  • muscle wasting or atrophy
  • persistent limping or dragging of limbs
  • low tolerance for any form of exercise
  • change in mood and behaviour
  • unwillingness to engage in physical activity such as exercise
  • significant change in posture
  • crying out or vocalisation of pain
  • loss of appetite
  • urination and defecation in unsuitable places
  • consistently chewing or licking the affected area

Diagnosis

Because your pooch is unable to communicate their pain, it’s difficult for pet parents to assess the origin or severity of their chronic (continuous) pain, so taking your pet to the vet as soon as you observe associated signs of this condition is essential as your pup certainly doesn’t deserve to endure this distress.

Your vet will usually initiate a diagnostic procedure starting with an examination of the medical history of your beloved canine. You know your pooch best and because they cannot verbalise how they feel, as their pet parent you are their voice and it is your responsibility to communicate clearly with your vet during this process, describing in great detail any observations you may have picked up. The veterinarian may ask questions about the length and intensity of the associated pain or out of character behaviour, recent or past injuries, illnesses and any areas where the pain may be originating from. Reflex tests, basic blood tests and x-rays may also be performed to identify and rule out probable causes of the issue, such as spinal cord tumours.

There are a few key techniques used for diagnosing a neuropathic state in dogs, such as applying hot/cold temperatures, gently patting with cotton, applying pressure or even a pinprick to an affected area. When such methods are applied to a healthy dog, not much pain may be inflicted, but they sure can be excruciating to pooches suffering from neuropathic pain so prepare yourself.

Treatment

Veterinarians will prescribe pain relievers or analgesic medicine for your beloved companion to ease the intensity of the pain to acquire relief. Dosage types may change until the optimal effect of the medication is achieved. Based on the causes of the chronic pain, an effective treatment framework would comprise of non-pharmacological therapy such as massage and acupuncture along with medication which may comprise of opioids, anti-inflammatories and anti-epileptics. Your pooch’s quality of life depends upon how effectively the chronic pain management is implemented and monitored.

Management

Schedule daily or weekly follow ups with your veterinarian to ensure your pooch is responding favourably to the medication tailored to their individual needs. It’s of vital importance to monitor and report any positive or negative changes your dog is experiencing under the treatment to your veterinarian. Remember that unfortunately, neuropathic pain doesn’t disappear but with the proper pain management plan, your pooch can still have the happy, pain-free life they ought to have.

Written for inFURmation
by Taliah Williamson

 

 

Ceasing Sudden Weight Loss in Cats

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Ceasing Sudden Weight Loss in Cats

Ceasing Sudden Weight Loss in Cats

Just like us humans, your feline friend’s weight (whether over or underweight) is an indicator of existing or impending medical conditions, and any associated indications should be addressed in a timely manner. As pet parents, we seem to worry more about the weight our feline friends are accumulating than the weight they may suddenly be losing. Sudden weight loss or cachexia in cats should be managed with the same level of concern as drastic weight gain.

If you witness a sharp fall in your cat’s weight which exceeds ten percent of their usual body weight (when fluid loss is not responsible), this should be a cause for alarm. Read on to find out why drastic weight loss in your cat is menacing to their health and how to stop those shedding kilo’s in their tracks before causing permanent damage.

Causes of Weight Loss in Cats

If you notice a sudden drop in your purry pal’s appetite and they have simultaneously experienced drastic weight loss, chances are that they may be suffering from anorexia. This is a concerning medical situation for your feline friend as anorexia leaves feline’s prone to developing fatty liver syndrome, a potentially fatal condition in which the liver is required to metabolise large quantities of stored fat to provide the body with the energy it needs to function adequately.

In some cases, a cat might continue to retain their normal appetite and still undergo weight loss which may seem inexplicable. However, a number of reasons could clarify this mysterious observation. Excessive noise, dirty food bowls, bowls being too close to the litter tray, or other pets being present in your cat’s feeding quarters could set off psychological issues in these sensitive creatures, such as depression and stress, that could spur on sudden weight loss.

Medical conditions that could be related to this case include:

  • neurologic disorders making it challenging for them to pick up or swallow food
  • oesophagus paralysis
  • fever
  • diabetes
  • heart, liver or kidney failure
  • intestinal parasites
  • gastrointestinal problems such as obstructions
  • cancer
  • hyperthyroidism
  • dental problems
  • chronic blood loss
  • pet food or diet quality
  • feline infectious peritonitis
  • pancreatic disease
  • gallbladder disease
  • inflammatory bowel disease
  • surgical removal of segments of the bowel
  • infections (bacterial, viral, fungal or chronic etc)
  • Addison’s disease (where the adrenal glands underproduce the necessary corticosteroid hormones the body require)
  • pregnancy or nursing
  • prolonged exposure to cold
  • skin lesions leading to significant loss of protein

Symptoms

Weight loss itself is a symptom of an underlying medical condition. A viable diagnosis will allow your vet to establish the root cause behind this symptom and how it presents itself with other clinical signs.

Diagnosis

Your veterinarian will initiate their diagnostic examination with a series of tests to identify the primary cause for the weight loss. After conducting a general check-up of your feline companion, your vet may prescribe one or more of the following tests:

  • ultrasound of abdomen, liver and gall bladder
  • fecal studies
  • biopsy
  • detailed assessment of the pancreas
  • bile acids test
  • X-rays to check the condition of heart, abdominal organs and lungs
  • Complete Blood Count (CBC)
  • urinalysis
  • comprehensive biochemical profile

Treatment

Based on the results of the physical exams and prescribed diagnostic tests, your vet may proceed to treat your kitty’s symptoms if they are too severe in nature for your cat to endure. Nonetheless, a treatment for the condition which is contributing to the weight loss will also be prescribed. This treatment will most likely be administered in association with dietary modifications to restore your cat’s physique to the optimal weight it once was. If your cat is experiencing conditions that make absorbing food challenging, your vet will recommend an easily-digestible dietary solution. Similarly, if your kitty is allergic to certain ingredients contained in their food, removing the offensive components could solve the weight loss problem entirely.    

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If your kitty has lost their appetite and is consequently losing weight, it may even be necessary to intervene by way of force-feeding your cat with feeding tubes or intravenously to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients until the vet can treat the cause of anorexia. Appetite stimulants may also be prescribed to trigger hunger pangs.

Management

As a responsible pet parent, ensure that you schedule regular physical examinations with your vet. Follow-up visits are also essential to closely monitor any changes in weight and keep track of your kitty’s treatment progress.

 

Written for inFURmation
by Taliah Williamson

Have you booked their next vet visit?

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vet

Have you booked their next vet visit?

Vet Checkups & Blood Work for Senior Cats

Although it might be tempting to skip regular trips to the veterinarian when your aging cat appears healthy, however, appearances can sometimes be deceiving. Blood work on your cat needs to be done regularly in order to screen for common diseases in older cats. Here’s why it’s so important to take your older cat to the vet.

Wellness Checks for Senior Cats

Cats age much more rapidly than humans. Although the rate varies somewhat cat to cat, depending on factors such as body weight and lifestyle, generally speaking, a cat is considered middle-aged by the time she’s 6 years old. By the age of 10, cats are considered geriatric. At some point between these ages, typically around 7 years old, cats should begin having biannual senior wellness exams and testing to check for diseases and other health issues that cats are more prone to develop as they age. Getting your senior cat checked and having her blood work done every six months will provide her with the best chance of early detection. This could make treatment easier and more effective in many cases. In some cases, it could even save her life.

Common Diseases in Older Cats

While cats can get sick at any age, there are a number of health conditions that cats become more susceptible as they age. The most common is chronic kidney conditions that affect 3 out of 10 cats, says Pet Health Network. Other conditions common to aging cats include the following:

  • Hyperthyroidism
  • High blood pressure
  • Obesity
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Cancer
  • Organ failure
  • Arthritis and other joint issues
  • Feline dementia and other cognitive disorders

vet

Cat Blood Work

Wellness checks for senior cats will typically include comprehensive blood work to test for these common diseases. Typically, this will include a complete blood count to check the number of red and white blood cells as well as platelets. A biochemistry profile will be done to check organ function and detect whether your cat has diabetes. Your vet will also conduct a urinalysis to check kidney function and screen for urinary tract infections, certain types of cancer and other illnesses, and a separate thyroid test to check thyroid function. Your cat may also be given the symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) test to screen for kidney disease. This is a newer test that can detect kidney disease months to years sooner than standard methods of kidney screening, says Pet Health Network. An SDMA test could vastly improve your kitty’s outlook if she’s diagnosed with kidney problems. Check with your vet to see if this test is included in your cat’s routine wellness testing. If not, you might consider requesting it.

Caring for Cats With Health Conditions

If your kitty is diagnosed with a chronic illness, be prepared for her routine care to change. Depending on the condition, she may require more frequent visits to the vet to treat and monitor her condition. In addition to medications, your vet may place her on prescription cat food to help manage her condition. You may also need to make changes to her environment. For example, for an arthritic cat you may need to switch her litter box to one with lower sides so that it is easier for her to climb into, and provide steps up to her favourite sunny spot. Whether or not your older kitty is diagnosed with a health condition, it’s important to keep a sharp eye on your aging cat and report any changes in weight, mood, behaviour, or bathroom habits to your vet. Such changes could be symptoms of illness. Don’t wait until your cat’s next routine checkup to have her checked out by your vet.

Some cats sail through old age with few or even no significant health problems. Still, schedule regular checkups and blood work to help catch diseases early, helping to hopefully lengthen your cat’s lifespan and improve her quality of life as she ages. Please, check with your veterinarian regularly to insure proper care.

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition