Dr Jones’ Top 7 Tips to a Healthy and Long Lived Senior Cat
As a veterinarian, I offer these top seven tips for a healthy, long-lived senior cat:
Tip 1: Optimal Nutrition
Ensure your cat’s diet is high in moisture and protein, avoiding dry kibble due to its common link to diseases like CKD and diabetes; canned or home diets rich in animal protein and increased water intake are crucial for senior cats.
Tip 2: Vaccination Caution
Limit vaccinations for cats over three years old to reduce the risk of kidney disease and fibrosarcoma associated with repeated vaccines.
Tip 3: Natural Health Alternatives
Prefer natural anti-inflammatories like CBD oil over conventional drugs which may cause kidney and liver issues, and choose diatomaceous earth for safe, effective flea control.
Tip 4: Environmental Enrichment
Provide your cat with a stimulating, stress-free environment, including quality time and regular grooming, to ward off diseases like feline urinary tract disease.
Tip 5: Kidney Disease Prevention
Reduce phosphorus in your cat’s diet, avoid high-phosphorus foods like fish, and consider phosphorus binders or specialized formulas to prevent common senior cat ailments like CKD.
Tip 6: Addressing Common Conditions
Maintain dental health and manage arthritis in older cats with good dental care, natural remedies like propolis for mouth inflammation, and nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin.
Tip 7: Proactive Caregiving
Be actively involved in your cat’s health, questioning unnecessary veterinary procedures and considering natural supplements like colostrum to boost their immune system.
In conclusion, adhering to these seven tips will greatly enhance the chances of your senior cat enjoying a happy, healthy, and extended life.
What is a good phosphorus binder to use for cats with kidney disease? Can you purchase and used without a prescription??
From most research, the most commonly used calcium-based phosphate binders are calcium carbonate and calcium acetate. Calcium carbonate can be used in cats at a starting dosage of 30 mg/kg q8h or 45 mg/kg q12h, given with food.
Can a phosphorus binder be given to older cats as prevention?
I make cat food, using a balanced pre-mix that contains egg shell rather than bone. I was feeding them sardines in water no oil as a treat and freeze dried minnows, I will stop feeding them to my 7 year old boy.