Senior cats are susceptible to diseases that target older humans — like diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, and cancer.
Diabetes in cats can show up as one of two types — just like in humans! Type 1 is caused by insufficient insulin production; Type 2 is a problem with the cells using insulin efficiently.
Who is susceptible: diabetes can hit cats at any age, but is commonly seen in older and overweight cats. Males are more often seen with diabetes than females. Symptoms include excessive thirst, excessive urination, loss of weight, loss of appetite, vomiting, weakness, poor skin condition, poor coat condition, dehydration, and breathing difficulties.
Treating diabetes in cats depends on the type and severity of the disease. A diet high in fiber and complex carbohydrates can help reduce weight in obese cats and manage blood glucose levels. Some cats may need insulin injections or oral medications. You will need to keep an eye on your diabetic cat’s glucose and insulin levels. Too much insulin can cause a life threatening condition known as hypoglycemia.
Fatty liver disease (also known as hepatic lipidosis) can occur in cats with or without diabetes. When a cat suddenly stops eating or loses weight quickly, it causes fat cells to gather in the liver.
Who is susceptible: the disease is not limited to senior cats, but is most often seen in older felines. Senior cats tend to be overweight; a diet can cause rapid weight loss. Senior cats can also develop anorexia, which can lead to fatty liver disease. Symptoms include loss of appetite, rapid weight loss, listlessness, vomiting, jaundice, and swelling in the abdomen.
Fatty liver disease can be fatal if left untreated. Many veterinarians recommend forced feeding to get weight back on the cat; within two to six weeks, the cat should get his appetite back and begin eating normally again.
The most common form of heart disease in cats is cardiomyopathy — disease of the heart muscle. Symptoms include labored breathing, loss of appetite, inactivity, lethargy, weakness, and coughing. Medication can help give relief to cats with heart disease; your vet will select a medication based on other related problems like hyperthyroidism or hypertension.