Feline Ageing: promoting physiological and emotional wellbeing

Caring for an increasingly ageing population of pet cats presents a number of challenges to veterinary professionals. The interplay between emotional and physical health is an important consideration in ageing animals as their ability to cope with stress is reduced. Optimising the environment for elderly cats can greatly improve their quality of life, both at home and within the clinic, as does the early diagnosis and treatment of medical or behavioural problems. This may be complicated by the presence of multiple, often interacting diseases, and the overlap of clinical signs, including behavioural change. Client education evenings and elderly cat clinics play a crucial role in making owners aware of normal ageing changes as well as when to seek veterinary advice. Differential diagnoses behind behavioural changes such as increased vocalisation will be considered, including cognitive dysfunction syndrome.