How to Slow the Aging Process of Your Cat

Cats may not have nine lives, but they can live longer than many people think ...
18 to 20 years is common. Here's how to keep your cat purring into advanced old age.

Important Steps:

1. Take your cat to the veterinarian at least once a year for a complete physical exam, and follow your veterinarian's advice regarding preventive health-care measures. Preventing disease and maintaining optimum health are the first steps toward a long, healthy life.

2. Spay or neuter your cat as soon as possible. Having kittens, especially repeated litters, is stressful and will contribute to premature aging.

3. Keep your cat inside at all times to reduce the risk of accidents, injuries from fights or disease.

4. Feed your cat high-quality food designed to meet the specific nutritional requirements during all stages of his life.

5. Prevent obesity at all costs by controlling your cat's diet and engaging him in play activities.

6. Talk to your veterinarian about adding vitamin and mineral supplements, antioxidants and extra fiber to your cat's diet.

7. Have your cat's teeth cleaned professionally. Good dental health will add years to his life.

8. Groom your cat daily, checking for abnormalities, and seek medical help promptly when you discover anything suspicious (see related eHow 'Detect Skin Cancer in Your Pet').

9. Make sure no harmful chemicals such as pesticides or household cleaners find their way onto your cat's fur, since cats groom themselves with their tongues constantly. Even small amounts of harmful chemicals on their bodies can have adverse effects if consumed over many years.

10. Protect your cat from environmental dangers such as household cleaners and secondhand smoke.

11. Help your cat avoid the stress of harassment from other animals by providing a quiet place for undisturbed catnaps.

12. Provide your older cat with a heat source such as a heating pad set on low, since cats more than 12 years old require extra heat. You'll notice a difference in his attitude and activity level.

13. Give your cat daily full-body massages and lots of love. Despite their aloof demeanor, cats thrive on affection.

Other Tips:

Find a veterinarian with a special interest in aging who keeps abreast of advancements in this rapidly developing area of pet care.

Research this subject on your own. Experts' understanding of the aging process is changing rapidly, and knowledge gained about humans is often applicable to animals.

Owner-tested Wisdom:

Dangerous plants: Protect your cats from dangerous plants such as cactus and poinsettia.
      Peter M.

22 cat years - yes, it is possible: We have a 21 1/2-year-old Siamese cat. We have kept him young by introducing a kitten every few years during his later life. Instead of being allowed to sleep the day away, he has had to cope with a new friend. He has stayed more fit and feisty.
      eHow Friend

T.L.C.: If you give your cats the tender love and care they need, then they will not only love you more, but they will probably live longer and happier too.
      Melissa W.

Older cats and constipation: Getting an older cat to take laxatives can be a problem. I use fiber -- bran buds to be exact. I sprinkle some on their dry food and fix a small bowl with a little dry coffee creamer(lite no fat) add a little warm water and let sit to soften. My cats love it.
      Brenda I.

Down comforters for cats: Instead of a heating pad, fold up your down comforter on the end of the bed. Your aging cat will sink into its own warm cocoon for all its naps. Warning: There may be disputes at bedtime over who really owns the comforter.
      Peggy

Food must taste good: Our 19-year-old cat ate his breakfast the day he was put to sleep. I think his key to a long life was a healthy diet. As much as I understand the need for a premium food, I think it is important that a pet look forward to its meal.
      Alicia

Warmth for an older cat: I cut the toe from a man's sock; slit the long side up to the cuff; slipped it over my cat's head; and pinned it closed on the underside. Voila, a turtleneck sweater to keep my 18-year-old cat warm.
      Mary Ann S.

Young at heart: The best thing you could ever do is spend time with your cat. Playtime, relaxing or sleeping are all excellent ways to bond with your kitty and let him/her know that they are loved. This will, if nothing else, greatly improve your cat's quality of life (if not lengthen it as well.) Just like the old saying goes "You're as young as you feel!"
      Danielle S.

Warnings:

Call your veterinarian before giving your cat any product not specifically approved for cats. Some products, such as acetaminophen, commonly consumed safely by people or dogs, are poisonous to cats.

Reprinted from eHow.com

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