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Senior Health Checks in Cats

By John Morgan | Dated May 12, 2020

At Gordon vet hospital we pride ourselves on continuously striving to optimise health care for your beloved pets. In recent times we have actively sort to expand and improve our services for cats. Our recent renovations have allowed us to offer a separate entrance and waiting room space just for cats, assisting in minimising stress to our feline patients. We have recently attained Silver accreditation with the International Society of Feline Medicine’s Cat Friendly Clinic program, a testament to our clinic’s commitment to optimising cat welfare in a clinic environment. We have also welcomed Dr Sally Coggins to our team, a feline only practitioner with over 10 years experience in feline only practice. Below is an article written by Sally highlighting the importance of regular health care visits to optimise the health our ageing cats.

The importance of senior checks in cats

Chronic kidney disease, diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism, hypertension (high blood pressure), arthritis, chronic pancreatitis and inflammatory bowel disease are some of the most common health conditions seen in our older cats. All of these conditions can have impacts on your cat’s quality of life and their longevity. The good news is, all of these conditions can be managed or even cured with early diagnosis and intervention, helping your cat to live a longer and happier life. One of the biggest challenges we face with cats is recognising the disease in the first place.

Why is it so hard to detect health problems in cats?

To answer this, we need to look at the evolution of this species. In the wild, cats typically exist as solitary predators. They are the “king of the jungle”. Anyone who has ever watched a David Attenborough documentary knows that weakness in the wild equals death. As soon as you show weakness, you risk losing your territory and/or your life. The consequences don’t get much higher than that!

When your ability to survive is intrinsically linked to appearing strong, it’s easy to understand why our feline counterparts are hardwired not to show weakness. Unfortunately for them, this often means they don’t show us that there is a problem until their disease is advanced and truely overwhelming them. As vets, our chances of reversing or managing conditions once they are advanced get much lower.

 

“Optimising senior cat health care is a TEAM approach.”
Poppy Exploring

Gordon Vets strive to provide the best possible care for older cats

What can you as do as a pet owner?

Knowing what to look out for and then acting on this, is one of the most important things you can do as a pet owner. Here are some things to be aware of:

Weight loss

This is a BIG red flag. By the time you can tell your cat has lost weight, it is almost always significant. When we see our cats every day and they typically only weigh 4-6kgs (give or take), it is nearly impossible for us to be able to recognise subtle weight changes. We typically don’t detect weight loss until it is more than 500g and has occurred over a relatively short timeframe (weeks). Although 500g is a trivial amount of weight for most humans, it’s 10% of most cat’s body weight (that’s like you or I dropping 5-10kgs without trying). This is also where regular health checks are beneficial, as they help track weight trends over months to years. If your cat is consistently losing 200-300g over sequential health checks, it tells us something else is going on and that further investigation is indicated.

Increased thirst

Another big one for cats. A thirsty cat is a definite sign that something is going on under the surface. Getting your cat assessed for kidney disease, diabetes, hyperthyroidism or a urinary tract infection is recommended.

Changes to appetite (both increases and decreases)

Altered eating patterns are another thing worth acting upon. Decreases in appetite can be a symptom of many different disorders and a thorough physical examination (+/- diagnostic testing) is always indicated. Increases in appetite can be a symptom of hyperthyroidism, diabetes and gastrointestinal diseases, again highlighting the importance of a health check.

Slowing down

Sleeping more; not jumping as high; seeming slower to get up from rest; reduced grooming behaviour / matted coat; weight gains; ingrown or thicker gnarly toes nails; missing the litter tray (all of a sudden peeing or defecated immediately next to the litter tray). These are not just signs of “old age”, these are very commonly signs that your cat may have significant arthritis and is actually in pain. Arthritis is something we have many management tools for and is probably the biggest cause of daily chronic pain. Don’t let your cat suffer in silence.

Vomiting and/or Diarrhoea

An increased frequency of vomiting (and/or softer bowl motions) is not “normal” for a cat, particularly if they never used to vomit when they were younger. Vomiting and diarrhoea can be a sign of gastrointestinal diseases like IBD, but can also be sign of many other metabolic conditions such as kidney disease, liver disease, hyperthyroidism and pancreatitis.

Behaviour changes

Altered behaviours such as vocalising at night time or seeming disorientated and confused, again are not just signs of “old age”. These are the most common signs we see with high blood pressure in cats (a VERY treatable condition). Unfortunately sudden blindness or stroke are the other ones, thereby highlighting the importance of blood pressure monitoring as your cat ages, to try and intervene before it gets this severe. General irritability or aggression in older cats can also be symptoms of hyperthyroidism or arthritis. Whereas an increase in hiding behaviour may suggest another disease process is at play or your cat is actually in pain.

What can we do as vets?

Performing regular health checks on cats from the age of 10 years onwards is fundamental. I typically recommend seeing your cat every 6mths as they get older, to help pick up weight loss trends, arthritis symptoms, dental disease, subtle changes to gut thickening or kidney size etc.

Urine testing is an incredibly helpful component to our senior monitoring toolkit and is one of the first screening tests I implement for older cats. In-house urine testing performed at the clinic is a very simple way for us to rapidly rule out kidney disease, diabetes and urinary tract infections. Chronic kidney disease is extremely common in older cats and the first sign of this is typically a drop in urine concentrating ability (this often happens well before any overt clinical signs such as an increased thirst are noted). Dietary modification early on in the course of chronic kidney disease is the only tool proven to increase life expectancy when managing chronic kidney disease. A drop in your cats urine concentrating ability would therefore give us more justification to consider doing a blood test to confirm and stage your cats renal function.

Blood pressure measurement at these checks is another tool I try and incorporate. We all know blood pressure can go up with stress and most cats will be experiencing some degree of stress at the vets, no matter how much we minimise this (aka “white coat effect”). Getting an idea of what your cat’s “normal” is during routine vet trips is therefore helpful in establishing baselines from which we can monitor trends. If your cat’s blood pressure readings are trending up over time, this gives us more confidence we are detecting a true finding, not just a one-off stress response. Other factors such as changes to the backs of the eye and the detection of kidney disease also help us differentiate true hypertension from stress.

Blood testing is the other major arm of diagnostic screening tests that may be employed during a senior health examination. Depending on your cats history, physical examination findings and other test results, a blood test be may recommend. I will always tailor the tests required to your cat. Sometimes simply checking the blood sugar is all that is required. Other times, much more comprehensive testing may be involved, but these will never be recommended unless I feel we can justify them and that it will help optimise your cat’s welfare.

Take home messages

Essentially, as a pet owner, bringing your cat into the clinic for regular health checks as well as being observant and seeking advice when subtle changes are noted, are the best things you can be doing for your ageing cat.

Early detection is key to optimising outcomes with the majority of diseases our older cats get.

I will only ever recommend a test if I feel it will impact how we manage your cat’s health. Just because a cat is old, doesn’t automatically mean we have to run every test under the sun. I will always start with a physical examination and then a discussion with you regarding what I feel is indicated to optimise your cats wellbeing, whilst always working within any budget constraints.

If you would like to book your cat in for a senior health check, please contact our friendly reception team on (02) 9498 3000, alternatively you can book online https://gordonvet.com.au/book-online/

Written by John Morgan

John first started with Gordon Vet Hospital back in 2004 as a weekend Nurse while studying Veterinary Science. When he graduated he worked in Goulburn for a few years before spending 2 years doing locum work through Canada. John returned to Australia in 2013 and came back to Gordon Vet Hospital. John completed his postgraduate studies in Small Animal Practice in 2013 and in 2015 gained Membership to the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in Small Animal Surgery.

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Wendy Lee
Wendy Lee
11:53 27 Nov 21
I've been taking my cat to Gordon Vet since she was a kitten. Every vet we've seen have been wonderful and have provided the best service and advice. They're very thorough and will always make sure that your pet feels comfortable. The receptionists are super friendly and the online booking system is easy to use!
Jonathan Nix
Jonathan Nix
04:39 24 Nov 21
Really friendly and helpful team. Patient and thoughtful responses to my questions were greatly appreciated! Thank you!
Michelle mccaffrey
Michelle mccaffrey
07:20 07 Nov 21
Recently visited with our little cat on a late sunday morning. We called in just before they were due to close & they were happy to stay back and check over our cat so we didn't have to run to the emergency vet. DR Helen was incredibly kind and professional. She eased our worries & treated the medical issue with our cat. I feel very confident bringing our cat into see any DR at Gordon Vet Hospital as I know each staff member is genuinely caring and passionate about helping animals.
Wallachia
Wallachia
05:42 06 Oct 21
We looked for the vet with the least amount of 1-star ratings in our local area. To our surprise there are a lot of shocking reviews out there for vet clinics. Gordon Vet Hospital had the best rating by a long shot.So we called first thing yesterday morning and managed to get a booking pretty early in the morning for our cat whose condition was getting rapidly worse.Everything about our experience was lovely. From the empathetic receptionist, to the vet who is taking care of our cat who has kept us informed twice a day about her condition and took the time to answer all our questions.The cost estimate was given up-front and was very reasonable compared to every other practice.We couldn't be happier.-M
Sigrid Boehme (Siggy)
Sigrid Boehme (Siggy)
23:12 04 Oct 21
Really good with dealing with Covid by inviting patients to stay outside and they come to you. They have lots of people helping out. The only thing is that it is quite expensive compared to other vets.
Kathrin Rac
Kathrin Rac
09:22 12 Sep 21
Dr Catherine Chen is amazing and the only vet I trust with my three cavalier girls. Other vets have always been judgemental, but Catherine listens and works with you to come to a compromise to what is best for my girls going forward. Last time my tri went in to have a dental and she was completely happy to be there even went back in with the nurse wagging her tail while we were waiting outside! We even drive the distance since moving as we completely value Catherine's skill, expertise and manner.
Daniel Lister
Daniel Lister
10:42 01 Sep 21
Not that the dog is always entirely happy to go there, though they run a great operation with some. Convenient, clean and very communicative. Never do I doubt that the staff their live working with animals.
Vicki Libbesson
Vicki Libbesson
00:47 10 Aug 21
Always fabulous service from very friendly, approachable and very knowledgeable vets and nurses. David, Scott and the team have been our pets' chosen vet practice for 32 years ! Thank you all for helping us through the sad times and all of the good times as well.Highly recommended !
Olivia Pitt
Olivia Pitt
23:26 25 Jul 21
Highly impressed with the quality of service. Definitely recommend, easy and efficient + very thorough & good value. Thank you 😊
Emma
Emma
10:48 22 Jun 21
First time going to Gordon Vet Hospital with my little pooch. Parking was fairly easy. The front staff very friendly. We had Vet Dr Imogene who showed genuine interest in my pooch & was very knowledgeable when asked alot of questions. Dr Imogene made us feel that we could trust her to do what is best for our pooch. Very happy to go back.Price point - they would be slightly on the higher side.A good place for your best friend 🐶
Bridget Peachey
Bridget Peachey
05:12 17 Jun 21
Thanks to all the team at the Gordon Vet Hospital. I transferred my dogs here a couple of year's ago from another local vet clinic as a quote for some oral work was significantly cheaper and have never regretted it. Not only good value, but excellent care, great follow up and support and my two dogs love the free liver treats - making the visits a positive experience.
Jenny Wilson
Jenny Wilson
01:18 08 Jun 21
They are the most understanding and caring group of people I have met. After my dog had to be put to sleep a sympathy card was sent with her paw prints and bit of hair attached and beautiful words of sympathy. A lovely thought. I would recommend this practice to anyone.
Matthew Rajchert
Matthew Rajchert
23:29 19 Apr 21
Even though we only use Gordon Vets, we think they are the best. Amazing staff show true passion for your pets wellbeing and even though the location is out of the way it is 100% worth it. I highly recommend this Vet to everyone.
Taylor Fezai
Taylor Fezai
04:42 17 Apr 21
The vets are knowledgeable and friendly. Highly recommend!
Alison
Alison
06:31 27 Mar 21
Nice location, plenty of parking slots!We had a general health check and Dr Lackenby is very kind and helpful! Will definitely come back to this practice next time!
Jemma Sully-Harries
Jemma Sully-Harries
03:18 18 Mar 21
My family and pets have always had a great experience here and the reception staff is always very nice, helpful and knowledgeable. Recently my puppy was sick and Dr David Loneragan helped us out and was easily accessible to me. We will definitely be coming back here next time!
Liza Fincham
Liza Fincham
05:30 11 Mar 21
Staff are so friendly and they take any injured animals
Robyn King
Robyn King
02:57 04 Feb 21
My family and I have lived in the area for over 30 years and we have never been to any other practice. The care and compassion the vets have shown towards our babies has always been of the highest standard. I would particularly like to thank Dr Coggins for the care and compassion she has shown towards me in recent months with Salem (who unfortunately was PTS this past Sunday) and also with Lilah. This practice has a real gem in her!
Hana Yoon
Hana Yoon
08:43 14 Jan 21
I’ve been taking my dog to this vet for 7 years and they’ve always been so kind, professional and empathetic. They’ve always been able to fit him in, even in emergency situations so I’m very grateful!
Colin Pannell
Colin Pannell
23:26 07 Dec 20
Well it's never nice to have to take your beloved pet(s) to the vets but sometimes you just have to. Gordon Vets are similarly priced to others in this locale but they are well organised, off street parking and the vets are compassionate about the care of animals. Even separate entrances for dogs and cats ! See attached photo. Educated, literate cats queue up outside (ir's actually the practice's resident cat).
John Hannelly
John Hannelly
03:04 09 Nov 20
David and all the staff are wonderful, caring people who really look after your loved pets in a very professional manner.
Chris Chappel
Chris Chappel
00:54 31 Oct 20
Extremely happy with Imogen and the team. I had lost ALL faith in vets after going to GreenCross.Thankfully Gordon Vet Hospital surpassed all our hopes and expectations. Imogen was incredibly caring, clinically competent and finally solved the issue our cat had.The vet nurses and reception team seemed genuinely happy and were super friendly each time we’ve returned. Follow up care after the surgery for our cat was like night and day compared to what we’d been through at our old vet. Unlike at GreenCross where the final price always ended up being at the top of the quoted range, at Gordon Vet Hospital the quote was far more reasonable and the price ended up at the lower end of the estimate. Highly recommended this vet.
Lisa Elliott
Lisa Elliott
06:17 20 Oct 20
I can't rate Gordon Vet Hospital any higher. I took my 11yr old staffy in for surgery with the beautiful Imogene Ewen (amazing surgeon) and was managed by incredibly professional front office staff (Maddie). My dog, Coco was in the best of hands. The after care service is detailed and their love of animals is so very clear to all who enter. Exceptional service for the North Shore.
Jonathan Summers
Jonathan Summers
09:51 09 Oct 20
We love these guys. We have 3 cats and they are all well looked after.
jo kleoudis
jo kleoudis
22:08 04 Oct 20
Best vets and nursing staff. Great advice. Convenient and always easy to book.
Roopam Ghosh
Roopam Ghosh
10:49 25 Sep 20
Great service and very prompt with appointments. Lovely staff
Michelle Keir
Michelle Keir
08:30 01 Sep 20
Great service my dog loves going there! The staff are very caring and the vets very knowledgeable and do not over service.
Ayanthi Gooneratne
Ayanthi Gooneratne
06:22 24 Aug 20
The Vets are fantastic and so are the support staff.My dogs have been with Gorden Vets for over 10 years.
Steve Walker
Steve Walker
11:33 11 Aug 20
Helen was great. Took great care of our dog.
Eve Barratt
Eve Barratt
01:17 04 Aug 20
I took our little girl Coco for her very first vet visit yesterday. Dr Helen gave Coco a thoroughly check-up and provided me with useful information as the first time puppy owner. Coco is now enrolled in the puppy school and will return back for her 2nd vaccine in a couple of week!
Claire Turner
Claire Turner
05:21 19 Jul 20
Care & attention for your furry friends second to none.
Kimba
Kimba
02:50 09 Jul 20
Dr David and the team have provided real care, support and expertise for our furry family members over 25 years. They've also readily taken in injured wildlife. A great team of Vets and nurses - thanks for all you do!
Jayna Hirani
Jayna Hirani
03:43 09 Apr 20
Quality care and advice at every visit. The staff are friendly and informative and genuinely care about your pets. I am 100% confident that my cat and dog always receive the best pet healthcare and as pet parents that's all we want.
Marianne Broeng
Marianne Broeng
23:23 28 Jan 20
Gordon Vet has looked after my golden retriever since she was 9 weeks. Everyone has been amazing and caring with lots of experience. I have been able to ask any questions and always been welcome.Even one day when she stepped on a bee in the evening, they stayed open until we got there and helped her get it out.Thanks to all the staff :-)
Lizzie Wei
Lizzie Wei
00:56 18 Jan 20
We just moved to Gordon couple month ago and need to get my cat vaccinated. We found this hospital through google and I need to say they provide excellent service and very professional! The doctor really knows cat. Highly recommended!
Lara Bisley
Lara Bisley
08:15 27 Nov 19
Exceptional veterinary hospital. I have been taking my dog here for many years and although I now live in the Eastern Suburbs, I still drive across town to see the Vets at Gordon. The staff are highly skilled, compassionate, friendly and helpful. My 9 year old dog has had 2 knee operations (1 on each knee!) and the outcome of these surgeries far exceeded my expectations. I have been incredibly impressed with the care provided during all of our visits. I would highly recommend Gordon Vet Hospital.
Eugenie Goodyer
Eugenie Goodyer
23:22 21 Oct 19
Very friendly staff. Wonderful care for all our animals A++
Jennie Keogh
Jennie Keogh
06:36 21 Oct 19
Fantastic and friendly staff who you can tell really care about your pet. Their follow up service is also very reassuring. I also board my cat with Gordon Vet and I feel very comfortable to know he's in safe and caring hands. I'm so glad I found this clinic.
Newsha Amiri
Newsha Amiri
20:24 03 Oct 19
We took our dog there and Dr. David take care of his skin issues. he was so caring and professional.
Luxe Sydney Mum
Luxe Sydney Mum
06:37 02 Sep 19
Compassionate, caring and highly skilled veterinary surgeons who treat their patients and owners with respect. The nursing and administration staff are efficient and remember their patients by name which is a lovely touch. A lovely vet practice which despite our Golden Retriever Finn’s complex medical history, is always welcoming to him and he never displays any signs of anxiety when attending. Dr Helen is lovely and a firm favourite of ours!
Lihong Xing
Lihong Xing
05:00 05 Nov 18
Highly recommend Dr David, Scott, Helen, and Catherine, I've taken my cat to see all the doctors here.
Jeremy Tarbox
Jeremy Tarbox
22:55 10 Sep 18
We found a stray, agitated dog in front of our house last night. We phoned but got no help from the Council ranger who gave two options: tie him up in front yard overnight or "let him loose, he'll find his own way home" :( So we phoned Gordon Vet: they stayed open a few minutes so we could run him up and he could have a bed and dinner. Thank you Gordon Vet Hospital, hope he gets home soon!!! :)
Vishal Kapoor
Vishal Kapoor
01:52 04 Sep 18
Really amazing staff members. Their systems and processes are also very
Gerry Stevens
Gerry Stevens
11:01 14 Jul 18
Good competant vet. Did what I needed. Staff friendly. Cat's well.
Arezu A
Arezu A
03:20 15 Feb 18
Absolutely love the service here. I switched from other Vets to this Vet as the staff here are quite attentive and really care about your furry baby! I have basically seen most of the Dr's here and all of them so far have been fantastic, friendly and fun to speak with! Easy to locate and enough parking available! 5 Stars indeed!
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