Cats and most breeds of dogs over seven years of age are seniors (some large breed dogs are seniors by the age of five). As your pet ages, changes occur in the body’s organs and their ability to function normally. These changes occur gradually over time.  On a timeline beginning when organ function is first affected by age and ending with the eventual failure of the organ, recognizable signs of disease appear very close to the end. Sometimes within days. For example, 60% of the kidney must be damaged before signs of kidney disease first appear. Kidney disease is fatal when 70-90% of the kidney is damaged.

Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is the most common killer of senior cats. It is characterized by weight loss, vomiting, excessive water consumption and urination. If detected early, kidney function can be preserved for longer and the body’s toxic by-products can be minimized through special diet, nutritional supplements and fluid therapy. Two forms of kidney disease are seen in dogs. The first is a genetic malformation of the kidneys that manifests itself as kidney disease early in life. This is one of the main reasons we recommend pre-anesthetic bloodwork in all our patients. The second is called "glomerulonephritis". This disease is most commonly seen in middle aged to older females. It has an insidious onset and only manifests symptoms close to the end of the disease.

Thyroid Disease

Cats often develop hyperthyroid disease. Signs can include weight loss, vomiting, hyperactivity or lethargy, ravenous appetite, and occasionally diarrhea. Thyroid disease is very common. It is caused by high levels of circulating thyroid hormone which affects many of the body’s systems. The most damaging effects are on the heart and liver. This disease is easy to detect and usually responds very well to oral medication. Early detection will prevent life threatening heart and liver disease.

Dogs often develop hypothyroid disease. Signs can include weight gain, lethargy, a thinning haircoat and skin disorders. As evidenced by the name, hypothyroid disease is caused by lower than needed levels of thyroid hormone being excreted by the thyroid gland. This disease is common in many purebred dogs, especially labs and retrievers. Hypothyroid disease responds well to oral medication.

Diabetes

Diabetes can look like kidney disease in the early stages but if left untreated can cause life threatening liver disease. Overweight cats are most commonly affected. Dogs have a lower incidence of this disease than cats. Treatment consists of a special diet and oral or injectable medication.

Cancer

Cancer is seen all too frequently in all companion animals. The best way to protect your animal is to have all new lumps tested by your veterinarian as soon as you notice them.  It is much easier for us to surgically remove smaller lumps, and the chance of cancerous spread is less if removed promptly.

At Campus Estates Animal Hospital we recommend routine testing of senior patients to detect early disease before recognizable signs of disease are displayed by your pet. Earlier detection means longer life.

For more information contact us at 519- 837-1212