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One of the saddest things we encounter is
evidence of an avoidable, manageable health disorder that has become a crisis
because the cat has never had regular evaluations by a veterinarian. We realize stress is a factor in packing your
cat up in the carrier and taking him or her out of the comfort of their
home. We cannot convey our support for
the stress that may come from doing this, however we know and have helped
owners avoid crisis and tragedy by taking this risk. We are often told ?my cat is too grumpy? or
combative at the vet office.? Only about
50% of the cats we see are as ?grumpy? and unable to be examined as owners?
perceive them to be; often the presence of dogs and noises and a cat?s
perceived sense of danger is the problem. At Cat Care, we will try to avoid sedation for handling and be
forthright about what is safest for your cat?s care and welfare. We would prefer to see your furry friend
BEFORE we have to guide you during crisis. Let us help!
As you can see, a seven year old cat is
well into his or her 'forties'. Yes, one
year for a cat is equivalent to nearly four human years! Many changes can take place in what for us,
is a fairly short period of time. At age 7 years, a cat is considered to be
middle-aged, and by 10 years, and beyond, a cat is considered to be
geriatric.
We suggest cats of age 7 years and old be seen twice yearly
and have blood work, urinalysis, and blood pressure testing at one or both of
those two visits per year. Here is a
general breakdown of cat aging and the human equivalent:
CAT'S AGE
HUMAN AGE
EQUIVALENT
6 months..............................................................................10
years
8 months..............................................................................13
years
10 months............................................................................14
years
1 year...................................................................................15
years
1 1/2years............................................................................20 years
2 years.................................................................................24 years
4 years..................................................................................32 years
6 years..................................................................................40
years
7 years..................................................................................44
years
8 years..................................................................................48
years
10 years.................................................................................56
years
14 years.................................................................................72
years
16 years.................................................................................80
years
18 years.................................................................................88
years
20 years.................................................................................96
years
21 years.................................................................................100
years
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