Den äldre katten och dess beteende och behov : vad är ålder och vad är sjukdom?

Abstract: Many cat owners are not aware of how their cats change while aging nor how to differentiate illness from natural aging. This can result in unnecessary suffering and insufficient veterinary care. This study aimed to investigate the differences between illness and behavioural changes that occurs with aging and what cat owners can do to assist their older cats. This lack of knowledge can affect the cats’ welfare and the relationship between human and cat. The result of this study shows that the biggest change that affect senior cats are their functional decline in their sensory organs. This decline can be very stressful for the cat and result in new behaviours like night waking or excessive vocalization. These behaviours may also affect the owner and make them frustrated of the cat. This reaction may ruin the relationship between cat and owner and may endanger the cat’s welfare. By acquiring more knowledge of the senior cat, the owner can begin to understand the cat’s situation and behaviour and support it in many ways. The appetite of the senior cat may decrease which could be a cause of illness or olfactory decline. Thus, it is very important for the owner to keep track on the cat’s appetite and feeding behaviour. Many people may think mobility impairment and osteoarthritis are a part of natural aging in cats, though it is not. Senior cats should be able to play, move, eat/drink and groom themselves just as younger cats, just a bit slower. Any big changes that affect the senior cat considerably should be taken as a possible sign of illness and should be treated by veterinarian. More information and knowledge about senior cats should be distributed by the veterinarians to the cat owners so the cat owners can understand and support their cats in the right way. By good communication between cat and owner, their relationship can be strengthened and consequently the senior cats’ welfare and status in society can be highlighted and improved.