feline - Barnyard Veterinary Service & Supply

Old Cats, Kidney Disease and Diets

Posted on August 17, 2016 by Sandra Wahlert DVM Posted in Education .

My old cat has just been diagnosed with kidney disease. Should I feed her a special diet?

The stage of renal disease that the cat is in and the clinical symptoms the cat displays helps determine the dietary plan for the pet.

In general, many veterinarians will recommend a prescription renal (kidney) diet for cats with elevated kidneys values. Diets such as Hill’s Science Diet K/D, Purina ProPlan’s N/F, and Royal Canin’s renal line have high quality proteins in decreased amounts compared to those sold in most grocery and farm stores. Controlling the protein level decreases the amount of harmful phosphorus in the diet.

Additionally, these diets have reduced sodium and higher levels of potassium and omega-3 fatty acids. This combination of nutrients helps the cat maintain body condition and muscle mass. Research shows that feeding prescription diets will increase the length and quality of life for your cat.

Signs your cat may not be feeling well

Posted on June 10, 2016 by Sandra Wahlert DVM Posted in Education .

Cats can be fairly stoic animals so it may be difficult to know when your cat isn’t feeling well. Here are some signs to help you know if your feline friend is ill.

Obvious signs of illness include:

Lethargy
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Weight loss
Not eating

More subtle signs of illness can include:

Hiding
Failure to groom or a decrease in grooming behavior
Clumped and /or greasy hair coat

Personality changes can also indicate your cat isn’t feeling well such as growling or trying to bite when certain areas of the body are touched. Older cats will often yowl loudly especially at night if they are suffering from disorientation or cognitive dysfunction.

In addition to a physical exam, your veterinarian may want to take radiographs and run blood and urine tests to determine why the cat is ailing.

Cats and Urinary Accidents

Posted on September 2, 2014 by Sandra Wahlert DVM Posted in Education .

Cats in multiple cat households often suffer from higher levels of anxiety

Does your cat have urinary accidents outside of the litter box?

Vertical spraying of surfaces is a territorial marking behavior in cats. However, urinary accidents on the floor, sink, bathtub, towels, clothes or other surfaces often suggests a medical issue. Cats can develop idiopathic cystitis of the bladder, and stress is a primary risk factor in this disease. Cats in multiple cat households often suffer from higher levels of anxiety.

Fortunately, Hill’s Science Diet has come out with a twist on their C/D (cystitis diet) food to help cat owners manage this disease. The company has added the amino acid L-tryptophan and hydrolyzed casein to their product. Both of these natural supplements have been shown to have a calming and stress reducing effect on cats.