Caring for Your Aging Cat

Book excerpt: Since cats have a natural talent for looking better than they feel, it may surprise owners to learn that felines are considered "senior” at 7 and "geriatric” at 14. This invaluable guide explains such things as how to help an older cat with grooming, how to recognize the diseases that come with age, and how to tell if the animal is in pain or discomfort. Here, too, are the many different state-of-the-art treatments available--including how much each should cost. End-of-life questions--such as euthanasia and hospice care--are discussed frankly and with compassion for both pet and owner. Full of heartwarming case studies, this is a book for everyone who has the good fortune to live with a cat.