Secretly Sick
Don’t Let Your Cat Fool You
Do you examine your cat’s mouth? That would mean putting him on a table under a bright light with an assistant gently holding his shoulders as you slowly open his mouth big enough to see all of his teeth. Actually, about the only time that really happens is during the annual physical exam. What? Your cat doesn’t see the doctor every year? Mmmm. Well, don’t feel bad. Pretty much everybody hates going to the doctor.
There is a widespread disinformation campaign, surely promulgated by our cats, that they need little in the way of medical care. Nonsense! They are lying because they’re scared. Other than hiding their illnesses kitties are no different than the rest of us. They aren’t programmed to fuss and belly ache because it would expose them as vulnerable to predators.
A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association established a strong link between chronic dental disease and kidney failure. Examining the medical records of 169, 242 cats over a 12 year span researchers found the risk greatest in those with more advanced periodontal disease. The giveaway was that two thirds of the cats in this massive group had no gum disease. They stayed healthier and lived longer.
The kidneys of all cats wear out as they age, making failure of these vital organs the leading cause of death in feline seniors. If I were a cat (my litter pan habits suggest that I may be) I would want a pain-free healthy mouth and a long life.
I also study behavioral research. You can bet that most cats who freak-out in the veterinary clinic were inadvertently frightened during an earlier visit. This species is very good at “one event learning.”
Does your cat hate the veterinary staff? Have you caught her posting on anti-veterinarian social media sites? Kitties can be easily frightened; they desperately need gentle handling. Veterinarians who are Fear Free certified have the training and compassion to help you and your cat stay happy together longer. Go to fearfreepets.com to find one near you.
For help with behavior problems, you can sign-up for a Zoom Group Conference on my website, drjeffnichol.com.
Dr. Jeff Nichol is a residency-trained veterinary behaviorist. He provides consultations in-person and in groups by Zoom (drjeffnichol.com). Each week he shares a blog and a video to help bring out the best in pets and their people. Sign up at no charge at drjeffnichol.com. Post pet questions through my website, drjeffnichol.com/contact/ or by US Post to 4000 Montgomery Blvd. NE, Albuq, NM 87109.
