Interesting Things You May Want To Know

Winter Month Precautions

Cats may sometimes sit on the radiators so when turning on the heat be sure your cats aware you’ve done this.  Same is true of the burners on the stove and also gas pilots.

How Old is my Cat?
(and how do our beloved pets age)

Cats & Dogs age differently, so how is my cats age determined?

We now live longer lives and it is more common to hear of people living 100 to 105 years. In the cat world, most live 12-21 years, but begin to have health issues from 8-12 years.

Let’s create a mathematical equation.

What do we need to consider?  Humans can have children as early as 14 years of age. Most cats could have raised a litter of kittens within the first year.  So, lets use 14 years for any cat at 1 year of age. Now lets formulate an equation.  We just said first year is 14 human years.  Now consider 4.5 years for every year thereafter.

(Example) An 11 year old cat = 14 yr for year one + 4.5(cat yr/human yr) x 10) = So 14 + 10 x 4.5 = 59 years old

A 21 year old cat = 14 + 4.5 x 20 = 104 years old

I see a fair share of 21 year old cats, but few reach 22 years.  The oldest cat I’ve treated was 26 years old and the world record to my knowledge is 38 years old.

Some clinical signs to look for in geriatric cats: increased drinking and urinating, weight loss, more vocal at night vomiting or constipation.  These can be early signs of hyperthyroidism, kidney disease or arthritis.  Cats seem to respond well to treatment, thus extending their lives if screened early through annual exams, blood work and urinalysis.

Licensing Considerations

Cats are not required to have licenses for the City of Chicago. The only required license is the Cook County rabies license which is given where your rabies vaccination was given.  If tag was issued out of the county then contact Cook County Rabies Center to be issued a tag.  Duplicate tags are available by calling Cook County Rabies Center at (708) 974-6140.

Simple Medical Tips
Always contact your veterinarian to report medical issues. Allergic reactions may cause swelling, which can obstruct or narrow the air pathway. Difficulty breathing can be a clinical sign of allergic reactions to insect bites, contact allergens, vaccinations, or other substances contacted or ingested.