What kind of health problems does a ragdoll have?
The risk of developing high blood pressure, heart failure, diabetes and stroke all increase when a cat is overweight. In the larger breeds of domestic cat, such as the ragdoll, obesity poses issues with the joints. Carrying too many pounds puts extra pressure onto the joints, increasing the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis.
When do Ragdoll cats start to show signs of MPs?
This is another genetically inherited disease, known as a lysosomal storage disease. A kitten with MPS will usually start to show signs of it around the age of 6-8 weeks. It is most commonly seen in domestic shorthair cats, Siamese and ragdoll cats.
Can a ragdoll cat have a hairball?
Signs that your ragdoll cat may have a hairball depend on the size of the ball which has formed inside their digestive tract. If a hairball grows large enough, it can block off the bowel completely. This is known as a bowel obstruction and is a medical emergency.
What does it mean when a kitten is lethargic?
Young cats and kittens are normally hugely playful, with abundant energy, so when a kitten becomes lethargic it is a cause of concern. As cats age, their energy slows down. They tend to sleep more and enjoy the good things in life, such as sun bathing and watching the world go by.
What makes an older cat tired and lethargic?
Older cats are prone to chronic kidney disease or failure. This disease is a progressive loss of kidney function and often cats appear weak, frail, or tired and sometimes vomit, drink more than normal, or urinate more than normal. Liver and gall bladder diseases can also make cats sick and lethargic.
What are the symptoms of a lethargic cat?
A lethargic cat will have an extended period of weakness, depression, or lack of energy. Even after a nice long nap or relaxing sunbathe, these cats will continue to be tired and not as active as they normally are. Cats with lethargy are sick and typically there are other warning signs that something is wrong.
What happens to a cat’s temper as he ages?
Even if he has been an angel his entire life and never scratched a soul, his temper will be shorter. If you have other animals in the household, you may notice them all undergoing behavioral changes. This is because animals develop a natural pecking order, and as your cat ages, his place in that order may change.
How does old age affect a cat’s health?
When a cat ages, a greater burden is placed upon its internal organs. Old age is not so much the killer as are the complications that arise during your cat’s last years. When your cat is aging, you may find: Your veterinary visits will increase dramatically.
