Aging and your Cornish Rex cat

'If it should be that I grow weak and pain should keep me from my sleep. Then you must do what must be done, for the last battle can't be won. You will be sad - I understand, don't let this grief stay in your hand. For this day, more then all the rest, your love for me must stand the test. We've had so many happy times, what has to come can hold no fears. You'd not want me to suffer, so the time has come, please let me go. Take me where my needs they'll tend, and please stay with me to the end. Hold me firm and speak with me, until my eyes no longer see. I know that in time you will see the kindness that you did for me. Although my tail its last has waved, from pain and suffering I've been saved. Please do not grieve. It must be you who has this painful thing to do. We've been so close, we two, these years, don't let your heart hold back its tears.'

Author Anonymous.

Exactly how old is my cat? How can I figure out my cat's age in human years?  This graph will help you figure out cat-to-human years.

Feline ages and life-stages vary a little from breed to breed but Cornish Rex cats are considered to be elderly once they reach 11 to 12 years senior cats being aged between 12-15 years and geriatric cats from 16 years and more.

What are the signs of aging and what should you do about them? One of the first signs of aging is slowing down. It will take your cat longer to get up and get started from a lying position, they will sleep more, play less and they will become less agile . Some of these changes are natural, but it is important not to overlook changes that may be symptoms of a condition needing treatment.

Never assume that a change in behavior or habits is simply due to old age; it may be due to a treatable condition.

Some vets advise semi-annual visits once your cat becomes a senior. An annual visit is an absolute minimum (remember, a year in your cat's life is akin to about four of your own years). In between visits to the vet and annual geriatric screenings, you should stay alert to behavioral changes and other signs of aging.

Here are some things to watch for and action to take:

Sudden loss of weight;
Serious loss of appetite;
Increase in appetite without increase in weight;
Diarrhea or vomiting;
Increased thirst without a change in activity level;
Being excessively out of breath after minimal exercise;
Coughing and breathing noises;
Difficulty in getting up from a lying position;
Problems with vision and hearing;
Lumps and bumps;

Behavioral changes that you may see in your older cat include:

Separation anxiety;
Sensitivity to noise;
Vocalizing;
Uncharacteristic aggression;
Confusion, disorientation;
Elimination accidents.

If your cat is exhibiting any of these symptoms a visit to the vet is required.

To help keeping your aging Rex cat healthy:

- Keep his weight down using good nutrition and regular exercise, keep your cat active and stimulated;
- keep his teeth clean;
- visit the vet for regular check-ups;
- be vigilant about sudden changes in habits or behavior which may indicate an underlying health problem.

The Cornish rex is a long lived and generally healthy cat breed many living well into their late teens and early twenties. As they age, they will appreciate a warm bed with a good view so they can still be part of the action. Slipping a heating cusion under his bed is a great way to make sure he is nice and cozy. Enjoy the time you have with your special companion and make every day count!