RUTLAND, VT -- (Marketwire) -- 12/31/12 -- Although pets are expected to have declining health as they age, it is sometimes easy for pet owners to diagnose potential issues among their dogs and other types of pets. However, cat owners are noted to have a more difficult time detecting medical problems among their feline due to the animal's nature. For this reason, a recent article from NBC News outlines a few basic tips to help cat owners protect their cats from preventable diseases and medical complications. Having experienced health issues among senior felines at his own facility, Rob Macpherson, Rutland, VT Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, explains why it is important to keep a close eye on these beloved pets.

Rob Macpherson Rutland VT practicing veterinarian, explains, "Cats hide disease extremely well. Oftentimes cats presented to our hospital displayed signs of advanced diseases, because they just do not 'tell' us they are sick until they show us they are sick. At that point the disease has progressed to a point making treatment difficult." Following a similar sentiment, the NBC article urges cat owners to "be a detective" and pursue regular veterinary checkups for elderly cats to make sure that they are on a path to maintained health.

Dr. Debbie Van Pelt of the Veterinary Referral Center of Colorado tells NBC, "Cancers that are caught early can be treated and removed." In addition to early detection, the article recommends that cats should have a baseline blood-check at about seven years of age to serve as a point of reference if the feline does develop problems later in life. In addition to checking for signs of cancer, the article notes that it is important for cat owners to stay on top of a feline's dental health, behavior, kidney and liver function and overall dietary habits.

Following a similar sentiment, Rob Macpherson, Rutland, VT veterinarian notes that prevention is the best way to keep a cat's health at an optimal level. Macpherson concludes, "Senior wellness allows us the opportunity to assess for disease before it has a chance to cause serious problems. Prevention is the key and leads to a longer, healthier life, which is better for the pet and you. Taking such steps can help lay a foundation for the best case scenario in which everything is normal, when a senior pet is as healthy on the inside as he or she is on the outside."

ABOUT:

Rob Macpherson, Rutland, VT Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, owns and practices veterinary medicine at Rutland Veterinary Clinic and Surgical Center. For two decades, he has thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to heal animals and support pet owners. Before taking ownership of the clinic in Rutland, he worked there as a staff veterinarian for 10 years. As a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Rob Macpherson Rutland VT resident, has a great deal of experience under his belt and has become a very active member of his community, especially in regards to animal protection rights and health.