Nail problems in older cats
This is Miss Elizabeth Bennett. (Lizzie to her friends.) She is a very much loved 16 year old cat.
When we get older, it is important to concentrate on doing the simple things well. Miss Elizabeth’s owners need to keep a close eye on her nails. She has elderly cat nails.
Some cats with age, do not wear down their nails. The nails can curl around and grow into their pads. The other interesting thing is that these nails do not shed and create a hook. They become thickened and more difficult to manage.
Miss Elizabeth came in for vaccination. As part of her full health check, her nails were examined and trimmed. If left these nails would have grown longer and penetrated the pads. This is common in elderly cats and must be terribly painful.
Luckily, “Lizzie” was an excellent patient and left the visit with a beautiful pedicure. Going forward, she will need a nail clip every 2-3 months.
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