This attractive, well-organized and very readable book is a guide to your cats geriatric years, which generally begin around eight to ten years of age.

Cats live longer today, thanks to advances in veterinary medicine and nutrition, and to caring and concerned owners. Some of the keys to longevity discussed by the authors are the protection of living indoors; neutering or spaying, which makes indoor life feasible; vaccinations and other preventive care; and a balanced diet. Further ways to keep your cat young include flea control, dental care, grooming and play, all of which are covered, The authors also suggest ways to avoid stress in introducing another cat, in moving, and in travel.

Perhaps as important as anything an owner can do as a cat grows older is to pay close attention to his habits and physical condition. How to give a cat a home examination is described, as well as changes to look for. When changes do appear, it may be time for a geriatric examination by the veterinarian. The authors outline what such an exam should include and, incidentally, how to select a yet to do such an exam.

A chapter on nutrition covers the subject well. Types of cat food, essential nutrients, means of evaluating food, and how to decipher labels an all spelled out. Fat cats get special attention. The description of a "hands-on" fat-cat test, accompanied by a striking set of silhouettes, is followed by safe and. effective means of reducing your 'kitty.'

A substantial section of the book lays out diseases of older cats: symptoms, diagnoses, and treatments to be considered with your veterinarian. The diseases are grouped under the organ systems in which they arise. A list of drugs frequently prescribed for older cats also gives potential side effects. Alternative therapies are separately but fairly described, from acupuncture to massage, with sources of further information.

What owners can do is detailed in another chapter. How to give medications at home is described and illustrated. A first aid kit is recommended and its contents suggested. Emergency procedures including CPR, are spelled out in a section dealing with wounds, poisoning, burns and other calamities. Finally, the authors suggest ways to reduce stress on your cat it she has to be hospitalized.

The last two chapters of this book are called "When to Let Go" and "Completing the Circle." The former contains a thoughtful discussion of euthanasia, how to deal with grief, and what to tell children. The final chapter considers when and how to acquire another cat. Should it be an older cat or a kitten? a shelter cat or a pedigreed cat? a live wire or a lap cat? If a pedigreed cat is the choice, the authors give sound advice on finding a good breeder.

This book is truly comprehensive in its treatment of the subject. Everything that touches on the life of older cats is here, from microchip identification to pet insurance and "wellness plans." The authors have drawn on current studies and research, often cited in the text. They have also consulted many veterinary and other authorities who are quoted in the book or mentioned in a page of acknowledgements. But for all their breadth of coverage, the authors never fail to relate every topic specifically to older cats.

The book in replete with references and resource lists. Lists include veterinary specialists, feline practitioners, behaviorists, professional associations, cat food manufacturers, medical research organizations, cat registries, alternative practitioners, grief hot-lines, radioiodine treatment centers, veterinary schools, the price of the book.

Despite this glut of material and more - tips from veterinarians about older cats; one paragraph portraits of cats with problems - the book is easy to consult and easy to read. It is a fine guide to your cat's journey into his or her golden years.

Hard cover, 246 pages.
ISBN: 0876050852
Published by Howell Book House