Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
without a brain scan and
cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
analysis—a laboratory test
that examines a sample of
the fluid surrounding the
brain and spinal cord. The
drug selegiline (l-deprenyl)
is used to treat cognitive
dysfunction, because it can
increase dopamine levels in
the brain (dopamine is a
chemical transmitter that
carries nerve signals across
the spaces between nerve
cells).
DO CATS HAVE
STROKES?
Strokes are not very common in
cats, so when neurological signs
are present, other diagnoses need
to be considered. A stroke occurs
when oxygen flow to the brain
is impaired and brain cells are
damaged. A stroke could affect an
animal's ability to walk, eat and
eliminate, so if improvement in
clinical signs is not seen within
a few days, the prognosis is poor.
Lung Disease
Cats who have had life-long asthma or long-standing infections can
develop scarring in their lungs. As they age, the scarring can progress
and cause respiratory collapse. Cats can die suddenly from respiratory
collapse. If an animal's lungs are unable to inflate properly, oxygen can-
not enter the blood and the animal can suffocate.
Fluid also prevents the lungs from expanding, and certain disease
processes can cause fluid to build up in the lungs (pulmonary edema)
or within the chest cavity (pleural effusion). Both of these are poten-
tially life-threatening conditions.
Cats who are having problems breathing will often sit upright, cough,
breath with their mouths open and clearly appear to be in distress.They
need immediate veterinary help. X rays of the chest cavity and removing
a small amount of fluid or lung tissue with a needle for examination
(called needle aspiration) can help diagnose the cause of lung disease.
Chapter 13 contains more information about lung disease in cats.
KEEPING YOUR OLD FRIEND COMFORTABLE
As different parts of the body wear out, it may be difficult for a cat to
maintain her regular activities. If you have an older cat, you want to be
sure to make things as easy as possible for your old friend.
It is common for vision and hearing to be impaired as a normal part
of the aging process, although it is unusual for a cat to go completely
blind solely due to aging. If vision is compromised, the animal can
Search WWH ::




Custom Search