If you’ve been lucky enough to see a beloved cat into old age, you know that things can change quickly. As cats age, their needs and health requirements change. Senior cats are typically defined as cats who are ten years and older.
They begin needing special attention and care to ensure they enjoy a comfortable, happy, and healthy life in their golden years. Understanding their unique health needs, both physical and mental, can significantly improve quality of life and keep them happy and healthy as long as possible.
You may notice that your senior cat is starting to look different. Their coats often become thinner and their nails thicker. Their irises may even change color or develop speckles. They may appear more hunched than in their younger years and have difficulty with mobility. These are all common signs of an aging cat.
Common Senior Cat Issues
Older cats tend to be less active and playful compared to when they were younger. They may sleep more, gain or lose weight, and have trouble reaching their favorite places. Don’t chalk up health or behavior changes – often gradual – to old age, however. Such changes can be signs of common diseases or dental problems that should be addressed by your veterinarian. One way to combat dental disease is by brushing your cat’s teeth. Making sure older cats have easy access to the things they need and enjoy doing is critical.
Tips for Caring for a Senior Cat
Many cat owners may not realize the practical things they can do for their aging cats. To help your older cat enjoy his or her golden years, consider these simple suggestions.
Visit the Vet
Schedule regular veterinary exams to enhance your older cat’s well-being. Checkups every six months are ideal for geriatric cats. For healthy cats, a yearly geriatric exam, including blood work and X-rays, along with a smaller exam in between is recommended.
Think Warm Thoughts
Cats tend to seek out warm places to rest. Make sure your older cat’s favorite soft bed or resting place is not in a drafty area of your home. Keep beds close to the ground as mobility may not be as easy.
Provide Easy Access to Basic Needs
As cats age, they are more prone to getting arthritis and may have reduced control over their bowels and bladder. It’s a good idea to have litter boxes on every floor to make them easy to reach. In addition, some older cats may climb into a normal litter box to urinate but not to defecate. To help solve this problem, use a litter box with very low sides and place newspaper around the litter box to help with mess.
If spills are a concern, try using a tote bin with one side cut out for ease of entry. That way the other tall sides will keep the mess in the litter box and not all over the floor. While cleaning, attach Scoop Buddy to help with the mess while scooping. Scoop Buddy attaches the bag right to the litter box keeping the mess off the floors.
Place food and water in more than one location in case of mobility issues. They may not choose to climb stairs or have difficulty moving around.
Assist When Needed
If your older cat can no longer jump on a favorite place, consider investing in pet stairs that help to safely reach a special spot. The idea is to provide firm footing; for example, cover steps or a pet ramp with carpet to prevent slipping.
Smarty Cat Says…
Watching your cat age can be sad and confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. By knowing what to expect, implementing appropriate care strategies, and addressing any health issues promptly, you can help to ensure that your cat enjoys a comfortable and fulfilling life in their golden years.
Take a proactive approach to their health and well-being is essential. Set up routine veterinary and dental exams, nutritious food, physical exercise, and mental stimulation, along with plenty of love and care will all help your cat thrive for years to come.
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