How to Care For An Older Cat
How to Care for an Aging Cat
Caring for an aging cat is not a lot different than caring
for a young one, except that you need to be more aware of
its dietary requirements and the state of its general
health. With improved nutrition and advances in veterinary
medicine, however, cats are now living longer than they ever
did before – some living for as long as twenty years or
more. By following these simple steps, you will hopefully be
able to provide your cat with the best possible care during
its senior years.
Steps to take in Caring For Your Senior Cat
- Step 1: Make sure that your cat always has a supply of fresh
water, as kidney function can deteriorate in older cats and
they can be more prone to dehydration. Always provide a good
balanced diet too, that includes the correct nutrition and
the right amount of calories for an aging cat – if in doubt,
contact your vet for more information.
- Step 2: Arrange for your cat to have regular check-ups with
the vet – this will help to ensure that any problems are
detected early on.
- Step 3: Older cats may not be able to groom themselves as
well as younger ones, and may need to be groomed more
frequently to remove any matting – especially where
longhaired cats are concerned.
- Step 4: Older cats are more prone to arthritis and may
develop less control over their bladder and bowels. To
assist them, it is advisable to have more than one litter
tray in the house and provide ramps, boxes, pet steps, or
such like, to help your feline get up to their favourite
places, like a windowsill, sofa or chair.
- Step 5: As your cat gets older it may sleep longer too, so
it is a good idea to provide a warm and comfortable place
for it away from drafts.
- Step 6: Like many older people, older cats tend to dislike
change and prefer to stick to a regular routine. Some may
also need more love and affection from their owners, whilst
others may prefer to be left alone.
Tips For Keeping Your Aging Cat Happy and Healthy
- Try plugging in a night light during the evening if your
cat’s eyesight appears to have deteriorated, as this will
help it to see a bit clearer.
- If your cat’s hearing appears to be impaired, always
approach it from the front to avoid startling it.
- Remember that growing old is not a disease, so as long as
your cat is being well cared for its quality of life should
not be affected.
- Whilst grooming and stroking your cat, keep a check on any
changes in the condition of its skin and check for any signs
of lumps, etc.
What Not To Do In Caring For an Older Cat
-
Don’t be tempted to feed your cat more if it is exercising
less.
- Keep your cat indoors more if it is less mobile, to avoid
the dangers of traffic, dogs, and other potential problems.
- Don’t be tempted to get a kitten as young company for your
aging cat, as the exuberance of a kitten may be too much for
an animal that wants to wind down a bit in life.
- Try not to leave your cat alone for very long periods of
time.
Things Your Elderly Cat May Need
- A well-balanced cat food - suitable for aging cats
- Extra bowls for water
- Extra litter trays
- A good brush/comb
- A ramp, box or pet steps
- A calendar - to make a note of regular check-up appointments
- Plenty of love, kindness and patience
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