Senior Cat Care

Is your feline friend starting to slow down? Fluffy will officially be a senior by age nine. However, cats are living longer than ever these days. Your cute pet may very well enjoy a long, happy retirement. However, she will benefit from some extra TLC as she ages. An Olympia, WA veterinarian discusses senior cat care in this article.

Beds

Kitties spend most of their lives practicing their napping skills, and mastering difficult positions like the Pretzel . By the time Fluffy is a senior, she’ll be a master napper, capable of sleeping up to 20 hours a day. Offer her lots of comfy beds and napping spots to curl up in.

Playtime

As Fluffy ages, she won’t be as frisky as she was during kittenhood, but she’ll still need and benefit from regular exercise. Playing also offers mental stimulation, which is very important. Carve out a few minutes a day for playing with your kitty.

Safety

We recommend keeping all cats indoors. However, this goes double for senior kitties. Fluffy may easily get lost, and she isn’t quick or agile enough to escape hazards like loose dogs.

Grooming

Older cats can get quite stiff and sore, and they often have trouble bending and stretching to groom their whole bodies. Help Fluffy out by brushing her gently. This will remove dead fur and dander from her coat. It also allows you to discreetly check for things like swelling or soreness.

Senior-Friendly Facilities

Taking a few small steps to make your home safer and more comfortable for Fluffy will make a big difference. Opt for a litterbox made just for seniors. These are easier for cats to get in and out of. You should also leave a nightlight on after dark, so your feline buddy can find her way around more easily.

Veterinary Care

Kitties in their golden years often develop medical issues, such as arthritis or diabetes. Keep up with Fluffy’s veterinary appointments! Treating illnesses is much more effective when problems are diagnosed early on. You’ll also want to watch for signs of sickness at home. Call your vet if you notice anything unusual. 

TLC

Last but not least, make sure that Fluffy feels loved and safe. Pay lots of attention to her, and keep that motor going.

Do you have questions or concerns about your cat’s health or care? Contact us, your Olympia, WA veterinary clinic, today!