Is your feline companion approaching her golden years? Fluffy’s appearance is unlikely to change dramatically as she ages. Cats usually age gracefully, so you’re more likely to notice subtle, gradual changes, such as your pet becoming even more interested in napping than she was before. Your kitty will never stop being the adorable, quirky little character she is, but she will require some extra TLC as she ages. Continue reading for advice from a local Wichita, KS veterinarian on how to care for your furry, meowing retiree.

How Can You Give A Senior Cat A Good Life?

Fluffy’s basic needs won’t change much. Those kitty fundamentals include good food, clean water, comfortable shelter, and proper veterinary treatment. However, you will want to make a few changes to your pet’s care routine over time. For instance, you may need to help your cat with grooming or install pet ramps for her.

One thing we recommend for cats of all ages is keeping Fluffy secure inside. Cats are always safer indoors, where they are shielded from hazards such as weather elements, automobiles, and wild animals. Senior cats may be too weak or slow to flee potential threats, and they may also forget where they are and how to get home. Keep your feline companion safe and sound indoors!

Feeding a Senior Cat

When your cat reaches the age of nine or ten, talk to your veterinarian about moving her onto a senior formula. When the time comes, you’ll want to take it carefully and over a few days. Rapid food changes can upset your feline companion’s stomach, which you definitely don’t want!

If your cat has any specific health conditions, she may require special food. Follow your Rose Hill, KS veterinarian’s advice.

Obesity is a common worry for elderly cats. Pay particular attention to Fluffy’s waist! If Fluffy starts looking, well, not just fluffy, take action right away. Your feline friend may still seem cute if she’s a little overweight, but those additional pounds come with a cost. Chubby cats are at high risk of having a variety of health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, osteoarthritis, skin disorders, and liver problems, to mention a few.

Litter Boxes for Senior Cats

You’ll want to place Fluffy’s litterbox in a location that provides her with privacy while also being easily accessible. The litterbox should not be in direct sunlight or in a drafty environment. It should also be easy for your cat to get in and out of. We normally recommend litterboxes with low walls for elderly cats, because they are easier for Fluffy to get in and out of.

If you have a large house, multiple floors, and/or more than one cat, you’ll need numerous litterboxes. That way, your pet will not have to cope with steps every time she needs to use the restroom!

You may have noticed new litters that change colors to indicate chemical or hormonal changes. This can be beneficial, but it should never be regarded as a substitute for veterinary treatment. At the end of the day, you should trust Fluffy’s doctor, not her bathroom, to monitor her health. Ask your veterinarian for advice on this.

However, you should be on the watch for changes in the size, smell, form, color, texture, or odor of your feline companion’s waste. If you see anything that changes, looks odd, or is strange, please contact your veterinarian straight away.

How Can You Keep a Senior Cat Comfortable?

Cats, like humans, tend to become frailer, slower, and weaker as they age. Your pet may have difficulty climbing to high places, and she will be more vulnerable to excessive heat and cold.

One of the most significant actions you can take is also the most simple. Simply providing your pet with a variety of comfortable sleeping spots will go a long way. Store-bought beds are fantastic, but you don’t need to go overboard here. Your drowsy pet will be quite delighted to nap on a folded blanket on an ottoman or a pillow in a wicker basket.

Fluffy may also require assistance with cleaning herself, particularly if she has long fur. Ask your veterinarian for further information.

Should You Play With A Senior Cat?

Fluffy will always be a kitten at heart, so  play sessions will always be enjoyable and beneficial. Playing is helpful to cats for a variety of reasons. For one thing, it allows your feline buddy to channel her inner tiger. It also provides excellent physical exercise. Mental stimulation is also beneficial, since it can prevent cognitive deterioration, which cats, like humans, occasionally encounter as they age.

It’s definitely a good idea to set aside a few minutes for kitty fun. However, at this point in her life, Fluffy may tire after a few pounces or a quick race across the room. That is fine! Even a few minutes of activity can be beneficial. You don’t have to worry about overtiring a cat like you would a dog. As soon as Fluffy feels the least bit worn out, she’ll quit playing. You can probably imagine what happens next. Naptime!

Try to play with your cat around the same time every day. Routines are really beneficial to kitties!

How Can I Make My Home Senior Cat-Friendly?

We already discussed the litterbox setup above. Nightlights may help Fluffy navigate after dark, and a kitten fountain may encourage her to stay hydrated.

Some things you may need to change depending on your pet’s health. A feline with vision issues may benefit from runner rugs and scent markers, such as stick-on fresheners. Kitties with mobility difficulties may require additional floor-level beds. Ask your veterinarian for advice.

How Do I Know if My Cat Is Sick?

Cats can be fairly covert about expressing their discomfort. Keep an eye out for anything unusual about your kitty friend.

Here are some of the warning indicators to look for:

• Unexplained Weight Loss/Gain
• Loss Of Appetite
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Litter Box Changes
• Behavioral Alterations
• Bad Breath
• Excessive Or Unusual Vocalization
• Increased Thirst 
• Vision Loss
• Sleep Pattern Changes
• Cloudy Eyes
• Respiratory Problems
• Hiding
• Lethargy
• Unkempt Fur
• Uncharacteristic Aggression or clinginess

If you detect any of these issues, contact your Rose Hill, KS  veterinarian right away.

Make an appointment at our Rose Hill, KS animal clinic 

Do you need to bring your kitty companion? Please contact us at any moment! As your Wichita, KS animal clinic, we are here to assist!