How to take better of your senior cat?
Photo by Сергей Сёмин
You undoubtedly care very much about your feline friends as a cat lover. You also likely want them to have the best possible lives and enjoy their golden years. As your cat ages, there are many precautions to take and considerations to be made for them to stay healthy and happy. We have compiled a list of five tips for taking care of your senior cat.
Exercise programs
Exercise is a crucial component of any pet parent’s routine. When older cat gets too passive, they can become overweight and develop health-related issues like diabetes, arthritis, or heart disease. Though it may not seem like much fun at first, try finding ways for your cat to get moving.
Some cats enjoy playing with toys on the ground; others enjoy laser pointers or interactive playtime. If your cat is too old to play with a toy, you can also try getting them a rope, string, or bungee cord to pull around. You can also set up a portable laser pointer toy to encourage your cat to chase, helping them exercise.
Schedule regular wellness checkups
When checking on your cat’s health and well-being, it is essential to schedule regular visits to the veterinarian. Unlike dogs, cats generally do not have a “complete physical” until their senior years.
Even though you may have noticed some changes in their behavior or habits over the past few months and years, other issues may manifest later that need attention. If you want to make sure your cat is aging well and remains as healthy as possible, a checkup at least once a year is recommended.
Learn your cat’s habits and pay attention to changes
Like humans, cats have their patterns of behavior and history that can help owners understand what is “normal” for them. Of course, not every cat will have the same habits or patterns, but knowing what they are can help owners recognize when there are changes in their pets’ routines.
For example, some cats may sleep in the morning; others often nap on the bed or couch. Some cats always have their back legs tickled or petted, while others never seem to show these signs of affection.
Many older cats will likely start exhibiting incontinence and urinating in litter boxes or bedding. This can be bothersome but less so than dealing with a sudden urinary tract infection (UTI). You can keep a journal to track your cat’s change in behavior. This will help you spot subtle differences and ensure to tell your veterinarian.
Create a “senior cat-friendly” home environment
As your cat ages, they are more likely to be content with smaller spaces because their weight is lighter, and they have a decreased ability to make noises and climb up things. Also, because senior cats are more likely to be arthritic, they may be averse to jumping up and downstairs. When planning out your cat’s environment, try to make it as “senior-friendly” as possible.
Be on the lookout for signs of pain
We all love our pets, and our cats are very special to us. It is crucial to understand that our pets do not “communicate” similarly to humans. One of the most important things we need to be aware of in senior cat care is signs of pain.
This can include sudden changes in behavior and vocalizing more than usual when being handled. For example, They may also not be able to move much and have difficulty going up and down the stairs. If you notice any signs and suspect your cat is experiencing pain, take them to a vet.
Moreover, you can seek at-home euthanasia in Philadelphia or anywhere specific to your locale when you bid your cat goodbye. Home euthanasia offers a comfortable and peaceful end-of-life experience for your pet in a familiar setting in the presence of their loving family.
Conclusion
As your cat ages, there is a growing need for more dedicated resources. The older years of your cat can still be enjoyable for both of you if it maintains good health. Having the correct information will see you learn how to best care for your pet. The tips above are some things you can do to ensure your kitty has a healthy, happy life.