As cats age, they may experience changes in their behaviour and physical abilities. As a cat owner, it’s important to be aware of these changes and take steps to make sure your senior cat is happy and healthy. Here are a few tips for keeping your senior cat happy:
1. Provide plenty of opportunities for exercise and play. Even though your cat may not move around as much as they used to, it’s still important to keep their minds and bodies active. This can help boost their mood, improve sleep and reduce joint pain. Try interactive toys like catnip toys, laser pointers, crumpled balls of tissue paper and feather wands that encourage movement and bring them joy.
2. Make sure your cat has plenty of places to rest. Senior cats enjoy more frequent naps, so create cozy and comfortable places for them to relax. In addition to having a nice cat bed and soft, clean blankets, try adding a cat tree or window perch to give them easy access to high spots for napping and observing their surroundings. Consider adding a heating pad designed for cats to help make their bed extra warm and cozy.
3. Provide easy access to food and water. If your cat is having difficulty getting to their food and water bowls, you may want to consider getting an elevated food and water station. This will make it easier for your cat to eat and drink without having to bend down. If your home has multiple floors, you can provide eating and drinking areas on each floor. Don’t forget to clean and change the water and food bowls daily.
4. Provide optimal litter box conditions. Arthritis is common in senior cats and it can get increasingly difficult for them to get in and out of their litter box if the sides are high and not easy for them to navigate. In addition, arthritis can make it more difficult for them to comfortably turn around in smaller sized litter boxes. Using a larger sized box that your cat can easily access via a low entry point and then easily turn around is more comfortable for them and can help reduce elimination accidents. Don’t forget to clean and top up the litter box daily.
5. Make sure your cat is getting the medical care they need. Annual or semi-annual visits as directed by your veterinarian can help catch any potential health issues early on. Your vet can also provide recommendations on diet and supplements that can help support your cat’s health as it ages.
5. Provide plenty of love and attention. Senior cats need just as much love and attention as younger cats. Spend time grooming, playing, and cuddling with your cat to help keep them happy and healthy.
By following these tips, you can help your senior cat stay happy and healthy. With the right care and attention, your senior cat can remain a part of the family for many years to come and greatly improve their quality of life.