Senior Cat Care Tips

Is your feline friend aged ten or over? If so, your pet is officially a senior … even if she still acts like a kitten sometimes. As your cat ages, you probably won’t notice drastic changes. Fluffy will slow down a bit, however, and she’ll definitely benefit from some extra TLC. Here, a Carroll, IA vet discusses caring for a senior kitty. 

Believe it or not, your kitty will somehow manage to sleep even more than she used to. Senior cats can spend up to 20 hours a day napping! Provide your drowsy pet with lots of soft beds and cozy napping spots. You may want to get pet ramps to help your furry friend reach her favorite spots on beds and couches. 

Fluffy won’t be quite as frisky as she once was, but she’ll still enjoy unleashing her inner kitten on occasion. Try to play with your cat every day. This will benefit her both mentally and physically.  

In addition to bringing your pet in for her regular wellness care visits, you’ll need to keep an eye out for signs of illness. Kitties often try to hide signs of illness or injury, so your cat may be quite sick before you notice anything! Contact your vet immediately if you do notice anything out of the ordinary. 

It isn’t uncommon for older pets to develop problems with their vision or hearing. Keep a nightlight on after dark! 

As your cat grows older, she may have a hard time using a litterbox with high sides. Consider getting one made specifically for senior cats. 

Senior cats sometimes have trouble grooming themselves, as it can be hard for them to reach their entire bodies. Brushing your cat will help keep her coat soft and clean. This is also a good way to spend some quality time with your feline friend!  

Kitties sometimes experience a cognitive decline in their golden years. Fluffy may get a bit forgetful, and could get lost on her way around the house. Your pet may also meow to voice her distress when these things happen. Just be patient, and provide your kitty with love, TLC, cuddles, and lap space. That little motor will still work just fine! 

Please contact us , your Carroll, IA vet clinic, for all your senior cat’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!