Simple Ways To Spoil A Senior Cat

Is your feline buddy entering her golden years? As Fluffy ages, she’ll experience many of the same changes as people do: she’ll become progressively more sleepy and less active, and will have increased odds of developing certain medical conditions. Your kitty will never stop being adorable, and she’ll always be a kitten at heart. However, she’ll need some extra attention as she ages. Here, a Cornelius, NC vet lists some simple ways to pamper your aging pet.

Basics

No matter how old your pet is, she’ll need a clean litterbox. Choose one with lower walls: they’re easier for old cats.

Soft Beds

Older cats are master nappers. In fact, they can sleep up to 20 hours a day. Fluffy has spent the majority of her life practicing, of course. Offer your furball lots of comfy beds and napping spots. Ideally, these should be easy for your furry little friend to get in and out of.

Beauty Sessions

You may notice that Fluffy isn’t as diligent about grooming herself as she once was. This is because cats in their golden years often have a hard time bending and stretching enough to properly reach their entire bodies. That makes it hard to clean their fur. Help your feline buddy out by brushing her regularly. This will help prevent mats and tangles, and can also reduce hairballs.

Daily Playtime

Kitties are always cute, but they are extra adorable when they’re feeling frisky. Fluffy may not be as energetic as she used to be, and she may tap out within a few minutes … or even a few pounces. That’s fine! Even short bursts of play are beneficial to your furry friend. Play is important for more than just entertainment reasons, though. It will help your cat stay in shape, which is crucial, especially as she grows older. It also provides mental stimulation and helps keep your furball’s mind sharp, just as solving puzzles does for an older human.

Senior-Friendly Facilities

Take a few steps to make your home as comfortable as possible for Fluffy. Get some cat furniture that’s easy for her to get on and off, and offer her a comfy window seat with a good view. We would also suggest keeping a nightlight on after dark, to help your adorable pet find her way around more easily at night.

Do you have questions or concerns about your kitty’s health or care? Contact us, your Cornelius, NC animal clinic, anytime!