Age is just a number, right? Not when caring for an older cat. A Human who is 60 years old may act like a young adult, while another human the same age may act like he or she is on their deathbed. Cats are the same way!
Let’s dive right in.
Caring For an Older Cat and Their Needs
Your pet may act like a kitten for many years or may be gray and achy quite young.
Specific breed, environment, and genetics play a role, but in general, a well-cared for house cat usually lives to be at least 15 years old. Some cats live to be well over 30.
Chance
There are things you can do, however, to provide your cat with the chance for the longest life possible. For example, have your cat spayed or neutered.
Statistics show that fixed cats live longer, because this causes the cat to stay closer to home and be exposed to fewer dangerous situations and disease. Good nutrition is also important.
Caring for an Older Cat involves Food
When caring for an older cat it is important to make sure that you are buying cat food that is appropriate for your cat’s age.
As you cat ages, certain medical conditions may cause you to make special considerations for your cat.
Examples
Examples include reduced tolerance to extreme temperatures, decreased sensory perception, susceptibility to infection, arthritis and joint stiffness, digestion problems, liver and kidney problems.
Weaker bones, cancer, muscle weakness, slow reactions, memory loss, high blood pressure, and irritability are also possible.
Problems
As you can see, aging cats have many of the same problems as aging humans!
Along with a good diet, caring for an older cat requires healthy amounts of exercise for your cat. You can do this by allowing your cat to go outside and by playing with your cat every day.
Toys and environmental pieces, like scratching posts, are great for encouraging your cat to exercise.
Sleeping
Remember, cats may spend a lot of the day sleeping, which is fine. If you are overly concerned, talk to your vet about your cat’s sleeping habits.
Preventative health care is, of course, important when caring for an older cat. Make sure that your cat has regular checkups with the vet to make sure everything is in order.
Teeth and Grooming
You should also brush your cat’s teeth daily and have your cat groomed regularly to prevent skin diseases. As cats age, most grow to love grooming.
Monitor your cat for diet changes, changing sleep habits, and unsafe water consumption.
Involved in Caring for an Older Cat
The key to caring for an older cat and their graceful aging is an owner who is well involved in his or her life. Make sure that you provide advanced care for your cat as he or she grows, and your pet should be a part of your life for a very long time.
Now I’d like to hear from you.
If you found this post on Caring for an Older Cat informative please share it on social media through the buttons on this page and/or leave a comment below. Thank You For Reading!
