Is your kitty entering her golden years? Fluffy will still be the same adorable pet as she ages, but you may need to give her a little extra TLC in order to keep her happy, healthy, and comfortable in her senior years. In this article, a Live Oak, FL veterinarian offers some tips for senior cat care.
Beds
Kitties get quite sleepy in their golden years. Fluffy may spend up to 20 hours a day snoozing. Offer plenty of beds and cozy napping spots.
Mobility
Don’t let your cat become a complete couch potato! Get Fluffy moving with fun play sessions. Even a few minutes of playtime each day will benefit your kitty both physically and mentally.
Assistance
Keep a nightlight on to make it easier for Fluffy to navigate dark rooms. If you see your feline pal about to jump on or off something, help her out by giving her a gentle lift.
Facilities
Older kitties often find it easier to use litterboxes with low walls. If your home has more than one floor, set out extra litterboxes and water bowls on each level, so Fluffy won’t have to use the stairs as much.
Grooming
Your kitty may have difficulty grooming herself as she ages. Help Fluffy out by gently brushing her to get dead fur and dander out of her coat. This will reduce furballs and help keep her comfortable, and is also good for her circulation. For more detailed tips on grooming your senior cat, check out our article on Grooming a Senior Cat.
Food
Proper nutrition is very important to Fluffy’s health. Feed your furball the best food you can afford, but don’t overindulge her. Overeating can lead to obesity, which is very bad for your feline friend’s health.
Veterinary Care
Fluffy may need to see the vet a bit more often as she ages, so she can be monitored for any signs of potential health problems developing. In between visits, watch for any possible signs of illness. Some common symptoms of sickness in kitties include hiding; sudden, unexplained aggression; litterbox issues; vomiting; diarrhea; poor grooming; and any changes in appetite, thirst, behavior, or vocalization. For comprehensive wellness and vaccination services, visit our Vet Wellness & Pet Vaccinations page. Contact your vet immediately if you notice anything amiss.
Cuddles
Make Fluffy feel safe and loved by providing lots of cuddle time. Senior kitties are just as cute and lovable as kittens!
Do you have any questions or concerns about your cat’s health or care? Contact us, your Live Oak, FL vet clinic, today!
