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No matter how much you want them to stay adorable kittens, every cat eventually grows up to become an adorable senior. In fact, thanks to improvements in medical care and nutrition, cats are now living longer and healthier lives than ever before.
But as they age, your cat’s needs can change. By staying aware of the common signs of aging in cats and making a few adjustments to help them stay comfortable, you can turn your cat’s older years into their golden years.
Every feline is unique, but cats are usually considered senior once they reach 7 years old. Your older cat isn’t going to start leaving the blinker on or hiking their pants up to their armpits, but there are signs that may indicate your cat is getting on in years.
Older cats often eat less as their senses of smell and taste diminish. Sudden weight loss or gain could be a sign that something is off.
We all know cats love to sleep, but if yours is sleeping more than usual and doesn’t show the same interest in playing or other activities, it could indicate lower energy levels. Not being able to jump or climb to their favorite spots could be a sign of arthritis as well.
It’s a good idea to check your older cat’s teeth more often, looking for any changes in appearance. If they’re pawing at their mouth or aren’t eating as much, it could mean something is amiss. If you suspect there’s an issue, consult your vet.
With a few simple changes, you can keep your older cat happy and comfortable for many years to come — here’s how.
It can be harder for older cats to groom themselves as thoroughly as before. You can lend a helping hand by giving them regular brushings. Make sure to keep their nails trimmed, too. It’s a great way to spend some extra quality time together.
After years of leaping onto the kitchen counter when you weren’t looking, your senior kitty might have trouble getting to their favorite spots. You may want to place a ramp or folding steps near their favorite couch or bed so they don’t have to jump as much. Make sure they have easy access to their food and litter box, too. Adding a litter box on each floor of your house can help prevent accidents.
Older cats love their routines. The more you’re able to keep things consistent and predictable, the calmer and less frightened they’ll be.
One cat year is like four human years, so a lot can happen in that span, especially in older cats. More frequent vet exams can detect health issues before they become serious.
Cats crave warmth. Make sure your grandcat has access to a number of sunny spots or heating vents to keep them toasty. Leave comfortable, warm blankets around your home for lounging, and consider bumping up the thermostat a degree or two for them — even though their favorite furnace will always be your lap.
Hi, I'm Caitlin Lewis, Community Outreach Manager for the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, on behalf of IAMS. Wanting to adopt a cat or kitten, but not sure where to start or what to expect? Caitlin Lewis, Community Outreach Manager for the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, explains what you should do before you adopt a kitten or cat, including how to choose a cat personality that meshes with your family. Plus, you’ll learn about the adoption process and how to prep your home to make your new cat feel welcome. Hi, I'm Caitlin Lewis, Community Outreach Manager for the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, on behalf of IAMS. Wanting to adopt a cat or kitten, but not sure where to start or what to expect? Well, we're here to talk about everything you need to think about and do before, during, and after a cat adoption, in order to have a great experience for you and to provide a great home for your new pet. Research is a vital part of pet adoption. So we encourage prospective adopters to make several visits to their local animal organizations during the process.
Utilize their websites, so you can clearly understand the needs of your prospective pet, before making this important decision. Before heading to the shelter, you'll want to identify which cat breed would best fit your lifestyle. Fewer than 10% of the world's cats, both in and out of shelters, are purebred. The majority, common house cats, have charmed their way into becoming the number-one most popular pet in the United States. Before heading to the shelter, there are a couple of final considerations for you and your family. If yours is a full-time working household, it is recommended that you pass up kittens and adolescents, cats less than 18 months old, in favor of a more low-key adult, whose energy needs will be easier to meet. If you're a novice cat owner, think twice about excessive cats—excessively shy, aggressive, or demanding—for they may provide too great of a challenge for your first experience. Is coat color or pattern important? By all means, choose a cat who attracts you. But remember that the gorgeous calico hiding at the back of her cage may well go into prolonged hiding once she is released into your home. A cat that is social and relaxed at the shelter usually has the ease to meet the stresses that life throws her way. Consider the whole cat, not just one element. Your best bet is the friendly outgoing cat, who offers an outstretched paw through the cage bars, and who nuzzles and purrs when you hold him in your arms. This profile is a particularly good choice for families with young children. A cat in your life can add warmth, humor, and peace of mind. A cat can teach your child empathy for others, while keeping her secrets. If you can make the commitment, a cat is waiting to enhance your life in ways only a kindred spirit can. Loving pets of all shapes and sizes are waiting in animal shelters, hoping to find a permanent home. But there are many misconceptions about shelter pets. Shelter animals can make wonderful lifelong companions, if only given the chance. People often think shelters contain only the rejects, pets that have a health or behavior problem. This is not true. Shelters are filled with animals that have been surrendered by their owners because of divorce, owner illness, allergies, new babies, and inexperienced owners. Most shelter pets would like nothing more than a chance at a happy life and their own family to share it with. There are so many reasons for adopting from a shelter. Shelters have all types of pets, mixed breeds, purebreds, young and old. Regardless of the shape, size, or breed, most shelter pets are vet checked, healthy, and ready for their new homes, and will likely save you money, too. Adoption fees for shelter pets are typically less expensive than those you would find at a pet store or a breeder. Initial vet checks, vaccines, de-worming, and spay/neuter surgery are already included as part of the cost. You also get literature on caring for your new cat or kitten, plus support and guidance from shelter staff if you have questions. Pet adoption is an exciting but also time-consuming process. It's always best to call ahead to the animal shelter and find out what documents you need to bring with you. Typical items include: Picture identification with your current address If you're renting, bring your lease or a letter from your landlord. It must state that you are permitted to have pets and how many. Your landlord's contact information should also be displayed. If you own your home, you might be requested to provide proof of ownership, references. Have a list of references handy, including their phone numbers, and ask them for permission before using them as a reference. If you've had pets before, including a veterinary reference is a good idea. Cash, debit card, or credit card for paying the adoption fee. Smaller shelters or rescue organizations sometimes don't accept credit cards. Ask before if you're unsure. Everyone in your family. Many shelters require that every person in your household meet the pet you may be adopting. This is to ensure that everyone gets along and agrees to the adoption. Once you've introduced a new cat to the family, you want to make sure they feel at home as quickly as possible. Cats’ ideal refuge is a place where they can go and be with their things: a soft bed, food and water, a scratching post, and plenty of toys. Their area should be away from the rest of the house and out of the line of traffic. Finding just the right cat or kitten for you or your family is a rewarding experience. When that is coupled with bringing them home from a shelter, it is a double reward. By doing your homework and with a little patience, you'll have her home in no time. Let's recap. Do your research. Identify what type of cat would suit your family and lifestyle. Consider adopting from a shelter. And lastly, find out what you'll need to bring to the shelter. I'm Caitlin Lewis, on behalf of IAMS.
