With proper care, our cats can live a long time, even into their late teens or twenties. But as cats get older, they need different things to stay healthy.
When kittens grow into adult cats, we can see obvious changes. But it’s harder to notice when they become seniors, usually around 11 years old.
Here are six tips for taking care of older cats.
Focus More on Your Older Cat’s Food
Older cats need special food and care. It’s really important for your cat to stay at a healthy weight to stay healthy.
Ask your vet about when and how to switch your cat to food for seniors. Your vet will help you figure out the best weight for your cat and recommend food to help them stay healthy, lose weight, or gain weight.
Feeding your cat small meals many times a day can also help their digestion. Measure out their food each day and give it to them in small portions.
Give Your Cat More Water
As cats age, they can become constipated or have kidney problems if they don’t drink enough water. To ensure your older cat drinks more water, give it wet food and more ways to drink water.
As your cat gets older, they might find it hard to jump onto counters or reach their water dish. So, put more water bowls and pet water fountains around the house to encourage your older cat to drink more.
Watch for Signs of Pain in Cats
Cats are good at hiding when they’re in pain. Even though many older cats have arthritis, we often don’t realize it.
One important way to prevent arthritis pain is to keep your cat at a healthy weight. Just a pound or two of extra weight can make joint pain much worse.
Your vet can help you make a plan to manage your cat’s pain. They might suggest medicine, supplements, or other treatments like acupuncture, physical therapy, or laser therapy.
Take Care of Your Cat’s Teeth
Many older cats have dental problems. They can get painful cavities, broken teeth, gum disease, and even mouth tumors.
Infections in cats’ mouths can spread to their bloodstream and harm their liver, kidneys, and heart. So, it’s important to look after your cat’s teeth, especially as they age.
Often, dental problems don’t show clear signs. People might think weight loss or a scruffy coat is just a part of aging, but it could actually mean there’s a dental issue.
Regular check-ups with the vet and dental care can make a big difference in your cat’s life and might even help them live longer.
Keep Your Senior Cat Active
It’s important for your old cat to stay active and entertained.
All cats need things like scratching posts, hiding spots, and toys to keep them happy and healthy. These activities help them stay physically and mentally engaged.
But as your cat gets older, you might need to make some changes to accommodate their mobility. For instance, you can use a carpeted ramp to help them climb if they have arthritis. A cozy, covered bed can give them a warm place to rest and ease their sore muscles and joints. You can also move their food and water bowls to easier-to-reach spots on the floor.
Regular Vet Check-ups are Important
It’s important to keep up with vet visits as your cat gets older.
Older cats, especially those over 11 years old, should see the vet every six months.
During these visits, the vet can perform tests to catch health problems early, like kidney disease. They can then make changes to keep your cat healthier and live longer.
Weighing your cat regularly can also help spot any changes in its health. Dental check-ups can find problems before they make your cat sick.
