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How to Care for a Senior Cat

February 14, 2025 JOLLYES TEAM

Questions

Signs of ageing in cats
How long do cats live for?
How old is my cat in human years?
Making your home suitable for a senior cat
Caring for a senior cat

Caring for senior cats requires patience, understanding, and a proactive approach. Just as people experience changes as they age, so do our feline friends. From adjustments in mobility to dietary requirements, older cats have specific needs that help maintain their health and happiness during their golden years. Whether you’re new to sharing your home with a senior cat or you’re looking for ways to improve how you care for one, this guide will arm you with essential tips and advice.

Signs of ageing in cats

Cats are considered seniors once they reach around 10 years of age, though individual physical and behavioural changes may vary. Some common signs of ageing include reduced mobility, changes in weight, greying fur, altered sleep patterns, and decreased activity levels. You might also notice your kitty becoming fussier with food or seeking more attention and comfort than before. These signs are normal, but being aware of them helps you address their needs effectively.

What to look out for in senior cats

When observing signs of ageing in senior cats, it’s vital to differentiate between normal changes and those that may signal health concerns. Common signs such as greying fur, slightly decreased activity, or more hours spent sleeping are generally not worrisome and are part of the natural ageing process. However, some signs may require extra attention.

Sudden weight loss or gain, difficulty jumping or climbing, persistent vomiting, changes in appetite, or increased thirst could signal underlying health issues, such as diabetes, kidney disease, or arthritis. Monitor these changes closely and consult your veterinarian for advice. Early intervention can significantly improve your cat’s quality of life and address potential health concerns effectively.

How long do cats live for?

The life expectancy of cats varies based on factors such as breed, lifestyle, and overall health. On average, indoor cats live between 12 to 18 years, with some reaching their 20s when provided with proper senior cat care and nutrition. Outdoor cats tend to have shorter lifespans, typically around 10 to 12 years, due to increased risks like predators, accidents, and disease.

Genetics also play a role, as certain breeds are predisposed to specific health conditions. Regular vet visits, a balanced diet, and a safe environment can significantly prolong a cat's life, making sure they remain healthy and active in their later years.

How old is my cat in human years?

Determining a cat’s age in human years is not as straightforward as simply multiplying by a factor. Generally, the first two years of a cat’s life equate to roughly 24 human years. After this, each additional cat year is approximately equivalent to four human years. For instance, a 5-year-old cat would be comparable to a 36-year-old human.

Ageing varies depending on the cat’s breed, size, and overall health. Understanding your cat’s age in human terms can help better anticipate its needs at different life stages, from playful kittenhood to calm senior years.

Making your home suitable for a senior cat

As cats age, their needs and behaviours often evolve, requiring adjustments to their environment for optimal comfort and well-being. Senior cats may face new challenges and sensitivities, making it essential to create a supportive space that promotes their health and happiness. Small changes can have a big impact on their quality of life.

Keep feeding bowls in easy-to-reach areas

If your senior cat struggles to jump or climb to reach their feeding bowls, it’s important to reconsider their placement to ensure mealtime remains stress-free. Relocate bowls to the floor or to an easily accessible, low surface where your beloved pet can comfortably eat without strain.

Using elevated feeders or water fountains like the Catit Flower Water Fountain can help pets with joint pain or arthritis by reducing the need to bend down, which can alleviate discomfort during feeding.

Give your senior cat a healthy diet

Making sure your senior cat is on an appropriate diet is essential for supporting their health and vitality as they age. Cats are generally considered seniors around 7-10 years of age, and this is an ideal time to transition them to specially formulated senior cat food. These diets are designed to meet the changing nutritional needs of older cats, offering the right balance of protein, fats, and essential nutrients.

Senior cat food often includes ingredients that support joint health, digestive function, and weight management. It’s important to monitor their weight and overall condition and consult your veterinarian to make personalised dietary adjustments.

Keep your senior cat hydrated

Older cats are often less inclined to drink water, which can lead to dehydration and related health issues. To ensure proper hydration, consider incorporating wet food into their diet, as it contains a high water content that helps maintain fluid levels. Make sure to provide fresh, clean water in multiple accessible locations.

Keep a litter tray indoors in a quiet, secluded place

Senior cats often require extra privacy when using the litter tray to feel secure and comfortable. Providing a quiet, secluded place for their tray can help reduce stress, as older cats can become more sensitive to disturbances. You may find that you need to change their litter more often to keep them happy with willing to use their toilet otherwise they might get creative and find their own secluded spots around the house to go.

It’s important to offer plenty of accessible options, especially in multi-story homes. Placing a litter tray on each floor ensures that one is always within easy reach, accommodating any mobility issues they may face. This arrangement helps prevent accidents and supports their well-being, as maintaining ease and convenience in their daily routines is crucial for a happy, healthy senior cat.

Provide appropriate scratch pads

Senior cats still retain their natural instinct to scratch, but as they age, they often spend more time indoors and may require additional stimulation to stay mentally and physically engaged. Providing a variety of scratching options tailored to their needs is essential.

If they are less enthusiastic about climbing, consider offering low-to-the-ground scratchers, such as horizontal scratch pads like the Rufus & Rosie Cat Scratch-It Mat or angled scratching ramps, which are easier for ageing joints. Interactive toys and textured scratching surfaces can also help keep them entertained and satisfy their need to mark territory or stretch their muscles. Placing these items in high-traffic or resting areas ensures they are readily accessible and encourages use.

Groom your senior cat regularly

Senior cats often require extra grooming due to changes in their physical abilities and coat conditions as they age. Reduced flexibility and joint discomfort can make it difficult for them to reach certain areas, leading to matting or excess shedding. Older cats may experience changes in skin health or fur texture, which can further complicate self-grooming.

Regular grooming sessions not only help maintain their coat's cleanliness and reduce hairballs, but also provide an opportunity to monitor for skin issues, lumps, or parasites. Gentle brushing and occasional bathing, coupled with patience, can ensure your senior cat stays comfortable and healthy.

Give suitable bedding for your senior cat

Senior cats often suffer from joint pain or arthritis, making a comfortable and supportive bed essential. Memory foam beds are an excellent choice as they conform to the cat's body, providing relief for sore joints and promoting better rest.

Look for beds with low sides to allow easy access, as older cats may struggle to climb or jump into high-sided bedding. Beds with removable, washable covers ensure cleanliness and hygiene. Position the bed in a quiet, warm area to create a cosy environment for your senior feline.

Playing with your senior cat

While older feline family members may not play as energetically as they did in their youth, they can still enjoy interactive games that cater to their reduced mobility. Gentle activities like using the Catnip Feather Chase Cat Toy or laser pointer can stimulate their natural hunting instincts without requiring strenuous effort. You can easily manage how much effort these toys require by going slower and keeping play to the ground only.

Interactive puzzle toys are another great option, engaging their minds while keeping physical movement minimal. Soft toys filled with catnip or crinkle paper are particularly appealing to senior cats and encourage gentle play. Avoid games that involve jumping or excessive running, as these can strain their joints. Always observe your pet’s energy levels and adjust playtime to ensure it remains enjoyable and comfortable for your senior companion.

Ensure regular visits to the vet

Regular veterinary visits are crucial for senior cats to monitor their health and address age-related changes. These check-ups help detect potential issues, such as kidney problems or arthritis, at an early stage, improving their quality of life. Vaccinations, senior cat dental care, and adjustments to diet or medication can all be managed effectively through routine visits. Proactive care ensures that your senior moggy stays comfortable, healthy, and happy as they age gracefully.

Health issues affecting senior cats

Ageing increases the risk of certain conditions, so it’s wise to understand health problems that commonly affect older cats. These include:

Arthritis and mobility issues: Look for signs such as limping, stiffness, or difficulty jumping. Treatments include joint supplements and specialised diets.

Kidney disease: Increased thirst and urination often signal kidney dysfunction. Pharmacological support and dietary adjustments can help manage this.

Dental problems: Bad breath, drooling, and tooth loss should be addressed promptly. Dental care is crucial for maintaining your cat’s overall health.

Hyperthyroidism: Common in older cats, symptoms include weight loss, increased appetite, and restlessness. Regular testing and medication can manage this condition effectively.

When should I operate on my senior cat?

Surgery can pose higher risks for senior cats due to age-related factors such as reduced organ function or preexisting conditions. Anaesthesia may be harder for older cats to tolerate, and recovery can take longer compared to younger cats. Early detection of health issues is vital, as it may prevent the need for invasive procedures.

Regular veterinary checkups can identify potential problems before they worsen. If surgery is required, veterinarians typically perform blood tests beforehand to assess a senior cat's overall health. These tests help identify any hidden conditions, ensuring the procedure is as safe as possible and tailored to your cat's needs.

Caring for a senior cat

Caring for an older cat is a rewarding experience filled with opportunities to deepen the bond you share. By adapting your home, diet, and daily routine to meet their changing needs, you can give them a fulfilling and comfortable life. Regular vet visits, combined with the simple tips in this guide, will help your beloved feline thrive in their later years.

Need the best supplies to look after your senior cat? Visit Jollyes for everything from grooming tools to litter trays. Your golden oldie deserves the very best even in their later years so don’t forget to visit us to spoil your ageing fur babies.

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