From around the age of ten years old, a cat starts showing signs of old age - whether it be his sight weakening, his sense of smell not being so sharp anymore or his hearing deteriorating. At this age, cats tend to sleep a lot more, search for heat and either lose or pick up weight rapidly. Their behavior becomes less energetic and more relaxed.If you have an old kitty at home, you may be unaware of the specific needs they have or how their needs evolve with age. Be sure to read the following tips, given by the French animal protection association, 30 Millions d'Amis, so that you can take good enough care of him that he can live for another five or ten years, and let him live out his old age in peace.
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Old age comes with pain and discomfort, so try to change your home around so that your kitty can live normally. Put baskets down, soft blankets and pillows, and install steps so that he doesn't have to jump so high anymore.
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If your kitty starts suffering from arthritis, which tends to come with old age, consider investing in a memory foam pillow, which is great and very comfortable to sleep on.
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The older a cat gets, the more easily he feels cold. Avoid leaving doors and windows open near him when he's sleeping, and move his bed around to follow the sun during the day.
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An older cat still needs a reasonable amount of exercise, so play with him in moderate amounts. And of course, don't stop giving him cuddles and affection!
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Older cats have different dietary needs to kittens. A 'wetter' food is easier for older cats to digest, so a good idea is to wet his senior-variety pellets before serving them.
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Old cats tend to lose their fur in batches, and it's important to groom him often. As he gets older, you kitty will not be able to bath himself as thoroughly as he will become less flexible, so he needs you to keep his skin, fur and hygiene intact.
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A senior cat needs to see the vet more often than a healthy, young kitten. Yearly check-ups at the veterinarian allow for blood and urine tests which will determine your kitty's health and keep you updated.Now you know what to look for in an older cat, whether you've just adopted a senior kitty from your local shelter, or whether your pet has aged in your home. Be sure to take care of his needs and he will continue to love you and give the best cuddles in his way of saying thank you!
H/t: 30 Millions d'Amis
Featured Image: Telegraph
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