Checked for accuracy and updated by Katie Grzyb, DVM on December 18, 2018
You may have started to notice that your senior cat doesn’t move as quickly or easily as he used to. Moving older cats around the house can be difficult and even dangerous, as they are at increased risk for diseases such as arthritis, bladder problems, and vision and cognitive problems.
By making a few simple adjustments to your home, you can make your cat’s golden years more comfortable and safe. Before readjusting anything, be sure to discuss your cat’s specific needs with your veterinarian. Here’s a guide to making your home more livable for senior cats.
don’t assume
Pam Johnson Bennett, owner of Nashville-based Cat Behavior Associates, says a cat’s senior years are not a time for complacency. “Don’t think that just because your cat gets older, your cat will become less mobile or sleep more. Reduced mobility and increased sleep time may be due to pain, such as from arthritis in your cat. Don’t think that if your cat is irritable or aggressive, it’s just because he’s a grumpy old cat. There may be an age-related medical reason for this behavior. ”
Be a careful observer. For example, “note changes in the ability to get on and off furniture, the ability to get in and out of the bathroom, difficulty eating or dropping food, all of these changes,” says Dr. Dr. Sonya Olsona senior emergency medicine clinician at BluePearl Veterinary Partners.
There is no fixed period over which these changes occur. Cats age differently (just like us), Dr. Olson added, so some cats may slow down at age 8, while others may still be full of energy at 14.
Provide easy access to your cat’s favorite places
Older cats enjoy privacy just as much as they did when they were younger. “Cats love to climb up high and get a bird’s-eye view of their world, but they may not be able to climb or jump as high as they used to. Consider installing a carpet. cat steps That way, they can go somewhere they really love or climb into bed and snuggle with you,” says Dr. Olson. of Frisco 2-in-1 Pet Step It might work.
Don’t forget to make sure you have access to ground space as well. “Senior cats may have diminished senses, so it’s important to be sensitive to that. For cats with limited or no vision, keep your furniture in the same place so your cat has new Avoid having to adjust to traffic patterns. Senior cats with visual impairments often do well because they are used to the way the house is set up. Now is not the time to rearrange the furniture. Also, don’t put things in the middle of your cat’s path,” says Bennett. You can also place some night lights around your house to help guide your cat.
If you’re worried that your senior kitten might become disoriented or get hurt, cat gatelike Carlson Pet Products Flexi Extra Tall Walk-Through Gate with Pet Door or Carlson Pet Products Extra Tall Walk-Through Gate with Pet Door This is to limit her access. Cat gates are also a great option for older kittens with physical limitations, as they can keep stairs and other dangerous obstacles out of bounds. If you use a dog gate at home, make sure it has a cat door that allows your senior cat easy access.
Dr. Donna Stevens Manley, a Charlottesville, Va.-based veterinary industry consultant and 2012 AAFP president, recommends placing multiple spots throughout the house so your cat doesn’t have to travel far for cat food and water. We recommend setting up feeding stations. She also suggests the following raised cat bowl. “Increase both food and water resources to reduce your cat’s need to crouch (strains the elbows and hips) or bend the neck (arthritis pain). A height level that allows you to take a sitting position is recommended for arthritis pain. Their ability to climb and jump can also be limited, so in addition to raising food and water bowls for comfort, use steps and boxes to increase your senior cat’s favorite perches (windows, beds, etc.). ) for easy and comfortable access.
Reconsider your toilet settings
of cat toilet It should be big. “Not having to crouch, hide, or curl up to go to the bathroom is much more comfortable, especially for cats with arthritis,” says Dr. Dr. Andrea Sanchezsenior manager of operational support at Banfield Pet Hospital, based in Vancouver, Washington. She recommends having a litter box that is twice the length of your cat’s body (from nose to tail).
It should be easily accessible to your cat. “Make sure you have easy access to and from the toilet. Consider purchasing a toilet that has a lower end on one side or a ramp for easier access,” suggests Dr. Olson. For example, PetFusion BetterBox Nonstick Cat Litter Box and lucky champ cat toilet.
Increase the number and location of cat litter boxes (experts usually recommend one box plus one additional box per cat) to accommodate older cats who have decreased mobility and decreased bladder control. ) advises Johnson-Bennett. “Older people with hearing loss may be sleeping so much that they don’t get the message that their bladder is full in time. If your kitten doesn’t have to walk far to go to the bathroom, It’s very helpful.”
This is especially important in multi-dog households, Dr. Manley says. “This ensures that older cats have access to unsecured litter boxes. Having multiple resources can help minimize bullying, competition for resources, and overall stress.”
Give your older cat some comfort
Dr. Manley says older cats often have decreased body condition and muscle mass. She says it may be beneficial to add more padding or heating sources to make their favorite resting or perching spots more comfortable. “Use only those that are approved for pets and have a temperature setting. K&H Pet Products Pet Bed Warmer”
There are many wonderful things cat bed There are options, Dr. Sanchez says. “These include orthopedic cat beds, heated beds (for colder climates), and a variety of other cushioned, comfortable and supportive beds that are perfect for people with and without arthritis. It is. Frisco Orthopedic Sherpa Cuddle Dog and Cat BedFor example, it provides both comfort and support.
You can also take advantage of natural heat sources by placing your bed in a sunny location. “Sunlight is very popular with cats, and the older cats seem to enjoy it more,” says Dr. Olson. “As your health declines and your circulatory system ages, the warmth of the sun feels good.”
Keeping an Old Cat’s Mind Active
Experts recommend staying involved in your cat’s mind as they grow older. “Conduct interactive play sessions that are customized to your cat’s physical abilities,” recommends Johnson-Bennett. “Your cat may no longer like toys, so you may need to test some toys. [same] It was like an interactive toy like when she was younger. ”
a cat puzzle toy They serve food and other delicious things. cat snacks Keep your senior cat involved both physically and mentally. It comes in a variety of difficulty levels, so you can adapt it to your cat’s skill level, she says. “Foraging for food is a natural concept for cats, and even senior cats will appreciate receiving food as a reward for a job well done. Don’t worry if your cat doesn’t get used to puzzles over the feeder. If this seems to be the case, the most basic method is to place a small amount of food in each compartment of the muffin tin. Start with the basic method. Once your cat understands the concept, you can start using more difficult puzzle feeders, but never choose ones that cause frustration. Please make it a thing.”
example cat interactive toys Designed to promote mental stimulation. Trixie Activity Fun Board 5-in-1 Interactive Cat Toy and Trixie Mad Scientist Turning Interactive Cat Toyreward the kitten for solving the problem.
You have a duty to make sure your cat’s retirement is as comfortable, convenient, and safe as possible. A few simple changes to your home can not only help your older cat stay healthy, but also help them thrive during their growing years.
Paula Fitzsimmons
Image source: iStock.com/krblokhin
