As your cat gets older, her needs are going to change: just as ours will as we age. Your furry pal won’t be quite as interested in playing, and she’ll sleep even more than she once did. Kitties in their golden years also benefit from extra TLC. Read on as a local Greater Cincinnati vet offers some advice on keeping your furry buddy comfy and purring.
Cats are usually pretty good about keeping up with their beauty care needs, but this gets harder for them over time. Fluffy may not be able to bend or stretch easily, which can make it hard for her to care for her coat. Offer a helping hand by brushing her regularly.
A good diet will go a long way towards keeping your cat healthy. Make sure that Fluffy is getting enough taurine, which is an essential nutrient for cats. Your vet will be able to advise you on when to switch over to a senior-formula food. If your cat develops specific medical issues, she may need a special diet. For instance, kitties with thyroid issues shouldn’t be offered fish or seafood, because of the iodine.
One thing we can say for certain about older cats? They’re easy keepers … because they spend the vast majority of their time snoozing. Set out lots of comfy beds for your furry pal to look adorable in.
There are also some small things that you can do to make your home easier for Fluffy. Nightlights can help your pet get around after dark, while pet ramps or stairs can help her reach her favorite lookout spots.
Fluffy may have a harder time with stairs, so make sure that her litterbox is easy for her to get to. You may need to choose one with low walls: this is going to be easier for her to climb in and out of. If you have more than one cat, make sure that you have enough litterboxes to go around. Our feline pals don’t like to share bathrooms!
Last but not least, pay attention to your pet. Keep an eye out for signs that something is off, such as changes in appetite, sudden weight gain or loss, and/or unusual behavior or vocalization. Call your vet right away if you notice anything off.
Do you have questions about cat care? Contact us, your local Greater Cincinnati animal hospital, anytime!
