How to look after your senior cat

As our cats age, it is important to be aware of changes they may need to live a more comfortable and healthy life, as well as be aware of any signs that may be a cause for concern.

Adjust your Senior Cat’s space

As cats grow older, they crave warm, soft, and comfortable spaces that are easy to reach. These cosy spots will not give them somewhere to retreat, but the warmth can help relieve sore joints and muscles.

Senior cats might experience decreased mobility, so it is important to keep your home accessible for them. High spaces may not be as easy to reach as before, so consider providing a ramp or stool to help them climb up.

It is important to maintain their physical and mental health through toys and games, so adjust their surroundings to make sure they are still getting a chance to scratch, hunt and play. Our Natural Treats will prove useful in motivating your feline family here!

Be mindful that your cat might not be able to run and jump as much as in their younger years and watch out for signs of fatigue. 

A Senior Cat’s Diet

Your cat’s weight is especially important as they age. Consulting your trusted vet, you can find out your senior cat’s optimum weight and how to maintain it.

An older digestive system may be more sensitive, so you might want to consider a grain free, easily digestible option. Our sister brand, Naturo, has a solution for this in the form of it’s delicious  Cat Mousse .

Keeping hydrated is especially important for a senior cat, as they become more prone to constipation and kidney disease. Options with fresh drinking water, and wet food is a good way to keep on top of this. Keep food and water dishes easily accessible for them.

Litterbox Watch

By keeping an eye on your senior cat’s bowel movements, it can be easier to spot signs of illness. Change in colour and consistency, frequency (a lot more or a lot less than usual) and if your senior cat starts to have a few ‘accidents’ could be grounds to have a chat with your vet.

Also consider that the litterbox is easy for your senior cat to get in and out of, that it is in a quiet, private place, and that it is cleaned out often enough to keep up with any changes in frequency of use.

Even if your cat usually goes to the toilet outside, it might be a good idea to keep a litterbox inside for them as they age if you see fit. If your cat still prefers to go outside, try to provide them with a dug over border close to the house and maintain this regularly.

Vet Visits

It is so important to keep on top of biannual visits to your vet, especially as your cat ages. By maintaining a lifelong relationship with your vet, while your cat is healthy, they will be able to detect any changes that may indicate a health problem. Your trusted vet will also make sure their weight and dental health is in check.

If you have any concerns in between visits, it is important to consult with your vet immediately.

And finally, shower your senior cat with lots of quality time and cuddles!