Did you know that kitties are considered seniors by the time they are nine? Fluffy can live well into her teens, and perhaps even into her twenties, with proper care, so she may have a long retirement ahead of her. While your feline pal’s basic needs won’t change as she grows older, she will need a little extra care and attention. Here, a FM 1960 North Area vet lists some simple things you can do to keep a senior cat happy, healthy, and purring.

Beds

Senior cats are absolute master nappers, capable of sleeping up to 20 hours a day. (We’re not entirely convinced that being cute is actually that exhausting, but that’s another topic.) Provide your drowsy little buddy with lots of comfy beds to curl up in.

Veterinary Care

Fluffy will need to see her doctor more often as she gets older. In between visits, keep a close eye out for signs of illness or injury. Contact us right away if you notice anything amiss.

Playtime

Fluffy won’t be the feisty little ball of zoom she was as a kitten, but she’ll still need to stay active. Take a few minutes to play with her every day. This will benefit your feline friend both mentally and physically. Plus, it’s cute!

Safety

While we recommend that all kitties be kept indoors, this goes double for seniors. Fluffy won’t be as fast, agile, or alert as she once was. That will only increase the dangers posed by cars, wild animals, and other hazards. Older cats are also at higher risk of getting lost.

Kitty Comforts

Take a look around your house, and see if there’s anything you can do to make life a little easier for Fluffy. Setting out pet ramps or footstools can help her climb up to her favorite perches, while keeping nightlights on after dark can help her get around at night. Your feline buddy may also appreciate a litterbox with low sides, as this will be easier for her to get in and out of. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Grooming

Senior kitties sometimes have difficulty bending and stretching enough to properly groom themselves. Brushing your furry little diva regularly will remove dead hair from her coat, preventing tangles and the dreaded itchies. Do you have questions about senior cat care? Contact us, your local FM 1960 North Area animal clinic, today!