Is your kitty starting to slow down with age? Fluffy may always think of herself as a kitten, but she’ll actually become a senior as early as age six. While your feline pal’s basic needs—good food, regular veterinary care, and a clean litterbox—won’t change as she ages, you may want to make some minor adjustments to your kitty care regimen to keep your pet purring in her golden years. Read on as a local Fox Chapel, PA vet discusses senior cat care.

Beds

Senior cats are expert nappers, capable of sleeping up to 20 years. All those practice naps really pay off! Make sure your kitty has plenty of comfy beds to choose from.

Playtime

Playing with your cat regularly is actually one of the best things you can do for her. Pouncing and jumping help keep Fluffy active, which is great for her physically. Playing also gives kitties beneficial mental stimulation. Timing those tricky pounces just right takes real focus and concentration! This is kind of like the kitty equivalent of a crossword puzzle.

Facilities

Older cats sometimes have trouble getting in and out of litterboxes with high sides. Consider getting Fluffy a litterbox with low walls, which will be easier for her to manage. If you have more than one floor, put litterboxes on every level, so your furball doesn’t have to use the stairs as much.

Confusion

Just like people, kitties can experience a cognitive decline as they age. Fluffy may get lost on the way to her litterbox, or forget where her food bowl is. It isn’t uncommon for senior cats to meow loudly when this happens. Just try to comfort your pet.

Kitty Comforts

Fluffy may have difficulty jumping up onto beds or couches, or reaching her favorite perches and napping spots. Get pet ramps or stairs, or set out footstools so your kitty can use them as stairs.

TLC

Fluffy often gets very cuddly in her golden years, and may want to snuggle a lot. Pay lots of attention to your feline pal, and make sure that she feels loved and safe. Senior kitty purrs are truly precious! Just be very careful when picking your cat up or putting her down.

Please feel free to call us here at River Valley Veterinary Hospital, your local vet clinic, serving the Fox Chapel, PA area, anytime. We are here to help!