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29 Mar 5 Tips that will keep your Cat Going in the Old Age
There is a popular saying – Old is gold! This is something that holds true not just for humans, but cats too..
The older your feline friend gets, the more precious it will become and therefore may require extra special care during its senior years. We have compiled a list of 5 top tips that will keep your cat feeling like a teenager – even if they have lost some of the energy and bounce that they use to possess….
1. Make sure your cat gets regular medical checkups!
It is important that your feline friend getsExamined by a vet at least three times a year. If your cat is really old and suffers from some health issues, many vets suggest being examined it even more regularly.
A thorough internal and physical examination of your pet, may reveal additional health issues that you may not have been aware of. It is particularly common in older cats to have Health issues such as; dental diseases, arthritis, heart disease and kidney disease etc all of these things can affect your cats comfort levels during their later years.
2. Keep an eye out for any behaviour changes
If your cat behaviour suddenly changes, which is particularly common during old age – this maybe a underlying indication of a disease or a problem that must be seen immediately by a vet.
Keep an eye out for any changes in your cats; bowel habits, water consumption, sleeping changes and most commonly appetite. You may notice that your cat gets irritated or angry much more often than before. This could be an indication that they are in pain or having another issue which may need to be treated to improve their comfort levels.
3. Make your surroundings cat friendly!
Older cats who may be suffering from arthritis, it can be particularly difficult for them to move around freely and easily. Just like a child that may struggle with stairs, it may be an idea to consider installing a ramp to help them access the bed or furniture.
Senior cats having arthritis or other health issues may be in serious pain. It is difficult for them to get around or walk properly. If your house has slippery laminate flooring, which can make it very difficult for your to grip – consider laying down temporary carpets and also try and find a cat litter tray with low sides to make it easier for your cats to enter and exit to do their business
4. Make sure your cat is eating an age-appropriate diet
As your cat grows, it’s dietary needs change over – so it is important to provide your feline friend with a diets that is appropriate for their age. Due to restricted movements that is common amongst older cats, it is likely that they will gain weight and require a low calorie diet. Other cats may find it more difficult to hold the weight on, and therefore may require a richer diet to balance their weight..
Speak to your vet and discuss with them if your cat is losing weight for is hungrier than normal. They can help plan a specific diet according to your cat medical conditions and needs.
5. Customize your cat’s bed!
When you’re cat reaches old-age, the most common place you’ll find them is in bed, sleeping the hours away. With this in mind, it is important that you cats bed provides a relaxing, comfortable, tranquil environments for them to rest and sleep. There are many products are available for your cat, and it may be worth considering an orthopaedic bed which provides additional cushioning or heat, which can in-turn help increase circulation and reduce stiffness.