As your cat gets older, she’s going to need a little more extra special care. Aging cats tend to have differing needs, so it’s important to look out for any changes in personality, temperament, or habits as she gets on. During your cat’s golden years, you want her to be as happy and as comfortable as possible. Read on for our top five tips for looking after an older cat.
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Tip #1. Regular Wellness Checks:
As your cat gets older, she will likely require more frequent visits to the vet. Taking your cat for regular wellness checkups will enable your veterinarian to get to know her more closely, making it easy to spot any critical health changes which need treating immediately. Even if your cat appears healthy, take them to the vet for a check-up every six months.
Tip #2. Be More Alert:
Cats are masters at hiding illnesses and discomfort, so be aware that signs and symptoms may not always be immediately visible in your kitty. Any changes in behavior, for example, if your usually friendly cat becomes more aggressive and violent, this may be cause for concern and will warrant a visit to the vet. Note that most cat behavior changes aren’t so drastic, so look for subtle differences, too.
Tip #3. Be Careful of Weight Changes:
Just like humans, our cats tend to put on weight as they get older. In many cases, this is due to them no longer having all the energy that they did as a young kitty – older cats tend to sleep more, and don’t get the same exercise as they once did. Along with that, sore joints and other aches and pains can lead to a more sedentary lifestyle for your cat. Monitoring your cat’s weight is one of the most important reasons for regular vet visits – weight gain can lead to a host of conditions such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and intestinal disease.
Tip #4. Understand Need Changes:
You want your cat to be as happy, healthy and comfortable as she can be as she grows older, so it’s important to be aware of how her needs are going to change. Older cats tend to need extra padding and warmth for comfort, so provide plenty of soft, comfortable sleeping and resting places around the home. Bear in mind that older cats may no longer be as nimble as they once were, so put sleeping spots in easily accessible places.
Tip #5. Adjusting the Diet:
Finally, you’ll probably need to adjust your cat’s diet as she gets older. Work with your veterinarian to find a brand and type of cat food that provides the right nutrients for your kitty’s changing needs. If your cat suffers with joint problems, speak to your vet about giving her Antler Supplements for joint health and strength improvement. Don’t forget about portion control, particularly if you cat has become more prone to putting on weight.
Last of all, enjoy this special time to bond with your precious pet during their golden years.