As your feline companion ages, their requirements will change. Giving them additional attention to maintain a healthy life is important as they grow. Keep reading to find our best tips to fill the needs of older cats. Oven-Baked Tradition will also walk you through all the changes you may need to make in your routine as a pet owner to keep your cat comfortable and happy in their later years.
Aging cats: When Is A Cat Considered A Senior?
Cats age faster in their first few years, meaning they become middle aged and senior sooner than you might be expecting. As a rough guide, these are the life stages an average cat goes through in their life cycle:
- Kittens: Up to 1 year old
- Young adults: 1-6 years old
- Mature adults: 7-10 years old
- Seniors: Over 10 years old
There are numerous ways to help your senior cat age gracefully. Ideally you should begin while they’re still in their younger years.
No matter your cat’s life stage, Oven-Baked Tradition has a full selection to keep your cat into their later years.
How Do I Make An Older Kitty Comfortable?
Just like older people, cats can get stiff and sore as they age. This can make it hard for your senior cat to jump, climb, run and play. Your older cat may also have trouble reaching their favorite spots in your home. Footstools, pet ramps or stairs are a good way to navigate around the house without putting too much strain on their furry bodies.
Your older cat will also appreciate having a variety of napping spots. As your cat ages and is less mobile, having different spots around your home is a good way to put everything they need within a paws reach
Oven-Baked Tradition also recommends giving your pet a window seat with a good view. This will keep them stimulated and entertained without over exerting themselves.
How Do I Keep My Senior Cat Happy?
Living with a cat can sometimes be a puzzling experience. Sometimes it’s so hard to know what they’re thinking. As a dedicated pet owner we just want to keep them healthy and happy, although how to keep them that way is not always clear.
If you’re lucky your cat will stay energetic and playful even as it ages. If your senior cat still regularly interacts with you, acts alert, and responsive, it’s a great indicator of their well-being. When your senior cat enjoys letting their inner kitten out and has some fun with you or a toy, it’s a great sign they’re feeling happy. Stay engaged with them and their needs during play, feeding, relaxation time and keeping them around you when you’re home.
Giving affection as an owner and bringing out purrs is a guaranteed way to keep your senior cat happy and hear about it too.
Pay Extra Attention To Your Senior Cat’s Diet
Senior cats have unique dietary and nutritional needs. It is more important than ever for your cat to be a healthy weight to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Oven-Baked Tradition only uses premium ingredients to ensure your cat has a healthy diet throughout their life. Plus, we offer products to support all stages of their life.
A cat’s digestion can be improved by feeding them small, frequent meals throughout the day and night. Measure your cat’s daily food and try to feed them in smaller portions.
You can even use tools like hunting feeders and puzzle toys that promote physical and mental engagement at mealtime. Make them work for their food a little bit to get them moving and keep them stimulated. Plus, there’s no better reward for a hungry cat than some Oven-Baked Tradition!
Increase Your Cat’s Access to Water
As cats age, they are prone to constipation and kidney disease, especially if they are not staying hydrated enough. Older cats need a greater attention to detail from owners and it’s important have their needs met as conveniently as possible
Increase your senior cat’s water intake by mixing canned food into their diet. A good idea is to add more options around the house for them to find drinking water.
As your cat gets older, they might not be able to jump up onto tables or onto ledges or make a long walk to the kitchen to access their usual water dish. Add plenty of bowls and dishes around the home to encourage your senior cat to drink more.
Don’t Neglect Your Older Cat’s Dental Health
Dental disease is very common in aging cats. Older cats can get painful aches in their teeth, broken teeth, gum disease and oral tumors that significantly affect their quality of life.
Infections in the mouth enter the bloodstream and it can affect an older cat’s liver, kidneys and heart. Paying attention to your cat’s dental health is an important detail to monitor in their senior years.
Often, there is no clear sign of dental disease. Only hands on owners can notice weight loss and the warning signs that something is wrong with their furry friend.
Pay Close Attention To Your Senior Cats Grooming
Cats are typically consistent groomers, but a loss in mobility, obesity, or health issues may make it more difficult for them to keep up to date with their grooming.
Give your cat a helping hand by making sure their fur does not get tangled and matted. Depending on their length of fur, you may need to help them keep a clean and tidy coat with scheduled grooming several times a week.
This is also a good opportunity to keep your cat stimulated. Enjoy a bonding session to give your senior cat plenty of love as you comb their fur and help them feel their best.
Enjoy Spending Time With Your Cat!
Caring and loving your senior cat is one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have as a pet owner. Have fun when you keep your senior cat physically and mentally stimulated. It can be just as much fun for you as it is for your cat. Enjoy petting, playing, and interacting with your cat and make the most of your quality time.
We rely on our cats as much as they rely on us, they’re always there for us and help us have fun and relax depending on what we need. Aging cats often crave more attention than they do in their younger years. So take advantage of it by spending extra time together and getting the most out of your cat’s senior years!
