As cats reach their senior years, typically starting around age 10, their healthcare needs change. It is important for cat owners to understand these changes and adapt their care routines accordingly. With proper veterinary support and an attentive, loving home environment, senior cats can live comfortably into their late teens and even early 20s.
Monitor Their Health Closely
More frequent veterinary checkups are crucial for aging cats. Whereas an adult cat may only need an annual exam, senior cats should be seen by a vet every 6 months. Bloodwork and other diagnostic tests can identify diseases like kidney failure, diabetes and hyperthyroidism early on when they are most treatable. Engaging with one veterinary practice over the long term creates helpful continuity of care. Inform your vet about any changes you have noticed at home regarding the cat’s mobility, appetite, activity level or litter box habits. Small changes can sometimes indicate larger issues. Keep a journal tracking their weight, appetite, activity level, litter box use and any concerning symptoms.
Adapt Their Environment
Create easy access to resources that aging cats need most. For example, place their food, water and litter boxes on the same level where they spend most time so that stairs don’t hinder their access. Use lower-sided boxes that are easier to get in and out of. Consider purchasing steps or ramps to help them access beds and window perches. Rotate different styles of food bowls to find ones they can comfortably eat from if chewing becomes difficult. Soft bedding helps ease joint pain from arthritis. Keep their living space warm and cozy. Make sure they can easily access sunny spots to nap and watch the world outside. Cats find these views mentally stimulating. Ensure they have quiet, low-traffic areas to retreat when they need rest.
Provide Enrichment
Just like humans, cats need mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy in their golden years. Food puzzle toys deliver physical and mental exercise together. Rotate different types of toys to keep them interested. Catnip and other herbs make old standby toys novel again. Consider adopting a younger cat or kitten to be a companion and give their days purpose. Avoid rehoming aging cats unless absolutely necessary, as change can be very stressful. Spend quality one-on-one time playing, brushing and simply snuggling with them daily. Interactive play is very beneficial mentally and physically. Laser toys allow chasing and pouncing without overexertion. Engage all their senses with novel smells, textures and tastes.
Manage Their Medical Needs
Aging cats often develop chronic conditions needing ongoing management. Kidney disease is very common and requires a special diet low in phosphorus and protein. Diabetes necessitates twice-daily insulin injections. Hyperthyroidism is treated with oral medication or transdermal gel. Some cats benefit from medications for high blood pressure or hyperactivity disorders. Work closely with your vet to ensure effectiveness of any prescribed treatments. Inform them of any appetite or behavior changes. Don’t alter dosages or stop medication without guidance. Preventative care like dental cleanings help avoid downstream issues. Discuss the risks and benefits of anesthesia with your vet.
Consider End of Life Care
Though a difficult subject, it is wise to prepare for end-of-life decision making while a senior cat is still healthy. Understand all the options available when their quality of life declines to an unacceptable level. Euthanasia at the veterinary clinic is a standard option, allowing one last peaceful moment surrounded by loving family before painlessly drifting off. However, the USA allows for at-home euthanasia by certified veterinarians in most states, which can make the process a lot less stressful for you and your cat. Talk with your vet about any indicators that it may be time to make a plan. It is better to be prepared and not need it, than to be caught off guard in a crisis.
With attentive care from pet parents and vets working together, senior cats can continue enjoying their ninth lives for many happy years to come. Their love and companionship deepen in maturity, rewarding us immeasurably in return.
