Senior Cat Care Tips

Is your kitty starting to slow down? Fluffy usually ages quite gracefully, so you probably won’t see drastic changes right away. However, your pet will need some extra TLC as she ages. Read on as a local Brampton, ON vet offers some tips on keeping an elderly cat happy and purring.

Brushing

Older cats sometimes get rather stiff and sore. This can make it difficult for them to groom their whole bodies. Help Fluffy out by gently brushing her. This will help keep her fur clean and soft, which will ultimately keep her more comfortable. It’s also a good time to check for sore spots or injuries.

Safety

We recommend keeping all cats inside. However, this goes double for senior furballs. Fluffy may be too slow or weak to escape danger. She’s also at higher risk of getting lost. Keep your pet safe and purring indoors, where she’s safe from cars, traffic, and other hazards.

Veterinary Care

As your kitty ages, she’ll be at increased risk of developing certain medical issues, such as arthritis, kidney trouble, and diabetes. Your vet may recommend bringing her in more often. You’ll also want to watch for signs of illness, such as hiding, changes in appetite, and litterbox woes. Call us immediately if you notice anything amiss.

Playtime

Fluffy won’t be the frisky, zoomy ball of mischief she once was, but she’ll still enjoy and benefit from regular play sessions. Even a few minutes of pouncing will help keep your furball active and healthy!

Kitty Comforts

Small things like comfy beds, pet ramps, and nightlights will help make your home more senior-friendly for your senior buddy. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Senior Facilities

Fluffy may have a hard time using a litter box that has high sides. If your home has more than one floor, keep litterboxes on every level.

Love

Senior kitties often become very affectionate. Fluffy may want more attention than she used to, and she may not want to let you out of her sight. She may get confused or forgetful, which will frighten her. Many cats become more vocal as a way to express their dismay. For more information on cognitive changes in older cats, read our article on Senior Kitty Dementia. Pay lots of attention to your feline friend! Comfort her, pet her, and help her feel loved and safe!

Please contact us, your local Brampton, ON veterinary hospital, for your senior cat’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help! For a comprehensive list of our offerings, including specialized care for senior cats, check out our veterinary services page.