Is your feline friend beginning to slow down? As your cat ages, she’ll gradually experience many of the same types of changes as people do as they grow old. In order to keep your furry pal happy and healthy in her golden years, you may want to make a few small adjustments to her care regimen. Below, a Lafayette, LA vet offers some great senior cat care tips.
Veterinary Care
Make sure to keep up on your furball’s parasite prevention products, as well as her vaccines. Regular examinations are also very important. Your vet will be able to monitor Fluffy for any changes, or signs of developing health problems. Between visits, keep a close eye out for any signs of illness. If you notice anything amiss, or if your cat just doesn’t seem like herself, contact your vet right away.
Diet
A proper diet is crucial to Fluffy’s health. Make sure your kitty is getting proper nourishment. Some kitties may benefit from supplements, such as fish oil, which helps keep bones and joints lubricated. Ask your vet for specific advice, including when to switch your cat to senior formula pet food.
Exercise
Cats somehow manage get even sleepier as they age. Your aging furball may spend up to 20 hours a day napping. When Fluffy is awake, try to get her moving by engaging her in fun play sessions. The physical activity and mental stimulation are both beneficial to your cat.
Mobility
Your kitty may begin to have trouble climbing stairs, getting onto furniture, or even jumping on your lap, as she ages. You can help her out, but be very gentle when picking her up and putting her down. A litter box with low walls may be easier for her to navigate.
If your home has multiple floors, keep litter pans and water dishes on every level. Fluffy will still need to visit the kitchen for meals, but at least she won’t have to climb stairs every time she needs to pee.
Comfort
As your cat ages, just do what you can to keep her comfortable. Offer plenty of comfy beds, and take time to pet and cuddle with your kitty. We also strongly recommend keeping your cat indoors, where she’ll be both safer and more comfortable.
Please contact us, your Lafayette, LA vet clinic, for all your senior cat’s care needs.
