Is your kitty aged seven or older? If so, you have a furry little retiree on your hands, even if your pet still acts like a kitten at times. By the time Fluffy reaches her golden years, she will probably be more interested in catching Z’s than in catching mice. Her care needs should change a bit as well. At this point, you’ll want to focus more on comfort than entertainment. A Norwalk, CA vet offers some advice on this below.

Beds

Senior cats are master dozers, capable of sleeping a whopping 20 hours a day. That’s a lot of naps! No wonder Fluffy is always on the lookout for comfy spots to curl up in. Offer your drowsy pet lots of beds.

Senior-Friendly Facilities

Fluffy may have difficulty getting in and out of a litterbox with high sides. Choose one made just for senior kitties. If you have more than one floor in your home, set out extras. Also, make sure your pet’s powder room isn’t in a spot that is dark, drafty, in direct sunlight, or hard to reach.

Grooming

Older cats can get quite stiff and sore, just as people can. Fluffy may have trouble bending and twisting to groom herself properly. That can make it hard for her to keep her fur clean, which can leave her looking a bit unkempt. Brushing your furry little diva will get dead hair, knots, and dust out of her coat.

Pet Stairs

Cats are great jumpers. However, as Fluffy ages, she may find it increasingly difficult to jump onto beds and couches. Set out pet ramps or stairs for her to use to reach her favorite kitty perches.

Nightlights

Fluffy may develop vision problems, and she might have trouble seeing at night. Setting out nightlights will help your feline friend find her way to her food bowl or litterbox after dark.

Keep Fluffy In

This one is about safety just as much as it is comfort. Not only are senior kitties more susceptible to temperature extremes, they are also in greater danger from things like wild animals, traffic, and stray cats. Fluffy could also forget how to get home, and/or get caught outside in a storm. Keep your furry retiree safe and sound indoors! Do you have questions about senior cat care? Contact us, your local Norwalk, CA animal clinic, today!