Do you have a furry little retiree on your hands? Kitties are always adorable, but they manage to get even cuter as they age. Fluffy will need some extra attention in her golden years, however. A local Rialto, CA vet goes over senior cat care in this article.
Food
Kitties are very, very good at ‘meowpulating’ us into giving them food. It’s fine to give your furry friend some treats, but don’t overindulge her. If Fluffy becomes obese, it will be very bad for her health!
Exercise
By the time Fluffy is a senior, she’ll be a very accomplished napper, capable of snoozing up to 20 hours a day. One of the best things you can do to keep that little motor going is to offer her lots of comfy beds to snuggle up in. Cats also enjoy snoozing on our beds and couches, but sometimes have a hard time jumping onto them. Get your feline pal some pet ramps or stairs to help her reach these spots. You can also use footstools or ottomans.
Mental Stimulation
Keeping your kitty’s mind healthy is also important. Of course, if you give Fluffy a crossword puzzle, she’ll probably just fall asleep on it. The best way to give your feline friend mental stimulation is to play with her. Timing those tricky pounces is a bit like the kitty version of doing that crossword puzzle. Your pet will also appreciate a window seat with a good view, preferably one with birds and squirrels.
Veterinary Care
Fluffy will become more susceptible to certain illnesses as she grows older, and she’ll definitely benefit from having her health monitored more closely. Your vet will likely recommend more frequent appointments. At home, just keep an eye out for potential signs of illness, such as lethargy, reduced appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and respiratory distress. Call us right away if you notice any of these.
Comforts
Small touches will help keep Fluffy happy and comfortable. Turn a nightlight on after dark, and get a litterbox with lower sides. It’s also important to make sure your cute pet feels loved and safe. Pay lots of attention to your kitty. Talk to her, pet her, and let her snooze on your lap. Senior cat purrs are very precious!
Please reach out if ever we can be of assistance. As your Rialto, CA veterinary clinic, we’re here to help.
