How to make your home better for elderly cats

As cats get older they can suffer from arthritis and joint, bladder and bowel issues too. When we talk about elderly cats we are looking at those from 10 years old, although cats can live until 12 or 16 years on average, not like Creme Puff who lived over 38 years! Cats also experience pain differently from us humans and as such, you won’t probably see them call out in pain or appear fragile. This is another reason to look at your home so your cat can live their twilight years in comfort.

So what can we cat owners do to help our older cats? Lots! Let’s look at some home help and see if some of these might work for your ageing moggy:

Items up and downstairs

If you live in a townhouse your cat may have to go upstairs to use the litter but downstairs for food and water. By moving the litter near to the food (not right next to, however) your cat can have the luxury of not having to go too far. If it is possible, place a litter box on each floor along with water, so wherever your cat is, it doesn’t take them too long to get there when nature calls.

Aid climbing and drinking

If your cat loves sleeping on a windowsill or on top of the cupboard next to the boiler they may struggle to climb all the way up there, or it may be causing them pain to do so. Think about adding additional steps so it’s not so much of a challenge and ease access. Also, raise their food and water so they don’t have to bend.

Keep your senior cat healthy

Healthy cats are less likely to need veterinary treatment, so think playtimes, grooming and food. There are specialist types of food for senior cats and food that is softer may be easier to eat if teeth or bowls are an issue. Older cats may play less as they enjoy more naps and warm places to watch the world go by, but playtime is still very important. Use soft toys and wands which allow the prey to be moved nearer them and hunt. Puzzle feeders will also engage your cat mentally and physically, have look at my Think Outside the Bowl campaign for more details. Your cat may also need help grooming as they might find it harder to reach round, bond more with a gentle grooming session.

Adore your mature moggy

Your cat will be slowing down, so take advantage of long lap times and a slower pace, I know I do!

Visit your vet

If you are worried about your cat, if you do notice your cat acting differently, a change in their behaviour, or excessive sleeping, speak to your vet. Ideally, schedule regular checkups with your vet.

Let me know if you’ve made any of these changes for your older cat

Find my Facebook page or comment below. You can also read about; My family’s pets; Grace the Maine Coon – who suffers from arthritis, and how she comfortably lives her life.