- Keeping Older Cats Healthy-
- Keeping Older Cats Healthy-
To me, they are“ the boys.” Young, healthy, happy cats that share my life and help me run the book shop. For Hector, the shop IS the job. He adores meeting people that come in and checks back with browsers as they spend time in their favorite areas of the shop. Jasper is more reserved, but he loves to stop in for a little attention before retreating to the house. But the other day, when asked about how old they are, I remembered that Hector is 9, and Jasper is 11. Elderly? No. But I have middle-aged gentleman cats, and before I know it, before I’ m ready, I will have older cats.
Older cats are more stately, more elegant. They move at a leisurely pace and linger for a head rub, a scratch behind the ears, or a murmured exclamation of pleasure from a friend. But cats " of a certain age " need some special considerations.
What is " of a certain age "? In recent years, feline ages and life-stages have been redefined by veterinary organizations. Cats are considered to be elderly once they reach 11 years with senior cats defined as those aged between 11-14 years and geriatric cats 15 years and upwards. A 16 year old cat is the equivalent of an 80 year old human, with many of the same needs.
Simply put, they are frailer. Skin is thinner, and for many cats, their bodies become very thin. With a reduced ability to absorb nutrients from food and reduced senses of taste and smell, they both eat less and get less from what they eat. Experts recommend feeding old cats several small meals a day, instead of a once a day feeding. Often, dental problems or pain may make hard kibble difficult to eat, and soft food at room temperature will encourage your cat. With Jasper, this is important not only to encourage him to eat, but to add water to his diet. Male cats often develop kidney disease, and increased water is needed.
Grooming also is reduced as cats age. Simply, they are not as flexible as they were. Chances are they are still fine with face and paws. But that second half of the body is just not easy to get to and they may no longer brush back quarters. But, go slow and gentle, as they, like us, hurt a bit in the joints.
Cats also need private spaces to lounge, or they may love to sleep on your bed. But getting to those higher spaces may become difficult. Here, a couple of strategically placed chairs or low stools help our " elder elves " get to their favorite spots without injury-- particularly when they climb down.
And, if you notice that your cat appears to have pain with movement( this often looks like a hurt paw), check with your vet. There are pain medications that can be administered both orally and as a shot just under the skin that provide relief from pain.
Just a few modifications and considerations-- it ' s not too much to ask for a deeply loyal, affectionate member of the family.
- by Linda Roller, Bookseller, writer, and owner of Liberty Book Shop in beautiful downtown Avis, PA.
LIBERTY BOOK SHOP Linda Roller
Hours: Thursday & Friday 10-6, Saturday 10-3, or by appt.
“ Where yesterday’ s books are today’ s treasures.”
LibertyBookShop @ comcast. net www. thelibertybookshop. com
570-753-5201
Pawsitively Pets-- January 5