- PET HEALTH HIGHLIGHTS- Senior Cat Care
- PET HEALTH HIGHLIGHTS- Senior Cat Care
If your cat is 10 years old or older, she ' s officially a senior kitty with changing needs. As her best friend, you need to take action to be sure she enjoys her old age. Here are some easy and sensible ways to help make that happen:
1) See your vet regularly.
Once your cat ' s golden years begin, his wellness and nutritional needs can change every six months. That ' s why you need to bring him to the veterinarian at least twice a year. During those visits, you need to report any changes in behavior you may have noticed, since that could provide clues to your feline ' s overall health. Expect the vet to continually take blood, stool, and urine samples at each visit, to compare results and get clues to issues that may crop up.
2) Minimize stress.
As cats get older, they get extra stressed when forced to deal with anything different or new, outside of their normal routine. Cats do decline as they get older, and should, if possible, be surrounded by a calm atmosphere.
3) Increase protein.
Dietary changes come with age, and for older kitties, that means more protein. And that protein should be easily digestible and moist, so that it ' s easier for older cats to process. And be aware that older cats need more water- place several water bowls around the house- and keep them full.
4) Consider supplements.
Not just vitamins, but a holistic miracle food known as SAMe should be a daily part of your older cat ' s intake. SAMe improves mobility, keeps your feline ' s mind sharp, and helps several internal organs. Other holistic treatments like melatonin, milk thistle, and dandelion are also recommended- but always talk to your vet before giving your cat any herbs or supplements to be sure it ' s safe.
5) Increase physical and mental activity.
It ' s normal as you get older- you just sleep more. But if you want your cat to stay healthy, consider massage- it will keep your cat ' s muscles toned, improve circulation, and lessen muscle soreness.
6) Spend time with your best friend.
Your bond with your cat is strong- and you know him / her well. So in the time you have to spend, make sure to plan activities you know your feline will like- brushing and grooming, playing, petting, and time for being lazy and just sleeping in your lap.
Most cats are not exactly known for wearing their hearts on their sleeve. They may not show it, but it ' s safe to assume they will appreciate the efforts you make to keep them comfortable in their senior years. And you will certainly feel better knowing you provided the very best care for your aging pet.
Pawsitively Pets-- June
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