Cats start getting old at 8 to 10 years of age. From this moment on, our felines need more care than before, in terms of diet as well as of hygiene. As they’re much more delicate as they get older, they should be taken to the vet frequently, for a proper check-out. Follow our tips and taking care of your old ball of fur will be easy as pie!
Due to degenerative processes, old felines have surely more health issues than younger cats, although their lifestyle and the environmental conditions they have lived in also play a significant role on how they age – exactly as it happens with us humans.
The main problems that cats face as they get old are intestinal inflammation, teeth problems, cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, pancreatitis, cancer, loss of sight and of hearing.
How should we take care of our elderly felines?
1) KEEP THEIR DIET UNDER CONTROL. When Mimi gets old, she’ll need nutrients and reinforcement substances that are usually not available in the food she had been eating up to now, so it’s a good idea to change her eating habits. The secret is to give her small portions of food several times a day. It’s better to choose dry foods that contain proteins, phosphorus and the proper amount of fats. It’s super important to have her drink plenty of fresh water, to make sure she’s always hydrated.
2) ORAL HYGIENE FTW! As they get older, their teeth become weaker and accumulate plaque more easily, which may result in mouth diseases. With the help of her veterinarian first, and then by yourself, brush your cat’s teeth every day with a specific toothpaste.
3) BRUSH HER FUR. When a cat has a health condition or infection of any kind, her fur is the first part of her body that will show alterations. In addition, arthrosis-related pains often keep them from going through their normal grooming routine, which is usually very meticulous. This is why it’s a good idea to help her by brushing her often using a soft brush and cleaning her coat with special wipes at least once a week.
4) ADAPT YOUR HOME TO HER NEEDS. As they get older, cats may lose their sight, so it’s better to clear your home from scattered objects that might hinder her movements and hurt her or cause her to trip. Her own objects (bowl, cushion, litterbox) should always be left in the same place, to make sure she can find them whenever she needs them.
With a bit of effort and some TLC your old cat will live through her last years with placid serenity!