Oldies but Goodies
Feline Golden Years
This conversation provides tips on how to care for senior cats, focusing on reducing anxiety, providing warmth and support, and ensuring easy access to litter boxes. It includes DIY tips as well as recommendations for specific products like raised food and water bowls, heated cat beds, and low-entry litter boxes. The author, a professional cat sitter, shares her personal experiences and knowledge based on caring for hundreds of cats over the past 20 years.
Based on the provided source, Sandee Edelman, owner of Sandee's Kitty Sitting Service in Brooklyn, earns from qualifying purchases made through affiliate links on this website.
How old are geriatric kitties? At 12 cats earn their senior status.
As our kitties age there are few things we can help these oldies but goodies with.
#1 - Reduce their anxiety.
DIY
Maintain consistency in surroundings and daily routines.
Most cats do not tolerate change well. Especially older kitties who may suffer from increased separation anxiety and cognitive decline.
#2 - Raise their bowls.
Reaching down into a bowl can be more challenging for senior felines. Elevating their bowls allows them to maintain an upright posture. This also helps with their digestion, whisker fatigue(yes it’s a thing), and less mess. Shallow stainless or ceramic eating bowls are best. Plastic is not good this material scratches easily and holds bacteria.
DIY
You can place an old book covered in foil(or anything you can clean actually) under a feeding or drinking bowl.
My kitties love these wide raised/tilted ceramic bowls and very easy to clean. I have two sets for times when I want to throw them in the dishwasher. Super affordable.
Just for Drinking:
DIY
I like a fat/tall vase filled to the brim with water. It will need to be cleaned thoroughly with warm water and soap daily and filled to the brim.
Water fountains…
Or try a raised water fountain. This one is off the charts. Sleek looking and quiet too. Worth the moola.
Super easy to setup, clean, and setup to Wi-Fi(yep crazy town!). This fountain monitors your cat’s drinking habits. You will be notified and be able to track when your kitty takes a sip, or when the water is low or filter need cleaning/ replacing. New world.
#3 – Give them support & warmth for their older bodies.
Older kitties tend to lose their body fat and muscle mass. They love warm, supportive cozy situations.
DIY
Blanket in a Box
Find your softest warm blanket, fold it in a way that allows them to put their entire bodies on it and put it in a box big with a large enough space to feel supported but that they can sink into it a little.
Heated Cat Bed & Carrier
This is an all in one…heated cat bed & carrier. The heating pad can be removed for hot summer months, along with the faux fur lining. It is round so cats love the curve for their bodies. The lining is washable. I usually remove the lining, vacuum out any excess fur and throw it in the washer/dryer once a month.
It is great as a carrier too. The top zips on and has a nice opening on the top to slip cats into. Great design too. Simple and modern so looks good pretty much anywhere. Many colors.
My female kitty Bouie lived to be 22 years old. She spent the last 3 years inside her Sleepy Pod. When we euthanized her, we had the vet come to our home and do so right in her Sleepy Pod. Very peaceful.
Cozy Cat Bed
For a less expensive option, this cat bed is nice too. Wash it weekly and move it wherever…couch, bed, even carrier for travel. When I have guests over, I move it into my room so the kitties are more apt to sleep in my room.
#4 – Be sure they can easily get into litter boxes are able to find them.
*Vet Alert…there may be some underlying health issues that prevents your geriatric cat from getting to the litter box in time every time…so it is worth a visit to the vet first.
Sometimes a cat will associate pain with getting in and out of the litter box due to arthritis, degenerative joint disease, or spinal conditions(sucks getting old!). So they may find another place to eliminate if where there isn’t as much discomfort.
DIY
Be patient with accidents.
Senior Litter Box
This litter box is what is referred to as a low entry litterbox. It is easier for elderly cats to get into than other higher lipped boxes, and it is sturdy, but lightweight so its’s also easy to lift and clean. There are two sizes. The large is kind of too large, but depends on how big your cat is. Comes in so many pretty colors too.
They also may not be able to get to the litter box in time due to bladder tone. Especially if climbing stairs are involved. You may need to have one on every floor.
….but since its very low some litter may fall out. So don’t add too much litter at a time and buy it in conjunction with this cat litter mat that is bar none the best of them all and affordable.(the small size is perfect for the recommended box above.
Consistent Litter Box Spot & Scent(in a private, low traffic area)
Cats with decreased vision often memorize the location of important things like food bowls, safe napping spots, and their litter box. Cats also depend a great deal on their sense of smell which can decrease with age.
DIY
Keep their litter box in the same spot and always leave one recent deposit in to help find it by scent. That said, otherwise, keep it very clean.
Scented Litter
This litter is my ‘go to’ for anyone having issues with their cats going outside of the litter box. Most cats just can’t resist it even if they are tempted to go elsewhere. They may also benefit from a litter with a distinct odor. You can mix a little in with their normal litter to see if it is helpful.
https://www.instacart.com/products/77393-tidy-cats-clumping-small-spaces-cat-litter-20-lb
Review of Recommendations
Reducing Anxiety:
Consistency is key: Maintain stable surroundings and routines, especially for older cats prone to separation anxiety and cognitive decline. Avoid frequent changes in furniture placement or daily schedules.
Physical Support and Comfort:
Elevated Bowls: Raise food and water bowls to help senior cats maintain an upright eating posture, aiding digestion and reducing whisker fatigue. Use stainless steel or ceramic over plastic due to hygiene concerns.
Warmth and Support: Give them warm, cozy spaces . Provide soft blankets and comfortable beds.
Litter Box Accessibility:
Underlying Health Issues: Consult a vet for potential medical reasons behind litter box avoidance, such as arthritis or spinal conditions.
Low-Entry Litter Boxes: For senior cats with mobility issues, use low-entry litter boxes to minimize strain and discomfort.
Consistent Placement and Scent: To assist cats with declining vision and smell, keep the litter box in a consistent location and leaving a recent deposit for scent recognition.
FAQ
How can I reduce my older cat's anxiety?
Cats, especially older ones, thrive on routine. Maintaining consistent surroundings and daily routines can significantly reduce anxiety, especially as they may be experiencing increased separation anxiety and cognitive decline.
Why should I raise my senior cat's food and water bowls?
As cats age, reaching down to eat and drink can become challenging. Elevating their bowls helps them maintain an upright posture, aids digestion, reduces whisker fatigue, and minimizes messes. Using shallow, easy-to-clean bowls made of stainless steel or ceramic is recommended. Avoid plastic bowls as they can harbor bacteria.
What are some ways to provide warmth and support for my aging cat's body?
Senior cats often lose body fat and muscle mass, making them more sensitive to cold. Providing warm, soft bedding in cozy, enclosed spaces like boxes or rounded beds can provide comfort and support. Consider heated cat beds, especially during colder months.
How can I make the litter box more accessible for my senior cat?
Arthritis and other age-related conditions can make accessing a standard litter box painful. Opt for a low-entry litter box, which is easier for them to enter and exit. Additionally, ensure the litter box is in a convenient location, especially if your cat has mobility issues.
Why does my older cat sometimes have accidents outside the litter box?
Several factors can contribute to litter box accidents in senior cats. Underlying health issues, decreased bladder control, difficulty accessing the box due to pain or mobility issues, or even cognitive decline can all play a role. Consult your vet to rule out any medical concerns.
How can I help my multiple cats, including a senior, get along?
Litter box management is crucial for maintaining harmony between cats. Ensure you have enough litter boxes (one per cat plus one extra) that are easily accessible and cleaned regularly. Using a high-quality, low-dust litter can also help.
Are there any products that can help reduce conflict between my cats?
Cat pheromone diffusers or sprays can be helpful in reducing stress and encouraging a harmonious environment. These products mimic natural feline facial pheromones, signaling safety and familiarity to cats.
How can I keep my senior cat active and engaged?
Play is important for cats of all ages, even seniors. Engage your older cat in gentle play sessions using toys like lasers, feather wands, or even puzzle feeders. Adjust the intensity and duration of play based on your cat's abilities and energy levels.