As cats age, their behavior and physical needs also change. So what can you do at home to take care of your older cat’s changing needs? Here are some important aspects to focus on:
Grooming
Your cat’s fur has lost its luster. She no longer grooms herself as often as she used to when she was younger. This change in your older cat’s grooming habits has resulted in matted and tangled fur. Arthritic joints may be to blame, making it hard for your cat to reach certain points of her body, thus the messy, dull fur coat. So, what can you do? Try spending some quality time with your cat by brushing her hair or using a grooming glove to bring back the shine in her fur.
Trim your cat’s nails, too
Try to do this when your cat feels tired or relaxed. As senior cats become less mobile, they might not wear their claws down as when they were younger. Also, take caution when trimming so you don’t trim too short as the claws of senior cats can look longer than they are because of their inability to retract their claws fully at this stage in their life.
Physical and Mental Stimulation
Talk to your vet to make sure that the activities you choose are safe and appropriate. You can provide new toys from time to time to pique your senior cat’s interest. You may also use food puzzles or you may provide treats inside puzzles that your cat has to play with to bring out the treat. You just have to be creative to be able to make the most out of your cat’s senior years.
Take a proactive approach to your pet’s health with regular health and wellness checks at your professional animal hospital Metairie, LA.
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