Today we want to talk to you about our feline companions. Specifically, about them when they grow older. Because while in the wild a cat's life expectancy ranges from four to five years (although there are, of course, exceptions), when it lives with a family and is well cared for, our ARISTOCAT can grow very old. And become an old-timer, so to speak.
As at any other stage of life, a senior cat has specific needs that we must meet. We must care for them diligently, feed them properly, give them more affection than ever, and let them rest. Naturally, this is not about breaking longevity records, but about making them feel good so they can live this stage in the best possible conditions. After an entire life together, it is the least we can do for them.
So, we are sharing some advice with you to make things easier when the time comes.
1. Provide appropriate medical care. Older cats require more veterinary checkups. In addition to annual examinations and vaccinations, it is advisable to talk to your veterinarian about geriatric screening tests: blood tests (to assess kidney and thyroid function), urinalysis and a cardiac examination, as well as monitoring their weight and general physical condition.
2. Try to keep them active. Obesity and arthritis are two of the most common problems in older cats. That is why it is important for them to exercise regularly. Play with your cat. Get them moving.
3. Make sure they stick to their daily routine. This is essential for their physical, mental, and emotional health, and for combating cognitive decline. An extremely sad phenomenon.
4. Look after their coat. As part of this routine, you can give them a special grooming session every week. Your cat may become less agile over time, and this care will stimulate them and help massage their stiff joints.
5. Check their teeth and gums. Poor oral health can affect their appetite and the way they eat. That is why it is important for the veterinarian to provide your cat with regular dental care, as older cats are more vulnerable to gum disease and tartar buildup.
6. Proper nutrition. The nutritional needs of senior cats change. In general, from the age of seven, cats become less active and have a slower metabolism, so they need fewer calories. However, at this age it is more important than ever to give the animal high-quality, easily digestible proteins so they can maintain good overall health.
Food for older cats is formulated to reflect the changes in their nutritional needs and habits. This way, your cat will continue to fully enjoy their meals. At ARISTOSHOP you will find the best dry and wet food for this stage of their life. Also remember that senior cats need to drink more, so keep plenty of fresh water within their reach and change it frequently.
7. Take their physiological needs into account. As they age, cats tend to relieve themselves outside the litter box. That is why it is advisable to change the litter in their box more often and use a larger but shallower box to make it easier for them to access.
8. Take care of the comfort of the home. When it is cold, we must keep them warm, whether with an additional heating system, a radiator bed, or the old trick of placing a hot-water bottle under their bed. For the same reason, when it is hot we must also protect them, since, just as with people, cats are more susceptible to extreme temperatures in old age. It is also advisable to keep the cat's environment enriched so they can live as they always have. Here we give you the key tips.
We hope these tips make it easier for you to face this stage. It is neither better nor worse, just different. And whatever happens, your love and respect for your ARISTOCAT should come first. Until the very last day.