How To Care For an Elderly Cat
- March 19, 2009
- 4,416 Views
from
Kevin Veselka
(and 7 others) Subscribe
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Writer
Ann_Hodgman
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Director
Kevin Veselka
- Cat Owner Joel Nott
- Vet Sue Veselka
- Beloved Elderly Cat Bella
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Music
James Panepinto
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Voice Over Artist
Ryan Hunter
Life expectancy has increased dramatically for cats. They routinely live into their late teens, and as a result, might need a little more help than when they were younger.
You Will Need
- A beloved elderly cat
- Pet stairs or materials to make a ramp
- A cat brush or comb
- A veterinarian
- Fresh water
- An extra dose of TLC
Step 1: Build ramps or stairs
Older cats are less active and have trouble reaching things, so build ramps or buy pet stairs to help Kitty onto his favorite chair or windowsill.
Step 2: Schedule checkups
Schedule veterinary checkups every 6 months.
Ask your vet whether you should change your aging kitty’s diet. For instance, some older cats do better on a diet of canned food.
Step 3: Keep cat away from drafts
Make sure eating, sleeping, and litter areas are in cozy spots throughout the home, far from any drafts. Older cats feel the cold more easily than youngsters.
Step 4: Groom cat
Self-grooming habits may take a hit as your kitty’s joints become stiff. Remove loose hair and stimulate circulation by brushing or combing your cat once a week.
Approach a cat with hearing problems from the front to avoid startling him.
Step 5: Keep fresh water within reach
Kidney function often declines in an older cat. Keep fresh water within easy reach.
If your cat seems to drink and urinate much more than usual, schedule a vet appointment. Kidney medication can be very helpful.
Step 6: Keep cats indoors
Be extra vigilant about keeping older cats indoors—the sad truth is that some older cats go out and don’t come back.
Step 7: Give him attention
Though your cat may not be as frisky or playful as he once was, he needs your love just as much as ever. Take time to give him extra attention—and lift him onto your lap for a cuddle if he can’t jump as well these days.
Cats were considered sacred in ancient Egypt, and many pet cats were mummified—sometimes with a handful of embalmed mice by their sides.
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Comments (6)
This cat is beautiful and a talented actor!
over 2 years ago by theprohouse
I couldn't agree more!
over 2 years ago by HeatherMenicucci
very sweet video
over 2 years ago by texcuda
See the above comment.....I don't understand all these internets. Too many internets.
over 2 years ago by kevinveselka
That's because I dipped it in sugar!
over 2 years ago by kevinveselka
Awww ... such a lovely how-to video.
about 1 year ago by musik3r
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