As cats age, their habits and needs change. Senior cats may move slower, sleep more, and have different appetites. It can be emotional watching your once playful kitten grow older, but this stage is just as meaningful and full of love. 

With the right care, love, and nutrition, your senior cat can stay healthy and happy for years. Here are simple senior cat care tips from Pet Express to help you understand how to care for a senior cat and make their golden years more comfortable.

Understanding Senior Cat Needs

Cats are considered seniors around 10 years old, though some might show signs of aging earlier. As they grow older, their bodies slow down and they become more prone to health problems. Here are common signs of aging in cats:

• Less activity or stiffness: Possible signs of arthritis or joint pain.

• Weight changes: Unexplained loss or gain may point to thyroid or kidney issues.

• Dental problems: Bad breath or difficulty eating could mean tooth decay or gum disease.

• Changes in hearing or vision: Senior cats may start bumping into things or ignoring sounds.

• Weaker immune system: They may get sick more easily or take longer to recover.

Recognizing these signs helps you adjust your senior cat’s care and daily routine.

Dietary Changes for Aging Cats

Nutrition plays a key role in senior cat care. Older cats need food that supports their health, muscles, and energy without adding extra fat.

• Choose special cat food for seniors: Look for high-protein and low-fat cat food options. These give them energy without making them too heavy. Brands like Whiskas Cat Food offer senior cat food that supports energy and digestion.

• Offer wet cat food for senior cats: Many older cats can get dehydrated, especially if their kidneys aren't working great. Wet cat food helps with hydration and is easier to chew. Try the best canned food for senior cats or the best wet food for senior cats available in the Philippines.
  

• Feed smaller, frequent meals: This helps digestion and keeps energy levels steady.

• Keep them hydrated: Make sure your older cat drinks enough water. You can encourage them to drink more by placing several water bowls or investing in a cat water fountain.

• Add senior cat supplements: For extra help, give them vet-approved supplements made for older cats that support joints, heart, and immune health. 

Remember to always talk to your vet before changing diets or adding supplements. Pet Express offers a great selection of senior cat foods and supplements to help keep your pet healthy as they get older.

Regular Veterinary Checkups

Senior cats need more frequent visits to the vet to stay healthy. A routine check-up at the vet twice a year helps detect problems early. 

During these checkups for older cats, the vet will likely look at a few things, such as their weight, joint health, eyes, heart, lungs, and dental hygiene. Often, they'll suggest doing some blood and urine tests to check important organs like the kidneys, liver, and thyroid.

Read more: Love Your Pet? Insure them too! | Pet Dog and Cat Insurance

Creating a Comfortable Home Environment

Older cats love a comfortable home where they feel safe and can move around easily. Make your home easy and cozy for your senior cat:

• Provide soft, warm beds to ease joint pressure. Pick a bed for pets that are fluffy and can be washed.

• Place litter boxes and food bowls within easy reach (no climbing or jumping needed).

• Use ramps or steps for cats who love high spots.

• Keep their area quiet and draft-free for stress-free rest.
  
  

Recognizing Signs of Health Issues

It's really important to watch your older cat's behavior closely because changes can mean they have health problems. Some common things to look out for include:

• Eating or drinking less (or more than usual)

• Sudden weight loss or gain

• Trouble walking or jumping

• Bad breath or drooling

• Hiding, aggression, or unusual mood changes

• Litter box accidents or constipation

These may be signs of arthritis, kidney disease, dental problems, or other common senior cat issues. If you see any of these signs, take your cat to the vet right away. Catching problems early and treating them can stop your cat from hurting and make them feel better overall.

The Takeaway

Caring for a senior cat means being patient and making small adjustments. With special cat food, regular vet visits, and a cozy home, your cat can enjoy their later years in comfort. Whether you’re learning how to feed a senior cat, how to exercise a senior cat, or what the best cat food is, consistency is key.

To help you, Pet Express is here with a wide range of senior cat essentials. From cat food to supplements and pet supplies, we carry the best selection for older cats and even dogs. Visit Pet Express today to stock up on pet essentials and give your senior cats the care they need!

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FAQs

1. At what age is a cat considered old?

Most cats are old at around 10 years, but some might show signs of aging as early as 7 or 8.

2. How often should I take my old cat to the vet?

Senior cats should see the vet at least twice a year to check for age-related health problems and catch issues early.

3. What kind of food is best for old cats?

Older cats need food with high-quality, easily digestible protein and moderate fat, along with added vitamins and minerals. Wet food also helps them stay hydrated.

4. How can I make my home more comfortable for my old cat?

Give them soft, warm beds, litter boxes with low sides, and easy access to food and water. Keep their space quiet and calm.

5. What are the first signs of health problems in older cats?

Look for changes in how much they eat, their weight, energy, litter box use, or how they groom themselves. These can signal common old cat problems like arthritis, kidney disease, or teeth issues.