Caring for the Geriatric Cat

At times it feels like it happened overnight... It seems like yesterday when you welcomed a feisty little kitten to your home and now it is a senior cat dealing with the process of aging. Well, there is no reason why you shouldn't enjoy your geriatric cat and at the same time ensure that kitty's old age is golden indeed!

Cats age at a different pace depending on individual constitution and living conditions. Indoor cats with regular medical exams and vaccinations generally live longer than outdoor cats. For indoor kitties, the age of 10 marks the threshold into old age.

The aging process will bring about both physical and behavioral changes. Geriatric cats are less active, sleep more, and may eat and/or drink less. Their metabolism slows down and they may gain weight. Others may lose weight as they become finicky eaters. This may have to do with the decline in the sense of smell because of old age. Geriatric cats are also prone to certain conditions, hyperthyroidism being one of the most common. Hyperthyroidism is a major cause of weight loss in elderly kitties.

Old age may be inevitable, but it does not exclude good quality of life. There are things you can do to help your cat make a smooth transition into old age and keep enjoying his time with you.

First of all, if you notice any changes, say, in the cat's weight or sleep patterns, do not just chalk it up to old age. It may very well be, but you never know. Geriatric cats require regular checkups. What is more, these checkups need to be more in-depth than for younger kitties. Ask your vet about what extra tests may be necessary: e.g. blood panel, urine test, thyroid hormones. A checkup every six months is usually a good idea for the elderly cat.

You also need to make adjustments in your house and life to make your geriatric companion as comfortable as possible. For example, maybe this is not the best time to bring home a new kitten. Geriatric cats need warmth, peace and quiet, and a soothing sense of routine more than ever. Make sure your cat has warm places to sleep in: a heated pet bed could be just what the doctor ordered! Make sure he has easy access to the litter box and to a fresh supply of food and water. Our elderly cat used to love leaping up to the top of a bookcase in the living room, but he is not up to it anymore. How to make sure he would still have easy access to his favorite high place? We placed a multi-tiered cat tree (a "kitty condo") close to the bookcase. Problem solved!

Weight extremes can predispose to serious conditions (e.g. obesity predisposes to diabetes) or be a sign of a medical problem (e.g. weight loss despite increased appetite may point to increased thyroid activity). Consult your vet about all and any health concerns. Geriatric cats can be finicky eaters and sometimes warming up the food a bit is all it takes to entice them to eat. Again, your vet will help you put together an appropriate nutrition plan.

Above all, do not underestimate the value of grooming (what better way to combine a bonding activity with a health check?), play sessions (tailored to the needs and stamina of your elderly cat), patience, and companionship. Your geriatric kitty may be creaky and cranky now, but it wasn't always so. Infuse his care with all your loving memories of his lifetime as a special companion and friend. And if he gets tired of all your petting and cuddling (he is a cat after all!), stay assured that a treat of catnip will put the sparkle back in his eyes!