Domestic cats can live anywhere from 12 to 20 years, going through six different key life stages as your pet and companion. Much like a human, as a cat ages, their needs change. From visiting the vet more regularly, to providing extra support around the home, you may come to find your senior cat could use some additional modifications to benefit their overall wellbeing. Here is a guide to how to help your senior cat live most comfortably. 

How to Help Your Senior Cat Live a More Comfortable Life

1. Create a Senior Friendly Home Environment

If your cat is over 10 years old, a few small changes can be especially helpful around the house. Steps or ramps to higher places like the bed or couch give your cat access to their favorite perch without hurting them. Create multiple hubs around the house for food, water and litter so your furry friend doesn't have to go far to find what they need. 

Consider buying raised food and water bowls, especially if your cat has degenerative joint disease, to make mealtimes more comfortable. To cushion their joints and keep them warm while they sleep, provide extra padding and cozy blankets in places they like to rest. 

2. Help With Grooming 

As your kitty gets older, it may have a harder time taking care of itself. Grooming your cat can help them look and feel good. Gently brush your furry friend with a cat brush to remove excess fur and prevent matting. You'll likely to hear a lot of purring, but this grooming tool is also stimulating circulation, which helps keep a cat's skin and coat healthy. 

3. Pay Attention

Changes in habits and behaviors can be symptoms of an underlying issue. If your cat is eating or drinking more or less, showing disinterest in food or showing signs of increased or decreased elimination, your veterinarian should be made aware. The litter box can provide useful information about how your cat is feeling. It's important to notice if there are changes in the color or texture of their stool. Look at their skin for visible sores or swelling and take note of unusual behaviors like nausea, vomiting, decreased grooming, and accidents around the house. Let your vet know right away so they can determine if these symptoms are indicators of a more serious issue. 

When animal lovers in Florence, KY need reliable vet care, they turn to Florence Veterinary Hospital. Treating a wide range of animals for the last 30 years, this veterinary clinic prides itself on maintaining a comfortable and clean environment for its clients and pets. Senior veterinarians Daniel J. Davis, DVM, Paul A. Garofolo, DVM, and their skilled team offer a bounty of impressive and diverse experience that allows them to provide cutting-edge treatments and the highest level of care. To see a full list of pet services, visit their website or call (859) 371-6501 to schedule an appointment.