Senior Care

Putting a cat to sleep is a heart breaking thought, and a time that any pet owner dreads, but at some stage you may have to consider this as the kindest option for your cat. For example, this may happen if their quality of life is suffering due to illness, injury or old age, and there’s no sign of them getting better. Making the decision Knowing when to put a cat down is always difficult and intensely personal. In making the decision, you have to weigh up your own desire to spend a little longer with them against your cat’s best interests. Unless they’ve been in a serious accident, you may have a bit of time to think things through, and we always recommend you talk to family and friends and consult your vet as part of the process. Unlike other animals, including humans, cats often hide their pain - but as their owner you will usually know when they’re acting out of character, and your vet’s knowledge and experience will be invaluable. Ultimately the decision to put your cat to sleep will be yours, but remember that sometimes the kindest thing can be to let them go, especially if their quality of life is suffering. However hard the decision is for you, it will be equally tough for your family, particularly if you have children. It will come as less of a shock if you can all sit down and discuss the decision together, being honest about your reasons and what it will mean for everyone, including your beloved pet. Of course it will be an upsetting conversation but it can help children come to terms with what’s happened later if they understand that your decision is based on putting your cat’s needs first.

From around the age of seven you’ll notice that your older cat starts taking life a bit easier - and who can blame them! A senior cat may start to become less active, spend more time indoors and have a slower metabolism. These can all add up to them putting on weight. Equally, as they reach their geriatric years, illness and a reduction in their sense of taste and smell can affect their appetites, which will have an impact on their body condition. As felines get older, their nutritional requirements start to change. And as your cat will spend roughly 40% of their life as a senior, it's important that you give them the right food to stay in good shape. In their senior years, more than ever, your cat should eat a high quality, tasty diet with easy-to-digest protein and a careful balance of key nutrients. A good senior cat diet provides concentrated high quality protein, controlled levels of fat, and easy-to-digest carbohydrates for energy. Key minerals support ageing joints, and vitamins, along with proteins, help support the ageing immune system.

As more cats are living longer, owners and vets get more frequently confronted with age-related problems such as cat dementia. We’ve rounded up the most common signs and ways to keep your senior cat comfortable. Our cats are now living longer than ever before and there is no better news for owners looking to spend extra years with their lovely feline companions. But prolonged lives also come with increased prevalence of senior cat health problems and cat dementia can be one of them.

You might have noticed that your cat is napping more, can’t jump as high as they used to or isn’t chasing a piece of string with as much energy as they did before. These are all normal as a cat approaches their senior years – like us, they’ll want to slow down a little as they get older! Cats are usually classed to be of a senior age from around seven years old, but this can vary slightly depending on your cats breed and other factors. Diet, fitness and any medical issues all contribute towards the expected lifespan of a senior cat. Even though they may seem a little calmer than when they were a young moggy, the later years that you share with your cat should still be as fun, loving and rewarding as ever. Our team of Pet Care Experts offer guidance and tips on how to make the most of your cats twilight years, for the both of you.

Is your cat lethargic with a reduced appetite? There are many possible causes for these symptoms, but pancreatitis in cats is one to be aware of. Find out more about this condition including its diagnosis and management. The pancreas is one of the organs in the abdomen. It has roles in digestion and also produces insulin to help control blood sugar levels after eating. Pancreatitis in cats refers to inflammation of this organ, and is a more common disease than previously thought. This guide will help you to notice possible symptoms of pancreatitis and find out more about the condition. What is pancreatitis in cats? The pancreas makes digestive enzymes which help to break down food. In a healthy pancreas, these enzymes are not activated until they have reached the small intestine. In a cat with pancreatitis the enzymes become activated while they are still in the pancreas, leading to self-digestion and inflammation of the organ. What are the symptoms of pancreatitis in cats? The symptoms of pancreatitis in cats can be more subtle than those of pancreatitis in dogs, which is a more commonly diagnosed condition. Symptoms generally include non-specific signs such as dehydration, loss of appetite, weight loss or lethargy. What causes pancreatitis in cats? The initial trigger for feline pancreatitis is not fully known and is likely to vary between individuals. There is evidence that a range of underlying causes could be responsible such as infectious disease, other inflammatory illnesses, or trauma.

Cat seizures have many causes and can often occur quite suddenly. Find out what you can do to make the experience less stressful for you and your pet. Cat seizures can be a symptom of many different diseases but are one of the more?unusual illness symptoms?in cats. It can be alarming the first time your cat has a seizure, but by following the advice set out in this article, we hope you’ll have the confidence to remain calm and seek veterinary advice when necessary. Keep reading to find out more about cat seizures and epilepsy. What are cat seizures? Cat seizures manifest as unusual behaviours such as collapse, twitching, gnashing of the teeth and tremors. During a seizure, there are sudden, abnormal electrical impulses that disrupt the normal processes in the brain. This can result in nerve stimulation elsewhere in the body, resulting in the unusual behaviours that are often associated with seizures. Seizures in cats are a sign of abnormal brain functioning and are not actually a disease diagnosis in itself. However, seizures can also be caused by problems other than brain abnormalities. Kidney problems, liver disease or low sugar levels can also lead to seizures in cats. There are various categories of seizure, and often an episode will be considered generalised or partial. A generalised seizure involves both halves of the brain, whereas a partial seizure will involve a specific brain region. What is cat epilepsy? Cat epilepsy is a condition characterised by seizures that happen repeatedly and are caused by disruptions in brain activity. If your pet has experienced a single episode in their life, they are unlikely to be diagnosed with cat epilepsy. Epilepsy in cats should not be confused with the genetic condition called idiopathic epilepsy which usually affects both dogs and humans, but is a fairly rare illness in felines. Idiopathic epilepsy also manifests through seizures, but in this case, no abnormalities can be detected in the brain or anywhere else in the body. Cat seizure symptoms The signs of a cat seizure will vary depending on the cause and type of episode. General seizures typically have a sudden onset and last up to three minutes. They can be alarming to watch as you might see symptoms such as shaking, loss of consciousness, twitching, or urination.

It’s a sad reality that our furry friends are prone to getting some of the same diseases as us, and that includes cancer. Cancer in cats is less common than it is in dogs, but when they develop it it’s more likely to be fatal. Learn what to be on the lookout for and how to catch it early with our guide. Cancer in cats is an unfortunate reality that can affect our feline friends. While it’s less common than it is for dogs to get cancer, when cats develop the mutation it’s more likely to be serious as they’re masters of hiding their discomfort, therefore it’s often caught later. If you suspect your cat has cancer, it can be a truly scary time and you may fear that you might lose your pet. To help you help your pet, we’ve put together this guide to tell you everything you need to know about cat cancer symptoms and treatments. What is a tumour and when is it cancerous? A tumour is an uncontrolled growth of cells that forms a lump. Sometimes these lumps can disrupt organs and make them not function properly and when this happens, it can be incredibly serious for your pet. There are two types of tumours – benign and malignant. Benign tumours stay where they are first formed, meaning they are not actually cancerous and are generally relatively straightforward to treat, depending on the placement. The other type of tumour is called a malignant tumour, these are cancerous and can be aggressive and invasive as they spread throughout the body. These types can be serious and may be quite difficult to treat. Types of cancer in cats It may surprise you to learn that our cats can actually suffer from many of the same cancers as humans. A few of the most common types of cancer in cats are as follows:

Senior cats may not be as active as they once were, but that does not mean that they do not want to play. Play is a necessary part of all pet lifestyles and it has important health benefits. All you need to do is better tailor the toys you buy them to their age and their needs, and you will have one happy cat! In this article, we’ll talk you through the best toys for senior cats and what to keep in mind when you play with your older cat. Factors to consider when playing with a senior cat As cats grow older, they naturally lose some of the energy and enthusiasm they had when they were kittens. A senior cat is usually one who is between 11 years and 15 years of age. Such cats may be slower, more lethargic and get tired more quickly. Here are some factors to consider when planning playtime with your cat. Pre-existing conditions that your cat may have When choosing what the best toys for your senior cat may be, it’s important to bear in mind any pre-existing health problems they may have. Cats who have weak hearts may not be able to run and jump so much, and it may be dangerous for them to get overexcited. Similarly, you may have to plan different play routines for cats with diabetes. Joint pain As your cat grows older, their joints may begin to hurt. Such cats may not be able to take too much strain on their joints. Running quickly or leaping especially may be out of the question. Energy levels Senior cats naturally have lower energy levels than kittens. Account for this when choosing toys, as it would not be wise to buy a toy that requires a lot of running and jumping and then have your cat be unable to play with it.

As your cat grows and ages, over time they may become a little less agile than before. With older cats you might see a drop off in physical activity and an increase in sleeping. While your cat may be in overall great shape for their age, it’s important to look out for any signs of joint problems and arthritis. This condition does affect cats and can be very uncomfortable, so keep on the lookout for the signs of cat arthritis. What is arthritis in cats? Arthritis is a condition that occurs as their joints naturally age and the cartilage material between the bones deteriorates and reduces in flexibility. This causes the bones in their joints to rub together, resulting in stiffness and pain. Arthritis in cats is quite common and according to Cats Protection, around 80% of cats over the age of 10 have some form of the disease. What causes arthritis in cats? Arthritis in cats is caused when damage occurs to your cat’s joints, making them painful to move. Most commonly, arthritis in cats is a result of the ageing process as the cartilage between the joints deteriorates and reduces in flexibility. However, younger cats can also get arthritis if they have suffered from an injury or infection in the joint. The most common type of arthritis in cats is osteoarthritis, which happens as a result of repeated wear and tear of joints, and can also develop as a result of a previous injury.

When adopting a cat, don't automatically count out older cats. There are numerous benefits to adopting an older kitty, they're much better suited to those with a busy lifestyle, among other things! Keep reading to learn more reasons why you should consider adopting an older cat. If you're thinking of rehoming a cat, don't automatically opt for the usual cute, fluffy kitten. Although we all love these tiny bundles of fun, there are so many benefits to adopting an older cat that many have never considered. A more senior cat may very well be a better fit for a busy lifestyle and will come home with an established, unique personality already fully formed. In shelters, black cats take around 13% longer to find a new home than other cats. It isn't fully understood why this is the case, but the statistics speak for themselves: cats that are black in colour are less likely to find their forever home. Here's just some of the exclusive benefits that come with adopting an older cat, and why and whywelcoming a senior feline into your home could be so much more rewarding for owners looking to rehome a pet. Why adopt an older cat? Just like humans, cats take some time to establish their personality: their likes and dislikes, particular behaviours, preferred routine and adorable character quirks. When adopting a kitten, it will take over a year for the full strength of their personality to shine through. After all, they need to get through those troublesome teenage 'years' too! On the other hand, ashelter will be able to tell you all about the personality of their senior residents. Finding the right fit for your own family and lifestyle will become so much easier when adopting an older cat, as both parties already know what they want out of the relationship. So,if you’re still debating whether to look forsenior cats for adoption, here are some of the reasons why cats in their golden age might make the perfect pet:

Understanding Your Senior Cat's Grooming Needs As cats age, they may face several grooming challenges. Common age-related health issues such as arthritis or becoming overweight can reduce their flexibility and so make self-grooming much more difficult for them. This can lead to dandruff, unkempt fur and unhealthy skin. Other conditions, such as hyperthyroidism, diabetes, and kidney issues, can also affect a cat's coat and skin. Older cats with these conditions may require extra care to remove dead hair and manage excess skin oil, preventing matting. It’s also common to see changes in their coat texture and skin health as cats age. Some ageing cats have an increase in the naturally produced oils from their skin, which can cause mats – often at the base of their tail and up their back. A sudden reduction in your cat’s self-grooming is always a cause for concern – especially if they are usually fastidious. It could indicate mouth or dental problems, pain or disease, and you should always contact your vet. Top Tip: Look for signs that your senior cat may need help grooming themself. These can include matted fur, dandruff, an unkempt appearance, itchiness, or increased hairballs. If your cat seems to be starting to have issues to grooming themself, it's time to step in and help them. Brushing Your Senior Cat Regular cat brushing will help maintain the health of your senior cat's coat, especially if they are not quite as efficient at keeping themselves clean and tidy as they were in younger days. Some long-haired cats and certain breeds often require extra grooming, especially as they age. Brushing will help to remove loose hair, prevent matting, and stimulate the skin, promoting better circulation and the distribution of natural oils. All cat owners should spend time grooming their cats when they are younger and getting them used to being brushed. This is a great bonding opportunity, enjoyable for both you and your cat, and prepares them for their more senior years when you will need to give them additional grooming help. As your cat ages, they may become less active, and it is easy for boredom to set in. Grooming your cat is a wonderful social opportunity when your cat needs companionship and interaction. Top Tips Use a gentle approach when brushing your senior cat especially if they are not used to being brushed. As a cat ages, their skin becomes thinner and more delicate so it is important to find a soft brush that will be comfortable for your cat and make grooming enjoyable. Start with short periods of grooming, brushing only the areas your cat enjoys (so avoiding face, paws, stomach etc) and gradually increase brushing time as your cat becomes more comfortable. Once they are more comfortable with you brushing them, you can start to venture into more sensitive areas. Avoid forcibly restraining your cat. If they are not enjoying it, or if the interaction becomes too intense for them, let them leave. You want to teach them that grooming is pleasurable and not an ordeal. Always brush in the direction of hair growth to avoid causing discomfort. Brushing long-haired cats requires even more attention, as they are prone to getting tangles and mats. Mats refer to clumps of tangled fur that form when a cat's hair becomes knotted and intertwined. They can be uncomfortable or even painful for the cat, leading to skin irritation or infections if not properly managed. It is important to not let these form as they can be difficult and uncomfortable to remove. Use a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle any knots and follow up with a soft brush to smooth the coat. Regular brushing will keep their fur looking beautiful and healthy – and prevent mats before they form. Nail Trimming and Claw Care With reduced exercise and activity – especially in outdoor cats – you can often begin to see excessive claw growth.. Regular cat claw trimming is essential to prevent overgrown nails, leading to pain, difficulty walking, and getting claws stuck in soft furnishings which can be distressing and cause injury. Not only that, but over-grown sharp claws can cause injury to their more delicate skin – and to yours! Keeping your cat's nails at a manageable length is a key aspect of their overall health. The very best thing you can do is to take steps to prevent claws getting overgrown in the first place and to help your cat with their own claw care. Older cats are less active and may be spending more time indoors or in certain rooms. Here are some tips to make the experience as stress-free as possible: Have scratching posts/opportunities in various places in your home to replace any reduced outdoor favorites. If they have an outdoor catio, make sure there are scratching opportunities there too. Encourage indoor claw care – in appropriate places. Spend time finding out what kind of surfaces your cat prefers to use for their pawdicures. Some like wood, while others enjoy sisal, cardboard, or carpet. Most cats like vertical scratchers whereas others, especially if stiff or with reduced mobility, might find something horizontal easier. The easier access scratching opportunities your older cat has, the more they are likely to continue their own claw care even if they have reduced mobility. Encourage scratching in these areas by putting them in places where your cat has easy access, often grooms, where they feel comfortable, or where they play. You can use catnip to encourage them – or treats if that is their preference. While most cats can manage their own claw care, there may be times when they need a little extra help. If your cat travels well, consider having a vet nurse trim their claws. They are experts at doing this quickly and stress-free. However, if your cat finds travel stressful, you might need to do it yourself. Before trying to trim your cat's claws, a few preparations are necessary for a successful and stress-free experience. Get your cat used to having their paws handled by gently stroking them during grooming or relaxed moments. Gradually increase the duration, holding their paw briefly. If they seem worried or pull away, slow down. Get someone to teach you how to do it first. Ask your vet nurse or a local groomer to show you how to clip claws and, ideally have a go yourself under supervision. This will make you much more confident – and far quicker – when you clip your own cat’s claws. Prepare Your Tools: Make sure you use purpose cat clippers (not your own) and have everything to hand before you start. Close doors and windows – and if you have someone with you your cat knows and trusts, an extra pair of hands can be helpful. Choose the ideal time: Trim your cat's nails when they are relaxed and calm – and ideally sleepy. Make sure they are comfortable but, in a place, you can keep them secure. Gently Hold the Paw: Hold your cat's paw and apply gentle pressure to extend the nails. Don’t squeeze them as this will be uncomfortable or even painful for your cat. Trim the Tips: Only ever clip the white bit at the very tip and you must, avoid the quick (the pink part inside the nail). If you accidently cut into the pink part this will be extremely painful for your cat and will cause bleeding. Your cat will probably never let you near their paw ever again. One at a time: Only do one paw at a time and then reward with a treat or a game. Trying to do all four at once will just stress your cat. Reward and Praise: Reward your cat with treats and praise to create a positive association with nail trimming. Managing Overgrooming Cat overgrooming can be a sign of boredom, stress, anxiety, or underlying health issues in senior cats. Look for signs such as excessive licking, bald patches, or skin irritation. As a cat ages, they become less active and often get less enrichment opportunities. This can lead to boredom – and with boredom and nothing to fill their day, can come overgrooming. Make sure you provide enrichment opportunities for your older cat. This could be easily accessible cat trees, tunnels, window-ledge viewing opportunities, food dispensing toys, games with you, and spending more quality time with them. Remember that while they may be less physically active, they still need mental and social stimulation to prevent boredom. Make sure you provide enrichment opportunities for your older cat. This could be easily accessible cat trees, tunnels, window-ledge viewing opportunities, food dispensing toys, games with you, and spending more quality time with them. Remember that while they may be less physically active, they still need mental and social stimulation to prevent boredom. Creating a stress-free environment can help reduce overgrooming. Provide plenty of enrichment and safe spaces for your cat to relax. You could also consider using calming products such as pheromone diffusers or supplements designed to reduce anxiety. Overgrooming can lead to skin infections, sores, and hair loss. If you notice signs of cat overgrooming – especially if these have a sudden onset - consult your vet to rule out any medical conditions and if diagnosed, to discuss potential treatments. Bathing Your Senior Cat Bathing your older cat is definitely best avoided, however there are situations where a cat bath may be necessary, such as when they are unable to clean themselves due to illness or if they get into something dirty. Follow these simple steps: Prepare the Bath Area: Use a sink or a small tub with a non-slip mat.Use Lukewarm Water: Fill the tub with a few inches of lukewarm water.Gently Wet Your Cat: Avoid the face by using a cup or sprayer on your cat.Apply Cat-Safe Shampoo: Use a shampoo specifically designed for cats and gently lather it into their fur.Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse all the shampoo out to prevent any residue from irritating the skin.Dry Your Cat: Use a soft towel to gently dry your cat, keeping it warm until it is completely dry. Choose gentle shampoos and conditioners formulated for cats. Look for products free from harsh chemicals and fragrances and specifically designed for sensitive or ageing skin. High quality nutrition developed with Purina vets for lifelong wellbeing. Grooming Tools for Senior Cats There are various grooming tools available to help keep your senior cat's coat in top condition. These include: Brushes: Different types for different coat lengths. Combs: Gentle wide toothed combs can be useful for removing mats Self-Groomers: These are often sisal arches or posts that cats can rub against to help groom themselves. Choose tools that are gentle and easy to use. Soft-bristle brushes are ideal for sensitive skin, while self-groomers can provide a convenient way for your cat to groom themselves. Nutrition and Grooming A balanced diet plays a crucial role in maintaining your senior cat's fur and skin health. Senior cat food is formulated to meet the specific nutritional needs of older cats, promoting a healthy coat and skin. Supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids can improve coat condition and reduce shedding. consult your veterinarian before introducing any new supplements to your cat's diet. Monitoring the changing grooming needs of your ageing cat is essential for their overall well-being. By understanding their unique grooming needs, keeping a close eye on their health, using the right techniques and tools, and having regular vet checks, you can ensure that caring for your senior cat remains comfortable, healthy, and happy. Regular grooming sessions can also strengthen your bond and make their golden years more enjoyable.

As your cat ages, their sleep patterns might change. Older cats may sleep more, with their energy levels simply decreasing with age. Other times, senior cats might sleep more during the day, saving their energy for evenings and nighttime explorations. While you might find this a little disruptive, it's a natural shift in their sleep cycle. Learn how to understand these sleeping patterns and create a cozy sleep haven to ensure they get the rest they need. Common Changes in Older Cats' Sleep Patterns How Many Hours Do Cats Sleep Ever wondered how long cats sleep for? It's a question many cat owners ponder, especially as their feline companions seem to spend a lot of time napping. Cats do manage to fit in a lot of quality catnaps, but this can be especially noticeable as cats age. Older cats can sleep anywhere from 16 to 20 hours a day, compared to the 12-15 hours of adult cats. This increased need for sleep is attributed to decreased energy levels and a more relaxed lifestyle. Some maintain their nighttime activity levels but sleep most of the day to conserve that nocturnal energy. So, if your senior cat seems to be sleeping more than usual, or their sleep patterns change, it's likely nothing to worry about. However, if you're ever concerned about a sudden change in your cat's sleep patterns, especially if you see other symptoms, it's always best to consult your vet. Senior Cat Sleep-Wake Cycles Another common change is a shift in sleep-wake cycles. While cats are crepuscular, in other words more active at dawn and dusk, older cats may become more active at night and sleep more during the day. This can sometimes be disruptive for owners, especially in the case of indoor cats, but it's important to remember it's a natural shift and rarely a cause for concern. If you have a cat who has constant access to the great outdoors, you might not notice that they are more active at night, just noticing that they are sleeping more during the day. If you think this is the case, you could monitor the cat flap with a webcam to get an idea of their nighttime wanderings. Factors Affecting Sleep in Older Cats Several factors can influence your older cat's sleep quality: Environmental Factors and Comfort No matter what the age of your cat, environmental factors like loud noises, constant disruption, uncomfortable bedding, or a lack of appropriate sleeping areas can affect sleep quality. Senior cat care: Health Issues Impacting Sleep Underlying health conditions, such as arthritis, hyperthyroidism, or cognitive dysfunction, can disrupt sleep patterns. Pain from arthritis can make it difficult for your cat to get comfortable, and hyperthyroidism can cause restlessness. Health Concerns Related to Sleep Disturbances While increased sleep is normal for older cats, significant and/or sudden changes in sleep patterns can sometimes indicate underlying health issues. Signs to watch for include excessive vocalisation at night, restlessness, pacing, difficulty settling, or changes in litter box habits or loss of toilet training. If you notice any concerning changes in your cat's sleep patterns, consult your veterinarian to rule out any medical conditions. Tips for Promoting Healthy Sleep in Older Cats Ideal Sleeping Areas and Bedding for Older Cats Provide multiple, easily accessible sleeping areas throughout the house in places where your cat won’t be disturbed. These should be at a variety of heights and places your cat enjoys hanging out (such as a sunny window ledge) but you need to ensure easy access (so consider using ramps etc). Sometimes if a cat is feeling stiff or a bit sore, they will sleep in a less-favoured spot that they can access easily and without pain, but this might be somewhere uncomfortable or somewhere they can’t relax and get good quality sleep. Choose soft, supportive bedding that allows for easy stretching and accommodates any stiffness. Sometimes if a cat is feeling stiff or a bit sore, they will sleep in a less-favoured spot that they can access easily and without pain, but this might be somewhere uncomfortable or somewhere they can’t relax and get good quality sleep. Choose soft, supportive bedding that allows for easy stretching and accommodates any stiffness. Managing Noise and Disturbances Minimise disruptions by keeping loud activities to a minimum. Make sure you give your cat quiet places to sleep so they can access peace and quiet. Establishing a Routine While understanding that it is natural for cats to be active in the evenings and the early part of the night, you can help encourage a nighttime sleep schedule with regular feeding times and playtime before bed. Creating a consistent routine can be helpful for promoting healthy sleep in older cats. Here are things you can think about to help with routine: Set regular feeding times Feed your cat at consistent times throughout the day, using the most suitable senior cat food for your companion, with the last meal being close to bedtime. This helps regulate their digestive system and toileting needs, and helps prepare them for a night of sleep. Schedule playtime Engage your cat in gentle playtime before bedtime. This helps burn off some energy and promotes relaxation. Keep play sessions short and focused on low-impact activities they can manage, like feather wand toys or puzzle feeders. Maintain a consistent sleep environment If you have an indoor cat, keep their sleeping areas quiet and undisturbed throughout the night. Minimise disruptions Consistency is key, so try to maintain a predictable nighttime routine that allows your cat to settle comfortably for sleep. If you know you are likely to need to get up in the middle of the night, try to not disturb your cat. By implementing these tips and establishing a consistent routine, you can help encourage your older cat to keep to their regular routine as they age, and promote restful sleep for a happier and healthier cat. Conclusion By understanding the changes in your ageing cat's sleep habits and creating a comfortable sleep environment, you can ensure your senior cat gets the rest they need to live a happy and healthy life. Remember, any significant changes in sleep patterns warrant a visit to the veterinarian to ensure your cat's wellbeing.