Why Do Dogs Scoot?

Your dog’s digestive system can normally look after itself, as long as it is getting the right food and nutrition. But even with your care it can sometimes encounter unexpected problems. Your dog loves the nutritious food and occasional treats you give them – a great meal time is all part of their fun and active lifestyle! When their food is such a source of excitement for them and a pleasure for you, it can be easy to forget about keeping an eye on their digestive health. But there’s no need to worry – many of these problems are easily solved through a change in diet. Keep reading to find out about keeping your dog’s digestive health in order, and common problems to look out for. General dog digestive health Your dog’s digestive system is fairly hardy (just think what they’d eat if they were allowed!), but it’s a good idea to monitor their appetite anyway. As well as what you feed them, remember that your family and friends naturally love giving your dog a bit of extra fuss, attention and treats too! Here are some general tips for feeding your dog: • Your dog will enjoy a good quality, complete dog food most, as not only will it have the right balance of nutrients, a good level of palatability will ensure they really enjoy it. • Tempting as it is, adding human food to a nutritionally complete and balanced commercial dog food can cause digestive problems in dogs. • Your dog probably knows all kinds of tricks to persuade you to give them table scraps! Firmly but kindly ignore ‘begging behaviour’ for additional food. • When your dog is focused on getting table scraps, give lots of hugs, praise and playtime instead, which you’re both able to enjoy! • It’s best to feed your dog at regular scheduled times. Use the correct amount of food to maintain your dog’s optimum body condition so they stay in tip-top shape. To find out more, check out our guide to feeding adult dogs. General causes of digestive disorders in dogs In an ideal world our dogs don’t have any problems with their digestive systems, but of course you can’t always prevent illness.

Although dogs have a reputation for eating anything and everything, some are quite fussy and others can suddenly go off their food. Discover what you can do about your picky dog below. Does your dog shuffle up to their food bowl and sniff disapprovingly, yet the minute you sit down to eat they stare at you with big, begging eyes? If so, it’s probably down to one of two things: your dog may have lost their appetite because they’re feeling unwell, or they’re simply a fussy eater. What causes dogs to lose their appetites? The first thing you need to do is consult your vet to rule out illness, dental problems or a reaction to a vaccination or allergen. If they get the all clear from the vet, it’s time to address the pickiness – for both of your sakes!

Your cat is an important part of your family, and we understand that it’s not nice to think of your fluffy companion getting older. As felines don’t get fine lines and wrinkles like us, the signs of old age in cats aren’t always obvious. Changes in your cat are most likely to start on the inside as they approach their golden years, and they will gradually age like we do. But there are a few tell-tale signs you should be aware of. We explore them, next. At what age is a cat considered senior? Although cats are considered to be of old age from when they reach 7 years old, some felines will be showing off their kitten-like antics well into their mature years. Because there’s no exact age when your pet changes into a senior cat, you have to look out for particular signs instead. Signs of an old cat If your cat is not a spring chicken anymore, it’s natural to wonder what to expect when your pet becomes elderly and whether that moment hasn’t actually arrived. Elderly cats are very similar to humans in old age and will experience changes in their physical and mental abilities as years go by. Here are some of the most common signs that your cat is now a senior: Loss of agility One of the first things you will notice is a lower level of energy than usual. Of course, this could be also due to a medical problem, so it’s always best to check with your vet whenever you notice big changes in your cat’s behaviour. But expect your cat to enjoy living life in the slow lane as they get closer to senior status. Changes in their play time routine Play time for elderly cats will likely be comprised of shorter sessions, less energetic chases and more walking around the house or climbing cat trees. Depending on your cat’s health, you may need to adjust some of the usual games and bring them down to a slower pace, but don’t think play time is over once your feline reaches the golden years. Your vet will be able to advise on a level of activity that is suitable for your pet and will keep them well-entertained no matter the age. Different sleeping patterns Changes in the sleeping routine can also be a sign of an old cat. Whether your cat is waking up and vocalising in the middle of the night, or on the contrary, starts enjoying a shut eye more than usual, a cat’s sleeping habits could be the giveaway for old age. Increased disorientation Cats are not particularly aloof creatures. Their feline DNA keeps them in tune with their environment well into their senior years. So when all of a sudden your cat starts getting confused while doing simple tasks such as finding their food bowl or getting to their bed, this disorientation can be caused by a cognitive decline relate to ageing in elderly cats. In this case as well it is recommended to discuss the unusual behaviour with the vet. Changes in body condition and weight Weight fluctuations can also be a sign that your cat should start getting the senior treatment. Usually their metabolism slows down and as the amount of exercise decreases with age, you can expect to see your feline frame getting larger than usual. On the other end of the spectrum, some cats might suffer weight loss due to dental problems, also common in old age. You can check your cat’s body condition at home using these simple steps and get plenty of clues about your pet’s health and weight. Changes in behaviour You can find many signs of an old cat in their behaviour as well. They get a bit rusty when it comes to using the litter box and the frequency of accidents increases. They might not groom themselves as thorough as before. Or might even become moodier and less tolerant of changes in their environment. Many cats become less able to cope with stress as they age, so if you want to find out more about how you can manage cat anxiety, our guide is a good start.

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.

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.

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.