Lifelong Cat Care

Experts offer advice for dealing with common difficulties experienced by our feline friends as they age, from dehydration to tooth decay.

- LIZZ SCHUMER

Scratching Issues

If your cat uses a piece of furniture instead of a cat tree as a scratching post, look at the fabric and the location of both. “Scratching has many important functions for cats, including spreading their scent and making visible scratches,” explains Ilona Rodan, D.V.M., D.A.B.V.P. (feline), founder and director of the Cat Care Clinic in Madison, WI. “Cats often choose the most prominent piece of furniture, one near where they wake up or one close to an outside door where other cats can see in.” Try moving a scratching post close to the furniture they tend to scratch, or get one that has a fabric similar to that of their favorite target. All cats should also have their nails trimmed about once a month.

Litter Box Woes