Fluffy's Sixteen and STILL Plays Like a Kitten!

Enrichment for Senior Cats

- Candilee Jackson

Introduction:

Having kittens and young cats underfoot and romping through the house like a herd of elephants is commonplace in most feline households. Since cherishing a cat is a long-term family commitment, at some point, the family cat will begin to show its age, and the romping slows, as does the sound of “elephants” on the stairs. But fear not: This does not indicate the end is near! Many domesticated house cats can live well into their teens, especially when educated and wise pet owners both recognize and plan for their cat’s senior years.

What To Expect As a Cat Ages

Even the most energetic and frisky, athletic cat will slow down with age. Things to watch for:

• Decline in appetite
• Joint pain (osteoarthritis)
• Changes in hearing or sight
• Dental problems
• Obesity
• Cognitive dysfunction
• Litter box avoidance
• Aggression due to pain
• Less time grooming
• More time spent sleeping

Senior Cats Need Physical Activity

“A lower energy level does not mean a cat is no longer interested in play. Physical stimulation and mental enrichment are just as important for a senior as they are for kittens.” Just as human bodies age and change, requiring mental and physical stimulation, so does the body and soul of a cat. Cats older than ten need a savvy owner who researches and plans for the senior years, and with age-appropriate toys and stimuli, an older cat can still participate in entertaining games and play. “Cats of all ages require physical exercise and mental stimulation to remain happy and healthy.” Consider five to fifteen minutes of interactive playtime daily, and add in some bonding time with grooming and petting.

Entertaining a Senior Cat