10 Ways To Care For Your Older Cat

Keep in mind that kittens and older cats with arthritis or other health problems may have difficulty getting in and out of a box that is too high. Use low-rise boxes in an easily accessible area for kittens and cats with special needs, or buy an adjustable litter box. If you are experiencing severe allergic reactions, consider getting tested for cat allergies before taking a cat home.

Keep your veterinarian’s recommended diet and portion size for your feline. Choose a time to feed your cat every day and follow litter genie this routine as much as possible. As a parent of a cat, you’re probably very familiar with finding hairballs in your home.

Lack of exercise leads to weight gain and obesity and puts them at increased risk for cat diabetes. As pet owners, you want the best for your furry relative. Keeping your cat indoors ensures its safety and reduces the risk of injury and illness. However, indoor cats also have potential health risks. For indoor cats, lack of movement and boredom can lead to physical and emotional stress.

Cats are great at keeping their fur shiny and elegant while grooming. Short-haired cats may need to brush occasionally, but long-haired cats should brush more often to reduce shedding and reduce hairballs. Cutting your cat’s nails regularly can also minimize any damage from scratching. Finally, your cat’s teeth should be brushed almost as often as yours. Ask your veterinarian what products and foods you should use for dental care at home.

Keep litter boxes away from heavy foot traffic or loud noises. Remember to clean your cat’s litter every day and do a deeper cleanse once a week. We spend time with each client educating and adapting medical care for cats. It’s hard work to keep pace with the changing philosophies of veterinary care! We are now faced with a proposed new regime for cat care.

The dietary guidelines on the side of your cat food bag are a good starting point. Kittens, adults and older cats have different nutritional needs. Some cats also have special nutritional needs due to illness or a food allergy, according to Cummings Veterinary Medical Center.

Obese cats are more likely to develop diabetes as they approach middle age. The extra weight also contributes to arthritis, heart disease and other health problems in cats. Always place litter boxes in safe and accessible places. Outdoor animals hunt for food and usually eat many small meals daily.

Some cats can be special about their water consumption. Their desert-dwelling ancestors get most of their fluids from their prey, Catster reminds us, so domestic cats don’t have the same need to drink as dogs or humans. Offering a mix of wet and dry food can help keep your kitten hydrated. Unlike dogs, cats cannot be vegetarians, even for short periods of time.

Depending on their history, they’ll likely need some vaccinations, along with a general health screening. Your vet can give you cat health advice that goes beyond the basics listed here and should be someone you trust to ask any questions you may have about your cat’s health. Veterinarians are a great resource for problems big and small. Check out these cat health tips divided into seven key categories. Cats can be very good at hiding signs of illness, so keep an eye out for any changes in their diet, drinking, litter box habits, or activity level. Your vet will advise you on how often your cat or kitten should be seen for checkups and vaccinations.