​Keeping your aging cat comfortable

Near the end of their life, there are simple changes you can undertake to provide them with the best care possible, support their health and make them comfortable.

What happens when a cat gets older

From the age of 11, you'll begin to notice the external indicators of aging in your cat. Their smell, taste and hearing become less acute, and their mobility begins to suffer due to joints which may be worn down or painful. Their skin and coat can become duller as their sebaceous glands—responsible for generating nourishing oils for this skin—are less productive, and conditions like arthritis can make it harder for them to groom themselves properly.

Your cat may begin to suffer from dental problems like worn teeth or gum disease, which can affect their appetite and make it painful for them to eat. Their digestive and other bodily functions slow, which means it can be more difficult for them to absorb all the nutrients they need from their food and they may lose weight.

Cats may also suffer from cognitive impairment as they get older.This condition manifests itself as sleeplessness, disorientation, increased anxiety and forgetting their routine—for example, where their food or litter tray is.

How to make your aging cat comfortable

Each aspect of your senior cat's life can be made more comfortable through simple, small changes, particularly as they reach the end of their life.

Your senior cat's environment

Make your cat's favorite places easy to reach with ramps or small steps, and surround it with their favorite toys or possession. Food and water should be within easy reach, and you may wish to swap its litter tray for one with shallower sides that's easier to get in and out of.

Sleep, exercise, and your older cat

To encourage your aging cat to get into a good sleep routine, you can play with it during the day. Make its bedding comfortable using cushions to encourage it to sleep there and prevent pressure sores forming in less mobile cats. Pheromone sprays are useful as these can help relax your cat and help reduce anxiety or sleeplessness.

Your aging cat and their diet

Regularly changing a cat's diet to provide varied food can actually result in unnecessary stress for an aging cat. So long as they are being fed an appropriate diet adapted to their changing needs, there's no reason to alter this unless otherwise recommended by your vet.

You can increase the palatability of its food by heating it to release the aroma, and choose one with an easy-to-eat texture. Older cats tend to drink less, which can lead to hydration problems, so make sure fresh water is easily available; water fountains may also be a useful way to encourage your cat to drink.

Considering the well-being of your older cat

It's important to visit your vet regularly, at least twice a year, to check on the health of your older cat. If your cat is exhibiting symptoms of breathlessness, reclusiveness, a reluctance to move, or severe pickiness about its food, it may be in significant pain and you should immediately consult a vet.

Your vet will be able to advise you on the extent of your pet's distress and give you recommendations on whether it's best to provide hospice care or consider other options.

Your senior cat's well-being and quality of life toward the end can be improved through adjusting your home and their diet, and by working with your vet to provide them with the medical support they need. If you're unsure of the best ways to help your older cat, make an appointment with your vet who will be able to advise you.