The Best Ways to Care for an Older Cat

Penny Paws | January 2, 2025

Your cat will see many changes in its healthcare needs from the time it’s a small, rambunctious kitten to the time it reaches senior status. Knowing how to care for an old cat can make a huge difference in your feline friend’s health and well-being.

As the premier mobile vet in San Antonio, TX, Penny Paws Animal Clinic understands the type of care and attention senior cats need. The information in this guide will help you provide the best veterinary care to your aging cat. 

How Cats Evolve During Different Life Stages

Bringing a kitten home requires plenty of dedication. You not only have to provide a playful outlet for them but also address health concerns like standard vaccinations or procedures to spay or neuter kittens. As the kitten grows into an adult, you’ll notice their personality maturing while retaining some of their youthful energy. 

Once the cat reaches the age of 12, you officially have a senior cat on your hands. Older cats make for wonderfully cuddly companions who still love to play, but they require more attentive care. Adapting your cat’s care plan to its changing needs is the best way to help it lead a long life. 

Don’t disregard basic loving care for old cats. With the right adjustments, you can provide a fulfilling and happy life for your senior cat.  

Seven Essential Tips for Caring for Senior Cats

If you want to learn how to care for an old cat, we’ve got you covered. Below are some simple ways that you can give your aging cat the best care possible. 

1. Make Water More Accessible

Hydration can be a problem for many older cats. Their eating habits may change and directly impact their daily water intake. Dehydration can lead to constipation and kidney issues. 

For optimal health and hydration, make sure your cat has plenty of access to fresh water. You can set up multiple bowls around the house in case your cat has trouble reaching certain areas. Consider using a pet water fountain, as many cats prefer to drink from this automated feature. 

2. Focus on Your Cat’s Nutrition

It’s not uncommon for cat owners to change the food they put out for their pets based on dietary needs, such as:

  • Formulas for kittens
  • Food that prevents upset stomachs
  • Ingredients that improve dental health

If you’re wondering how to care for an old cat, prioritize its diet. Consider switching to a food with high-protein ingredients that are easy to digest. If your cat has a weight issue, consult your veterinarian to find a formula that meets your cat’s needs and portions that will help them gain or lose weight. 

Vets may also recommend supplements for optimal health. Adding these products to your cat’s routine can address issues like hair loss, poor organ function, and other concerns. 

3. Prioritize Daily Exercise

Cats spend the majority of the day sleeping and relaxing, but small doses of exercise and mental stimulation benefit cats of all ages. Senior felines, in particular, need adequate time to play and hunt, even if they aren’t as spry as younger cats. To help your four-legged friend remain healthy, utilize vertical scratching posts and other features that help them stretch when jumping on high surfaces becomes too difficult. 

4. Maintain a Stress-Free Environment

Cats prefer a calm environment compared to one with a lot of movement or noise. These stressors can take a toll on a senior pet’s health and make their final years uncomfortable. Try to limit any stressful triggers that may cause a cat to go into hiding, such as:

  • Screaming or loud noises
  • Trips outside their natural environment
  • Overstimulation

Calmatives like pheromones comfort stressed cats in these situations. Use them whenever you anticipate a stressful event, such as a trip to the vet, to help the cat remain calm. 

5. Monitor Their Teeth

Ask an expert how to care for an old cat, and they’ll tell you that dental health should become a priority. Aging cats often battle gum and dental disease. This can lead to nasty infections that may ultimately affect the animal’s major organs. 

Brush your cat’s teeth regularly or use dental treats to combat plaque. Pay attention to signs of a dental problem, such as:

  • Decreased appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Bad breath
  • Gum bleeding
  • Changes in grooming

Work with your veterinarian to begin a dental care plan for your senior cat if these problems arise. 

6. Check Their Litter Box Habits

If your elderly cat suddenly has problems using the litter box, it’s a clear indicator that their health may be declining. Senior cats may have accidents around the house because their weak joints keep them from reaching the box. Kidney problems can prevent cats from using the litter box as frequently as before. 

Pay attention to how often your cat uses the litter box and its contents. The waste that they leave behind can alert you of any serious changes in their health that a veterinarian must address. 

7. See a Vet Every Six Months

Healthy adult cats usually only need to see a veterinarian once a year. However, once they reach the age of 12 and become more prone to health issues, experts recommend biannual check-ups. These appointments allow your veterinary team to monitor all aspects of your cat’s health, including:

  • Blood work
  • Fecal samples
  • Heart and lung function
  • Joint health
  • Teeth and gums
  • Vision and hearing

It also gives you the chance to discuss any changes in your cat’s mood or appearance that may indicate a problem. 

Our Veterinarians Treat Cats of All Ages – Schedule an Appointment Today

Not everyone knows how to care for an old cat or treat common issues like increased cat lethargy. Reach out to Penny Paws Animal Clinic for support. Our team treats a wide range of veterinary concerns, including health conditions that largely affect geriatric cats. 

Contact our San Antonio clinic at (210) 679-1359 to schedule an appointment for your furry companion.Â