Why Adopting Senior Cats Can Be a Great Idea

While playful kittens attract many potential pet owners, senior cats also make affectionate and rewarding companions.

But sadly, the RSPCA says older cats are less likely to be adopted. They may spend their later years in shelters, foster homes or even be euthanised.

So when you adopt a senior cat, you save their life and enrich your own!

Here's how.

The benefits of age and experience

Cats are considered seniors at seven years old. Mature felines have many qualities that make them great companions.

• What you see is what you get

The first year of a kitten’s life brings constant changes in appearance and personality. An adult cat is more of a known quantity. Their personality, health, needs and compatibility with other pets or children is evident so you can judge if they may be a good fit for you.

• They love being with you but are independent

Compared with younger cats, seniors are often calm and have lower energy levels. They enjoy snuggling and playing with you but are content to occupy themselves without causing mischief.

• With age comes experience

You’ll avoid stressful toilet training and house-training. Senior cats have generally already learned how to live with humans, use a litter box and know not to scratch furniture or shred curtains.

• Adoption costs are cheaper

Adopting a senior cat is cheaper than adopting a kitten. The costs of initial vaccinations, spaying or neutering have already been covered.

• They make good companions for children or the elderly

Many youngsters gravitate to energetic and curious kittens. But they can be fragile creatures, especially when handled by boisterous children. Older cats are more robust and can be placid when children pat them. This relaxed nature makes them good pets for the elderly too.

Recognise the signs of old age in cats

Ageing cats have different nutritional needs and may spend more time sleeping and less in active play.

Some common health issues in senior cats include:

• Arthritis (limited mobility)
• Kidney disease
• Heart disease
• Thyroid disease
• Diabetes
• Dental disease
• Hearing or visual problems
  

A senior cat needs regular vet checks to keep an eye out for potential problems.

You should also take your cat to the vet if you notice:

• Changes in behaviour (being agitated, aggressive, vocalising more)
• Difficulty eating
• Difficulty breathing, or coughing
• Changes in the coat or skin
• Losing or gaining weight
• Increasing thirst or urination
• Reluctance to exercise
• Diarrhoea or change in litter tray habits
• New lumps

How to care for a senior cat

An ageing cat can face changes such as lower energy levels, health issues that require medical care or prescription vet diets, and pain and joint problems that limit mobility.

However, your furry friend will thrive if you are patient, offer plenty of TLC and make some adjustments to cater for their changing needs.

• Provide easy access to their favourite haunts

Aches and pains may prevent them from jumping up to their favourite bed or window ledge. Place furniture such as footstools, chairs, pet stairs or ramps so they can safely move upwards in stages. Choose sturdy furniture with skid-resistant surfaces so they won’t slip.

• Bedding

Senior cats love all the creature comforts, including a comfy resting place. Choose somewhere warm, free from drafts and easy to reach. Create a snug haven and add warming pads or a heated bed to soothe their ageing body.

• Litter boxes

Senior cats may move slowly. Reduce the distress – add an extra litter box in a convenient place, or put a litter box on each level of a multi-storey house. Use boxes with low sides for easy access, and place them on toilet training pads to absorb any accidents.

• Diet and exercise

Senior cats are usually less active and have a slower metabolism so give them a nutritious diet. Your vet may order prescription food. Physical activity is essential to guard against obesity and ease arthritis but stick to gentle exercise.

• Enrichment for senior cats

Mental and physical activities are important for your pet’s wellbeing. Encourage them to play with toys, enjoy games and spend quality time with you.

• Grooming

Seniors may be lax with self-grooming routines so you’ll need to lend a hand with regular brushing. Ensure they have regular nail trims, plus teeth and ear checks.

Adopting a senior cat can be very rewarding - with a little extra attention you can give them the best quality of life and enjoy them for years to come!