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Adopting Senior Cats

ADOPTING SENIOR CATS

Come kitten season, adopters of all kinds flock shelter websites and make appointments to meet the new kitties on the block. However, the senior cat population usually gets overlooked during the busiest time of the year. Why is that? More often than not, it comes down to a kitten’s irresistible cuteness. While kittens will have to learn the ropes to being a good house cat, most senior cats have already matured and are humble in their unique ways. While we all love kittens and their playful energy, there’s a peaceful bliss that comes with sharing silence and relaxation with a senior cat, especially when they’re on your lap expressing their gratitude.

 

BENEFITS OF ADOPTING OLDER CATS

The saying goes for senior cats, “What you see is what you get!” Most senior cats already have a humble personality usually because they understand that positive relationships with humans stem from being friendly, affectionate, and playful. Kittens on the other hand are still learning these concepts, thus behavior transitions may occur for the first 6 months or more depending on both their ability to learn and your ability to train them. While older cats may require elderly care at times, that would be the majority of your adjustment in acclimating in your home. Regardless, being able to remove a senior cat from a shelter is the greatest benefit of all. Sadly, many senior cats end up living the rest of their years in shelter settings, thus giving them a loving home to live out their years is ideal. Click here to learn more about adopting senior cats.

NEEDS OF SENIOR CATS

There are a couple differences between caring for a younger cat vs a senior cat that an adopter must understand. First, most senior cats require an easy-to-digest and balanced nutritional meal, thus researching or asking your local veterinarian on their preferred senior food is key! You never want to skimp on a senior cat’s nutrition, as doing so could impact their health over time. Second, knowing the full spectrum of past and present health concerns your senior cat has will be beneficial as to how to care for your senior cat. Staying organized as well as educated on your senior cats medical needs can prevent health surprises and ultimately prolong their life.

VISIT A SENIOR CAT

If you’re not ready to adopt or you already have fur babies of your own, it shouldn’t stop you from making a senior cat’s time better! Visiting senior cats currently in shelters to provide them with much needed socialization is the next best thing you could do to make a difference. Most of these cats spend their time sleeping and lazing around, why not perk up their inner kitten by visiting them in the shelter periodically to make them happy and keep them engaged? You can also foster a senior cat until they find their furrever home. If you are interested in volunteering your time or fostering a senior cat with Town Cats, inquire with our team!