Kittens have an easy time getting adopted. They are cute, fuzzy and hard to resist! However, there are many senior and special needs cats that are also looking for homes at the shelters. Read on to find out tips for caring for senior/special needs cats and the endless benefits they provide!
Tips for caring for a senior/special needs cat:
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Cats love warmth- make sure your senior citizen’s favorite resting spot is free of drafts, has a small bed or blanket to curl up in.
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Create a routine and stick to it- take care of their needs first. If they require medicine or a special food first thing in the morning, make sure their needs are met.
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Provide easy access to their basic needs, such as their litter box. Having more set up around the house makes it harder for them to have accidents. Also, make sure the litter boxes have lower sides, to make it easy for them to climb in and out.
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Adapt your home to your cat’s needs. Depending on what their limitation is, provide the most comforting atmosphere as you can. For blind cats, keep their basic necessities in the same place and provide a feeding routine. This makes it possible for them to feel safe, secure and maintain a healthy appetite.
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Provide kitty stairs/steps to help your cat climb up onto their favorite spot
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Help them groom by gently brushing them. This is crucial for long hair cats. As they age, grooming can become more difficult for them.
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For older cats, their vision can become poor. Leaving a night light on for them can help them find their way around the house when it becomes dark.
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Continue playing with your older cat by gently encouraging them to play with you- wand toys are great for this!
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Provide plenty of fresh water and food. Ask your vet if there is a preferred special diet for your senior cat.
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Make sure they visit the vet every 6 months for regular check ups- they will need routine blood work and possibly x-rays to ensure good health
Environment for special needs cats:
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The best home environment is calm and quiet, preferably without small children and other pets.
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Making sure that the cat gets what they need is most important. Having someone who is home a lot is the best for an older/special needs animal to ensure they are getting all the care and love they need!
By choosing to adopt and care for a cat that is in its older years or has a medical/physical issue, you are helping the cat live a full life that it deserves. It is such a fulfilling, wonderful experience to adopt a cat that would otherwise get looked over. Ready to adopt a snuggly, cuddly senior/special needs kitty? Email us at adoptions@towncats.org or check out our available cats.
