How does being a senior cat impact your kitty's behavior?

As our pets get older, we often notices changes in not only the way they eat, but also the way they behave. Whether we are talking about dogs or cats, as they transition from adults to seniors, we often notice things like them sleeping more and slowing down in ways that remind us that our pets don't live nearly as long as we might want.

It can also be important to pay attention to the behavior of our senior animals. Their behavior will give us an indication of not only how they are doing, but also how they are feeling. Certain behaviors can be a sign of declining health, which are things we need to pay attention to.

We reached out to some experts about things to pay attention and what type of an impact being a senior can have on our cats. And there were some interesting responses.

What behaviors should we pay attention when it comes to our senior cat?

Thanks to Dr. Paola Cuevas, a veterinary consultant at Catster, we have a better idea of what to pay attention to as our cat gets older.

"Older cats might have a harder time getting used to changes in their environment.
Senior cats tend to be less active, some might even lose some of their mobility, and be unable to jump into their usual higher spots or even to get into their litterbox. All this is due to age-related disorders such as degenerative joint disease or arthritis. This might even impact their ability to groom themselves properly and might result in matted or dull-looking coats.
Senior cats might also suffer from kidney disease which will have an impact on their toilet and drinking habits."

- Dr. Paola Cuevas

Of course, their dental health is also changing as they get older. And this can even impact how they eat and the way they consume their food, so it is always important to pay attention to food being left in the bowl or treats not being eaten.

Dr. Cuevas also pointed out that "senior cats will suffer from senility or cognitive dysfunction." There are certain signs that one should pay attention in order to figure out if your cat's cognitive function is declining.

"1. Wandering away from home perhaps even into unfamiliar territory due to spatial disorientation.
2. Lack of interest in playing.
3. They might sleep a lot or have altered cycles of sleep and wakefulness.
4. You might catch them staring into space or into a wall for long periods.
5. The cat might stay in a corner or go around in circles.
6. They might start urinating and defecating outside their litter box.
7. They might have an indifference to food and water.
8. They might start to loudly vocalize in the middle of the night or randomly out of blue during the day."

- Dr. Paola Cuevas

Honestly, as our animals get older, we need to be vigilant in terms of paying attention to their behavior and any changes to that behavior. If you notice that your cat is no longer doing the things they used to or any of the signs above, we highly recommend consulting with your cat's veterinarian as they will be able to help you and your kitty.

We want what is best for our pets and as they get older we want to make sure that they are still living their very best lives.