How to Amuse the Older Cat

It used to be easier to get our cats to chase something. Now, they give it a look that says they know all the tricks.

Yet, our senior cats still need fun and exercise.

see more Lolcats and funny pictures

What can we do?

Step back. Don’t be as quick to pick them up as we were when they were younger. Do more Petting in Place.

Tone it down. We should expect our cats to nap more at this age. They will treasure a bit of squishy warmth, like a blanket or Thermal Cat Mat.

Use signals. Our senior cat can have an exaggerated startle reflex; they might not be as good as sensing incoming input as they used to be. So try to alert them to our approach, so they can enjoy it, and know it is us.

Pace them. Come up with quiet ploys, like hiding a toy.

Treat them. As they age, their nutritional needs can change. Let them make some new choices. We can find a special food to get them excited about mealtime if they are jaded by the offerings lately.

Spoil them. Our senior cat needs to hear that they are always Our Special One. Giving them something for the other cats to admire is a wonderful way to share a bonding moment.

We can do a lot to help our senior cat.

Read more my senior cat posts.

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