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How time flys! If you kitty is over 10 years old he is considered old! You may be aware of this fact but what you may not know is how to care for your aging kitty. What are the best ways to keep your older cat healthy and happy as well as active during thier latter years. Some questions might arise such as, should I change the food I have been using? You might wonder how to keep your cat healthy through exercise? What about medical care?

When a cat ages, its body goes through much the same types of changes that we see in humans. Cat care becomes very important at this time. For example, there is a natural decrease in muscle mass, along with a coinciding increase of body fat. If you are not careful and take early action these changes can lead to an overweight kitty! Because the energy needs of the typical cat begins to slow around the ages of 7 to 9, changes in food intake and exercise must be made to prevent the cat from become unhealthy.

Nutritional aspects of cat care are important as a cat ages too. There are foods on the market today that are specifically designed for the elderly cat. They contain less calories and protein and more of the essential vitamins and minerals that keep a cat strong and vibrant. Talk to your veterinarian about which is best for your cat.

Sometimes you may not be sure if your kitty is officially a Sr yet. There are some signs that you will want to keep an eye on. When a couple of these traits begin to be apparent you know its time to make some changes. Is your cat moving slower than the past, does he sleep more than years past, is your cat unable to jump up on things that use to be easy for him? These can all be signs of an aging cat. You may want to consider things that can make life a little easier for him at this time of his life. Pet steps can help a cat get up on a bed that is too high to jump on now. A comfortable, plush cat tree with a cat house can make for restful naps and a place to hide out in.

Because the absorption rate of calcium changes in older cats, arthritis can quickly become a problem. A general rule of cat care is that arthritis becomes an issue for cats at about the age of 12, even earlier if the cat happens to be obese. If your veterinarian diagnosis your cat with the painful illness of arthritis, there are some steps that can be taken to minimize its effect on the cat. For example, this can often be treated with a combination of weight loss and medication. Sometimes its just a fact of growing old and the only thing we can do is make things a little easier for our old friend.

As our pets get older cat care becomes even more important. At some point a cat may even loose eye sight and or hearing ability. We must be sure that as much attention as possible is given to help make life as easy and safe as possible.

Pay close attention also to your cats teeth, as with any living creature, the teeth of an older cat can cause it eating issues. See our cat care article on 'cat teeth'. Make sure that your cat gets as much exercise as it can handle, this will keep it from becoming fat and out of shape in old age.

Author's Resource:

David Lee is the owner and designer of several pet sites. Check out AceCatHealth.com and find out, why do cats purr?, or you may be interested in learning more on cat food nutrition. If you love German Shepherd dogs, click here.

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