Thanks to better vet care and nutrition, our cats are living longer, happier lives—many reach their late teens or even 20s! Whether your cat has been with you since they were a tiny kitten or joined your family later in life, their senior years can be incredibly special. At Schesir, we believe every stage of your cat’s life deserves gentle, natural care. Let’s talk about how to spot age-related changes, keep them healthy, and make their world comfy and joyful.
Is My Cat a Senior? Signs to Notice
Most cats are "mature" around age 7 and "senior" by 11+. Like us, they slow down a little. Watch for these subtle changes:
- More napping (or napping at odd hours).
- Messy fur (if arthritis makes grooming hard).
- Hesitating to jump onto their favorite spots.
- Brittle claws or less scratching.
- Stinky breath, drooling, or trouble chewing.
- Accidents outside the litter box, weight changes, or drinking/peeing more.
- Confusion or crankiness (especially at night).
Your Vet Is Your Partner:
- After age 7: Yearly checkups.
- After age 10: Checkups every 6 months with simple blood/urine tests.
Why? Catching problems early (like kidney or thyroid issues) makes treatment easier!
Common Health Needs in Older Cats
- Arthritis (Sore Joints):
- Signs: Stiffness, limping, avoiding grooming.
- Help them:
- Provide low steps or ramps to their favorite spots.
- Try a soft orthopedic bed.
- Ask your vet about joint supplements (like fish oil).
- Kidney Health:
- Signs: Drinking/peeing a lot, weight loss.
- Help them:
- Wet food is great! (It keeps them hydrated).
- Schesir’s senior recipes support kidney health.
- Overactive Thyroid:
- Signs: Hungry all the time but losing weight, restless.
- Help them: Medication (from your vet) works wonders!
- Dental Trouble:
- Signs: Bad breath, not eating well.
- Help them: Annual dental cleanings + soft food.
- Confusion (Like Dementia):
- Signs: Pacing at night, seeming lost.
- Help them:
- Keep routines consistent.
- Use nightlights in hallways.
- Puzzle toys keep their mind sharp.
Feeding Your Senior Cat: Tasty & Nutritious
Schesir’s senior foods are made with:
Real fish or poultry (easy-to-digest protein for muscle health).
Gentle minerals (kind to aging kidneys).
Lots of moisture (key for hydration).
No artificial junk (just natural goodness).
Tips for Happy Mealtimes:
- Serve smaller meals 4-5 times a day.
- Raise their food bowl (less strain on stiff necks).
- Warm wet food slightly (makes it smell extra yummy).
- Rotate flavors (tuna one day, chicken the next—keeps things interesting!).
→ Always chat with your vet before changing foods.
Small Changes, Big Comforts: Your Home
- Litter Box Love:
- Use low-entry boxes (easy to step into).
- Put one box per floor + an extra (no long walks!).
- Water Everywhere:
- Place water bowls in quiet spots (away from food/litter).
- Try a cat fountain (running water tempts them to drink!).
- Grooming Help:
- Brush them gently 2-3 times a week (focus on their back/hips).
- Trim claws regularly (ask your vet to show you how).
- Play & Mental Spark:
- Short play sessions with feather wands (5 mins, twice a day).
- Window perches for bird-watching.
- Puzzle feeders (make mealtime fun!).
You Asked: Senior Cat FAQs
Q: When is my cat “senior”?
A: Around age 11+, but start watching for changes at age 7.
Q: How do I know if my cat hurts?
A: Look for hiding, grumpiness, limpness, or messy fur. Cats hide pain well—when in doubt, ask your vet.
Q: Why does my old cat drink so much?
A: Could signal kidney issues or diabetes. Call your vet—it’s easy to check!
Q: What food is best?
A: Wet food with high protein and moisture (like Schesir Senior). Switch gradually!
Q: Should I give supplements?
A: Only if your vet recommends them. Some (like fish oil) help joints!
Final Thought: Treasure the Moments
Your senior cat might move slower, but their love for you only grows deeper. With regular vet visits, cozy home tweaks, and tasty, nourishing food (like Schesir’s senior recipes), you’re giving them the gentle care they deserve. Every purr, head bump, and lazy sunbeam nap is a gift—enjoy this golden time together. 💛