If you have never brushed your cat before, keep the first session short (5 to 10 minutes). You can lengthen the amount of time as she becomes more comfortable with you brushing her. [4] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Cats can have individual preferences with what type of brush they prefer, so you may have to try several types of brushes (e. g. , bristle brushes, slicker brushes) to figure out which type your cat likes best. [5] X Research source Brush her when both of you are relaxed. If you’re stressed out, or if she’s feeling tense, the grooming session will not be enjoyable for either of you. [6] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Short-haired cats require less brushing (once a week) than long-haired cats (once a day). [7] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Be extra gentle when brushing her chest and belly. [8] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source
Set up the sleeping area with comfortable bedding, such as a cat bed or mat. [12] X Research source You can purchase these at your local pet store.
Consider purchasing scratching posts with different textures (sisal, corrugated cardboard, carpeted) and orientations (horizontal and vertical). This will add variety to your cat’s scratching activities. [15] X Research source Place the scratching posts in areas where your cat likes to frequent to decrease the distance she has to go to scratch. [16] X Research source The scratching posts should be sturdy, as well as tall or long enough (about 2 feet) for her to stretch out her entire body when she scratches. [17] X Research source [18] X Research source Do not throw away the scratching post when you think it looks too old and worn. That is actually just the way your cat wants it![19] X Research source Cat trees are another fun way to spoil your cat. You can find these at your local pet store.
To stimulate her natural instinct to hunt, try hiding the toys in different places of your home. [21] X Research source To add a new twist to her playtime, download some cat-friendly games on your tablet that your cat can play.
You can also dim the lights during her playtime to mimic her natural tendency to be active in the dark. [23] X Research source Aim to play with her for about 10 to 15 minutes twice a day.
You can also put in a cat video for your cat to watch when you are not home. These videos can feature a cat’s typical prey (rodents and birds). [24] X Research source
Feed your cat treats no more frequently than two to three times per week. [27] X Research source Do not treat your cat with human food. [28] X Research source Catnip and cat grass are healthy cat treats and can be found at your local pet store. [29] X Research source Do not allow your cat to beg for treats. This is bad behavior and should not be rewarded with food or extra attention.
Litter boxes with low walls are easier for a senior cat to step into and out of.
Be gentle when you massage your cat. To massage your cat, make small circles with your fingers. Start behind her ears and slowly work your way down her neck. Continue to massage her down her back. [32] X Research source Make sure to avoid massaging areas that may be painful for your cat.
Maintain your senior cat’s nails if she will let you. Her nails may need to be filed more frequently (every few weeks) if she cannot use the scratching post as much as she used to. [34] X Research source
Cat’s nails tend to curve under towards the foot pad when they grow too long, which would be very uncomfortable for your cat. [35] X Research source Begin filing her nails when you notice that she can no longer use the scratching post to prevent her nails from growing too long.
Transition to the new diet over 5 days: day 1 (20% new diet, 80% old diet), day 2 (40% new diet, 60% old diet), day 3 (60% new diet, 40% old diet), day 4 (80% new diet, 20% old diet), day 5 (100% new diet). [37] X Research source Depending on your senior cat’s medical condition, she may also need dietary supplements (e. g. , probiotics, fatty acids). [38] X Research source Consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your cat’s diet.
