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Adopting a Senior Cat

November 1, 2020

November is Adopt A Senior Pet Month. If you’re thinking about bringing a new kitty into your home, please consider adopting an older one. Cats in their golden years are just as sweet and lovable as kittens, but are nowhere near as mischievous. Here, a Roanoke, VA vet offers some ‘pawesome’ tips on adopting a senior cat.

Shopping

Keep your pet’s age in mind when you go shopping. Fluffy will be more interested in napping than in batting things around. Get your feline buddy lots of comfy beds. If you want to pick up some cat furniture, choose pieces that are easy for her to get in and out of.

Food

Fluffy will need a high-quality, age-specific food. If possible, find out what she has been eating, and get that brand to start. If your vet advises switching to another brand, you’ll want to do so slowly. Hydration is also crucial. You may want to get her a kitty fountain, or set out some extra water bowls.

Litterbox

A litterbox with low walls will be easier for Fluffy to get in and out of. Look for one that was designed specifically for older cats. These will be purrfect!

Nightlight

Fluffy may have a hard time seeing at night. Get a few nightlights to help her find her way around after dark.

Staying In

We recommend that all cats stay inside. This goes double for senior kitties! Fluffy may not be quick enough to escape danger, and she could easily get lost.

Veterinary Care

One of the first things you’ll want to do is take your furry buddy to meet her new doctor. There’s a good chance that Fluffy will already have been fixed, but she will need a thorough, nose-to-tail exam. You’ll also want to make sure that she’s microchipped and current on vaccines and parasite control.

Getting Settled

Cats can take quite a while to adjust to a new home. Make your place safe, fun, and comfy for Fluffy, and just let her settle in. Don’t try to force attention on your feline friend. To win her trust, talk to her, play with her, and offer toys and treats. You’ll have that motor going before you know it!

Please do not hesitate to contact us if ever we can be of assistance. As your Roanoke, VA pet hospital, we’re dedicated to offering great veterinary care!

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