Recognizing Age in Your Cat
As a devoted cat owner, have you ever suddenly realized, "Hey, my cat seems to be getting older!"? According to SHIHO, a Japanese pet columnist, cats enter their mature years at around 7 years old and officially reach their senior stage at 11. Although you might not notice much change in their appearance, subtle shifts in their daily habits quietly remind us that time is leaving its mark on our feline companions.
The following five moments most easily make pet owners truly feel that "my cat is getting old."
1. Changes in Cat Behavior as They Age
The number of times they run and jump decreases, and their sleeping time gets longer. When cats are kittens, they spend the whole day running and jumping wildly around the house. However, as they grow older, their movements become slower, and you rarely see them dash around like they used to.
Cats naturally love to sleep, but older cats tend to sleep even more. Sometimes, it seems like apart from eating and using the litter box, they are dozing off most of the time.
2. Changes in Your Cat's Fur as It Ages
When cats are young, their fur is smooth and shiny, reflecting their health and vitality. However, as they grow older, their coat tends to become drier and coarser, and white hairs may start to appear. This change is a natural part of the aging process.
Additionally, older cats tend to groom themselves less frequently. This reduced grooming can easily lead to tangles and the formation of hairballs, which can cause discomfort for your feline friend.
Being mindful of these changes will help you better care for your aging cat and keep their coat as healthy as possible.
3. Changes in Cats' Appetite and Taste
Changes in appetite and taste are common as cats grow older. What used to be a ravenous cat that would eat anything often becomes more selective about food and tends to eat less.
These changes are usually related to a decline in digestive abilities, a reduced sense of smell, or discomfort in the teeth. Understanding these factors can help pet owners better care for their aging feline companions.
4. Why Older Cats Stop Jumping to High Places
Young cats can easily jump onto cabinets or shelves with grace and agility. However, as they grow older, they tend to jump less to high places, and some may stop jumping altogether.
This change in behavior is often due to joint deterioration, muscle weakness, or simply a decline in their motivation to move around actively.
5. Changes in Your Cat's Vocalizations and Affection as They Age
As cats grow older, their meows and ways of showing affection often change. Their vocalizations may sound different than they used to, reflecting the natural aging process.
Some senior cats become more clingy, enjoying the comfort of snuggling close to their owners. Others may start using a higher-pitched voice when seeking attention or affection. These changes are usually because older cats are more prone to feeling anxious and need extra companionship and reassurance.
Understanding these shifts can help pet owners provide better care and emotional support to their aging feline friends, ensuring their golden years are filled with comfort and love.
Growing Old with Our Cats
Watching a cat gradually grow old often brings a touch of sadness to our hearts. Yet, if we look at it from another perspective, it actually means we have shared a long journey of time together with them.
Although the time we get to spend with our elderly cats is limited, it is precisely because of this that every single day becomes even more precious.
