While travelling with your pet is challenging, it can sometimes be unavoidable. If you’re lucky enough to be one of the 26% of people to own a cat in the UK, you’ll know how much joy this feline member of the family can bring. When it comes to travelling with them, it can be a bit different.
Today, we’re going to look over four of the best ways to make sure your cat is calm and relaxed on long car journeys. From taking them out for a pre-travel spin, to making sure their environment is perfect for their needs, here are the best ways to keep cats relaxed.
Take them for a test drive
If you’re unsure how a cat is going to react to being driven in a car, think about taking them for a short 10-15 minute test run beforehand. This will give you the chance to spot any things they might react poorly to, as well as giving you a good indication of any issues which might arise during transit which you hadn’t planned for.
Try to pick out a specific route for this test ahead of time. That way you’ll be able to know exactly how long you’ll be travelling, while also giving you the chance to come up with some clever shortcuts home if your cat really isn’t a fan.
If your cat gave birth up to 48 hours before the trip
If your cat is currently heavily pregnant
In essence, if there’s any reason your pet might be weaker than usual, it’s best to do everything you can to avoid potentially stressing them out further.
The optimum temperature for a cat is roughly 24-29℃ (which is 75-85℉). Just as you would never leave a dog trapped inside a hot vehicle, a cat should also not be placed in conditions which might cause them to become uncomfortable and overheat. Keep a travel thermometer in the vehicle at all times to gage if conditions are adequate.
Also look for signs of overheating, such as:
Rapid breathing
A red tongue
Vomiting
Lethargy
Stumbling or staggering
Have their carrier optimised to their liking
While every cat is different, there are some basic inclusions which any decent cat carrier should have to make a journey easy on your kitty. Some of the most important things include:
Making sure the carrier is the right size
Adding treats and toys to keep them happy and distracted
Ensuring your cat can see you at all times
Including a soft towel for them to lie down on
Large Carriers such as the Necoichi stress free pen provide ample space for your cat and their favourite toys while also allowing you to securely strap the carrier in with a seatbelt.
Have these tips made it easier to understand how to keep your cat comfortable on long journeys? Keep them in mind to optimise the experience for your kitty.
If you have a cat, there’s no doubt you’ve been fascinated by its eyes. Cats have captivating and uniquely shaped pupils and interesting eye colouring. It’s also amazing how can they stare at you so intently without a hint of expression.
Hopefully, you’ll be staring back into healthy eyes: moist, clear and without any redness, swelling, discharge, or tearing – all which could be signs of irritation or infection. A basic eye care routine makes a huge difference in your fluffy pal’s life, as many cat breeds are susceptible to tear stains and the resulting odours. If you’re worried about getting up close and personal with your kitty’s eyes, don’t worry, because your feline friend will thank you for it.
To keep your cat’s eyes in good shape, there are a few things you can do.
Keeping track of your cat’s eyes can also mean infections are caught early and treated, so they don’t lead to more serious conditions or even result in blindness. That’s why we recommend to prevent your cat from getting these problems by using a natural treatment, such as the WildWash Eye Cleanser for Cats.
WildWash have created a Daily Eye Cleanser for Cats with Organic Aloe Vera for its cleansing and anti-bacterial properties, Chamomile to cleanse and brighten and Cucumber to calm, hydrate, refresh and cool. Their Daily Eye Cleanser is safe for use on even the most sensitive eyes.
But the truth is that some cats require more regular eye cleaning than others. Persians, for example, tear more than normal and these tears don’t always drain away through the tear duct. This can lead to ‘tear stains’ which can be easily cleaned away – either with water on a cotton ball or a special product that removes these stains.
Noticing eye stains is a way to safely care for your cat’s eyes. If you check your pet’s eyes daily for anything abnormal, such as excessive tearing, you’ll be able to pinpoint issues like allergies, irritation and stress before they develop into more serious medical problems.
Whether you just noticed your cat’s tear stains or it’s a recurring problem that you’re still trying to combat, we recommend the WildWash Tear Stain Remover for Cats.
WildWash have created a gentle but effective Tear Stain Remover for Cats. Using Organic Aloe Vera, a natural cleansing agent to flush out impurities and exfoliate, and both Chamomile and Hero ingredient Gardenia Florida, used for centuries as natural skin lighteners, our Tear Stain Remover will gently and effectively remove Tear Stains. This product will gradually diminish the tear stain and stop further tear stain building up. With constant use over a 4 to 6 month period you see will great results.
The easiest way to enter is by sending them in via info@katzenworld.co.uk. Or just leave a comment with a link to the post / photo you’d like us to use on this blog post.
“Jack: “oh, you want to sit here?” Meo meo meo” Sent in via email.
“Stretching exuberantly, wanting attention and extremely happy with the world.
Purrcival, Proud owner of Deborah” Sent in via email.
“Our boy ‘G’ (Galaxy).” Alison – Sent in via email
“This is Bella a.k.a. Mrs. Waddles!
Bella loves her sleepy times! I happened to catch her mid-yawn but if you ask me, it looks more like a ROAR!
Bella loves the camera, she’s talks all the time, and has a serious CAT-attude!
This is from Sarah in Chicago!” Sent in via email.
Missed last weeks post? Why not check it out here.
Now we need ALL of you! Do you want to see your cat featured and join our fun blog roll? Follow the steps below.
Simply leave a comment on the post with a link to your own blog and the photo you’d like to use.
Should you not have an own Blog you can participate by sending us an email with your photo to info@katzenworld.co.uk – just let us know what you would like to have listed as source!
And to make it fair your cat photos don’t have to be a tummy shot we do understand that not all cats like showing off their belly! So any fun photo story will be fine but tummy ones will be even better
And on next week’s #TRT we will be posting photos with links back to all you guys in the weekly Tummy Rub Tuesday post!!!
A big thank you to all participants from all of us here at Katzenworld.
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She’d been in RSPCA care since January but received absolutely no interest
An unwanted black cat who had been in rescue in the West Midlands for seven months without a single call or rehoming enquiry was inundated with offers from potential adopters – including one from America – after the RSPCA put out a special appeal.
Zara was the longest-staying feline at the charity’s Stafford, Wolverhampton and District branch but despite her ‘perfect personality’, volunteers believed her colour was putting people off – with black, or black and white cats, often taking far longer to rehome.
The three year-old cat had initially come into rescue after being picked up by an RSPCA inspector in January. The poor puss was found alone in freezing temperatures in Aston. Alongside her were her two 24-hour old kittens, one of whom had sadly died.
Once fully recovered her surviving kitten was rehomed quickly, but volunteers were left baffled as to why no-one was interested in Zara.
A rehoming appeal at the beginning of this month quickly took off, with offers of homes coming in from all over the UK and even one application from America.
Carl and Clare Jones, from Tipton, turned out to be the perfect match for Zara and she has now settled in well in their West Midlands home.
Clare said: “Zara is enjoying her new life with us and has definitely got her paws under the table. There isn’t a day that goes past when she doesn’t show us something new about her personality. Her confidence is growing and she’s so funny and loves being the centre of attention – which she certainly gets! She has such a loveable and affectionate personality and adores playing and being around both our children – she really is the perfect cat and we’re so glad she’s settled in so nicely with us.”
Tracey Rogers, rehoming officer for the RSPCA’s Stafford, Wolverhampton and District branch said: “We had an overwhelming response following our appeal about Zara, our lovely long-stay mini house panther and we are so grateful to everyone who responded. There was nationwide interest in her, with one couple coming forward from the USA!
“Zara didn’t really fancy travelling that far though and we’re over the moon that she’s settled in only a few miles up the road with her wonderful new family, Carl and Clare and their two children.
“Through the large number of enquiries we had about Zara we also found homes for a couple of our other cats who had been waiting, very patiently, for their new families too, which was fabulous.
“As always, as soon as one cat leaves for their new home the space is quickly filled with another who is just as deserving, so we still have lots of felines looking for their happy ending and we’d encourage anyone who is considering taking on a rescue animal to have a look at our website.”
Three year-old Gabriella is one of the many cats still waiting. She came into the branch’s care in May after being taken to a vet as an injured stray before giving birth to a litter of four kittens the following morning.
Unfortunately, she had a nasty injury to her eye which had left her with no sight in it. Once her kittens were independent, the eye was removed and she has since recovered well and been neutered.
Described as a very affectionate, friendly cat who loves people and attention, her fosterer says Gabriella’s favourite pastime is watching YouTube videos of birds, which she tries to pounce on and catch.
As she only has sight in one eye Gabriella is looking for an adult only home with a garden in a quiet area.
The UK is undoubtedly a nation of animal lovers, with recent research from PDSA, the vet charity for pets in need, finding that more than half of British adults own a pet (52 per cent).
Recent government proposals mean that landlords must consider any request for pets to live in their property and allow tenants to challenge their decision, which will be welcome news to many pet owners.
However, a boost in the number of pets living in rented properties does increase the potential for accidental damage. Here, PDSA Vet Nina Downing shares her advice for keeping homes in tip-top condition when living with furry family members.
Chewing and scratching
Scratching and chewing are instinctive behaviours but aren’t ideal when directed towards furniture, walls or carpets. These habits can stem from boredom, so it’s important that pets are well exercised and have plenty of things to keep them stimulated.
Scratching posts are great for playful cats, while interactive puzzle toys that dispense treats will keep both cats and dogs entertained – just remember to change toys regularly to keep it exciting. Indoor rabbits will also need lots of opportunities to play and dig like they would in the wild.
Chewing is natural for dogs and completely normal, but destructive behaviour can sometimes be a sign of separation anxiety. Dogs are naturally social animals and can become stressed if they’re left alone, so teaching independence early on can help to stop the problem developing. If you think your adult dog suffers from separation anxiety, you should speak to your vet or an accredited behaviourist for advice.
Each dog’s coping ability is different, but no dog should be left alone for more than four hours. If you are planning to spend longer out of the house, ask a friend to pop in, or use a professional dog-sitting or walking service to keep them company.
All dogs should be given the chance to chew if they want to, so make sure they have plenty of safe toys for this. For extra prevention against pesky bite marks where you don’t want them, a safe chew-repellent will help protect furniture and fittings around the home. These have a bitter taste that discourages chewing – but remember they’re a temporary solution and you must help your dog to learn they need to chew the right things instead.
Stains
Preparation is key here. If your dog loves getting mucky outside, keep a towel near the doorway for a quick clean before they enter and try to keep them on hard floors while they dry off, as this will keep smells at bay too.
Soft furnishings can easily be soiled by muddy paws, but cleaning wet spots immediately will help prevent stains becoming permanent.
For toilet mishaps, soak up as much liquid as possible and use a pet-friendly stain remover. It’s a good idea to choose a scent-free option, as strong smells can sometimes encourage marking. To keep these incidents to a minimum, place cats’ litter trays throughout the house and ensure they’re refreshed regularly. For dogs, make sure they have plenty of opportunity to go to the toilet outside.
Pet hair
Pets naturally shed hair, which can make it seem impossible to keep your home fur-free. Grooming should be a priority for any breed and is one of the best ways to speed up the shedding process and limit hair around the home – just introduce it gradually to get your pet used to it.
For pooches who enjoy lazing on the sofa, a heavy-duty throw will help prevent fur from transferring, and offer a layer of protection against curious claws which can easily damage soft fabrics. Remember to wash throws regularly to keep your home smelling its best.
Damage to lawns and gardens
Dogs’ urine contains high levels of nitrogen, which can over-fertilise and burn grass, resulting in discoloured spots. To avoid this, restrict access and train your pooch to do their business elsewhere, such as in a gravelled area.
If this isn’t possible (or practical), rinsing the spot with a watering can or hosepipe after they toilet will minimise the damage. Encouraging dogs to drink plenty of water will also dilute their urine as well as keep them hydrated. Pet water fountains are a great idea, as many cats and dogs prefer running water – you could also add water to their food.
PDSA is the UK’s largest vet charity providing a vital service for pets across the UK whose owners struggle to afford treatment costs for their sick and injured pets. For many vulnerable pets, PDSA is there to help when there is nowhere else for their owners to turn. Support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery helps us reach even more pet owners with vital advice and information. www.pdsa.org.uk
The RSPCA’s Cancel Out Cruelty campaign highlights the strength and survival of animals like Maggie
The tiny kitten was soaked through when she was found abandoned in a box in the rain with a painful, fractured leg.
Thankfully a member of the public spotted the young tabby and white kitten hidden beneath conifers in a field in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, in January, and contacted the RSPCA who came to her rescue.
Animal Rescue Officer (ARO) Kate Hertherington rescued the kitten, now called Maggie, and took her for urgent veterinary treatment but sadly her back left leg could not be saved.
Unfortunately, the person responsible for abandoning Maggie was never found and how she came to be so severely injured is still unknown.
As part of the charity’s Cancel Out Cruelty campaign, the RSPCA highlights that a staggering seven cats a day suffer at the hands of humans. Over the last six years (2016-2021), there were 16,212 incidents of deliberate cruelty towards cats reported to the animal welfare charity. In 2021 alone, there were 1,387 reports of intentional harm to cats and this peaked during the months of July and August.*
Maggie was taken into the care of the RSPCA Doncaster and Rotherham branch where she made a full recovery and was rehomed in February to Melissa Thoms, from Sheffield, where she lives with a 12-year-old black and white cat, Daisy.
Melissa explained that Maggie is an absolute character, who bounds around on three legs and doesn’t seem to have let her past trauma affect her.
She said: “You would never know she’s been through such trauma as she’s very trusting and very naughty but she gets away with it as she’s so gorgeous! Maggie is such a character, she’s just hilarious and is basically like a very furry toddler!”
From climbing the curtains, to playing with her older ‘sister’ Daisy’s tail, and digging out the most random items to play with rather than her cat toys, Melissa explained that she’s never known a cat quite like Maggie.
She added: “She loves cuddles and she follows me around like my shadow. She’s delightful and very affectionate. She will give me little kisses with her nose and she purrs like a tractor.
“She absolutely loves people and she’s confident in a lot of ways but I think our other cat Daisy can see that she needs some guidance so she stays nearby and puts up with her.
“The only thing that seems to make Maggie nervous is going outside, so she goes out when Daisy does. She won’t go out when it’s raining though – I don’t know if she can remember what happened to her but the only sign we see is when it rains she doesn’t want to be outside. She will start to physically shake and it does seem like it has triggered some trauma, as she was so wet when she was abandoned!”
Maggie, now four months old, gets around on three legs very well and doesn’t let losing her leg hold her back.
Melissa continued: “She’s so fast, even on her three legs. She prefers being speedy even if that does mean she falls off things from time to time! She does sometimes try to scratch her ear with the leg that was amputated. You can see her little stump move like she’s trying to scratch her ear with an invisible leg. I just tend to scratch that ear for her when I spot her doing it!
“Whatever she’s been through it’s not affected her and I think that’s due to all the great work done by the RSPCA. I’m really grateful they helped our Maggie!”
The RSPCA receives around 90,000 calls to its cruelty line every month involving all animals but in the summer (July and August) calls rise to 134,000 a month and reports of cruelty soar to 7,600 each month – a heartbreaking 245 every day. Our rescuers have worryingly seen a rise in reports of beatings and, with the increase in pet ownership and financial pressures growing, we are sadly braced for a summer of suffering.
The RSPCA’s rescue teams need support to stay out on the frontline as the only charity rescuing animals and investigating cruelty:
£6 could help pay to feed a dog for a day in our care
£10 could help pay towards bandages for a cat or dog
£15 could help pay for a cat or dog’s clinical exam
£20 could help pay towards a bird catching kit
£30 could help pay for a life jacket for an inspector
£100 could help pay towards water rescue equipment
£500 could kit out a 4×4 inspector van
Our frontline teams are working hard to rescue animals in need this summer but we can’t do it alone – we need your help to Cancel Out Cruelty.
If I haven’t said it enough, I’ll say it again; France, and its cat cafes are first-rate!
The Neighbor’s Cat visited ten French cat cafes in November, 2017 and is considered the highlight of my cat travels. You see, in France, they don’t just settle for a few cute kitties and a cup of coffee, they give you the full French cafe experience, complete with charming atmosphere and fabulous food.
Today, we will journey to Lille, in the northwest, and finish our tour in Paris.
I hope you have enjoyed meeting the fine felines of France!
Cat-See-Live: Au Chat Voir Vivre, Lille
Au Chat Voir Vivre is another example of a great French cafe that also happens to have cats.
The space is stylish and completely unique with lovely dark wood floors, mix-and-match chairs and lots of books. The vibe is shabby chic with equal measures of sophistication and coziness set to a soundtrack of lively chatter. Everything about it made me feel so happy.
There are eight cats, all rescues, in permanent residence at Au Chat Voir Vivre (loosely translated as ‘Cat See Live’), but most were sleeping during my visit. The few that were awake were not particularly social but cute to watch while sipping a hot beverage.
Speaking of which, my coffee and pear tart were outstanding and beautifully presented on a colorful tray and served in eclectic china. I loved how everything about this cafe felt authentic, effortless and so very French, right down to the cups! The menu has a substantial offering of hot and cold drinks plus patisserie, and they also serve a lunch service featuring a plat du jour.
My afternoon at Au Chat Voir Vivre was an incredibly satisfying experience and an easy day trip from Paris, too, as the high speed TGV train to Lille is a mere hour. See cats and live? Yes, but seeing the French countryside on the way to Lille is a life-affirming bonus.
Kitty of Light: Le Cafe des Chats, Paris
Izmir makes Le Cafe des Chats worth every effort.
The first time we attempted to visit, the line to get in was down the block. We returned a week later on a Wednesday morning and while several tables were occupied, we were able to be seated immediately. That’s when we saw her, our Izmir.
This fair feline with the exotic name and split color eyes stole our hearts.
The cafe, which opened in 2013, has twelve rescued cats in residence, although we counted nine the day we arrived, a variety of short and long-haired kitties. None were terribly social, but that may have been due to the number of children in the cafe, sweet things, but with their loud voices and running around, unfortunately sent the cats to their hiding spots.
The staff have more of a hands-off approach, typical of a Parisian cafe. Despite the steady flow of non-French speaking tourists, they are far more pleasant than you might except.
While waiting for our meal to arrive I took in the ambience of the cafe, a vintage library-inspired space with antique-esque salon furnishings, it has a classic, yet quirky nonchalance that feels very French (although a bit catty, so allergy sufferers beware). We thoroughly enjoyed our platter of mini desserts, pot of tea and a chocolat chaud a l’ancienne (old-fashioned hot chocolate) that was particularly decadent.
It was a fairly standard experience until the very end. We had our eyes on Izmir the whole time, but who wouldn’t, she’s so pretty to look at! But as she fastened her gaze on us, we moved to the couch where she was perched and to our delight, she climbed into our laps for some cuddle time. It was truly one of the highlights of the ten cat cafes we toured in France!
Located in Paris, the most visited city in the world, and in the tourist mecca of Marais and Bastille, Le Cafe des Chats certainly can’t help but be a busy place. The location, plus unique environment and traditional French foodservice make it the ideal place to sit and watch the cats, but your experience will surely be more feline-friendly if you drop by during a less busy time.
Say hello to Izmir for me!
Mallow Cute: Chat Mallows Cafe, Paris
Chat Mallows has some extremely handsome cats… and one dog.
We booked reservations for late afternoon and made our way to Gare Montparnasse. From there, it was a pleasant thirteen minute walk to the cafe, winding between the 14th and 15th arrondissements.
Checking in, we received a pleasant greeting from the staff. We weren’t charged an entrance fee, but instead ordered two cups of coffee that were served in darling Chat Mallow branded cups delivered on a cat tray amidst pink and white Chamallow, a brand of French marshmallows that clearly is the inspiration behind the name Chat Mallows!
Once seated, I couldn’t help but smile The cafe is very cute, with yellow and blue striped walls that evoke an old-fashioned candy shop. I especially loved the adorable decor accents such as the Chat Mallow pillows and photos of cats dressed in classic French attire! The tables are a bit close together, but better to get to know your fellow cat lovers. Most importantly, it’s a feline-friendly space with plenty of cushioned perches for the kitties to peek down from.
Sixteen cats, a variety of pedigreed pussycats are in residence at Chat Mallows, including five Devon Rex who were napping together during our visit. My favorites included Jerico, a chubby white British shorthair, Lourse, a gorgeous Maine Coon and Yoda, a sweet Sphinx.
The kitties weren’t particularly social, but absolutely entertaining, walking around the room and looking at the guests with curiosity. The dog was an interesting fixture that I haven’t seen in my cat cafes visits around the world (at least not until Taiwan!). He was mild-mannered and enjoyed being petted, but being tied up in the middle of the floor made it feel a bit crowded.
Overall, Chat Mallows is a charming cafe with plenty of beautiful cats to admire and I would recommend a stop if you happen to be strolling the neighborhood and in need of a coffee break.
The Neighbor’s Cat is a comprehensive global cat cafe resource with first-hand reviews, entertaining articles and an extensive photo gallery of the cutest cat cafe cats on the planet. On a quest to visit every cat cafe (169 in 27 countries so far) in the world, we are passionate about cat travel and raising awareness for rescue and adoption. Facebook/Twitter @catcafereviews
As our cats start to age, we might notice a change in behavior so we may need to start to change how we care for them, too. Or if you adopt an older cat, you might be wondering – how can I make my senior cat as comfortable as possible?
To help your older cat enjoy their golden years, we put together this full guide to senior cat care. Aimed at helping those silver whiskers stay happy, healthy & cuddly for as long as possible.
We’ll be discussing top tips for how to make a senior cat as comfortable as can be, as well as answering frequently asked questions that might crop up for you and your distinguished fluffy kitty.
Including:
Establishing just how old is a senior cat?
Why adopting a senior cat could be perfect for you
The two key ways to keep their health in check
Environmental changes to help a senior cat’s comfort
Practical hacks & tips for happy golden oldies
Your FAQs answered
Let’s jump in by working out when a cat is actually “senior” in the first place!
How to Care for a Senior Cat
Years ago, a cat was considered senior from around 8 years old. Now, advances in nutrition, medicine and indoor lifestyles have bumped up our kitties’ life expectancies.
These days, it’s not unusual for veterinarians to have feline patients into their 20’s!
Because of this, it’s now generally agreed that a cat hits the senior stage of their life cycle at between 11-14 years of age.
To put this in perspective, a 16 year old cat would be the equivalent of an 80-year-old human. Which is why senior cat care is pretty important, considering how we might feel about our surroundings at such a ripe old age!
Why Adopt a Senior Cat?
Thinking of adopting a senior? Then you’d be doing an amazing thing by helping them enjoy their twilight years in happy comfort. Plus there are a few added bonuses of caring for such a mature kitty:
Personality – Older cats often have really distinguished personalities that are already clearly established. Meaning they can make for wonderful companions with wonderful funny quirks.
Low maintenance – If you have a busy lifestyle with not much time to spare, adopting an older cat might be a great fit for you. They are usually much more independent, meaning you can look forward to post-work snuggles, without dedicating large portions of time every day to wearing that excess kitten energy out!
Less mess – They are nearly always fully house trained, which means less chance of any accidents around the home!
Family fit – An older cat will usually have a behavior history, meaning you’ll have the benefit of knowing how they are likely to behave in certain situations. Like how they are around children and other pets, so they can fit into your current lifestyle needs.
Despite their grace and charm, competing with cute kittens can be tough on older cats looking for their fur-ever homes. But as long as you can provide them with the needs outlined below, they can make wonderful, loving pets for years to come.
Caring for Senior Cats – Things to Consider:
1. Health
What can put off many from adopting a senior cat is the worry of declining health. But many veterinarians are quick to point out that aging is not a disease.
Just as some 80 year old humans are still active, healthy individuals – given the right care a 16 year old kitty can be fighting fit too!
Of course, it’s a fact that senior cats are more likely to encounter different conditions or illnesses, but some older cats are perfectly healthy into their 20’s too.
To give them the best shot of a healthy life, opt for regular vet check ups. Early diagnosis is key when it comes to treating any potential issues, so regular checkups for seniors are highly recommended.
It’s also a good idea to weigh your older kitty regularly, as a swing in either direction can be a good first indicator that something could be up.
Watch out for mobility issues, such as flinching when the back legs are touched, difficulty jumping, or stiffness when walking. These could be early signs of arthritis.
2. Nutrition
What to feed senior cats is a common question, with many wondering is senior cat food really necessary?
Let’s start by asking, what is the difference between senior cat food and regular food?
“the only difference that was found between the senior diets and the adult diets was higher fiber in the senior diets.” other than “calories were higher in the diets labeled for 11+ years than those for 7+ years.”
Which highlights the importance of really checking those labels. But what should you be looking for?
While some older cats do need help to keep their weight on, others do not. In fact, it appears others might need an entirely different diet altogether…
That’s because this study also found that:
“despite the common occurrence of chronic kidney disease in older cats and evidence that high phosphorus (and potentially high sodium) diets cause worsening of kidney disease, the senior diets in this study were no lower in these minerals than the adult diets.”
Therefore, the best way to be sure your senior cat is receiving the nutrients and diet they need is to consult with your veterinarian in a detailed way. They’ll be able to take into account your senior’s medical history, their weight level and the current research on feline nutrition.
This way, you can both choose a diet for your senior kitty that’s selected for their individual & specific needs, resulting in a healthier happier cat.
As we have seen a little already, senior kitties are more prone to kidney issues. This can be prevented or managed by upping their water intake, which can also keep other common issues like constipation and confusion at bay.
To help your older feline friend stay hydrated try the following:
Add to food – Some owners like to serve wet food mashed up with warm water, as this can make mealtimes more appetizing as well as hydrating.
Multiple sources – Have a couple of different water points around the house to encourage extra top ups, and some outdoor sources if they still venture into the garden.
Try a fountain – There’s a theory that cats like to drink more from flowing sources, rather than stagnant ones. Fountains can also contain filters which improve the taste and filtration for your pet.
Drinkwell Seascape Ceramic Dog & Cat Fountain – If you are after something with a little more feng shui, this lovely ceramic option is super cute. Plus ceramic is a great earth-friendly option that’s hygienic to boot.
4. Comfort
Some senior cats may need a few environmental tweaks to help them stay active & comfortable.
Warmth – Ensure sleeping areas are away from drafts to keep older limbs happy. A heated cat bed is another option to keep them cosy and ease any aching joints.
Noise – Older kitties might need a quieter place to rest and relax, especially if they are more easily startlaed due to deterioration in their sight or hearing. Acovered bed is a great option for helping them feel safe and sound, and a nightlight can help them find their way in the dark much easier too.
Playtime – While they may have less energy, your fur friend will still want to have some fun! Just be sure to watch out for panting and try to keep the pace moderate.
Stimulation – While playtime might be less frequent, it’s still good to keep your aging kitty mentally active. Invest in some puzzle toys, DIY some eco-friendly activities, or allow them access to a window spot for a bit of “cat TV” time.
Stress – Senior felines will be more affected by stressors, so keeping a consistent routine and consistent space around them is extra important. If you do have to move them or take those vet visits, try reading our guide on How To Help A Stressed Cat.
Grooming – Keep up with regular groomings, especially as your kitty gets stiff joints or may lose the ability to adequately groom themselves.
5. Access
Your older kitty might need a little extra help reaching those familiar spots.
If your older cat can no longer jump on his favorite windowsill for some viewing time, try using a ramp or building some box steps.
Pet stairs are another great option, just be sure whatever you choose has a firm footing.
This also applies to their litter box too! Be open to the idea of eventually switching to a low or uncovered box to help your older cat get in and out easily. This will help prevent any unwanted house accidents!
Our favorite senior cat litter box options:
Create a ramp for your existing litter tray from the options above.
If you have a compost heap, you could use the biodegradable trays, and cut an easy entrance way with some scissors, for an eco-friendly option.
You can even use an old cookie tray!
You might want to invest in a washable mat to prevent litter escaping too far too. We love this super cute eco-friendly option.
Common Senior Cat FAQ’s – Questions and Answers:
Why is my old cat peeing everywhere?
Your first job is to have a checkup with your vet, as an older cat peeing everywhere could be the symptoms of a urinary tract infection, bladder infection, kidney issues, diabetes, or a few other possible causes.
It may also be the case that your senior cat is having trouble with access, stress or is struggling with cognitive function. Keeping your litter tray accessible and easily reachable should help, as well as keeping their routine as regular as possible.
Why is my senior cat so skinny?
After ruling out any medical reasons for weight loss, the next port of call would be to assess your fur-friend’s diet.
While a traditional higher fiber diet is useful for keeping our middle-aged cats slim, this can be unhelpful for seniors. Older cats may need a more high calorie and easily digestible diet as their nutritional needs change – especially if they are prone to weight loss. Your vet will be able to advise on the right food choices for your golden oldie.
Pain from arthritis or other medical issues can cause your older cat to cry at night, when there might be less going on to distract them. So bring up the noises with your vet and see if upping their pain medication, or a heated bed, could help.
Cognitive dysfunction is another common cause of yowling in senior cats. Similar to dementia in humans, other signs include disorientation, excessive sleeping & eliminating outside the litter box.
Final Thoughts – Caring for Senior Cats
The common factor in all of the happiest & healthiest senior cats I’ve met? Attentive, loving owners.
By reading this post, you are already providing your cat with a wonderful start to their twilight years, with (we hope) lots of handy tips in your back pocket to implement.
My final thought? Stay connected. Whether it’s with our lovely Fluffy Kitty community, or with senior cat Facebook groups. These groups and networks can be really helpful in spotting any issues early on, providing fun activity ideas for your cat & offering support for you when you need it.
Do you have a golden oldie? Let us know who they are and how you make them feel purrr-fectly comfortable. We’d love to know
Today we are back for the final part of our visit to the cat cafe Little Lions in NYC. Should you have missed Part 1 or Part 2 don’t forget to check them out.
This time around we brought along some of the amazing 4cats cuddly cushions with valerian filling.
All the cats went absolutely mad over the little cushion but the white “cow cat” was the first to put her slobber all over the cushion. The good thing about valerian is that while it has similar effects to catnip it’ll also help by calming down the cats after the initial effect has worn off.
For those of you that are unfamiliar with valerian, you may wish to check out our valerian guide.
Of course, the cats weren’t quite in agreement over who would get playtime with our cushion… we should have brought a whole truckload!
After the white cat it was time for Mr Tabby to have a go at the toys! Though as you can see someone tried to get it back of him hehe.
I always find it amazing how relaxed cats get with these and it’s a lot of fun to watch them unwind from what must be a stressful environment for some cats.
Our third volunteer for the toys was…
… the black and white tuxedo! He was definitely more of a licker hehe. Oh and don’t worry about the cage, we enquired about this as well and they don’t normally use this but it’s there in case a cat has to be removed from the cat cafe and taken to the back area that’s not open to the public.
After that I tried to give the cushion to this little fella but despite being interested in the smell I don’t think he was in keen on getting in contact with the slobber of all of his friends… Yes that’s why I was holding it on the edge of the cushion – totally drenched. LOL
We hope you enjoyed our look at this cat cafe! And we are just as sad that it is now closed.
My name is Alexia, and I’m an independent rescuer in Astoria (Queens), New York.
On August 29, 2021, I responded to a plea to rescue a friendly tuxedo in bad shape at a local school yard. He was dirty, skinny, with blood and snot bubbling from his nostrils. His food bowl was filled with flies and bugs. He was living behind a metal container amidst some discarded equipment, and asking passerbys for help. He was ear-tipped and very sick, so I assume his colony kicked him out.
It took about 2 weeks of visiting him and 3 days of waiting out the heavy summer rains, but I slowly won his trust, finally managed to trap him, and named him Mr Potter. I took him to the vet, and he had to be put on oyxgen for the day for bad upper respiratory failure. His kidneys were in poor shape from the spoiled food and from the hard life of living out there for 10 years. He had only 3 teeth left and a serious gum infection. His paw pads were messed up from the boiling hot asphalt.
After several thousand dollars of treatment and a good bath, he stayed with me and everything changed. The day I brought him home after the rescue. freshly washed and deflea’d at the vet, he walked to the door of the crate and stared at me for at least 5 long minutes. He seemed to know he was finally rescued, and his eyes pierced right into me. It was definitely a communion of sorts. He then turned slowly and walked into the Kitty City to sleep on something soft for the first time in his life. At last, he had his own bed and loved curling up in his Kitty City, cozy and warm, or sitting on cushions under the dining table. I had cat mats scattered around and he would hang out in various areas of the apartment.
He grew to love being brushed, his fur became sleek and shiny, and he had a very elegant fluffy collar. In the beginning, he had some fungal patches which would become weeping open wounds, but a home visit from the vet helped clear this up completely.
My other cats immediately respected him, probably sensing that he was delicate. He became friendly with my feral Nina and would join her in the closet to keep her company. As time passed, he started to play. His favorite toy was the 3-tiered track balls; he could easily spend an hour swatting them around and around. He loved hanging out in the tube. When I rescued a young tuxedo Elsie, he was transfixed with her youth and playfulness, and followed her around. And when I rescued kittens for the first time, he nestled next to them, offering them comfort.
He loved to walk to my feet when I was preparing the evening meals, joining the other waiting cats, his huge eyes staring up. And after dinner he would pad over to his mat outside his bed to receive his nightly treats, which he couldn’t get enough of. He loved hanging out at his water fountain, knowing his water was always fresh and bug free. He also loved lying in the sun in the scratcher bowl, curled up in the rays, his fur warm.
Unfortunately, his lungs were compromised from his years in the cold, which made him prone to catching colds and upper respiratory infections. I’d treat them immediately, and after a few days he’d be back to normal. But the last one knocked him for a loop, and nothing would help. He stopped eating, and then one day collapsed in front of me. I rushed him to the emergency hospital, and an x-ray showed a mass in his lungs, and his stomach filled with air from gulping for breath. Sadly, it had finally caught up with him and nothing would help. He was going to be suffering, so I had to let him go, holding him, talking to him.
My darling Mr Potter died 2 weeks shy of a year after coming into my life. I loved him with all of my heart, and his story of resilience touched a lot of people. He taught me so much about strength and grace, and I have been truly honored to have walked along the same path as him during his last year. He will always leave a hole in my heart as well as fill it. I’m a better person for having known him and only wish he could have had more than a year wrapped in love and peace. But I’m grateful for having been able to offer him that, so he could pass in peace withthe certainty he was loved.
Many people don’t understand the huge hearts of street cats, and even fewer are willing to give them a chance to enjoy their golden years in a safe and loving home. Rather than being throw-aways, these cats are highly capable of becoming valued and beloved members of our families. Mr Potter was a very gentle soul. If he could inspire anyone to open their eyes and hearts to bring in a cat in need, he would be passing his life forward.
Thank you, Mr Potter. The world is a little dimmer without you in it. You will live forever in my heart. I love you, my beloved boy.
Mr Potter’s story can be seen as it unfolded on my Instagram @lexibonyc
