Like people, cats have different health needs at different life stages. As kittens, they thrive on toys and attention to provide extra stimulation and excitement. As your cat grows into adulthood, extra focus on diet helps ensure the right nutrition for your cat’s stage of life. And during the golden years, helping cats age as gracefully as possible can promote a healthy quality of life for as long as possible. These tips for senior cat care can help do just that.

Lend a paw for cat grooming
Senior cats often slow down on grooming due to arthritis or exhaustion. This makes them feel uncomfortable since cats are meticulous animals and like to feel clean. Make time each day for grooming your cat — including brushing fur and trimming nails — to make her feel good about herself.
Make time for play with your senior cat
Your cat might appear to spend countless hours sleeping or seem like she’d rather relax than play like a kitten, but the opposite is true. Even in their older years, cats need the exercise and mental stimulation that playtime provides. Offer cat toys and treats, and try to dedicate at least 15 minutes a day of playtime to your cat. That lets your cat interact and bond with you, too. Playtime will keep her young at heart, regardless of age.
Ask about veterinary house calls
In general, cats dislike going to the vet. As cats age, they get even more perturbed by these interruptions of their day-to-day lives. Regardless, regular vet visits are needed to maintain your cat's health. To give your aging cat the best care, consider a local vet who can make house calls.
Pour some extra water for your cat
Drinking water is one of the key factors in helping your cat age gracefully. Older cats may sometimes forget to drink water, which can cause them to become dehydrated. Help make it easier for your cat to consume enough each day by making sure that multiple water sources are available.
Provide tender loving care
When all is said and done, one of the best ways to help your cat age gracefully is simply to shower your feline with a little TLC. No matter their age, your cat enjoys your company, your presence and your adoration. Keep all of the above in high supply.

Keeping a healthy cat

Helping your cat thrive as a senior pet is the best way to keep the bond between the two of you strong and long-lasting. Since senior cats are prone to more health issues, they may need more frequent vet exams compared to younger cats. In addition to the tips above, be sure to keep your cat up to date on routine wellness checks and vaccinations, and talk to your vet about other things you can do to help your cat age gracefully.

The CareCredit credit card provides a convenient way to pay for veterinary expenses like exams, vaccinations, medications and products at participating veterinary practices nationwide.* Use the Acceptance Locator or download the CareCredit Mobile App to find a nearby practice that accepts the CareCredit credit card.