Felines aged 7 or older are considered senior pets, and often start requiring different levels of care and resources, from increased vet visits to special supplements.
If you have a cat in their senior years, you may have noticed changes in their health and behavior. Senior cats are prone to a range of conditions like hypothyroidism, periodontal disease, and arthritis. They may also start exhibiting odd behaviors like urinating outside the litter box or just acting less playful in general. Managing these conditions and behaviors not only requires the help of a trusted vet, but may also mean that you have to make some changes to your pet's lifestyle, and even inside your home.
For pet parents of senior cats, here are five items that can potentially make their life—and yours—a little bit easier.
5 things your senior cat needs
1. An orthopedic bed
As cats age, they can start experiencing joint pain and mobility issues, so it's important to have a bed made especially for these conditions. Choose an orthopedic bed that sits low to the ground and is easily accessible. An elevated bed with high sides all around the perimeter, for example, would make it more difficult for your feline to get inside. Cat parents may find that beds that are marketed for dogs actually work well for cats, too.
Happy Hounds Bella Orthopedic Cat Bed$50
Perfect for feline friends experiencing joint pain or arthritis, this reversible cat bed offers ample support with its foam insert and luxurious sherpa lining.
PetiFine Orthopedic Bed$50
Constructed from premium memory foam material, this orthopedic bed can provide senior pets with joint relief and peaceful sleep. The removable cover makes for easy cleaning, too.
K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Cuddle Up$75
Developed to match your cat’s body temperature, this cat bed has a built-in heater to keep kitty warm. The orthopedic foam supports aging joints while the micro-fleece plush means ample coziness.
2. Pet stairs & ramps
Cat parents often marvel at their feline's ability to traverse any surface—from the tops of kitchen cabinets to the edges of bookshelves. Senior cats, however, may not be able to do these things anymore—and likely shouldn't if they're not in tip top physical shape.
Pet stairs and ramps can make it easier for your cat to snuggle up on their favorite part of the couch or get up to their cat tree.
Zinus Easy Cat & Dog Stairs$57
Constructed with high-density foam, these stairs make it easier for senior pets to climb up to their favorite spots. Plus, they're lightweight and assemble easily.
Royal Ramps Dog & Cat Ramp$160
This ramp protects your pet's joints while also giving them a gentle incline to their elevated destination of choice, whether it's your bed, a couch, or the window sill.
Alpha Paw ScratchyRamp Cat Ramp$120
You get two-in-one with this product—your feline can go where they want to go and have a satisfying scratch at the same time. A bonus? It comes with two adjustable height settings.
3. Raised food & water bowls
Investing in raised and slanted food and water bowls can help prevent senior cats from straining their neck to eat and drink. Some are also designed to encourage cats to eat slowly, preventing indigestion and vomiting.
Double Cat Bowl With Raised Stand$17
The design of this adorable cat bowl set reduces the strain on kitty's neck and makes for easier swallowing. The adorable cat-shaped bowls add a bit of fancy flare to your home, too.
Necoichi Ceramic Elevated Cat Food & Water Bowl Set$30
Designed to prevent arthritis pain, this set is made from non-absorbent porcelain material that is dishwasher and microwave safe. Measuring lines on the water bowl make it easy to track water intake.
Frisco Slanted Stainless Steel Bowl$8
The 15 degree slant of this option means pets don't have to strain or deal with uncomfortable indigestion. This sleek elevated bowl comes in both cream and black.
4. An accessible litter box
While some cats love when their litter box is creatively incorporated into a piece of furniture and getting inside is akin to an obstacle course, it's likely not appropriate for senior cats. Choose a litter box that has low entry so going in and out is easy for your elderly feline.
KAQUMAO Low Profile Senior Cat Litter Box Kit$50
This versatile litter box is perfect for senior cats with its collapsible design and low profile. Pet parents can choose to collapse just one side or the entire box to make for easy entry.
Petmate Booda Clean Step Cat Litter Box Dome$60
Just because this litter box looks like it's right out of a Star Wars movie doesn't mean it's not incredibly functional. The stairs make for easy access and the dome shape locks in smells.
Litter-Robot 3 Core Bundle by Whisker$700
If you want to give your senior cat the most luxurious of litter box options, go with the Litter-Robot 3 Core Bundle. This smart self cleaning litter box comes with a mat, fence, and ramp.
5. Age-appropriate toys
Perhaps the days of climbing up tall cat trees are slowly coming to an end, but you want to make sure your feline friend stays stimulated in their old age. There are plenty of toys and activities for senior cats that won't pose a fall or injury risk.
Catit Vesper Cat Tunnel$33
A tunnel allows your senior cat to enjoy a game of hide and seek without risking injury from climbing. This option includes a window and plush ball inside for added fun.
Petstages Lil' Avocato Dental Health Catnip Cat Chew Toy$4
This adorable toy gently cleans cats' teeth and satisfies their cravings with delicious catnip. Choose from nine unique designs to keep your kitty engaged for hours.
Petstages Jungle Mat Cat Activity Play Mat$50
Whether they want to lounge, bat, or scratch, this activity play mat is perfect for cats who need some stimulation. It includes a scratchable, catnip-filled base, two plush toys, and two balls with bells.
In addition to these items, make sure your cat is also on a vet-approved senior diet. If you have questions about diet or any other senior cat needs, the team at Pawp is here to help 24/7.