Playing With A Senior Cat

Is your feline friend starting to slow down? As Fluffy gets older, she’ll become more interested in napping than in making mischief. Of course, playing will still be beneficial for your kitty, both mentally and physically. There are some things to keep in mind when playing with senior cats. Read on as a local Fort Collins, CO vet discusses playing with an older kitty.

Although your cat should have some toys she can play with by herself, for your kitty play sessions, you’ll want to use things that you can control, like a laser pointer or wand toy. Cats all have their own preferences when it comes to toys. However, your feline buddy’s preferences may change as she ages. She may find it easier to track toys that are brightly colored or ones that make noise. Experiment with different playthings, and see if your cute pet seems to enjoy a specific type of toy.

Fluffy won’t have the stamina that she did when she was younger, and may tire out after just a few minutes. That’s purrfectly fine! Even just a few minutes of jumping and pouncing will benefit your furry pal.

Pick a place that is both comfortable and safe. Senior cats sometimes get clumsy, and could fall off a bed or couch. We recommend keeping Fluffy on the floor, preferably in an area with soft carpet.

Let Fluffy ‘catch’ her prey sometimes. Your kitty may become discouraged if she never ‘wins,’ and could lose interest. (Of course, your feline pal will never catch that elusive red dot, but she’ll have fun trying.)

Many cats are very much creatures of habit, and do best on a specific routine. Try to play with Fluffy at the same time every night.

After a fun play session, Fluffy will know that you did something just to make her happy. She may express her appreciation of this in some pretty adorable ways. She might meow at you, rub against your legs, or jump into your lap for cuddles. Then again, she may just ignore you afterwards and take a nap. You just never know with cats!

Please contact us, your Fort Collins, CO vet clinic, for your senior cat’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help!