Cats have a lifespan that ranges from 12 to 18 years. Knowing how long cats typically live and the factors that impact their lifespan can help you make informed decisions about your cat’s care. In addition, indoor cats usually live longer than outdoor cats, which is great news for cat lovers!
Life Expectancy of Indoor and Outdoor Cats
As a cat lover, it’s always reassuring to know that indoor cats have longer life expectancy than outdoor cats. This is mainly because indoor cats can access food and water, regular vet checkups, and preventive care. So, whether you have an indoor or outdoor cat, ensure they have everything they need to be healthy and happy.
In addition to providing them with a comfortable indoor home, ensure they have plenty of toys, beds, and scratching posts to keep them occupied and healthy. Indoor cats can enjoy a life expectancy of up to 15 years, while outdoor cats have a life expectancy of around five years. So, whether you have an indoor or outdoor cat, ensure they get the care they need and deserve!
Factors That Impact Life Expectancy
There’s no telling how old your cat will get, but there are things you can do to increase his chances of living a long and healthy life. Keep tabs on his health and invest in preventative care if needed – this could save his life!
Additionally, some felines are born with a shorter lifespan than others simply because of their age and background. But don’t despair; there’s still good news! There’s no guarantee that your cat will live to be old like grandma, but there are things you can do to increase his chances.
For example, provide him with a healthy and balanced diet, play with him frequently, and keep him indoors only when necessary. Age is one factor that impacts life expectancy in cats, so make the most of it!
Effects of Aging
Physical Changes
As cats age, they’ll experience several physical changes that can harm their lives. These changes include weight gain, muscle loss, an increased risk of diseases such as cancer, and a decline in their physical health. If you’re concerned about your cat’s health or age, be sure to consult with a veterinarian.
However, there are ways to help your cat live a longer life without worrying about these issues. For example, make sure to feed them a healthy diet that contains plenty of nutrients, exercise them regularly, and provide them with plenty of love and attention. By taking these basic steps, you can help your cat enjoy a long and healthy life!
Behavioral Changes
As cats age, it’s natural for them to experience several behavioral changes. These changes may include becoming more docile and less active. However, if you notice any unusual behavior from your cat, it’s essential to take action and consult a vet as soon as possible. While these changes may not always indicate that your cat is sick or in danger, it’s always best to be on the safe side and check things out.
As cats age, they tend to change their behaviors in several ways, so you must stay up-to-date on all the latest news and trends to adequately care for your feline friend!
Home Care for the Elderly Cats
Claw Trimming
There is always a risk of accidents when trimming cats’ claws – be careful not to hurt them. For example, regular claw trimming for older cats becomes necessary as their nails may start to grow in different directions. The procedure can be done at home using basic supplies like scissors, clipper, and nail file – make sure to keep all the cuticles intact for best results.
Always wear gloves while doing this, as cat paw blood contains high nitrogen levels, which can cause skin irritation in some people. Acetone (cologne) can also help loosen embedded hair and debris so that you can easily trim it away with a nail file or scissors.
Grooming
When grooming an elderly cat, a few essential tips can make the process easier. For starters, remove any mats or tangles with a pair of scissors if they have them. Brushing their coat stimulates the production of oils and keeps them healthy and shiny.
Additionally, start by combing their hair with a brush before applying a topical flea/tick treatment as needed. If your cat is aging, it is essential to take care of its grooming needs to maintain optimal health overall.
Hairballs
Hairballs are a common problem for older cats, as their diet and digestive system change with age. Hairballs are caused by the accumulation of food and fur in the cat’s stomach and can be very dangerous if not eliminated quickly. There are several things you can do to help your cat manage hairballs:
- Change their diet – offer them high-quality kibble low in carbohydrate content, as this will help reduce the build-up of hair in the stomach.
- Give them regular walks or playtime – these activities keep their muscles exercised, which helps to move furry material through the intestines more easily.
- If your cat struggles with frequent hairball episodes, try a hairball product like Hairball Relief gel or chewable tablets (both available from pet stores). These products break down oral hairs before they become lodged in the stomach.
Toilet Habits
Keeping your elderly cat healthy and clean is a priority- and the best way to do that is by providing them with all the necessities they need, including water and food in a specific place, proper toilet training tips, and regular vet checkups.
If your cat isn’t using the litter box or seems off their game, it might be time for you to consult your vet. Cats over age 10 are more likely than younger cats to have trouble with the bathroom – so take extra care of them!
Dental Checkups
Regular dental checkups are essential for old cats to identify any early signs of disease and to get the treatment they need as soon as possible. Besides checking their teeth, senior cats also benefit from having their claws trimmed regularly – this prevents them from developing infections in the long run. Finally, a good diet is essential for keeping an older cat healthy and happy!
Regular Health Checks
Keeping your cat healthy and happy is essential, which means regular health checks. Schedule a veterinary examination immediately if you notice anything out of the ordinary. In addition, regular health checks can identify abnormalities early, saving your cat from serious health problems.
Encouraging Appetite
As cats age, their appetite usually decreases. This can lead to malnutrition and even weight gain, as cats don’t tend to consume as much as they used to. To help your cat maintain a healthy weight and appetite, provide them with toys and activities that keep them entertained. This will help them avoid getting bored or inactive, and their desire will gradually increase.
Additionally, ensure their diet is high in moisture and nutrients, as dry food can make cats thirsty and hungry. Feed them small, frequent meals to help them stay healthy and satisfied. Last but not least, give your cat plenty of love and attention. This will encourage an appetite for life!
Drinking
Drinking water is a vital part of a cat’s diet. Not only does it help them stay hydrated, but it can also help to keep them healthy and fit. If you notice that your cat isn’t drinking as much as usual, it’s probably because they’re not getting the water they need. So make sure to change the drink to flavored water to keep them interested.
Have an Elderly Cat-Friendly Home
As cats age, they tend to become more friendly and active. This makes them perfect candidates for elderly cat ownership. To make the transition smooth for you and your cat, keep him healthy and active with regular vet checkups, exercise, and a balanced diet.
Additionally, ensure the home you choose is cat-friendly – this will ease the transition for your cat. There’s no need to give up on your feline friend as he enters his golden years – provide an aging-friendly home, and he’ll be just fine!
Play
Playing with your cat is one of the best ways to keep them healthy and happy. Cats are playful animals and love to play. Playing can help you bond with them and keep them healthy. Cats need physical and mental stimulation, so playing is a great way to give both to them. If you cannot play with your cat, find an activity they enjoy, such as playing fetch or climbing trees.
Scratching
Scratching is an essential behavior for cats and one that is often overlooked. Scratching can be a sign that your cat is feeling stressed or anxious. Kittens start to scratch at around four weeks old, and adult cats will also scratch when they need to mark their territory or get rid of parasites.
You can help your cat scratch by providing them with the proper scratching posts. Many types of scratching posts are available, so find one that meets your cat’s needs (and yours!). All cats scratch – it’s an essential behavior for keeping them healthy and happy.
