As cats age, their needs change in ways that can be subtle but meaningful. In Part 2 of our Senior Cat Care Series, Dr. Laura Fink shares how mobility issues, litter box challenges, vision and hearing changes, and age-related behavior shifts affect older cats. With the right support, senior cats can stay comfortable, confident, and happy well into their later years.
Supporting Senior Cats with Mobility Changes
Arthritis is extremely common in older cats, and it often shows up as hesitation or difficulty jumping. Simple changes at home can make a big difference:
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Add cat stairs or step stools to help them reach beds or couches
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Provide multi-level setups so they can climb up in smaller stages
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Keep food and water bowls in easy-to-access locations
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Offer soft, supportive bedding in quiet areas
These adjustments help reduce joint strain and keep aging cats moving comfortably.
Litter Box Challenges and What They Mean
If a senior cat starts eliminating outside the litter box, it is usually a sign of discomfort or an underlying medical issue. Arthritis can make stepping into high-sided or covered litter boxes painful, so switching to a low-sided box often helps.
Common medical causes of litter box issues include:
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Urinary tract infections
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Kidney disease
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Diabetes
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Pain when squatting
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Age-related anxiety or cognitive decline
In senior cats, we always investigate medical causes first, since early care improves comfort and prevents worsening symptoms.
Vision, Hearing, and Cognitive Changes
Older cats often experience natural sensory decline. While these changes cannot be reversed, there are many ways to support them:
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Use night lights to help cats navigate the house
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Make gentle noise when approaching to avoid startling pets with hearing loss
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Reduce sudden changes in the home
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Keep routines predictable to lower anxiety
Some senior cats also develop cognitive changes, such as nighttime vocalizing, disorientation, or increased anxiety. Medications and supplements can often help them feel calmer and more secure.
Medication Options That Work for Real Life
Medication can be challenging for some senior cats. Dr. Fink highlights several helpful options:
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Pills added to food or crushed with toppers
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Liquid medications flavored for cats
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Transdermal gels applied to the ear
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Adjusted treatment plans focused on the most important medications
The goal is always to support the cat’s comfort while reducing stress for both the pet and the family.
Quality of Life: Understanding What Your Cat Is Telling You
Senior cats can live long, full lives, but eventually pet parents may notice changes in daily enjoyment or mobility. Quality of life assessments help determine how well an aging cat is feeling.
Look for whether your cat still:
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Enjoys favorite activities
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Seeks affection
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Moves comfortably
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Eats and drinks well
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Interacts with the family
Veterinarians can help guide families through these decisions with compassion and clarity.
When a Senior Cat Loses a Companion
If two cats grew up together, losing one can change the behavior of the surviving senior. Some cats thrive with a new kitten, who brings fresh energy and companionship. Others prefer calm and familiarity. There is no single right answer. Your veterinarian can help you decide what might work best based on your cat’s personality.
Why Senior Wellness Plans Help
Senior Wellness Plans provide consistent preventive care and help detect problems before they become advanced. These plans may include:
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Twice yearly wellness exams
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Annual bloodwork
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Urinalysis
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Parasite screening
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Nutritional and weight guidance
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Discounts on additional services
Since many age-related conditions develop slowly and quietly, Senior Wellness Plans help keep your cat comfortable and healthy while making care more predictable throughout the year.
We Are Here to Support You and Your Senior Cat
At Columbia Pike Animal Hospital and Emergency Center, we are dedicated to helping your senior cat enjoy their golden years with comfort, confidence, and excellent quality of life. If you have questions or want to schedule a senior wellness visit, our team is here 24 hours a day to help.