Are older cats picky eaters?
“When cats get older, it’s normal for their appetite and eating habits to change with time. Some cats lose interest in the food they once loved, while others want to eat less often than when they were younger. However, older cats not eating, or eating well but losing weight can be worrying.
What can I feed an old picky cat?
Pet owners can actually help to create a fussy eater by taking advantage of the huge variety among cat foods; different kibble flavors and sizes, different textures and flavors of canned foods, pouches of semi-moist food, and freshly packaged meals in the refrigerator section of the grocery or pet store.
What to do with a 16 year old cat?
You’ve come a long way with your cat. At 16 she’s as much a part of your world as any human family member. There will be a lot of changes as your cat moves deeper into her twilight years. Continue your good work toward ensuring this time is as enjoyable and enriching as possible for both of you.
When to take your senior cat to the vet?
If anxiety problems persist or get out of hand, your veterinarian can prescribe medication to help. Your cat will need to see the veterinarian at leasttwice a year now for a checkup. Your veterinarian will want to do a complete geriatric workup, which will include a complete physical exam and evaluation of blood, urine and stool samples.
How to take care of an older cat?
Your older cat’s internal temperature gauge can get a little off. Perhaps your fuzzy feline used to tolerate cold temperatures well, but now he’s wimpy about winter. To keep him comfortable, regulate the temperature in his environment and give him a warm snuggle space.
What happens when a senior cat gets confused?
You’ve probably already noticed an increase in catnaps, another indication that your cat is getting a little older. Like most senior animals, aging cats can develop dementia, and from this point on, your cat is at increased risk. It is harder for him to learn new things and adjust to change now, and he may get confused more easily.
When to take your cat to the vet for kidney failure?
Kidney failure is one of the most common problems veterinarians see in senior cats. Regular geriatric exams, starting early in your cat’s golden years, can increase the likelihood of early detection and proper management of any deteriorating kidney function.
Signs of Common Health Problems in Senior Cats. Take your cat to the vet immediately if you notice any of these warning signs: appetite loss or unintentional weight loss; lumps or bumps that increase in size, sores that don’t heal, or bleeding or other discharge from the mouth, nose or anus; unusual body odor, lack of energy,…
When to worry about your senior cat’s health?
Health concerns will usually be accompanied by major behavioral changes. Do not worry unduly unless your cat has also stopped eating and drinking or is acting particularly strangely. It’s likelier that your senior cat has ceased grooming through inability, not unwillingness.
How can I get my finicky cat to eat?
Add some incentives to tempt finicky eaters. Sprinkle freeze dried chicken or salmon on top. Drizzle a little bit of tuna or clam juice drizzled over the food. Add small pieces of cooked cooked meat. Spread a spoonful of meat-based baby food (make sure it doesn’t contain onion powder) on top of the meal.