Like all animals, cats grow, and as they grow, their behavior begins to change. These changes do not necessarily lead to serious behavioral problems. In most cases, they are perfectly normal and not a cause for concern. However, it is important for Owners to try to understand how age may affect their cat’s behavior…
The coming of age is much less noticeable in cats than it is in dogs. In fact, experts still cannot agree on when a cat should be considered physiologically old. As a result, all cats over 11 years of age should be considered adults…
When it comes to making changes to your pet’s diet or veterinary care, it’s important to pay attention to their age, not their appearance or behavior. For example, a 12-year-old cat may still be healthy and active, but should still be considered an older adult.
Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome in Cats.
Cognitive dysfunction syndrome is different from normal aging. An older cat may show marked changes in its behavior, but this does not necessarily mean that these changes are caused by the syndrome. Cognitive dysfunction causes various anatomical and physiological changes in the brain, similar to those seen in people with Alzheimer’s disease…
Many of the behavioral changes caused by old age are similar to those seen in cats with cognitive dysfunction syndrome, including:
- Disorientation
- Changes in interactions with owners and other pets.
- Changes in your dreams.
- Peeing or defecating on the floor
- Changes in your activity levels (increases or decreases)
Routine behavior in older cats
Behavioral problems in older cats can be the result of normal deterioration This occurs as the animal ages. For example, a cat that urinates on the floor may suffer from arthritis joint pain, which may prevent it from going in and out of the litter tray…
The appearance of aggressive behavior in cats can be a sign of discomfort, such as dental problems or hormonal imbalances. If your cat seems restless, it may be due to chronic kidney disease, which is common in older cats…
These behavioral changes may be an early warning that something is wrong with your pet, and may help your veterinarian detect the disease early.
According to a series of studies, older cats often exhibit behaviors such as:
- Urinating or defecating outside the litter box
- Aggression toward other cats in the house.
- Aggression toward people
- Excessive vocalization
- Anxiety
- Excessive grooming
- Disorientation
- Irritability
- Fear
- Increased attachment to their owners.
Old age: how to care for an adult cat
There are several ways to minimize changes in your cat’s behavior and help make her later years happy and comfortable. First, you should order a veterinary exam to rule out possible health problems…
You can also adapt your home to make it more suitable for your senior cat… For example, if they have trouble getting into the litter box, try finding one with lower sides so it’s easier to get in and out of.
Similarly, if your cat is used to sleeping on the couch or bed, you can buy a small stool or ramp so he can get in and out. As your cat grows, it’s best to avoid major changes in their surroundings, as they can easily become disoriented. Keep food and water bowls in their places so they know where to find them…
Although they may be old, it’s important that older cats stay active. If they mostly eat a diet, be sure to choose one that is designed for older animals. Alternatively, if your cat likes wet food, this is the perfect time to increase the amount of wet food and decrease the amount of food in their diet. This is best for your budgies if you choose a good quality brand.