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Older cats are often very
companionable; enjoying attention and relaxing in
your company so it can be a rewarding time for you
to indulge your nurturing instincts. Ageing cats
adapt their lifestyle to cope with any incapacity;
slowing down gradually, seeking warm, comfortable
spots and spending more time asleep. They sleep
more deeply and are harder to rouse, so don't
suddenly disturb a sleeping cat or it will be
startled, especially if its hearing is fading.
This deep slumber also shows that the cat feels
safe.
As cats grow older, stiffer and lose muscle
tone, high surfaces (windowsills, shelves, kitchen
counters, your bed) become inaccessible unless you
provide a ramp or box as a stepping stone. Tables
and counters may become cat-free zones and
ornaments be are less likely to be overturned. The
cat's curiosity is unabated, but he no longer
exerts himself or his muscles are not up to the
jump. Instead of active pursuits he may turn his
attention to socializing quietly with you. He may
prefer to sit near you rather than on your lap.
This is not a snub; depleted fat stores means he
is bonier and finds your lap uncomfortable. Put a
cushion or folded blanket on your lap to make it
more comfortable when he wants a cuddle. If he is
allowed in the bedroom, spend an half-hour or more
sitting up in bed reading with your legs tucked
under the duvet or quilt - he will find that the
duvet makes a supportive "hammock"
between your legs.
Middle-age spread (through overfeeding and
under-exercising) eventually gives way to boniness
as subcutaneous (under-skin) fat stores become
depleted. The spine, shoulder blades and hips are
more prominent; his muzzle appears
"sharper" and the eyes more prominent as
fat around the face is lost. You may notice
changes in how he moves as he becomes stiff and
"rheumaticky". He may stand with
forelegs wider apart as degenerative changes occur
in the joints, giving him a saggy, barrel-chested
appearance. This may also help increase his chest
capacity and breathing as the heart and lungs work
less efficiently. This is nicknamed
"clockwork kitty" syndrome as his
movements give the impression of a wind-up toy.
What is
Ageing?
He may develop a tendency to walk on his hocks
due to muscle wastage in the hind-legs. This also
restricts running and jumping. Hock-walking is
also associated with the after effects of saddle
thrombus (see later). He becomes generally less
supple and finds it harder to curl up into a tight
ball so a larger cat bed may be necessary.
Beanbags mould themselves to his shape and provide
support while the polystyrene beads in a beanbag
will retain heat and help keep him warm.
Fleece-covered cat hammocks are comfortable, but
make sure he can get in and out of it easily.
Older cats often become talkative, spending less
time physically active and more time expressing
their opinions. Some are seeking reassurance, but
others take a chatty interest in your activities.
Not only do they enjoy your company, they tell you
how much they enjoy it! Some of the increased
vocalization (especially increased volume) is due
to deafness - the cat literally can't hear himself
speak.
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