How Old is Old? Signs of Feline Ageing

A deaf cat is easily startled because he can't hear you approaching. He sleeps more deeply because the lack of sound gives him a false sense of security. Deaf cats can learn to recognize hand signals or the flashing of a torch (flashlight) to call him in for meals or at night. At close range, sharp hand-claps may still gain a partially-deaf cat's attention. Deaf cats cannot hear danger signals such as cars, lawnmowers or barking dogs. If he goes outdoors (or could escape outdoors), make sure he wears an elasticated (or break-free) collar bearing his address and write 'I AM DEAF' on the collar to help people who find him on their driveway or in their garden. A noisy collar bell helps you to locate him when he is in motion. It is safest to confine a deaf cat to a safely fenced garden or indoors.

Blindness

A cat which bumps into things may be losing its sight. A cat blind in one eye is easily startled by sudden movements on his blind side. Blind cats are easily disoriented and must not be allowed to roam; indoors only or indoors with access to an outdoor enclosure is best. He may enjoy walking in the garden using a harness and lead and these trips can be enjoyable for you both as you can observe what things attract the attention of your cat. Make sure he wears an elasticated collar stating his address and disability in case he escapes and becomes lost.

Blind cats rely on scent and memory to find their way around so keep furniture, food and litter in the same place and don't leave obstacles in unexpected places where he could walk into them. Carrying a blind cat around will disorient him so if you do move him, place him at floor level somewhere familiar e.g. his feeding or sleeping area so he can easily get its bearings. Sound is very important to a blind cat and many enjoy playing with jingle toys or rustling paper (e.g. paper grocery bags).

Deaf-Blind Cats

It is rarer for a cat to lose both hearing and sight. Such cats are far safer indoors as they can easily become lost or hurt outdoors. Many adapt well and still enjoy life, relying on their sense of smell. The fact that older cats are less active anyway means that they are less distressed by these problems than you might think. If you feel that your cat is distressed by its condition, you should discuss the matter with your vet who may recommend euthanasia, especially if the cat has other age-related problems as well.

Strokes