As cats get older, some of the everyday things they’ve done for years may become a little more challenging.
That easy leap from the couch to a favorite chair may take more effort. A high-sided litter box may become harder to navigate.
Or your cat may simply spend more time resting and choose comfortable, familiar places around the house.
Fortunately, a few thoughtful changes can make everyday routines easier and help create a home that continues to work well for your cat as they age.
Every cat is different, so let your cat’s habits and preferences help guide the changes you make.
Make the Litter Box Easy to Access
The litter box your cat has used for years may not always be the best option as they get older.
Consider a box with a lower entry so your cat doesn’t have to step over a high side to get in and out.
In a larger or multi-level home, having more than one litter box can also make sure one is always within easy reach.
A non-slip mat underneath the box can help keep it securely in place and make cleanup easier.
If your cat begins eliminating outside the litter box, however, don’t assume age is the reason.
Changes in litter box habits can have a variety of causes, so talk with your veterinarian about anything new or unusual.¹
Create Comfortable Places to Rest
Older cats may spend more time resting, so make sure they have comfortable places to settle throughout the home.
If your cat’s longtime favorite perch has become difficult to reach, you don’t necessarily have to retire it.
A sturdy step or ramp may make a favorite couch, bed, or window spot accessible again.
You can also add comfortable beds or blankets in places your cat already enjoys spending time.
Look for quiet locations away from drafts and heavy household traffic, and consider placing a cozy resting spot near a sunny window if your cat enjoys the warmth.
Once you find locations your cat likes, keeping those spaces familiar and consistent can help preserve the routines they already know.
Make Getting Around a Little Easier
Take a look at your home from your senior cat’s perspective.
Does reaching the couch require a big jump?
Is their favorite window perch suddenly a long way up?
Do they need to climb stairs to reach their food, water, or litter box?
Strategically placed steps or ramps can make favorite locations easier to reach.
You might also add nightlights along frequently traveled areas to make the home easier to navigate after dark.
Small adjustments like these allow you to adapt your cat’s environment without unnecessarily changing the places and routines they already enjoy.
Lend a Hand With Grooming
Some senior cats may appreciate a little extra help with grooming.
If your cat isn’t keeping up with their coat as well as they once did, gentle brushing with a soft brush or grooming mitt can help.
Choose a grooming tool your cat is comfortable with, and keep sessions short if that’s what they prefer.
Grooming also gives you some quiet one-on-one time together and an opportunity to become familiar with what’s normal for your cat.
Keep Food and Water Within Easy Reach
Food and fresh water should be easy for your senior cat to access.
Think about where your cat spends most of their time and whether getting to their bowls requires navigating stairs or traveling across the house.
In larger or multi-level homes, an additional water station may be helpful.
Pay attention to the bowls themselves, too. If your cat seems to have difficulty reaching their food or water comfortably, a wider, low-sided bowl may be worth trying.
The goal is simple: make the things your cat uses every day as convenient and comfortable to reach as possible.
Let Your Cat’s Habits Be Your Guide
There isn’t one “right” way to create a senior-friendly home.
One cat may still happily climb to a favorite perch, while another may appreciate a step along the way.
Some may seek out warm, cozy resting spots, while others simply want their longtime favorite places to remain within easy reach.
The goal isn’t to change everything just because your cat is getting older.
Instead, pay attention to where everyday life may be becoming more difficult and make thoughtful adjustments when they’re needed.
And because changes in behavior or everyday routines can sometimes signal more than normal aging, keep up with regular veterinary visits and talk with your veterinarian if you notice significant or unexpected changes.²
A few well-placed changes can help your senior cat continue enjoying the familiar routines and favorite places that make your house feel like home.
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References
- American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) and International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). Feline House-Soiling Guidelines.
- American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP). Senior Care Guidelines.
