Much like human senior citizens, geriatric cats need a bit more attention and help from their caretakers in order to enjoy the quality of life they deserve in their advancing years.
As cats age, their nails harden and become brittle and overgrown, which can cause difficulty in mobility. Cats sometimes lose the ability to retract their claws. As a result, claws can catch on surfaces, causing injury to the claw or the limb. Older cats' claws should be trimmed at least once monthly or more often.
Aging is often accompanied by arthritis. The geriatric cat may find it more difficult to groom his coat thoroughly. Over a period of time, lack of grooming will cause mats to develop, which are not only unsightly and painful, but can provide a harboring place for bacteria and fleas, with resultant skin irritation.
A good grooming habit is to brush your cat thoroughly three times a week. daily brushing is ideal. Brushing your elderly cat not only will help keep his coat free of mats, but it will also help prevent the ubiquitous hair balls, and in addition stimulates blood circulation and natural oil secretion, resulting in a healthier skin and coat. A daily brushing session with your old guy will give you the opportunity to get in some quality cuddling time, which will benefit both of you.
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