-
Step 1
Our aging cat DaveKeep a separate file in your filing cabinet for each aging cat and keep all vet bills, animal shelter adoption papers, and medical records. You may need to refer to them years later for information about vaccinations, etc.
-
Step 2
Our aging cat WilburKeep all cat toys, brushes and treats in one area of your home (so things don't get lost) and keep all cat medicines or equipment in another area altogether. You don't want the smells of the flea medications to mingle with the catnip, for example.
-
Step 3
Try to give all the aging cats medicines or treatments at the same time whenever possible. This may be impractical, of course. Even if you catch one cat and give it flea meds, the other cats will invariably figure out what's going on and run to hide.
-
Step 4
Our aging cat TrudyMany aging cats need to have fluids administered subcutaneously as their kidneys fail. Talk to your vet about the best way to do this, but make sure you keep all the necessary equipment (needles, etc.) in one bag, preferably someplace the cats can't get into it. This way, you can grab the cat when he/she is least expecting it and have all the equipment you need at your fingertips.
-
Step 5
All cats needs dental care.As cats begin to age, it becomes increasingly important to maintain their dental health to avoid gum disease and tooth extractions. There are many cat treats on the market that encourage salivation (like Petrodex) but there's no substitute for brushing your aging cats' teeth. Fingertip toothbrushes are available at pet supply stores or online websites like petco.com. Some vets recommend using a piece of first aid gauze instead. Whatever works for you, try to clean your cats' teeth as often as possible. They will most likely not enjoy this.
-
Step 6
If any of your aging cats have problems with coughing up fur balls (a delight) make sure to keep a fur ball remedy like Laxatone among their medicines. There are many on the market, but they are often a greasy, toothpaste-like consistency. If you're lucky enough to find a flavor they like, they may lick it off the tip of your finger. If not, you'll need to smear it on their nose so they lick it off.
-
Step 7
If your aging cat pukes up clear or yellowish fluid (and not food or fur), call your veterinarian and ask if s/he agrees with this method: Get an acid reducer for people, like Pepsid AC. Even the generic, store brand will do. Use a pill divider (sold at any drug store) to divide the pill in quarters. Pop a quarter of a Pepsid AC in you cat's mouth and the problem should go away immediately.
-
Step 8
Buy a wall calendar (even a small one will do) from a book store and hang it in a commonly used room in your home, like your kitchen. Mark the day (and each aging cat's initial) on the wall calendar when you've successfully accomplished giving them fluids, brushing their teeth or administering medications.
Comments
airving said
on 8/12/2009 Great article. Good use of photos. Our kitties are getting old so your article How to Care for Multiple Aging Cats is very helpful. Using a calendar to keep tract is such a good idea, and fingertip toothbrushes . . . I didn't even know about those! 5* and rec.
wannawrkfrmhome said
on 8/12/2009 We just lost a cat to kidney failure in May. It was NOT a good experience...and his brother became so depressed that we ended up getting a new kitten about 6 weeks later to keep him company. Good tips for anyone with an aging cat. 5*
qtddroo said
on 8/11/2009 I have three cats. These are great tips. 5* and Rec
billips said
on 5/27/2009 Lovely compassionate article on taking care of your aging multiple cats - anyone who takes such good care of their animals, aging or not is a winner to me - 5* - B.
Merriment said
on 2/1/2009 Fingertip toothbrushes... that's what I need! Thanks for all the tips!