Pets

Your Elder Siamese: Tips for Better Living

Siamese cats are renowned for living longer than the average cat. This means that owners must be prepared to deal with an elderly cat. Siamese elders have their own needs and wants. Here are some tips for complying with them.

Your old Siamese likes routine. Cats, particularly when they reach geriatric age, don’t like change. Changes that are mildly stressful in a young cat can be overwhelming for an older cat. It is best to try to maintain a routine for your elderly Siamese. Do not move the food plates. Try to avoid rearranging the furniture. Keep a routine schedule as much as possible.

Older cats often suffer from kidney failure. Siamese cats are no exception. Having plenty of fresh water available is important for all cats, but it is particularly important for your older cat. The kidneys need to be flushed regularly, and as they stop working as effectively, the need for water increases.

The water fountains are now made especially for cats and will often encourage elderly Siamese to drink water. A good water filter can also be important. Regardless of what you use, make sure the water is cool.

Many manufacturers make special diets for elderly cats. Your Siamese can appreciate this and the lower amount of protein and phosphorus in these diets can slow down the decline in kidney function. As cats age, their sense of smell diminishes, so an older cat’s diet must smell strongly. Many older cats have lost their teeth. They may find it easier to eat wet food. In addition to being more palatable to an old cat’s mouth, wet food will increase water consumption, as there is much more liquid in canned food than dry food.

As cats age, they may not see or hear as well. In some cases, they may have some arthritis. This can make older Siamese twins feel more vulnerable. It helps to be more reassuring when something scares your Siamese. Keep in mind that arthritic cats cannot jump that easily and may need a small set of steps to get to a favorite nap spot. Also take care of your balance and avoid falls. A poorly seeing cat may need to have a baby gate installed to avoid falling down a ladder.

Siamese elders continue to love care. An older cat provides a calm and satisfied joy that is not available to a younger cat. It is wonderful to be able to hug an old friend where each understands the expectations of the other. A little extra thought can make those years even better for your aging Siamese.