How should I care for a senior cat day to day?

Lower the barriers in your home: add ramps or pet stairs to the sofa and bed, place a litter box on every floor your cat uses, and choose a box with low sides so a stiff cat can step in without jumping. Keep food, water, and a warm bed within easy reach, since senior cats lose body fat and feel the cold more than younger ones.

Nutrition and hydration matter more now. Offer wet food alongside dry to boost water intake, consider a heated water fountain to encourage drinking, and feed measured portions so you can spot a drop in appetite right away. Weigh your cat monthly on a baby scale and write down the number; a change of even a few ounces is meaningful when you are tracking kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes.

Keep the routine predictable, because sudden changes stress older cats. Groom gently with a soft brush since your cat may no longer manage its own coat, trim nails every two to three weeks, and keep up dental care. Book a veterinary exam every six months and ask about blood work and blood pressure. If your cat seems confused at night, paces, or vocalizes, mention it to your vet, as cognitive dysfunction in cats can be managed with diet, supplements, and environmental adjustments.