Senior Feline's Behavior Problems.
Your senior cats age, they may develop changes in their behavior. Some of these changes are normal, while others may be a sign of a medical problem.
Here are some of the most common behavior problems seen in older cats:
- Aggression. Older cats may become more aggressive, especially if they are experiencing pain or illness.
- Destructive behavior. Older cats may start to scratch furniture or other objects more often.
- Changes in elimination habits. Older cats may start to urinate or defecate outside of the litter box.
- Changes in activity level. Older cats may become less active and may spend more time sleeping.
- Changes in social behavior. Older cats may become less social and may withdraw from their owners or other pets.
If you notice any changes in your cat's behavior, it is important to take them to the veterinarian to rule out any medical problems. If your cat is healthy, there are a number of things you can do to help manage their behavior problems.
Here are some tips for managing behavior problems in older cats:
- Provide plenty of exercise. Exercise can help to keep your cat's mind and body active, which can help to reduce boredom and anxiety.
- Make sure your cat has plenty of places to sleep. Older cats may need more places to sleep than younger cats.
- Provide your cat with a comfortable environment. Make sure your cat's environment is free of stressors, such as loud noises or other pets.
- Stimulate your cat's mind. Provide your cat with toys and puzzles to keep their mind active.
- Create a routine. Having a regular routine can help to reduce anxiety and stress in older cats.
- Be patient and understanding. Older cats may need more time to adjust to changes.
- Seek professional help. If you are unable to manage your cat's behavior problems on your own, you may need to seek professional help from a veterinary behaviorist.