If you have a cat that's getting up there in age, it's time to start thinking in terms of the senior years. As your cat ages, it will start experiencing some of the same discomforts and health issues that affect humans, as they age. Unfortunately, your cat won't be able to tell about the problems it's experiencing in words. However, if you pay close attention, it might be telling you about those problems through actions. Here are five steps you can take to bring your cat some comfort in its advancing years.

Consider Alternative Therapy

As your cat ages, it might experience problems with its muscles and joints. If your cat seems to be dealing with pain on a regular basis, it's time to consider alternative forms of therapy, such as acupuncture and massage therapy.

Bring on the Comfy Blankets

When your cat was younger, it might have spent most of the day exploring the house and finding new ways to get into mischief. Now that it's older, your cat may prefer to lounge around the house and sleep the days away. If you've noticed that your cat is taking more naps than it used to, it's time to bring on the comfy blankets. To help your cat find a comfortable place to rest, wherever it is in the house, set out soft blankets for it to sleep on.

Step on Up

You might start noticing that your cat has a harder time jumping on the couch to relax with you. It might be avoiding the couch altogether now. The difficulty, or avoidance, might be due to joint pain from ailments such as arthritis. To help your cat reach its favorite spots, set up step stools near the couch or beds. The step stools will alleviate your cats need to jump, which will reduce the pain it's experiencing.

Go Soft on the Food

If your cat used to love dry food, but now it barely eats, it might be time to switch to a softer diet. Old age can cause jaw and tooth pain, which can make it difficult for your cat to eat dry food. Switching to canned food will help your cat enjoy eating again. If your cat still refuses to eat after you switch to soft food, you should contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. There may be an underlying health problem that is causing your cat to lose its appetite.

Increase the Vet Visits

Now that your cat is aging, you'll need to increase the vet visits. Your vet will be able to identify health issues that are putting your cat at risk. They'll also be able to provide you with additional ways to keep your cat healthy in its advancing years. 

Are you concerned about your animal's health? Visit a business such as Downing Center For Animal Pain Management for advice and treatment.