Practical strategies for supporting elderly cats and their owners, both at home and in the veterinary surgery

As cats become elderly they are at increased risk of developing both health and behaviour problems (Gunn-Moore, 2011; Caney, 2014). These can be detrimental to the welfare of the elderly cat, and if they result in cats showing behaviours that are problematic to their owners, such as house soiling and excessive vocalisation at night, they can also be detrimental to the human–animal bond, increasing the risk of elderly cats being abandoned, rehomed or euthanased (Gunn-Moore, 2011; Landsberg et al, 2011; Halls, 2018).

There are two main areas where veterinary nurses can usefully support owners of elderly cats. They can encourage and make it easier for owners to bring their cats to the surgery for regular health checks, as earlier diagnosis and treatment will improve the prognosis for many health problems. They can also ask about and provide advice on any behaviour problems that arise, including advice on simple changes that can be made in the home to support cats that are becoming less mobile or that have cognitive or sensory deficits.