November is Adopt A Senior Pet Month! If you are considering adopting another pet, you may want to think about getting a dignified older kitty. Cats in their golden years can make absolutely purrfect animal companions! A local Dallas, GA vet lists some reasons why below.
They’re Calm
Kittens are super frisky. They’re also super prone to mischief, so you’ll need to stay on your toes keeping them safe and out of trouble. Older pets are much less rambunctious. Fluffy will spend most of her time sleeping. Most senior cats also tend to be pretty laid-back, and are usually more interested in catching Z’s than catching mice. This makes them very easy keepers.
Less Destructive
It’s a good thing kittens are cute, because they certainly are feisty. Older cats are more interested in perfecting their napping skills than in knocking things off your counter or climbing your living room curtains.
Shorter Commitment
Many of our feline friends are living well into their teens—or even their 20’s—these days. Therefore, you may be signing on for nearly two decades of pet care by adopting a kitten. While bringing any pet into your home is a lifelong commitment, a senior cat won’t have as much time as a baby one. That can make them great fits for people who aren’t sure where they’ll be in 5 or 10 years.
Prior Experience
Unlike dogs, our feline buddies don’t need much training—on the contrary, they usually train us. However, kitties do need to be taught a few things, such as not to bite or scratch. By the time Fluffy is in her golden years, she’ll have a good idea of what is expected of her.
They Need Love
If you love animals, as we all do, you may be very saddened by the thought of all the sweet, lovable cats that are out there in shelters. While kittens often find homes very quickly, senior cats often have a very hard time getting adopted. This is very sad to see! Fluffy is very emotional, and she can get very depressed, frightened, and lonely in a shelter. Giving that one lucky kitty a happy retirement may not change the world, but it will change her world … and yours.
Do you have questions about senior cat care? Please feel free to contact us, your local Dallas, GA animal clinic, anytime!