How To Adjust Your Home To Help Your Arthritic Cat
Cats rarely complain unless their food bowl is less than half-full, so it can be challenging to tell when they are experiencing arthritis pain. The following straightforward home improvements, however, can help your cat feel more comfortable and mobile if they have arthritis or appear to be having trouble moving around.
#1: Switch to low-sided litter boxes
While covered litter boxes are great for containing litter granules and odors, they can be tough for an arthritic cat to navigate. Swap out your cat’s regular litter boxes for low-sided, uncovered bathrooms that they can more easily hop in and out.
#2: Elevate your cat’s food and water bowls
Your cat’s elbows have undergone a great deal of wear and tear from a lifetime of jumping down. Raising your cat’s food and water dishes to a comfortable level will prevent them from having to stoop to get to them.
#3: Provide ramps to furniture
Your arthritic cat may find it difficult to climb their climbing tower, but they probably still enjoy gazing out the window, so put a ramp nearby. Your cat can maintain their independence and continue to satisfy instinctual needs, like climbing, hiding, and surveying their territory, by having ramps installed at lookout towers or favorite resting places.
#4: Offer firm bedding
Although extra soft, cushy bedding may seem particularly cozy for your cat, they will find that a too-soft bed is not only difficult to get out of, but also provides little cushion for aching joints. A firm, orthopedic bed will adequately support your cat’s sore body.
#5: Place non-slip mats on slick flooring
While your cat may no longer get the zoomies in the middle of the night and race up and down your hallway, providing traction on slick flooring can help prevent painful slips and falls. Yoga mats or carpet runners provide a non-slip pathway for your cat.
Your arthritic cat can benefit from modifications to your home, but maintaining a healthy weight and managing their pain are equally important. Give us a call to set up a consultation so that our team can assist you with these.