Christmas is the perfect time to treat your senior cat to something special. From homemade treats to cosy cat beds, we’ve rounded up some of the best Christmas gifts for cats.
Your senior cat might not be as excited about chasing a ball of wrapping paper as when they were a kitten – but the holidays are the perfect time to treat them to something new. Whether you choose something practical, fun or tasty, here are some ideas to help your elderly cat join in the festivities.
New grooming tools
As your cat ages, their joints can start to become stiff and their flexibility decreases. As a result, they might find it harder to groom certain areas of their coat. This is especially true for long-haired breeds like Ragdolls, Siberians and Persians.
To avoid mats and tangles, treat them to some new grooming tools. A pin brush is useful for combing longer hair, while a soft bristle brush can help distribute natural oils through your cat’s coat, keeping it soft and shiny.
Senior cat supplements
In addition to a healthy, balanced diet, supplements designed for older cats can help support their overall health and wellbeing.
Some supplements contain ingredients like glucosamine hydrochloride and sodium chondroitin sulphate to support joint health, while others contain vitamins and minerals for digestion, immunity and more. If you’re not sure which supplement will best suit your senior cat, ask your vet for advice.
Toys and games
Senior cats may not be as energetic and playful as they once were – but the right toy might encourage them to get moving. Options like puzzle toys, kicker toys and catnip toys are ideal for older cats. Avoid toys that require them to jump or run fast, like fishing rod toys or fast-moving electronic toys.
You can also experiment with making homemade toys. A piece of crumpled-up paper, sprinkled with catnip and treats, can keep your cat entertained as they sniff out the treats. Don’t expect your senior cat to play for long periods – a minute or two will be enough for them to have some fun. After playtime is over, remember to put any toys away so your cat can’t injure themselves.
Festive treats
It’s best to avoid sharing Christmas dinner with your cat, as it can often contain ingredients that are toxic for cats, like onions in stuffing and cooked bones in leftover turkey. Instead, make them some homemade festive cat treats. Whether you decide to make snowman cookies, Christmas dinner muffins or veggie baubles, your cat will appreciate a safe taste of the festivities.
If you’re running short on time, there are plenty of ready-made cat treats to choose from in supermarkets, pet shops and online.
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A new cat bed
During winter, your cat is likely looking for somewhere warm to curl up for a nap. A heated cat bed can help keep senior cats cosy and comfortable, especially if they’ve got joint problems like arthritis.
A covered cat bed placed in a quiet corner of the house also means your cat always has somewhere to escape to, especially if you have lots of visitors over the holidays.
Household accessories
As your cat ages, they might find it harder to navigate around the home. But there are plenty of household accessories designed to make their life a little easier. If your senior cat loves dozing on the sofa but is finding it hard to jump or climb, pet steps are the perfect answer. Place these next to the furniture your cat loves to sit on, and they can climb up the steps instead of having to jump.
If your cat has cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), they might sleep less and be more active at night. A few well-chosen presents can help them feel safer. A synthetic pheromone diffuser might help them relax, and night lights near their food, water and litter tray make it easier for them to find what they need when it’s dark.
Cat insurance
Alongside fun gifts like toys and treats, it’s important to make sure your senior cat’s insurance is up to date. As your cat ages, they may be at higher risk of developing certain health conditions including heart problems, kidney disease or hyperthyroidism.
With Petplan, you also get access to Pet Expert Chat, a free service that connects you with veterinary professionals, 24/7. Simply log into your My Petplan account and go to My Support to speak with an expert – ideal if you’ve got questions or concerns about your cat’s health over the busy Christmas period.
Are there any presents to avoid?
While you might be tempted to buy your cat some Christmas socks or a cute jumper, these are best avoided. Your elderly cat might find it extremely stressful to wear them, especially if they’ve never worn clothes before. These items can also restrict their movement, making them feel uncomfortable and stressed.
Have you decided what to buy your senior cat this Christmas? Share your ideas on Petplan’s Facebook page and give other cat owners some inspiration.