How to Keep My 15-Year-Old Cat Happy and Healthy

As our pets age, they need more care, patience, and comfort. If you’ve got a senior cat at home, here’s what I’ve learned about keeping them happy, healthy, and thriving.

How to Keep My 15-Year-Old Cat Happy and Healthy

My cat is 15 years old. He’s been with me through apartments, breakups, roommates, and a few business ventures that kept me from home. These days, he spends most of his time sleeping in a sunbeam or slowly wandering to his food bowl. Watching him age has been bittersweet—he’s still my buddy, but he’s not the same frisky kitten I brought home years ago.

As our pets grow older, they need more care, patience, and comfort. If you’ve got a senior cat at home, here’s what I’ve learned about keeping them happy, healthy, and thriving.

🩺 Senior Cats Need More Vet Love

As cats age, they hide pain well. What looks like “just slowing down” could be something more.

I try to take my boy to the vet twice a year now.
Bloodwork is key—it helps catch kidney or thyroid issues early.
If your cat suddenly starts drinking more water or losing weight, call the vet.

Don’t wait for a dramatic change. With seniors, even small shifts matter.

🛏️ Make Things Easy and Comfortable

My guy has arthritis. He doesn’t leap like he used to, and sometimes he hesitates before jumping onto the bed.

Here’s how I’ve made things easier for him:

A soft orthopedic cat bed in his favorite corner
Litter box with low sides for easy access
Steps up to his window perch (yes, I spoil him)

Comfort matters more than style these days.

🍽️ Feeding an Older Cat

Senior cats can get finicky. One week they love chicken pâté, the next they won’t touch it. I’ve learned to:

Warm up his food a little to release the smell
Mix in water to keep him hydrated
Switch between a few trusted brands to keep it interesting

I also ask my vet for food recommendations based on his bloodwork. Kidney health is a big deal for aging cats.

💧 Hydration is Everything

Older cats are prone to dehydration, especially if they eat mostly dry food. I choose to free feed kibble, however since he prefers wet food, he likes to save his appetite

Here’s what works for us:

A quiet water fountain in the kitchen (he loves it!)
Water added to wet food
Extra bowls in different rooms

Sometimes I even offer him a little bone broth (no onions, low sodium) as a treat.

🧼 Grooming Help

My cat used to be fastidious. Now he sometimes forgets to groom behind his ears. I step in:

Soft brushing sessions while he’s relaxed
Wiping his eyes gently if they get goopy
Watching for mats or long nails

He purrs through it now. I think he appreciates the help, even if he won’t admit it.

🧠 Mental Stimulation for Senior Cats

He may sleep more, but he still needs stimulation.

I rotate toys to keep things novel
He has a cozy perch near the window for bird-watching
I talk to him often—he knows his name, and he always perks up when I say it

Some days we just sit together. Honestly, I think that’s his favorite game.

❤️ Aging Gracefully, Together

Fifteen years. That’s a long time to share your life with a little soul. Senior cats might not be as spry, but they’re wise, cuddly, and full of love.

The best way to care for them? Stay present. Watch for changes. Make their world soft, warm, and safe.

Most of all, let them know they’re still your best friend.

Do you have an aging cat at home?

I’d love to hear your tips and stories—drop a comment or message me on Instagram @awanderingpet.

July 11, 2025July 11, 2025

Telltale signs your cat is getting older

As cats age, their behavior can undergo various changes that reflect their maturity and shifting needs. Here are some key behaviors to look out for that can help you understand your aging feline friend better as he gets older:

Affection

One noticeable change is increased affection. Older cats often become cuddlier and seek out human companionship, enjoying those quiet moments together on the couch. This newfound affection may be a way for them to seek comfort and reassurance.

For my older gentlemen, it has manifested itself into a ritual of HUGS! when I get home from work. He needs a good five or ten minutes of solid baby bonding before he will settle down. I am loved and missed. He has always been affectionate, but the hugs are a new habit since my cat is getting older.

Sleeping More frequently.

Another common behavior is a decrease in activity levels. While younger cats may be known for their playful antics, senior cats tend to lounge around more and prefer shorter play sessions. It’s not uncommon for them to choose a cozy spot in the sun over chasing after a feather toy.

You may also notice changes in their sleeping patterns. Older cats tend to sleep more and may have disrupted sleep cycles. They might nap more frequently throughout the day and may awaken at odd hours, exhibiting a more relaxed approach to their daily routine.

Vocalization.

Behavioral changes can also include an increase in vocalization. Some aging cats may meow more frequently or sound different as they communicate their needs or express a desire for attention. This could be their way of letting you know they need something, whether it’s food, comfort, or just companionship.

This is especially true for Pizza, so much so that he was driving me nuts. Those little paws and vocalizations weren’t clear, no matter how often he complained. I finally tried Fluent Pet communication buttons. In my opinion, Cats are just as smart as dogs (if not more, but I am biased. We only have two active buttons, but they’re the most important ones: “Hungry” and “Pets.” Once he learned to use them, both our anxieties lessened. He literally just tells me what he wants, at the touch of a paw.

Grooming change

Lastly, please pay attention to changes in their grooming habits. Senior cats might groom themselves less meticulously, leading to a scruffier appearance. You may need to step in and help with grooming to ensure they stay clean and healthy.

By observing these behavioral changes, you can provide the support your older cat needs, ensuring they continue to thrive in their golden years. Like most pets, he brings me joy, most of the time. Watching him grow older is not something I LIKE to acknowledge, but the signs ARE there. Making him happy for our last chapter together is important. He’s been with me for 15 years! I am hoping for several more happy years.

October 24, 2023July 23, 2025

Do all cats hate water?

It is a common misconception that ALL cats hate water, when in fact , every cat is different.

A cat is agile and flexible, but when it gets wet it makes it harder to move as gracefully and wet fur slows them down.

Cats are attracted to the motion and reflection of bodies of water, but soon, they regret their decision when they try to touch it. It is easy to misjudge a reflection off the water, and cats can end up wet unhappy. A cats natural curiosity can get them in poor predicaments.

Cats are natural swimmers, they just may not know it.

When faced with the fact they are in water, a cat instictively knows how to swim. That doesnt mean they will enjoy it. Curious cats may find themselves in dangerous waters by falling in themselves, or by negelctful owners. A bad expereince may account as to WHY only some cats take to water.

The exemption are wild exotic cats like tigers. They can often be seen swimming in rivers. In their hot savanna environment, they use swimming and watering holes as a way to cool down their body tempuratures.

We domesticated cats about 12,000 YEARS AGO, today a lot of domesticated cats live indoors, where air conditioners and heaters keep their tempuratures regulated with our help ( and well as the doting care and lots of love)

Cats are naturally excellent self groomers.

Cats are able to keep themselves clean without needing to rely on water baths as much as some other animals. Therefore, they may hate being in water because of a the discomfort and the sensation of being wet and cold.

Additionally, cats are known for their fastidious grooming habits and have a unique grooming mechanism using their tongues. It is not necessary to bathe a healthy cat. They constantly are keeping themselves clean.

Encouraging water play

It’s important to consider each cat’s individual preferences and experiences when determining their comfort level with water.

Is dry food or wet better for cats?

While many cats may have a natural aversion to water, it does not mean that all cats hate water. Some adventurous felines, may tolerate or even enjoy water play. Individual cat personalities and experiences play a significant role in how they respond to water. Some cats may have had positive experiences with water and are more willing, while others may have had negative experiences that reinforce their dislike.

In conclusion, not all cats hate water, but many cats do exhibit an aversion. If you want to introduce your cat to water, do it gently and cautiously. Make it fun and offer rewards for good effort. A cat may not enjoy water play, but they are smart and curious and in a positive environment you may be able to change your pet’s opinion on water

September 24, 2023November 7, 2023

Top Pet Halloween Costume Ideas

A recent survey revealed almost 75% of pet owners, dress their cat or dog in pet costumes for Halloween. Many people even get matching or complimentary Pet and Owner Halloween Costumes.What a fun way to celebrate the Fall Season and include your cat or dog or other pet.

On Sale Now **Amazon Pick**

A simple costume suits pets that are not accustomed to wearing clothing. This bat is an adorable non-evasive Halloween pet dog costume

For all you horror fans..

As seen on TV…Look at that Panda

Halloween this year is TUESDAY .

September 16, 2023July 23, 2025

Do cats sleep at night?

Yes, cats do sleep at night, however, they rarely straight through the night.

A typical cat sleeps between 12-16 HOURS a day. So, yes some of that time is at night. Cats are natural predators and hunt primarily at dawn and dusk. Therefore it is natural for cats to be more active at night. Let’s learn more about other reasons can wake in the night and some possible ways to encourage your cat to sleep longer at night.

Cats don’t sleep all night because twilight and dusk are the best times to hunt

Even indoor only cats who have never had to hunt for survival, feel the urge to practice hunting skills after dark. That cute little fluffy ball you share your pillow with at night has all the basic instincts to be an excellent hunter. In the wild cats prey, like small rodents, and birds, are more active at twilight and dusk. In order to survive the wild cats learned to hunt prey when their prey was easiest to catch. Your cat’s night vision is excellent and they can see very well in the dark.

Cats are really into cat naps. On average your pet sleeps 12-16 hours a day

The average cat nap lasts between 50 and 113 minutes and more typically for 78min or just over an hour. That sounds good to me, they don’t call it a cat nap for nothing! Even though they sleep a LOT during the day, unlike humans, cats are neither diurnal nor nocturnal.

Cats are considered crepuscular. Their internal biological clock tells them to be active at dusk and dawn. Fighting nature is a challenge and this behavior can be hard for pet owners to adjust to IF their schedules do not match up. I can’t tell you how many times PizzaCat is napping UNTIL it’s lights out. Like clockwork, he suddenly arouses and wants to play and eat. Fortunately, I have found some tricks to help my cat sleep at night so I can get some sleep too.

Tips to encourage cats to sleep at night when you sleep

Set a bedtime routine.

Thirty minutes before lights out, take the time to play and be active. Work with their natural cycle. It is play but it also satisfies the desire to hunt, when cats get to play, pounce, and chase. After play time let them eat. This behavior mimics their wild nature. Even cats will fall asleep after a nice meal.

Hide toys and treats for after hours solo playtime

Indoor cats often suffer from boredom and anxiety, They often are alone for hours at a time. It is important to find ways to keep their brain active and engaged. Sometimes the easiest way to ensure they sleep more at night is to make sure they are tired !

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During the pandemic, I was home with Pizza a lot. Both our sleep schedules were off. I had to do some research to get us both sleeping at night again. I found this really cool feeding system by Doc and Phoebe.

Before bed I fill these “mice” with dry food and treats and hide them around the house. There is a slide to adjust for kibble size. It works exceptionally well. My cat needs to bat it around to deposit a piece of yummy. It took a while for him to catch on, but now he loves them. There is always dry food in his bowl, however, given the choice he will eat from this unique feeding system instead. Proof the hunting instinct is strong. More importantly, this is something to stimulate their already active feline brain, while filling their belly. It does help the cat to go back to sleep at night when he is done,

So Do cats sleep at night? As you can tell not always, however, folowing these tips can help you all have a more peaceful night.

working with their natural instincts,

setting up a routine

finding ways to stimulate them at dusk and dawn

providing toys to hunt, and snacks to eat for the dawn.

January 12, 2022October 8, 2023

Top four common reasons my cat is staring at me

A cat or kitten will try to get your attention by staring deep into your eyes for a variety of reasons. They could be trying to tell you they are hungry, content, feeling curious, and most importantly that they love you. For cats, it is a form of communication. They are trying to convey an important message!

Why does my cat just stare at me? Am I funny-looking? Wait, don’t answer that. I wanted to find out the reasons why! I often wake up to curious intense eyes focused on me.

Why are you staring at me, Mr Fluff?

It’s 3 a.m. I roll over and there he is just staring at me with those eyes. Is PizzaCat plotting my demise perhaps?

Not likely. Although cats can be very verbal at times, there are other ways they try to use to communicate.

Non-verbal, physical contact is quite common. Like purring or rubbing up against you to mark their scent on you, eye contact is a way to let you know that they care about you.

The number one common reason your cat is staring at you is

Mr. Kitty wants a midnight snack.

Cats are naturally nocturnal. No matter how much we pet parents would LIKE them to adjust to our schedule, cats like to be active at night. Left alone in the wild, early morning near twilight is hunting time. Despite being spoiled and treated like family with their fancy beds and food bowls, their little internal clocks STILL remind them it’s time to snack in the middle of the night.

(Usually after a random zoomie in the dark, meant to mimic “hunting tactics”)

Your cat is trying to say “I love You”

A long constant stare in your direction is your feline buddy’s way of trying to bond with you!

What should I do when I wake up to a cat staring at me?

Don’t panic. It can be startling to wake up to a cat staring at you while you sleep, but it is just a way a cat is trying to get your attention. Looking deep into your eyes is a common non-verbal form of communication. Even though it can seem strange at first. alarming even!

Eye contact is a common tactic a cat uses to convey important messages.

Although it can be shocking to wake up to a cat staring you down in your sleep. Your little fluff may be trying to say hello, or I’m hungry, or just wake up, and want your attention.

With a little observation most likely you may even notice that deep stare in your direction being broken with a slow blink. That is a wonderful expression of trust and the desire to bond. Some theorize it is “I Love You ” in cat language.

Why not try this trick, try doing a slow blink to communicate in “cat language” to show that you also trust and love too ?

“The researchers performed the same slow-blink process as the first experiment, adding an extended hand towards the cat. And they found that not only were the cats more likely to blink back, but that they were more likely to approach the human’s hand after the human had blinked.”
https://www.sciencealert.com/you-can-build-a-rapport-with-your-cat-by-blinking-real-slow

Cats are amazing communicators, Movements and staring are just one way your cat is expressing their thoughts.