[stu]

My wife and I are collecting three cats on Saturday from our local Cats Protection shelter. They are all sisters, and 13 years old.

We realise this is quite elderly for cats, but all three have lived together since birth in a happy home, and were only put in the shelter a couple of weeks ago, when the owners emigrated and the authorities wouldn't let the cats travel with them on such a long flight.

We want to give our three cats a safe and comfortable home for their remaining years. In the brief time we have spent with them, they all appear to have a lovely, gentle nature and a calm temperament.

Does anyone have any advice on caring for senior cats, and are there any things we should be watchful for, behaviour or personality wise?

Thanks.

 

[lexxie109]

Congratulations on your new kitties! Just make them as comfortable in their new home as you can. Do you have any other pets? This is something that can stress any cat out. It's usually a good idea to prepare a room where the cats can live for the first little while so the kitties can adjust and get used to the sounds and smells of your home. Because the age of your new kitties is older, I would be on the watch for any signs of discomfort or usual behavior. Good luck with your new babies!

 

[stu]

re: caring for older cats

They're all going to be in the same room for a week or so, then gradually let them explore the house, then let them outside after a month or so.

As they've all been together since birth, they should be OK. They certainly seemed to get on with each other when we groomed them at the weekend.

 

[lexxie109]

Good idea. I'm sure the three will get along fine, since like you said before, they are sisters.

 

[Jeanie]

I just want to thank you for taking these three into your home. If they coould speak I'm sure they'd thank you for such a humane act. :)

 

[Richo]

Do you know much about their background? Were they let outside by their previous owner? What kind of food were they fed, what kind of litter? Drastic changes can affect a cat's behivior, especially if they have been used to the same food and litter for most of their life and it suddenly changes.

I am one for keeping cats indoors. There are far too many dangers for cats outside. All of the lost cat posters on telephone poles are saddening not to mention the awful events in Denver and Utah. There are too many sick and just plain cruel people out there.

I would say unless they are accustomed to the outdoors and become restless from being confined inside, try to keep them in a safe place.

 

[tanyuh]

I second that Richo.

 

[Ioana]

There is a lot of cruelty out there...I agree with you guys. I have heard once that some teanagers had found some entertainment in throwing cats in the fire. I don't know how some people can live with themselves.
I think it is good to watch for dogs too...as much as I love them they are always a real danger to cats.
To end this on a happy note - that was very nice of you to adopt the cats!