Best toys for an older / senior cat

Cats can live until 18, 19, even into their early 20’s. At the age of 10 onward, cats are classed as ‘senior’. When it comes to playing with toys, a cat’s abilities and needs will change as they get older.  There are many factors that can affect how an older cat can, and wants, to play. Health, mobility and energy levels are key factors which may change the way of their play time.  By recognizing when, and what changes, are likely to occur, then we can adapt toys and play time to ensure our cats have the most enjoyable and suited play.  Of course, cats will differ in how they age, what problems they may encounter, but as a guide the following changes are common:

Changes in cats aged 10-12 years:

• By this age cats may have slowed down and be less energetic. They may be less inclined to climb as much and less likely to jump onto higher surfaces.
• Health problems may arise at this age which can affect their general health, mobility and energy levels.  Common conditions include arthritis, diabetes, kidney disease and hyperthyroidism. Your veterinary will be able to advise on any concerns you have regarding your cat’s health as older age approaches.
• We are fully aware that cats, at all ages, spend a great deal of time sleeping. But as old age creeps then even more time may be spent sleeping. Increased naps are a common factor in ageing cats.
• Whereas young cats and kittens will encourage you to play with them, bounding to your feet as soon as you come through the door, this may change in the senior years.  Play may not be initiated as often as it used to, it may be up to you to encourage your cat to play and be more active.

Changes in cats aged 13-15 years:

• Most of the cats in this age group will be moving significantly slower, be much less active and will be sleeping even more.
• It is very common for cats to prefer to spend more time by themselves by this age. The interaction and bonding with you may be best in the form of gentle play, stroking and cuddling.
• It is not uncommon for a cat’s sight and hearing to deteriorate at this age.
• Health problems may continue to make an appearance and dementia can often be present in cats of this age. Routine and calmness will ease daily life for these cats.

Changes in cats aged 16 years plus:

• By recognizing that a 16-year-old cat is equivalent to an 80-year-old human, this can be a good guide as to the energy levels and playfulness of your cat.
• Slow and steady will be the pace from now on for your cat. Some cats experience confusion at this age and it is very common for then to be vocalizing more too.
• Plenty of sleep, rest and peace is the best medicine at this stage.

Now that we’ve recognised the possible changes, what toys are best suited for elderly cats?

Top 12 best toys for an older cat

1. Puzzle feeders

Puzzle feeders are great to keep a cat’s mind active. Keeping the mind stimulated is just as important as keeping the body fit and healthy.  You could have a go at making some home-made ones or there are endless choices on the market. We adore the quality associated with the Catit brand and this Catit food maze is great for mental agility.

2. Wand toys

The wand toy is the simplest, yet can be the most fun toy, a cat can have. Depending on your cat’s ability, this game can be tailored to account for this. These toys are very inexpensive and widely available so why not have a few varieties to keep things interesting. This eco-friendly cat wand comes with 5 natural feather refills.

3. Hunting toys

Put together a squeaking mouse like noise, or a chirping bird noise, together with some peeking feathers or tail and you have the perfect toy to stimulate your cat’s hunting instinct. This won’t involve any running or chasing and so is perfect for the older cat. This interactive toy from PetFusion will keep your cat amused for quite a while!

4. Horizontal scratching post

Although not strictly classed as a toy, a scratching post is something that all cats enjoy. It enables them to have a good stretch, keeping limbs and muscles supple, and a place to maintain their claws.  As your cat gets older it may become more difficult to use vertical scratching posts. A horizontal scratching post can make this easier for your ageing cat. It may be a good idea to offer both vertical and horizontal scratching posts at first. Your cat can make her own mind up as to which she prefers. These cat scratching mats are made from natural sisal,and won’t require any climbing or balancing to maintain those claws.

5. Window hammock

As the senior years progress it is more than likely that your cats will play less. But this doesn’t mean that we they can’t be provided with other forms of entertainment to keep their minds occupied. A nice window seat or hammock (provided access is easy for them) can let them watch the comings and goings of the outside world in a comfortable and warm location. Placing a bird feeder outside should provide some entertaining viewing.

6. Tunnels

As ageing limbs may stiffen, or climbing becomes more challenging, the mind can still be kept active by providing a play tunnel for your cat. The choices on the market are vast. Some with holes to peek out of, others with dangling toys to swipe, and others with a choice of exit routes. We particularity like this large cat tunnel that can also be used as a plush resting bed. It can be converted from a long tunnel to a round tunnel easily and it includes toys.

7. Roller ball toys

Whereas younger cats and kittens may enjoy skidding across the room chasing a ball or toy, this may simply seem like too much hard work for an ageing cat. This is where a stand alone toy with rolling balls enclosed can provide the same stimulation with out the manic chasing. There are various styles and designs to choose from but the key being is that your cat is being challenged without exerting too much energy.

8. Play mat

A play mat is perfect for an older cat. A nice cushioned base to lie on provides comfort whilst the dangling toys can provide challenges as your cat tries to swipe them. We recently wrote an article on ‘10 ways become a greener cat owner’ and one option was to upcycle and re-use items. When our children no longer needed a play mat, we used it years later for our cats. It’s been a huge hit!

9. Self grooming

Grooming may become more difficult as a cat approaches her senior years. If joints become a little stiffer, and if arthritis sets in, it may be hard, or even impossible, for them to reach some areas. It is well known that cats are extremely clean animals and grooming is usually done thoroughly and meticulously, several times a day.  As well as having you to help your cat to groom by gently brushing the fur, there are various products which can callow your cat to have a helping hand with grooming even when you’re not around. Grooming is also relaxing for cats so having a few of these grooming toys available will ensure a happy senior cat. These cat arches are self grooming, massager and a toy all in one.

10. Wellness centre

This is the ultimate toy for your ageing cat! It’s basically a spa for a cat! This Catit Senses Wellness centre includes a catnip relaxation spot, a gum stimulator, massage areas and combs. What more could any cat possible want for a little time out and pampering.

11. Cat tree / towers

Cat towers are one of the most versatile toys a cat can have. They can provide somewhere to nap, a play area, a higher location for that feeling of safety, a comfortable viewpoint by a window, and some include a scratching post and some toys attached too. Evaluate your cat’s mobility as the senior years approach and look for a cat tree with ramps and steps for easier access. This cat tree by Trixie Pet has been specifically designed for senior cats complete with steps and covered in plush fabric.

12. Catio

If an older cat has been used to being outside, but health or mobility reasons means that this is not longer a viable option then why not build, or buy, a catio! A catio is an outside, safe enclosure for cats. This will allow your cat to enjoy the outside in a safe enclosed area.  Catios can vary from a small window access to large elaborate designs.  They be tailored to make it work for your home. We can 100%, categorically say, that building a catio for our cats was the best thing we have ever done. And all cats or kittens will benefit – you don’t have to wait until the senior years! You can read all about our catio build here, ‘What is a catio / cat enclosure?’. If DIY is not for you, there are companies that specialize in building bespoke cat enclosures. Catios can also be purchased ready made.

 

The importance of play time for senior cats

It is important to keep cats stimulated – physically and mentally – as they grow older. Your cat may not have quite the same energy levels as her younger days, but they can still enjoy play time. Playtime will help keep muscles toned, improve blood flow, and help to maintain general health and fitness.  Monitor your cat’s physical abilities and tailor the games to allow for this. Here are our top tips for play times with older cats:

• Find toys that keep the mind active. Puzzle feeders and hunting toys are perfect.
• Certain games, such as fishing pole toys, will encourage your cat to use its predator instincts, helping to keep the brain stimulated.
• Invest in some new toys to spark their interest.
• Rotate toys so that they don’t get bored with the same ones. Putting some away for a few weeks will make them feel like new ones when they are reappear.
• Light exercise will benefit conditions such as arthritis by helping to keep the joints moving and as supple as they can be. Fishing pole toys and laser light toys are great for this. You can adapt the play to suit the mobility and energy levels of your cat.
• Monitor your cat during playtime and swap play time for cuddling time when your cat shows signs of becoming tired or slowing down.
• If the time comes when your cat is simply too weak or too ill to play use the time to simply sit them on your lap, talk to your cat and stroke them.
• Be it play or quiet time together, spending time with your ageing cat will deepen the bond between you. Daily quality time will benefit both you and your cat.
• Regular check ups with your veterinary will ensure any health issues are caught early. Your veterinary will be able to advise of any adjustments required to your cat’s daily play requirements and abilities.

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Other articles you may find of interest:

16 Top tips to ensure the senior years are comfortable for your old cat

18 games to play with your cat

Best foods for a toothless cat

Do indoor cats need outside time? Why does my cat refuse to go outside?