Senior Cat Comfort & Care

Is your senior cat suddenly waking you up throughout the night? There are many reasons their nighttime routine may be changing:

• Medical conditions
• Medications
• Hormone levels
• Physical discomfort
• Inactivity during the day
• Cognitive decline
• Changes in hearing and vision
• Changes in eating habits or needing smaller meals more often

Their nighttime activity may suddenly include things like increased vocalization, attention-seeking behavior, or anxious and confused behavior.

Be sure to mention changes in your cat’s sleep habits to your veterinarian.

Getting your cat back on track and sleeping at night may include management of any medical issues and looking at environmental tactics, like changing to a diet rich in antioxidants, giving supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics, using calming aids, and encouraging activity during the day. A certified feline behavior consultant may be able to help with managing emotional triggers and resetting your cat’s internal clock.