Noor Azila Ahmad, affectionately known as Zill, cares for her two oldest cats, Nosey and Jatey, as part of her larger feline family of ten. With a range of ages from four months to 11 years, Zill’s experience with her senior cats has been deeply influenced by her memories of Boboy, a ginger rescue cat that passed away at age 12. Boboy helped Zill understand the joys and heartaches of caring for aging pets.
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Zill, the deputy general manager of a foundation in Shah Alam, Selangor, has been a dedicated cat owner for nearly 30 years. She recalls how Boboy's illness and eventual death taught her invaluable lessons about cherishing time with elderly and sick pets.
The responsibility she assumed for Nosey, an 11-year-old who enjoys durians, and Jatey, a 10-year-old affectionate cat, reflects her commitment to their well-being. After Nosey's recovery from a dental issue and Jatey’s gradual weight gain after suffering from mouth ulcers, Zill is particularly attentive to any changes in their behavior or health.
Veterinarian Dr. Julida Ezatul Jalil of Juls Veterinary Clinic in Semenyih shares a similar perspective shaped by her own experiences with aging pets. As a pet owner herself, she emphasizes the emotional impact that past pets can have on how one cares for new ones. Dr. Julida lost two geriatric cats in recent years, reinforcing her empathetic approach to senior pet care.
According to Dr. Julida, cats over the age of 10 are typically considered senior, although some may show signs of aging as early as six or seven. She advises annual check-ups for cats from six years old and biannual visits for those over ten. Common health issues in senior cats include chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and arthritis. To counteract these, she recommends diets formulated specifically for older cats, supplements like Omega-3 and Omega-6, and glucosamine for joint health.
For cats with mobility issues, Dr. Julida suggests modifications to the home, such as ramps and low-sided litter boxes, to facilitate easier movement. She warns that cats often hide pain well, making it crucial for owners to be observant of any behavioral changes, increased vocalization, or inappropriate urination.
Zill acknowledges the emotional challenge of administering care to her senior cats, emphasizing the need for gentleness and attentiveness. The realities of end-of-life care also weigh heavily in the minds of both Zill and Dr. Julida, who draw from personal experiences with their aging pets. Zill notes that although she has experienced the loss of past pets, it does not deter her from helping other cats in need.
Ultimately, both Zill and Dr. Julida believe that caring for aging cats is not just about prolonging life, but ensuring a high quality of life in their remaining years.