The Best Cat Scratch Posts
07.03.21 March 07, 2021 Owning a Cat

The Best Cat Scratch Posts

Scratching is something that every cat loves to do. There are a number of reasons that your cat scratches, the main one being to keep their claws in tip top condition. They also scratch to mark their territory as a sign to other cats, and can scratch when anxious too. If you don’t want your furniture or carpets to be ruined, then a scratch post is a must-have for every cat owner. You can then encourage them to scratch this and divert their attention away from your soft furnishings. Scratch accessories come in all shapes and sizes from small cardboard scratchers to large scratch posts and trees. Here we take a look at our favourite scratch posts from our Cat Emporium.   Our Favourite Cardboard Scratchers Cats like to scratch in different ways; some like to scratch vertically; some like to scratch horizontally and others like a mixture of both. If your cat likes to scratch horizontal surfaces (hopefully they haven’t taken to scratching your carpets just yet!), we have a brilliant range of cardboard scratchers. These can be easily moved around the home so that your cat can keep their claws sharp without ruining your flooring. Catit Lounge Cardboard Scratcher - This is a really good budget scratcher for cats. The whole surface is made of corrugated cardboard, which is enticing for felines and the shape is designed for cats to ‘lounge’ on when relaxing. The large size makes it ideal for all ages and breeds, and it will last a long time before it needs replacing. Catit Pirates Barrel Scratcher - This is a super fun choice! Part of the Pirates collection by Catit. It offers both scratching and lounging capabilities all in one novel design. We also love the fact that it comes in two sizes, so you can choose the small for a little kitten and the large for adults. The larger size measures 16.53” in diameter making it great for breeds such as Ragdolls and Maine Coons. Catit Senses 2.0 Oval Scratcher - This is part of the brilliant interactive Senses range by Catit. The scratcher itself is an oval shape and a great size for any age and breed of feline. What we love most is that it can be incorporated into a playground circuit along with some of the other Catit Senses products. Add a Play Circuit, a Food Tree and perhaps the Wellness Centre and your cat will have a whale of a time hunting, chasing and lounging.      Our Favourite Cat Scratch Posts & Trees If your cat is a vertical scratcher as most are, then a scratch post or tower is an essential accessory for your home. They come in all shapes and sizes, so you will find something to suit the space you have available and the breed of your cat. There are small scratch posts for kittens and large towers with multiple posts and platforms for larger breeds and indoor cats. It’s important to consider your specific cat when choosing a scratch post. If you have a cat who goes outdoors and doesn’t scratch that much in the house, then maybe a compact single post scratcher will be sufficient. If on the other hand you have an indoor cat who needs to sate all of their scratching needs in the house, then you will need to consider something much larger, with places for them to climb and lounge incorporated into the structure. Here we list a range of options for every kind of cat: Vesper Play centre Cat Scratcher - This a great miniature climbing frame for kittens by Vesper. Vesper makes premium quality cat furniture that looks stylish whilst offering practical solutions for scratching felines. Your kitten will enjoy climbing over this A-frame structure and can scratch and play too. It can be moved around and set in different positions to make playtime different for your cat. It features a scratch pad and a small scratch post as well as a memory foam pad for lounging and a catnip toy that they can ‘hunt’ and bat around too! It’s the perfect first scratch post for kittens. Rosewood Tarragon Cat Scratch Post - The Tarragon scratcher is a three-post design. Each post varies in length and has an attached catnip toy for added playtime fun. If your cat needs encouragement to scratch in the correct places, then these toys are just the thing to entice them. It will make a great first scratch post for kittens as it isn’t too big. The varying sizes will also give your cat chance to stretch and scratch as they grow into adults. Larger breeds may find this isn’t large enough once they are fully grown though. Ragdolls and Maine Coons for example may like something much larger, but this is an excellent choice for kittens, smaller cats and outdoor cats who don’t tend to scratch indoors that much anyway. Rosewood Catwalk Collection Zurich Cat Scratch Post - The Zurich has all of the same things that we love about the Tarragon, but in an exciting round shape with an added platform on top. Your little kitten will enjoy scratching and climbing over this mini frame and the dangly catnip toys will keep them coming back for more playtime fun. A brilliant scratch post for kittens and small cats Rosewood Catwalk Collection Cinnamon Scratch Post - Do you love the look of the Zurich scratch post, but have large adult cats? Then take a look at the Cinnamon scratcher. This has the same three post structure but on a much larger scale. It has a multi layered design too, which will appeal to your cat’s climbing instincts. It’s a great choice for those with an adult cat or multi-cat households. ​Trixie Galeno Scratching Post - This is more than just a scratch post. This design has a cosy hideout at the base with a post that stretches up to two platforms that sit at different heights. It will sate of your kitty’s scratching desires whilst also allowing them to hide away for a snooze when they want, or climb the tower to survey their domain! The hideaway and platforms are covered in a lovely soft plush faux fur too which will appeal to your kitty’s love of soft fabrics. A great option for one or two cats.   Trixie Ava XXL Cat Tower - The first thing to notice about this scratcher is the striking design. It has a contemporary, geometric style with cube-like structures bookmarking a wide scratch post. The bottom cube is a cosy hideaway that will provide your cat with a secluded spot for napping and sleeping. The top structure is an open top cat bed. Both are fully lined with plush faux fur and have the addition of reversible cushions. The scratch post is wrapped in jute as is the top bed giving plenty of scratching options. This a brilliant option for large breed cats including Ragdolls and Norwegian Forest Cats. They’ll love the generously sized lounging areas!   Vesper Box Large Cat Cube - Vesper is a brand that fuses style and practicality in a seamless way. They consider everything that a cat likes and work these practical attributes into well-designed, aesthetically pleasing pieces of contemporary furniture for the home. The Large Box Cube is a miniature climbing frame with lounging places, a scratch post and dangly toys all in one sleek structure. It’s ideal for kittens and will last well into adulthood. It’s large enough for multiple cats too who will enjoy chasing and playing with each other around the frame. It has removable pads - some for scratching and some for laying on that can be washed or replaced as needed. That’s one of the best things about this scratcher; Vesper makes spare parts, so if your cat wears the scratch post or pads out, you can purchase replacements to make it look as good again. Rosewood Charcoal Felt Double Cat Tower - If you’re looking for something sleek that will fit in to a modern home then this scratch tower might be just the style you’re looking for. Where the other posts have been crafted from cream fabrics and wooden accents this post is all grey. A stylish colour palette that will work seamlessly into any modern home. It features three scratch posts together with a tunnel, a round hideout and a top platform. It’s ideal for cats who love to climb and large enough for multi-cat households with two or three felines.   Trixie Humberto XXL Tall Scratching Tower - Are you looking for the ultimate scratch post? If you need an indoor playground with multiple places for your cats to scratch, play and lounge then this XXL scratch tower from Trixie may be just what you’ve been looking for. Standing at over 5 feet tall, this tower has 8 scratch posts, a large hideout in the middle, a platform on top and three hammocks; plus, a rope toy for added fun. It is ideal for any cat, but especially large breeds who will love the generously proportioned hammocks, and indoor cats who will get plenty of exercise climbing and playing around the frame. It is finished in a neutral colour palette of grey and cream so will look good in any home too. We hope you like our pick of the best cat scratch posts and trees. Which you choose will come down to the needs of your specific cat. If you’re looking for a small post for a kitten you might choose the Tarragon. If you want a moderate sized post for an adult cat who mainly goes outside, then the Galeno might be suitable. If you need a large tower for multiple indoor cats, then we’d probably suggest the Humberto. Whichever you choose, we think your cat will love it. If you need any more information regarding any of the products listed here, please do get in touch. We’re always happy to help!

By Zac Girdlestone

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Scratching is something that every cat loves to do. There are a number of reasons that your cat scratches, the main one being to keep their claws in tip top condition. They also scratch to mark their territory as a sign to other cats, and can scratch when anxious too. If you don’t want your furniture or carpets to be ruined, then a scratch post is a must-have for every cat owner. You can then encourage them to scratch this and divert their attention away from your soft furnishings.

Scratch accessories come in all shapes and sizes from small cardboard scratchers to large scratch posts and trees. Here we take a look at our favourite scratch posts from our Cat Emporium.

 

Our Favourite Cardboard Scratchers

Cats like to scratch in different ways; some like to scratch vertically; some like to scratch horizontally and others like a mixture of both. If your cat likes to scratch horizontal surfaces (hopefully they haven’t taken to scratching your carpets just yet!), we have a brilliant range of cardboard scratchers. These can be easily moved around the home so that your cat can keep their claws sharp without ruining your flooring.

Catit Lounge Cardboard Scratcher - This is a really good budget scratcher for cats. The whole surface is made of corrugated cardboard, which is enticing for felines and the shape is designed for cats to ‘lounge’ on when relaxing. The large size makes it ideal for all ages and breeds, and it will last a long time before it needs replacing.

Catit Pirates Barrel Scratcher - This is a super fun choice! Part of the Pirates collection by Catit. It offers both scratching and lounging capabilities all in one novel design. We also love the fact that it comes in two sizes, so you can choose the small for a little kitten and the large for adults. The larger size measures 16.53” in diameter making it great for breeds such as Ragdolls and Maine Coons.

Catit Senses 2.0 Oval Scratcher - This is part of the brilliant interactive Senses range by Catit. The scratcher itself is an oval shape and a great size for any age and breed of feline. What we love most is that it can be incorporated into a playground circuit along with some of the other Catit Senses products. Add a Play Circuit, a Food Tree and perhaps the Wellness Centre and your cat will have a whale of a time hunting, chasing and lounging.   

 

Our Favourite Cat Scratch Posts & Trees

If your cat is a vertical scratcher as most are, then a scratch post or tower is an essential accessory for your home. They come in all shapes and sizes, so you will find something to suit the space you have available and the breed of your cat. There are small scratch posts for kittens and large towers with multiple posts and platforms for larger breeds and indoor cats. It’s important to consider your specific cat when choosing a scratch post. If you have a cat who goes outdoors and doesn’t scratch that much in the house, then maybe a compact single post scratcher will be sufficient. If on the other hand you have an indoor cat who needs to sate all of their scratching needs in the house, then you will need to consider something much larger, with places for them to climb and lounge incorporated into the structure. Here we list a range of options for every kind of cat:

Vesper Play centre Cat Scratcher - This a great miniature climbing frame for kittens by Vesper. Vesper makes premium quality cat furniture that looks stylish whilst offering practical solutions for scratching felines. Your kitten will enjoy climbing over this A-frame structure and can scratch and play too. It can be moved around and set in different positions to make playtime different for your cat. It features a scratch pad and a small scratch post as well as a memory foam pad for lounging and a catnip toy that they can ‘hunt’ and bat around too! It’s the perfect first scratch post for kittens.

Rosewood Tarragon Cat Scratch Post - The Tarragon scratcher is a three-post design. Each post varies in length and has an attached catnip toy for added playtime fun. If your cat needs encouragement to scratch in the correct places, then these toys are just the thing to entice them. It will make a great first scratch post for kittens as it isn’t too big. The varying sizes will also give your cat chance to stretch and scratch as they grow into adults. Larger breeds may find this isn’t large enough once they are fully grown though. Ragdolls and Maine Coons for example may like something much larger, but this is an excellent choice for kittens, smaller cats and outdoor cats who don’t tend to scratch indoors that much anyway.

Rosewood Catwalk Collection Zurich Cat Scratch Post - The Zurich has all of the same things that we love about the Tarragon, but in an exciting round shape with an added platform on top. Your little kitten will enjoy scratching and climbing over this mini frame and the dangly catnip toys will keep them coming back for more playtime fun. A brilliant scratch post for kittens and small cats

Rosewood Catwalk Collection Cinnamon Scratch Post - Do you love the look of the Zurich scratch post, but have large adult cats? Then take a look at the Cinnamon scratcher. This has the same three post structure but on a much larger scale. It has a multi layered design too, which will appeal to your cat’s climbing instincts. It’s a great choice for those with an adult cat or multi-cat households.

Trixie Galeno Scratching Post - This is more than just a scratch post. This design has a cosy hideout at the base with a post that stretches up to two platforms that sit at different heights. It will sate of your kitty’s scratching desires whilst also allowing them to hide away for a snooze when they want, or climb the tower to survey their domain! The hideaway and platforms are covered in a lovely soft plush faux fur too which will appeal to your kitty’s love of soft fabrics. A great option for one or two cats.

 

Trixie Ava XXL Cat Tower - The first thing to notice about this scratcher is the striking design. It has a contemporary, geometric style with cube-like structures bookmarking a wide scratch post. The bottom cube is a cosy hideaway that will provide your cat with a secluded spot for napping and sleeping. The top structure is an open top cat bed. Both are fully lined with plush faux fur and have the addition of reversible cushions. The scratch post is wrapped in jute as is the top bed giving plenty of scratching options. This a brilliant option for large breed cats including Ragdolls and Norwegian Forest Cats. They’ll love the generously sized lounging areas!

 

Vesper Box Large Cat Cube - Vesper is a brand that fuses style and practicality in a seamless way. They consider everything that a cat likes and work these practical attributes into well-designed, aesthetically pleasing pieces of contemporary furniture for the home. The Large Box Cube is a miniature climbing frame with lounging places, a scratch post and dangly toys all in one sleek structure. It’s ideal for kittens and will last well into adulthood. It’s large enough for multiple cats too who will enjoy chasing and playing with each other around the frame. It has removable pads - some for scratching and some for laying on that can be washed or replaced as needed. That’s one of the best things about this scratcher; Vesper makes spare parts, so if your cat wears the scratch post or pads out, you can purchase replacements to make it look as good again.

Rosewood Charcoal Felt Double Cat Tower - If you’re looking for something sleek that will fit in to a modern home then this scratch tower might be just the style you’re looking for. Where the other posts have been crafted from cream fabrics and wooden accents this post is all grey. A stylish colour palette that will work seamlessly into any modern home. It features three scratch posts together with a tunnel, a round hideout and a top platform. It’s ideal for cats who love to climb and large enough for multi-cat households with two or three felines.

 

Trixie Humberto XXL Tall Scratching Tower - Are you looking for the ultimate scratch post? If you need an indoor playground with multiple places for your cats to scratch, play and lounge then this XXL scratch tower from Trixie may be just what you’ve been looking for. Standing at over 5 feet tall, this tower has 8 scratch posts, a large hideout in the middle, a platform on top and three hammocks; plus, a rope toy for added fun. It is ideal for any cat, but especially large breeds who will love the generously proportioned hammocks, and indoor cats who will get plenty of exercise climbing and playing around the frame. It is finished in a neutral colour palette of grey and cream so will look good in any home too.

We hope you like our pick of the best cat scratch posts and trees. Which you choose will come down to the needs of your specific cat. If you’re looking for a small post for a kitten you might choose the Tarragon. If you want a moderate sized post for an adult cat who mainly goes outside, then the Galeno might be suitable. If you need a large tower for multiple indoor cats, then we’d probably suggest the Humberto. Whichever you choose, we think your cat will love it.

If you need any more information regarding any of the products listed here, please do get in touch. We’re always happy to help!

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    23.06.25 June 23, 2025 Owning a Cat

    Books Every Cat Lover Should Read

    There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of cats and books. Whether you’re curled up on the sofa with a steaming mug of tea or lying in bed on a lazy Sunday morning, a great story featuring our feline friends can transport you to new worlds—or help you see your own world in an entirely different light. If you’ve ever found yourself on the hunt for a truly memorable book about a cat (or several cats!), look no further. Below, we’ve compiled a list of must-read titles that celebrate our beloved companions in all their whiskered glory. 1. The Travelling Cat Chronicles by Hiro Arikawa If you’re in search of books with cats at the very heart of the story, The Travelling Cat Chronicles is an excellent starting point. This Japanese novel follows the journey of Nana, an endearing stray, and his human companion, Satoru, as they embark on a road trip across Japan. Along the way, the cat’s witty inner monologues and the bittersweet nostalgia of each stop create a moving portrait of friendship, love, and acceptance. Why It’s a Must-Read Heartfelt Exploration of Friendship: The bond between Nana and Satoru shows just how transformative the relationship between cats and humans can be. Beautiful Setting: You’ll get an evocative tour of Japan’s countryside, small towns, and cultural touchstones. Tear-Jerker Moments: Fair warning—The Travelling Cat Chronicles is known to tug on the heartstrings, leaving readers with a renewed appreciation for life’s simple joys and the power of companionship. 2. The Guest Cat by Takashi Hiraide When it comes to cats and books, The Guest Cat offers a refreshing, introspective take on the influence a single feline can have on a household. Set in Tokyo, a young couple living in a cottage on a larger estate often welcomes a charming cat who wanders into their home uninvited. With time, this unassuming feline guest becomes a symbol of comfort, joy, and even change—both for the couple and for the readers following along. Why It’s a Must-Read Meditative & Calming: The tranquil tone provides a soothing reading experience, perfect for winding down after a busy day. Subtle Reflection on Change: This book about a cat subtly explores how small shifts in life can spark big reflections. Authentic Japanese Culture: If you love stories set in Japan, you’ll appreciate how the setting shapes the couple’s story and perspective. 3. The Complete Maus by Art Spiegelman At first glance, The Complete Maus might not seem like a typical feline read. This Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel uses cats and mice as allegorical stand-ins for the Nazis and Jewish people during the Holocaust. Though it’s not a light read, it’s a powerful exploration of history, trauma, and the complexity of familial relationships. Art Spiegelman interviews his father, a Holocaust survivor, and translates those harrowing experiences into a graphic novel format. The story is both deeply personal and historically monumental, shedding light on the atrocities of World War II. Why It’s a Must-Read Groundbreaking Medium: Spiegelman redefined what graphic novels can achieve, making this a must-read for both cat lovers and history enthusiasts. Emotional Resonance: The visual depiction of cats and mice intensifies the emotional weight of the narrative. Timeless Message: Despite its heavy subject matter, The Complete Maus offers insights on survival, family bonds, and the power of storytelling. 4. On Basilisk Station by David Weber Science fiction might not be the first genre that comes to mind when you think of books with cats, but On Basilisk Station proves that felines can thrive in outer space just as well as on Earth. The first novel in the Honor Harrington series, it introduces us to a star-faring world where humans—and some very special companions—must protect their territory from looming threats. Honor Harrington, a talented officer in the Royal Manticoran Navy, is assigned to the backwater station of Basilisk. Facing political tensions and hostile forces, she must rely on her wits, her crew, and her telepathic treecat companion, Nimitz, to maintain peace in a strategic region of space. Why It’s a Must-Read Unique “Treecat” Concept: Nimitz’s strong bond with Honor showcases how feline-like creatures can enhance a science fiction storyline. Action-Packed Plot: If you like your cats and books served with a hefty side of adventure, this novel will keep you on the edge of your seat. Series Starter: Once you’ve finished On Basilisk Station, you can delve into the extensive Honorverse for even more space-faring excitement. 5. The Tale of Tom Kitten by Beatrix Potter You can’t talk about a “Beatrix Potter cat” without mentioning The Tale of Tom Kitten. A beloved children’s classic, this short story introduces readers to Tom Kitten and his sisters, Moppet and Mittens, as they explore the farmhouse and get into mischief. Why It’s a Must-Read Timeless Charm: Beatrix Potter’s illustrations bring a certain warmth and whimsy that continues to enchant readers of all ages. Great for Families: If you’re looking to introduce younger children to classic literature, this is a perfect gateway book. Enduring Legacy: The quaint English countryside setting and moral lessons still hold relevance today, reminding us that a little bit of chaos is part of the fun with any cat. 6. I Am a Cat by Natsume Soseki When discussing influential Japanese novels, I Am a Cat is a fascinating and often humorous perspective on human nature—told entirely through the eyes of a cat. If you’ve ever wondered what your own cat might be thinking, this satirical take might offer some playful insights. A nameless stray cat wanders into the home of a schoolteacher and proceeds to observe and critique the household’s bizarre human behaviour. Why It’s a Must-Read Satirical & Witty: The cat’s observations are funny, cunning, and often spot-on, revealing deeper truths about society. Cultural Insight: Learn about the rapid modernisation of Japan from a cat’s very particular point of view. Philosophical Undertones: Beneath the humour lies a thoughtful reflection on human quirks and societal norms. 7. The Cat Who... Mystery Series by Lilian Jackson Braun Looking for lighthearted detective stories? The Cat Who... series is a long-running collection of cosy mysteries, each featuring a journalist named Jim Qwilleran and his extraordinary Siamese cats, Koko and Yum Yum.In each installment, Qwilleran stumbles upon small-town crimes or puzzling local mysteries. Koko, endowed with an almost psychic sense of curiosity, often uncovers the crucial clues before the humans even realise they exist. Yum Yum provides moral support and a dash of feline charm, making these books a delightful read for cat enthusiasts. Why It’s a Must-Read Cosy & Accessible: Perfect for winding down after a hectic day, these mysteries never stray too far into the dark and gritty. Feline Sleuthing: Watching Koko’s investigative talents is half the fun—you’ll never look at your cat the same way again. Long-Lasting Enjoyment: With nearly 30 books in the series, there’s plenty to keep you occupied if you find yourself hooked. Final Thoughts From heartwarming road trips to space-faring adventures, there’s a wealth of cat-centred literature waiting to be discovered. These titles aren’t just random books with cats; they’re doorways into unique perspectives on life, love, loss, and the endless quirks of our feline companions. Whether you’re seeking a contemplative read like The Guest Cat, an action-packed romp like On Basilisk Station, or a visual masterpiece like The Complete Maus, there’s a purrfect book about a cat here to suit every taste. As you explore these stories, pay attention to the nuances of how each author interprets the feline-human bond. You might just find yourself scribbling down notes about your own cat’s mysterious behaviours or reading passages aloud to your pet, hoping they’ll recognise themselves in the story. That, after all, is the magic of cats and books—each one can teach us something new, drawing us deeper into the enchanting world of whiskers and words. So, brew a cup of tea, clear a cosy spot on your sofa (or negotiate with your cat for a bit of space), and dive into these unforgettable reads. Happy reading—and may your journey through these pages be as comforting and inspiring as a cat’s gentle purr. Looking for the perfect cosy spot for your cat to curl up in whilst you read away? Look no further than our luxury cat beds and cat trees - whether your cat prefers to curl up near you in a bed or up high on a cat tree we have something to suit them!

    By Megan Willis

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  • Caring For Your Aging Feline Friend
    23.06.25 June 23, 2025 Health

    Caring For Your Aging Feline Friend

    As our beloved feline companions grow older, their needs evolve. An old cat (often referred to as an aged cat or senior cat) requires extra attention to ensure they stay healthy, comfortable, and happy. Whether you’re just beginning your journey in looking after an old cat or you’ve been caring for one for years, it’s always beneficial to review the fundamentals of senior cat care. Below, we’ll walk you through essential tips, from nutrition and environment to health checks and emotional well-being, to help you provide the best ageing cat care for your cherished pet. Recognising the Signs of Aging Just like humans, cats often display physical and behavioural signs as they enter their golden years. Although the pace and extent of these changes vary from cat to cat, there are a few common indicators that your feline may be crossing into senior cat territory: Reduced Mobility: Stiff joints, difficulty jumping to high perches, or reluctance to climb stairs can signal aging. Altered Sleep Patterns: Senior cats might snooze more frequently, or sometimes experience restless nights. Weight Changes: An old cat could lose or gain weight depending on their metabolism and activity levels. Changes in Coat and Claws: You may notice a thinning coat or brittle claws as your cat ages. Behavioural Shifts: Increased vocalisations at night, disorientation, or a change in grooming habits can all point to an aged cat needing additional support.Observing these signs is the first step in looking after an old cat. Regularly discussing any new or concerning observations with your vet is crucial for appropriate guidance and timely intervention. The Importance of a Senior Cat Diet One of the key components of senior cat care is providing a nutritionally balanced, age-appropriate meal plan—often referred to as a senior cat diet. Older cats have distinct dietary needs, including higher-quality proteins to maintain muscle mass, along with specific vitamins and minerals that support joint health, kidney function, and overall well-being. High-Quality Protein: Look for senior catfood that lists real meat (like turkey, chicken, or fish) as the primary ingredient. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they thrive on high-quality animal protein sources. Reduced Calories: Many older cats become less active with age. A cat-specific diet with reduced calories can help them maintain a healthy body weight. Joint and Immune Support: Some senior catfood formulas include added nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health, as well as antioxidants for immune system support. Easily Digestible Ingredients: As cats age, their digestive systems might become more sensitive. Foods that are gentle on the stomach can help prevent issues like vomiting or constipation. One highly recommended option is PRO PLAN LiveClear Sterilised 7+ Senior Cat Dry Food with Turkey. Formulated especially for senior cats, it provides balanced nutrition with quality protein, essential vitamins, and targeted minerals. This helps support your aged cat’s mobility, immune function, and overall vitality, making it an excellent choice for a senior cat diet. Setting Up a Comfortable Environment An ageing cat may find it harder to jump, run, or climb, so modifying your home can go a long way in keeping them comfortable: Soft, Warm Bedding: Provide plush, warm beds in accessible areas, preferably somewhere quiet. Our luxury cat beds make the perfect nap spot. Easy Accessibility: If your cat loves gazing out of the window or snuggling on the sofa, consider adding ramps or pet steps to help them get there without straining. Temperature Control: Older cats often feel the cold more than younger ones. Make sure your home has cosy spots away from drafts. Quiet Zones: Senior cats appreciate a sense of calm. Ensure there’s a quiet corner where they can relax away from other pets or household bustle. Common Health Concerns in Senior Cats Part of ageing cat care involves understanding the common health challenges that may arise. Early detection and professional advice can save your cat from unnecessary discomfort: Arthritis: This is one of the most prevalent issues in senior cats. Look out for limping, reluctance to jump, or difficulty using the litter tray. Kidney Disease: As cats age, their kidneys may become less efficient. Signs include increased thirst, frequent urination, and weight loss. Dental Issues: Tartar buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease can affect senior cats, potentially leading to pain and reduced appetite. Hyperthyroidism: This condition can cause weight loss despite an increased appetite, hyperactivity, and a poor coat condition. When to Worry About Vomiting It’s not uncommon to see an elderly cat throwing up occasionally, as hairballs or slight digestive upsets can happen. However, if vomiting becomes frequent or is accompanied by lethargy, loss of appetite, or weight loss, it’s crucial to consult a vet. Chronic vomiting can sometimes indicate gastrointestinal issues, kidney problems, or other underlying diseases. Grooming and Hygiene for Older Cats Grooming remains an essential part of senior cat care. Since older cats might experience joint stiffness or other issues that make grooming difficult, they may need a bit of extra help: Regular Brushing: Keep your cat’s coat free of tangles and mats, stimulate healthy blood flow, and reduce hairball formation. Treat them to a new cat brush here. Check the Claws: Senior cats might scratch less or have difficulty shedding the outer layer of their claws. Regular nail trims prevent overgrowth, which can be painful. Learn how to trim your cat's nails here. Gentle Assistance: Some older cats may develop greasy coats or dandruff because they can’t reach certain spots to groom. Use a soft brush or damp cloth to help them clean hard-to-reach areas. Emotional Well-Being and Mental Stimulation Beyond physical health, it’s equally important to nurture your cat’s emotional well-being. Senior cats can still enjoy playtime, mental challenges, and bonding time: Interactive Play: Engage in short, gentle play sessions using feather wands or laser pointers. Adapt the activity to suit your cat’s energy level. Puzzle Toys: Stimulate your cat’s mind with treat-dispensing or puzzle toys. These keep them mentally alert and reward them with a tasty morsel. Quality Time: Spend quiet moments together, stroking or grooming your cat to reinforce your bond. Cats, even independent ones, value consistent human interaction. Regular Vet Check-Ups Routine veterinary visits are paramount when looking after an old cat. Senior cats benefit from semi-annual check-ups, allowing your vet to detect any budding health issues early. Discuss any changes in appetite, weight, or behaviour during these appointments. Your vet might recommend blood tests, dental exams, or nutritional adjustments to optimise your cat’s health. Tips for Simplifying Day-to-Day Senior Cat Care Stable Routine: Cats thrive on consistency. Sticking to a regular feeding and play schedule can reduce stress and help your cat feel secure. Portion Control: Since older cats can be prone to weight gain or loss, measuring meals and monitoring intake is vital. Hydration: Ensure a clean, fresh water source at all times. Some senior cats may enjoy water fountains, which encourage them to drink more. Monitoring Litter Box Habits: Keep an eye out for changes in frequency or stool consistency, as these can be early indicators of health problems. Final Thoughts on Caring for Your Ageing Feline Friend Caring for a senior cat is both a responsibility and a privilege. By focusing on a tailored senior cat diet, maintaining a comfortable living environment, and keeping a close watch for changes in health or behaviour, you can ensure your aged cat thrives well into their golden years. Above all, stay attuned to your cat’s needs. Whether it’s helping them groom, altering their play routine, or consulting a vet at the first sign of elderly cat throwing up, proactive care sets the foundation for a long, healthy life. Each old cat deserves every measure of comfort and attention we can offer, and with the right approach to senior cat care, you’ll provide the nurturing environment your feline companion needs to stay happy and content.

    By Megan Willis

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