Are you a senior looking for some companionship? If so, why not consider getting a cat? After all, cats are easy-to-care-for pets that bring joy and love into your home.
Not only will they provide great emotional support as you age, but living with a cat can also offer incredible physical benefits such as stress relief and increased activity levels.
We’ll discuss the best feline friends for seniors and help you decide who to take home!
The Benefits of Owning a Cat for Seniors
Invite a feline friend into your life! Owning a cat has numerous benefits for seniors, making it an ideal pet to live with. Not only do cats provide unconditional love and companionship, but they also help to reduce stress, cut down on loneliness, and provide a sense of purpose.
Don’t forget to enjoy all the memorable moments of owning a cat — from snuggles on the couch at night to DIY activities like crafting toy mice for your new best pal.
| Heart Health | Cats have an affectionate nature, which can help people who suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, or have challenges with addiction. |
| Better Sleep | Most people do not like to sleep alone. Pets, especially cats, are great companions for sleeping through the night. Studies even show that sleeping with pet results in better sleep than sleeping with someone else! |
| Therapy | Just as many other animal breeds, cats have instincts that can save your life. On numerous occasions, cats have been heroes to their owners by alerting them of oncoming medical emergencies and home dangers (such as gas leaks) to keep their owners safe. |
| Companionship | One of the most overlooked benefits of owning a cat is their loyal companionship. Having an animal to take care of, feed, and maintain can keep older adults on their feet and active, both mentally and physically. Plus, their company brings happiness to the owner. |
| Medical Emergencies | Just like many other animal breeds, cats have instincts that can save your life. On numerous occasions, cats have been heroes to their owners by alerting them of oncoming medical emergencies and home dangers (such as gas leaks) to keep their owners safe. |
How to Choose the Right Cat for You
If you’re a senior looking for a loyal companion to help make your later years more enjoyable, you should consider adding a cat to your family. Choosing the right cat is essential though: not all cats are created equal!
While some cats may be mischievous and require extra attention, others are patient, docile, and need little maintenance. As you select your feline friend, paying attention to the cat’s age (kittens will have higher energy levels than older cats) and their personality traits are important.
Look for a cat that loves cuddling and won’t mind being around people all day. Consider factors like veterinarian bills, grooming needs, and any allergies in the home before making your decision.
Popular Breeds of Cat that Make Great Companions for Seniors
Cats are one of the most popular animals to keep as pets, and they can make a great companion for seniors. Many cats don’t require as much exercise or supervision as their canine equivalents, making them perfect companions for leisure.
Cats are fairly independent, so you won’t have to worry about constantly looking after them; this is particularly reassuring if your senior parent has any medical problems.
Ultimately, if your elder is searching for a companion with minimal effort but the maximal impact, one of these breeds might be a perfect choice.
Burmese
Longevity: 16 – 18 years
Burmese cats are a common cat breed due to their friendliness and love for human companionship. If you are looking for a loyal cat that will accompany you anytime, this cat is for you!
Persian
Longevity: 10 – 17 years
Another common cat breed, Persian cats, are known for their beautiful coat and calm nature. Look no further if you are looking for a cat that will lounge around with you all day.
However, because of their long coats, Persian cats require frequent grooming and maintenance.
Munchkin
Longevity: 11-13 years
If you are looking for a small cat, this adorable breed is the one for you! These cats are not only affectionate, but they are adventurous.
Munchkin cats are known for their ability to play, but because of their short stature, they do not get into trouble because they can’t jump onto high surfaces. This is a great option for an older adult who wants to be entertained or has grandchildren that can play all day!
Snowshoe
Longevity: 10-12 years
One of the most loving cat breeds, Snowshoe cats are a perfect companion for older adults. They are known to be friendly but remain most loyal to their owner. They are intelligent and adapt to their surroundings very well.
Snowshoe cats are quite vocal but have a gentle voice which may be a bonus if you like background noise around the house!
Ragdoll
Longevity: 12 – 15 years
If you are looking for a cat to care for and maintain frequently, take a closer look at the Ragdoll breed. These cats are long-haired and require frequent grooming.
They are also one of the larger-sized cat breeds and may be difficult to carry for some adults. However, Ragdolls are laid-back and loving and make great companions.
LaPerm
Longevity: 12 – 15 years
LaPerm cats are unique because of their unusual curly-haired coat. They’re low maintenance and fairly independent compared to many other felines.
LaPerm cats are known to be gentle in their mannerisms, voice, and how they like to be handled. This cat breed is great for people who live in apartments because of its adaptability.
Abyssinian
Longevity: 12 – 15 years
Abyssinians are one of the most affectionate cat breeds. They are frequently found cuddled next to their owner, on their shoulders, or in their lap.
These cats enjoy lounging around but can also have bursts of energy – perfect when the grandchildren visit.
Balinese
Longevity: 18 – 22 years
If you are allergic to cats, this breed is a great option because it is hypoallergenic. They have a beautiful coat but do not shed often and require little maintenance.
Balinese cats are not very vocal but love to play and adventure when their curiosity strikes.
Scottish Fold
Longevity: 12 – 15 years
Scottish Fold cats are another great option for older adults because they are loyal and loving to their owners but are also independent.
If you are not looking for a cat to follow you all day, this cat is a great option.
Himalayan
Longevity: 12 – 15 years
Himalayan cats offer the best of both worlds. They have two distinct personalities, one where they love to play and be outspoken, and one where they want to lounge around.
If you are unsure exactly what you want in a cat, this breed may be the perfect fit!
Tips for Making Sure Your Cat is Comfortable and Happy in its New Home
If you’re a senior looking to welcome a furry companion into your home, there are a few steps you can take to make sure that your cat is comfortable and happy in its new environment.
Start by investing some time in creating the perfect living area for your cat. It should include plenty of comfy places to sleep, such as pet beds, have fun toys on hand for interactive play, and ensure its litter box is easily accessible with nothing blocking the way.
Additionally, it’s important to socialize your cat gradually when introducing it to new people or pets so that it doesn’t become distressed from the experience.
With the right care and attention, any senior with one of these cats will have an amazing companion they can appreciate for many years.
Important Considerations When Choosing a Pet for a Senior
The later years can be a trying time for seniors, but having a furry companion to keep you company can make the experience much more enjoyable.
When choosing a pet, there are several important considerations senior citizens should take into account.
Firstly, it’s important to choose an animal known to be low-maintenance so that they don’t add extra stress and responsibility to an already busy life.
Cats meet these criteria perfectly, as they generally require minimal grooming and exercise while providing the loving companionship most seniors need.
Furthermore, cats have been linked to improved physical well-being, prompting better cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure among seniors.
With all that being said, when selecting a companion, you must consider their size, age, and temperament. By doing so, you’ll be sure to find the perfect cat for yourself or your elderly relative!
With the right amount of patience and research, you can find the perfect cat to bring companionship and love into your house.
Not only will you be ready to fully care for a new pet but giving that furry friend a forever home brings immeasurable rewards with no price tag.
Remember all the tips from this article, and never hesitate to reach out to vets or qualified professionals if you need help ensuring your pet is healthy and happy.
Enjoy all the little moments with your feline companion, and it’s certain to lead you both down an amazing path of friendship and adventure often overlooked by those without cats in their lives.