The Senior Cat Years | Cat Ages and Stages

[@hummingbird2254]

I spent years shooing my cat Emma off of the kitchen counter. It was like she thought that it was HER counter. When she got to be around 15, I noticed that she was having difficulty jumping up on HER counter. Instead of feeling relieved that she could no longer go there, I felt sorry for her and got her a step stool 😂. She's 18 now and she's still enjoying HER counter.

[@kaitlyn__L]

Good on you :)

[@jpteknoman]

i dont think she cared for the counter, she probably liked messing with you. like little kids who like to play pranks just to see the other kid or the parent angry because they find it amusing.

[@HarmlessTomato]

My boy went 15 in august and I noticed that he couldn’t jump well either. Just recently he started jumping again.

[@KaylaMarieTeaGaming]

Ok, I didnt wanna cry today

[@joesther8058]

Oh your sweet to your cat. Thank you for sharing that!

[@laurameisenhelter9186]

My "thing" is to adopt senior cats. I refer to my home as Assisted Living for Elderly Cats. There are 2 residents right now: 9 year old Blue (tabby point Siamese) and 13 year old Mr. Casey Pants (long hair Siamese.) Past residents were Lucy (tortie/Siamese) and Nick (blue point Siamese.) It is so rewarding to give a home to suddenly homeless kitties who are older. Often it's because their human died. I'm fortunate that I can afford their medical care. They are wonderful companions and it is a privilege to care for them as they age.

[@evathordis]

We have a similar thing going on in our home, we do only take one in at a time though. We sometimes refer to our elderly cat home as Himinbjörg (sky mountains). Himinbjörg is the home of the old Norse god Heimdall who gards Bifröst wich is what the old Norsemen called the rainbow, the rainbow was the bridge between the realm of men and the realm of the gods. 🐈 🌈 💜

[@bettyboop1524]

Bless you Laura. When my 16 yr old recently passed away, I found a raggedy cat at the shelter of course she was there for ages no one saw what I saw. A lovely skinny elderly cat who lived in a feral colony. She is such a love, doesn't tear up my house like a young one. She sleeps where she wants and for how long she wants and has a healthy diet. I'm letting her live her life.

[@rozinan7400]

Oh my! Siamese cats are seriously one of the best companions ever 💗

[@Sonic_kid_5]

Thank you

[@NarsilRenewed]

I just want to shake your hand real hard and thank you from the bottom of my ♥

[@RavenBlack74]

My boy is 25 this year. Been a house cat all his life

[@volvo09]

Aww! That's lovely!

[@Ftbl.4hmed]

Nice

[@pigybak]

😻

[@bmackenzie2740]

Nice!!

[@Wirzufrieden]

Oh wow! Take a good care of your darling!❤️ so many years together

[@MerriwynMoon]

I don't even own a cat tbh I'm here for wholesome cat content and so hopefully when I can get a cat, I can be the best person for it!

[@swankyswede]

Aww love this! 😆 Welcome! We're all about learning & sharing.. keep that up & you'll be a wonderful guardian when you are chosen one day 😁🐱

[@Karmelia6]

Same! I'm already planning how should I catify the house, although I don't think it would be the house I'm currently living in so those plans are a little more like a list of things and ideas I can or should include in the future

[@sally8708]

I am actually sooooo glad to see this!!!!! Pet owners in general tend not to do much research beforehand, and the animals suffer for it. Another common thing is getting an animal impulsively when your life/finances/living situation/etc are not situated to allow the best possible care of an animal. And that’s how pets cycle through shelters. It’s tragic. I really wish more people would wait until they have the ability and knowledge to care for the animal for its entire life span. Okay, rant over. My point is that you are awesome!!! And I really wish more people could follow this example!!!

[@LiveLaughSmile]

Hello! What are you waiting for? Go for it my dear! Don’t waist your time! They’re full of love!

[@Karmelia6]

@@LiveLaughSmile that's... a little short-sighted. Me and my partner would absolutely agree that getting a cat is lovely and so on, but we will wait. Firstly, we do not live on our own, and secondly, we do not have necessary money to get our future cats the best care. Vets, good quality feed and safety nets (or catio as we would prefer to have) all cost.

[@beautyforashes2230]

My cat will be 17 in September, but he eats well, loves his water fountain, and runs marathons all through the house; you'd think he was 5 and not almost 17. You can't tell looking at him either, he doesn't even look that old. I hope he'll be with me for many years yet. He sleeps in my arms and follows me everywhere, and I've never had such a close bond with an animal. Ah and speak of the little devil; he just jumped into my lap and asked for his dinner. God bless all your cats and may they be healthy and happy. :)

[@amberlymayo319]

My baby girl was just like that.. To say I miss her is an understatement. We had 18 amazing years together, even traveled cross-country ❤ She was my heart

[@beautyforashes2230]

@@amberlymayo319 I'm so sorry you lost her, but I'm glad you had such a long time with her. I know when my boy goes, it's going to feel as though my heart is ripped out, but I treasure, and always will treasure, every day I have with him.

[@valeriegalvan7502]

I lost my boy to cancer this year. He was 15 years old. I miss him, but he doesn't hurt anymore, not that you could tell that he was in pain, of course. I tell myself that he ran over the rainbow 🌈 bridge like a kitten and he'll be there waiting for me.

[@Ripley917]

My cat, Hunter, would have been 20 years old in September. He succumbed to kidney disease a few weeks ago. We had a powerful bond. I adopted him when he was 10 weeks old. I never spent a night without him. He moved across the country with me and he has been my closest companion all these years. Since he departed he has already connected with me several times via synchronistic events and through dreams. I know he did this to comfort me and let me know that he is okay. He was the most precious gift I ever received from the universe.

[@beautyforashes2230]

@@Ripley917 I'm so sorry for your loss! My first cat died in my arms and was just 12 years old, it was cancer and I had no choice but to have him put to sleep. I know it's an agonizing loss and how much you're hurting right now. Rest in peace, Hunter!

[@midorisour2844]

My baby is almost 16. She moved from the US to Japan with me last year and she is a big fan of Japanese cat food (especially Ciao Churu). It's fun to see her experience so many new things at her age, including earthquakes (she is very brave!).

[@Celeste-.-marie]

How did she fare on the flight? I'm considering moving US to Spain but by the time I'll be ready she'll be around 15. She travels well by car but never taken her on a flight.

[@midorisour2844]

@@Celeste-.-marie It was a long trip for her, but she did great. I don't think she really ate or drank on the flight, though. Be careful about the season. We flew in November, which was perfect because it wasn't too hot or cold at any of the airports we used. I don't recommend moving with a pet when the temperatures are either extreme because their cage might be set outside for an hour or so while the plane is being prepared.

[@micmac3303]

We brought our cat from the UK to New Zealand last year😅❤

[@meowdventure]

Yes, senior cats need love too. Kittens are cute but cats of all ages should be celebrated. Thank you so much Jackson for covering this! 🙏🙏😺👍👍

[@Ftbl.4hmed]

He was making a video about every stage of life of cats

[@anyascelticcreations]

I actually think that their perfection begins around 10 years old. Not that I don't love my young cats, too. I absolutely do. But by around 10 and up they truly are gold. My baby boy is 14. And I wouldn't trade him for anything in all the world. 💖🐾💖🐾

[@Laura-mi3nv]

I let my old cats train my kittens. Its a legacy system that has really paid off in decades of sweet cats.

[@anyascelticcreations]

@@Laura-mi3nv Yes, I've done that, too. Well, really my kitties have done that for me. My 14 year old Amour is currently training my 2 year old Marina-Bunny, who we've had since she was a tiny fuzzling. He was trained by Sergei who was trained by Levi. Marina-Bunny is very sweet, too, largely due to the guidance of Amour. She still looks to him for guidance every day. We would be lost without him. 💖🐾💖🐾

[@carolynfabiano1751]

I totally agree!!!!

[@charlottekylin4169]

5 weeks ago I adopted two long haired 15 year old sisters whose guardian had to surrender them when she went to a nursing home. They spent a month at Animal Welfare and were pretty stressed out. For a couple of weeks we struggled with food, lots of throwing up, and hairballs. I realized they were chewing on plants I had for years that none of my other kitties had bothered, plants that were harmful. Did a wellness check at the vet and got stuff for hairballs. They are so happy now and have each regained some weight. They are more affectionate than my last cat who died recently at 20. Jackson, please mention female mammary cancer in older cats, which is what killed my last cat. I've had cats for 50 years and never knew they could get it. She didn't like me to touch her belly so I didn't find the tumor until too late. I'm 72 so I don't want to get a kitten in case I can't keep it as I age, and older cats are great!

[@dianesteppe3731]

I. M. M. M. Hbbbbb I

[@ildonoa3928]

I actually had a feral rescue that was FIV positive and made it to almost 18. I bottle-fed that kitty, and I had him from about 5 or 6 days old until I held him while he went to sleep for the last time. I will miss him forever, and I would not trade a second of the experience. I've always felt that part of animal guardianship is we are almost always going to be the ones to say goodbye. For me, the love I gain from my animal companions is worth the pain. I have had so many animals that outlived the expectation, and a few that were taken from us with no warning when they were barely out of kittenhood. Tomorrow is never guaranteed, fill today with love.

[@theresa510mountain]

Beautifully stated; recently lost a bottle fed kitten and recently help him to let him goat age of 14💔🐾

[@ildonoa3928]

@@theresa510mountain I hope you find comfort in the years you have together, but I know how much it hurts.

[@lovinpitbull8190]

❤️i hope your cat the best life in the rainbow bridge🥺

[@MsRocker961]

Amen 🙏🏻

[@s.m.durham8441]

The last sentence of your shared reply really got to me. It's beautiful. Thank you for sharing.

[@janieliu]

My husband and I adopted our current and first ever cat when he was 10 yrs old. I have to say, he’s been a great starter Pokémon. He’ll be turning 15 this October 😊.

[@sally8708]

This just made my day!!! I think of my Fluffbutt as a Pokémon all the time 🤣

[@fluffybunnybadass]

My cat is very chatty while playing, so I joke sometimes that she's like a Pokemon, calling out her attacks lol

[@karenlerato357]

I lost everything during Covid. My whole house was auctioned by the sheriff of the court. To have being able to keep my 2 senior cats stable and calm was a massive job. We staying at a friend's place in a single room but I'm trying to keep their daily routine. Had 2 vouchers for their dry food and hoping I will be able to facilitate. Thank you Jackson! Love from South Africa. ❤❤❤❤

[@leylayasar86]

it must be even more stressful to experience such a hard time with their responsibility. i appreciate you so much for not letting them go, most people dont or cant do that unfortunately in similar situations. also, what a great friend you have there! i know even my family wouldnt accept me with my cats if i was in need, let alone friends. from the bottom of my heart, i wish you an even better life than before... stability, health, a new house and a long life together💜💜💜

[@karenlerato357]

@@leylayasar86 Thank you Leyla. We will push through but I won't let them go. Even when I don't have anything to eat, I always make sure they do. Blessings to you. ❤❤🛐

[@IamSquirrel]

Hang in there Karen! I hope your cats are doing well.

[@karenlerato357]

@@IamSquirrel Thank you. It's genuinely tough! 🛐

[@yvonnelewis4888]

God bless you and your babies. l hope all of you prosper and thrive!

[@Snoozii1]

I adopted a senior three years ago when he was 13. I didn't want him to spend the rest of his life in a shelter, instead I wanted to provide him with the most comfortable and loving retirement life for as long as he would like. He's 16 now and I loved every moment with this affectionate old man; every day has been a treasure. But today I'm about to make the most difficult decision of letting him go, and my heart is breaking into pieces...

[@MsRocker961]

I’m so sorry 😞 I know how this feels

[@aasthakapoor7552]

You gave him a good life ❤️

[@lornglory1451]

Im so sorry for your loss sunshine, you did everything to make his senior years the best possible!

[@IMChrysalis]

💔

[@cheryltison874]

I hope by now you have recovered from that immediate grief of losing your fur baby and begun the process of opening your heart and home to another elder cat. The love you shared was so appreciated and should be shared again to another fur baby. Love is never easy😭

[@herpthings]

My girl is 15.5 years old. She had a big health scare where she stopped eating. Puking. Losing weight fast. It seemed she had an ulcer or something damaged in her small intestine and it was infected. I nearly lost her if not for veterinary medicine. I knew she was old but I have to accept she is geriatric in cat years. I just want her to live a long happy life and when she passes let it be in her sleep quietly. Not sick puking and starving to death like what almost just happened

[@lovinpitbull8190]

I’m sorry

[@nyxbellatrix011]

My lovely 14yo Amadeus' demise was torture due to bad veterinarian advice. My heart was broken when he starved and was shocked into death. I still cry for him every day.

[@lovinpitbull8190]

@@nyxbellatrix011 I am deeply sorry for your loss

[@jaimieconroy36]

I can relate. My cat was very sick months before he passed, but it seemed like he was on the mend when he passed away that night.

[@zombienursern4909]

@@jaimieconroy36 : My heart goes out to you. I am 65 years old and my orange and white tabby cat, Peanut is 11 years. My sons are worried that I will die of a broken heart when he dies. I actually fear that day. Blessings and peace of heart to you.

[@hayar3863]

can you please talk about cats who grieve the loss of their sibling/companion and how to comfort them through their depression and their searches for them. i was having a hard time getting him to drink water

[@thebunnyfoofoo]

Yes to this! I had a kitten that my other cats all loved and took turns babysitting in shifts throughout the day. Then the kitten got cat covid. It was awful. We had a vet come to the house to put the kitten down. The cats were all depressed. One cat died a month and a half later. He just stopped eating and would cry why the clock rolled around to his babysitting shift time. Another cat stopped doing things he once enjoyed doing when the kitten was still alive like playing with qtips (and he is terrified of anyone comes inside which he never did before but seeing the vet put he kitten to sleep really did a number on him).

[@jacquelynpowell7964]

I totally understand! My boy howled for 3 days after his mom died.He would carry her teddy bear around and look for her. It killed me to see him in that state (I was grieving for both of them).

[@yvonnelewis4888]

💔When a sibling of one of my cats passed away she went into a deep depression. I held her constantly and kept her close to me as much as possible, but she withdrew and began hiding. I tried everything l could think of to help her. Finally, l had waited a short while, but she wasn’t improving much. So then l went ahead and adopted a gentle loving cat about the same age, & slowly introduced them. They slowly bonded with each other, curious and fearful at first, but both needing the other. She slowly came around; & today they’re still inseparable.

[@LadySilverwater]

I'd love to hear more on this. We just lost our 15 year old kitty last week and my 17 year old is constantly on my lap now. They never really played together (polar opposite personalities) but they've been together for 15 years. We're all taking it hard and I don't know how to comfort her.

[@midnightwolf001]

My Yuki had similar issues when my Mew passed and even worse issues when my Wife, the one she's most bonded to, was in and out of hospital and rehab for months this last year. She was basically failing to thrive through everything we did until my Wife got back. Not sure if this would help, but I would suggest the following. Adding blankets and things that he loves to cuddle on, including cardboard boxes, cat carriers with a towel in them, or shelves and things to sit on that he's drawn to. Spraying a stress relieve spray, like Feliaway onto all the areas he goes to in order to cuddle and play can do wonders. These types of sprays have a hormone in them that aid cats in calming down and feeling more secure. I've also added catnip spray to these areas, including plush toys, as well as sprinkling catnip on them. Giving him more personal attention between you and him can help, as well. This can include pets, cuddling, giving treats, playing with him, giving him his favorite cat foods, verbal praises, working on getting him to relax so that you can leave the house in a calm manner. (The sprays and treats helped my Yuki a lot with the stress of any of us leaving.) You could also try allowing him to sleep in your room with you, calling to him when he's calling for his lost friend in order to pet and sooth him, as well as distracting him to help him calm down. Just don't force him into cuddles and attention if he doesn't come to you for them after trying to coax him. The main thing is just letting him know you're there and are an option to go to if he feels and when it's needed. Can even try having guests pay attention to him when they are in your house in order to aid teaching him that he can have more relationships with others in his life. Maybe even play music that seems to sooth him or put certain cat-TV shows on for him to watch. (I've noticed my cats tend to enjoy different genres of music that might annoy the other. So, you'd have to experiment.) Then, once he gets to a point where he seems to have settled down to the point that he is comfortable most of the time, then, maybe, try adopting another cat for him to create another relationship with. That may also help him get through his grief. But, I will say that you don't want to just drop a new cat into the mix as they will not just "get over" the grieving period. Just like with humans, cats grieve in their own way. So, the main things are to help him stay as calm as possible and having your whole support with his social needs until he gets to a point where he feels more comfortable not only in his surroundings, but with himself. Only then would he, most likely, be able to take on the stress of meeting another cat as every Cat's bond with another cat is, and will be, different just as some can bounce back from certain stressors, and even grief differently.

[@etorresrodz]

My baby girl just turned 9, the changes in her behavior were SO smoothly that I didn't realize she was aging until I saw her use our furniture as a ladder to get on the bed (her favorite spot) I brought more ladders for her to still get up on the window and came up with new ways of playing for her to have fun without breaking a hip 🥰 piece of advice to y'all: really be paying attention, cats are ridiculously stoic when it comes to pain and difficulties, we need to be close to them to notice ❤

[@jetson10100]

I have a 15 yr old who has had Diabetes for 12 of those years, every moment with him is so important to me now.

[@Solo_Traveling]

@Robin Kirves Every cat is different. I had this siamese that died when she was like 16 and she was still jumping on things and running around.

[@dianarodriguez5781]

@@Solo_Traveling yes my cat is also 9 and he is so energetic and playful that everyone thinks he’s closer to 2

[@angelabowen1818]

My girl just turned 8. Just in the last year she had moved from Michigan to Texas from a house to an apartment. In February of this year we were displaced due to the winter storm and stayed in a hotel for over 4 months and now we moved to a different apartment and my Quinn has adjusted very well so far. So many changes in such a short time. I cherish every day I get with her. She has been my rock 🪨 through this whole ordeal. From me adjusting to living in a new state after 37 years and also hotel life for four months to finally settling into our new place. She is such a blessing to my husband and I.

[@mandypdx]

My cat was born with a crooked femur. He’s been using stairs, ramps, and stools since he was 5 months. He’s the sweetest little guy 💕

[@sdfba4648]

I lost my precious girl due to cancer when she was 12. The vets kept saying it was “okay” for her to go because she was old. She surely was NOT old to me, she was active, thinking clearly and looked as beautiful as always till her very last day. When I was crying over her they said “you better have fish next time” and “do you know your another cat might die from the same thing, cats often do that” 3 years later I’m still outraged by this and mourning

[@hummingbird2254]

Wow how insensitive ! I certainly wouldn't be using that vet again. I'm so sorry for the loss of your fur baby.

[@valeriegalvan7502]

This year I lost my 15 year old boy to cancer. The only other thing the vet said was: "It's $85.00 for us to put him down and dispose of him." He's buried in our back garden.

[@roninkraut6873]

What?!? What a bunch of assholes.

[@Bull3tBikes]

Those “vets” should be reviewed

[@yvonnelewis4888]

Sometimes vets aren’t in their business for the animals, or they favor large animals over domestics. Its Still ok to let them know- even today if they’re still practicing, how what they said and did made you feel. I am a registered intensive care nurse. Familiar with pre-arrest emergency and rapid response protocols. One of my cats got into water in a planter dish that I unknowingly had snail bait in. It. I didn’t know what had happened but l couldn’t find her anywhere- searched for her all night and could not find her until the next morning when she was just barely alive, in respiratory distress, with extreme lethargy. I grabbed her up & raced to the vet, called them enroute and told them she needed to be into intubated, (they know I’m a registered nurse) yet when I arrived Nothing was set up at all period for resuscitation efforts. They even had surgery scheduled for that morning. The Vet attending to my cat did not seem to think it was that great of an emergency. He told me they would put a nasogastric tube down pump her stomach give her some charcoal and for me to call back in a little while, to see how she was doing. I only made it to the parking lot before they came running out to tell me she had died in my vets arms. I had to go back in and get her in their little coffin box that they gave me to carry her home. I carried her out to my car. I was parked in front by the glass front doors. As I went to put her in the passenger side of my car, I broke down sobbing and hugging her box. As I turned to put her down on the sea, I saw that vet looking at me out of the doors to the clinic. He never seem to be “available” to me again after that, and I actually preferred to go to others that were in the same clinic. But for the most part they are all large animal vets and they don’t seem to have the compassion and empathy that is so necessary for our kitties and doggies that we have at home. So I learned a valuable lesson, And I hope you will learn from my experience. Get a vet that feels about animals the same way you do.

[@lennic95]

Hi Jackson! Could you do a video about special needs cats? The most common disabilities, accessibility and what to keep in mind for their mental well-being? Thank you!

[@kaitlyn__L]

I second this! Many are “hard to adopt” even though many don’t need that many extra considerations at all.

[@StarleneBreiter]

I third this! I have a 6-year old that is deaf, although we have sorted out how to live happily (he is the only boy, I also have 4 girls). We communicate through touch and a sort of sign language we made up. What is so cute about him, is that he learned not just what I am saying, but how to communicate back to me by repeating his own version of what I do to him. For instance, when I learned that a really light blow on his fur when he is sleeping, will wake him up gently, as opposed to just touching him and startling him awake. He started to wake me by gently touching my face his whiskers by ever so gently touching me with his nose, and brushing his whiskers on my face. It is literally the cutest thing to wake up to (even at 5 AM LOL!) When I want to give him food or a treat I often have to wake him up, to let him know its dinner time, or what I call "treat o'clock", as the other 4 come running when I shake the treats - and are usually the ones hanging in the kitchen with me when they know its dinner time, he typically is doing his "job" and watching the sunrise or napping hehe. I won't feed any of them until all 5 are with me. So I go to wherever he is and I will catch his attention and look at him a certain way and wave my arm, as if to say "come on, come on" and I visually get excited for him - that makes him jump up and run after me... if he doesn't I will start to walk towards the kitchen and then turn back and do the same thing, after 2 or maybe 3 times doing that, he knows that I want him to follow me! If I walk a few steps in the direction of the kitchen and he *thinks* it is food/treat time, he won't take his eyes off me, he stares at me to see if I come back (I always do) So, when I am in my office (I work from home) and he wants something he acts in the same way! He will sit on the floor next to my chair, put both paws on the arm of the chair and literally tap me a few times, just like a little kid would do to get your attention, it's so cute! Then he will start walking out of the room and if I don't follow he will do it again, and then I know, I just have to get up to see what he wants to show me. It is absolutely adorable, he is usually taking me to his food dish to let me know it's empty! LOL! I admit, it was harder to train the hooman than the kitteh in kitteh sign language, but we did it and I am always looking for a new way to talk to my little buddy - I am positive Jackson Galaxy has some wisdom to share with us!

[@jaya.0069]

@@StarleneBreiter You're an awesome cat Mom! Many blessings to you!

[@kimbarbeaureads]

My boy Eli is missing an eye, but I never think of him as disabled. He has a good life.

[@johndean4727]

that’s so thoughtful it really is.

[@elsajoy9920]

My cat is almost 18 and I think it is so special to be able to have spent so many years with her. I think in her later years our bond has grown even more.

[@032319581]

My Phoebe just passed at 20 years. She enriched my life! Most of my cats lived from 14-18. All were inside cats and fixed.

[@marymewskers2477]

A few hours ago, I commented on my kitties...today took a turn and one of my 'babies,' really the one that owned me, passed from heart failure, which accompanies hyperthyroidism. I'm grieving, I can't stop crying, but I'm damn glad I was there for her as she has always been there for me.

[@kathyr1516]

So sad 😰❤️🙏🏼 Thank you for the love you gave her 🐾

[@crystalheart9]

So sorry, I know how hard it is.😢

[@meowgid]

Senior cats are the sweetest. ❤ My baby lived till she was 16. Those golden years are the absolute best.❤

[@Ftbl.4hmed]

Cats are the best

[@bsmith5404]

I adopted a 13 year old moggie from Cats Protection. I thought it was over when she broke her leg at about 20, jumping off the bed to chase another cat out. But the vet put in a plate and she happily went on for another couple of years 🥰

[@jacquelynpowell7964]

You're sooo lucky!Most of furballs die at about 15. I wish they would have lived longer but they all got really, really sick and there was no way to make them better.Every time one of them dies I lose another part of my heart.

[@zorgnaxstash]

I love the senior babies so much 💙 Sending so much love to all senior cats out there.

[@bmackenzie2740]

I do too! They make the best pets

[@pepperam5694]

My Pepper is 15 this year. He still runs around like a kitten when he has zoomies, but when he stops he sits down really carefully like his legs hurt. I've changed the way I pick him up so he doesn't have to bend his back legs as much, I think he appreciates it.

[@fluffybunnybadass]

Could you tell me how you pick him up? My cat has some arthritis in her hip and i used to scoop her up from under her butt and legs, until she screamed in pain twice in a week about it. Which is how I learned that she has it now.

[@3Darksavior]

My childhood cat lived to be 21. She was an indoor / outdoor cat that was transitioned to life indoors and had to be helped to journey to the rainbow bridge because of really bad arthritis. I keep all of my cats indoors now. Our ginger male is 11 and has just been diagnosis with idiopathic epilepsy last month. He has been a sweetie all of his. Regardless of age, cats make wonderful companions.

[@jaimieconroy36]

I had a senior cat who passed away last January. My wife and I adopted him when he was a kitten in 2003. He was our golden boy. We watched him through all the stages of his life and wished that he could be with us forever, but we saw that when he was 15 years old arthritis set in and he was no longer able to jump up or down any higher than the bed. I relive all the moments of his life as I watch your videos. Thank you Cat Daddy for keeping us informed. I have learned more about cats from you than the many books I read about cats.

[@aleciastar1433]

I am so sorry for your loss. I couldn’t imagine losing either of my 2 cats. We got them only 6 months ago. They are both around 2 years old. I want them to as long as yours, at least.

[@andreeadoria3637]

When I was younger I wanted my cat to live forever! So 28 years is ... Wow!

[@karencrecco2922]

I do not take my cats to the vet any longer. Iwould rather prevent than treat .They are too stressed to go into the carrier. I take every measure possible that you mentioned to keep them healthy. They are 13 and 14 years old.

[@foxwaffles]

My 17 yr old keeps returning bloodwork so perfect he's still only on an annual schedule. I'm not sure how he does it. He's my sweetest grumpy grouch ❤️

[@maryleyrer6617]

P

[@twilightzone7600]

Have loved cats all my life. Had one for 29 years(1957-86) when I was 8-37. Was absolutely heartbroken when he died(kidney failure) and didn't go to work for three days-just didn't want to deal with humanity...have seven cats now and have made provisions for them to be taken care of when I die(73, so who knows how many years left for me).

[@ReneeZme]

My Lady Woody is 19, and these last few days she has been acting weird, I'm worried. I'm going to call the vet on monday for advice. I can't imagine a life without my baby

[@emmasanimals3x8x]

I just lost my 19 year old girl earlier this year (kidney failure) so I hope you get good news because losing her was rough. Despite what I felt right after she passed I ended up adopting two boys last month. Well, one is eight, but they my boys, though I still miss my girl.

[@DrTariqRamadan]

Accept it and go for a new one

[@pepperam5694]

Let us know how it goes! I hope it's not bad news.

[@bmackenzie2740]

Hope she’s ok and I wish you the best! I really hope my guy makes it to see 19, he’s 9 now and ten more years would be awesome!

[@ReneeZme]

@@emmasanimals3x8x Im so sorry for your loss! What was her name? I have to younger cats, 4 and 2 years, so they'll take care of me. It's going to be rough losing my baby girl.

[@mnewton66]

My baby, "Praline", is over 17 years old and she is still doing pretty good.

[@babydew8759]

We have a 15 years old sassy cat we noticed she was having a harder time jumping off the bed so we got steps and I swear she was so happy to come and go from the bed so easy. She does get her stuff to help her joints to (I have bad arthritis don't want her going through what I do). We also adopted a Scottish fold that neighbors threw out so it is so easy they both get it just to keep up on him in case he starts having joint problems. We also changed her water dish to a fountain and boy does she drink more then she did before.

[@caseyj869]

I adopted my cat when she was 8 years old and she was very skinny. Soon after, she was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. She's 9 years old now, is on medication and looks so much healthier! She's chatty, affectionate and loves cuddles

[@lunarmoonlight4404]

I love hearing and reading all the stories here of people with their older cats. It's so heartwarming to hear of their rescue stories and the love people hold for their older cats. Older cats deserve as much love - arguably more imo - as kittens and adult cats. The oldest cat I ever had was also my very first cat that I chose when I was just 4 years old. She passed away 1 week before she was going to officially turn 20 years old. She was 8 years old when I got her. My biological mother was going in to get a kitten for me, and I chose her. Billie was left at the rescue shelter for almost a year, having been dropped off in a box back then, with no claws - front or back - because her previous family was so paranoid that a sweet cat like her - who I'm pretty sure had kittens at some point given how maternally sweet she was when I had her with other kittens I've rescued over the years - would hurt their newborn child at the time. Their paranoia made them declaw her entirely first, and then it got to the point where they were insistent that she would hurt their child, even though the rescue volunteer informed us later on that there was no report from the family that she had hurt the child beforehand at any point. Surrounded by kittens (it was deep into kitten season at the time ) I saw her and immediately felt compelled to get her. Didn't help that the doors were unlocked back then XD; So I was able to just yoink her from her cage at the shelter and hold her, and she didn't fret as I carried her out to my ma and was like "I want this one!" Nearly gave her and the volunteer a heart attack, but I was persistent. And she became my cat, and the queen of the house for nearly 20 years. Losing her was especially hard for me, but knowing she was out of pain and at peace when she left was the main thing that helped me move on, on top of smothering myself with the other 3 cats we had at the time. A damn shame still that my mother refused to keep her, or any of other cats when they passed, ashes or an imprint of her paw. Billie was an angel incarnated into a cat form. She will never ever be forgotten

[@amanda4716]

remember to cherish every day you have with your cat, especially if they're older. I lost my 15 year old cat who I'd been with the majority of my life very suddenly about a week ago. he seemed totally fine and was doing everything he should. he was happy, eating, playing, chatting, grooming, everything. then the next day he wasn't eating, was hiding, was barely moving and having trouble breathing. we go to the emergency vet and find out that he most likely had lung cancer and if not that, heart disease that had been going on unnoticed for potentially years, despite regular vet visits and checks. it was a very hard choice to make but we decided to euthanize given the all of the facts. I don't want to scare people into worrying their cat could die any day. that's not going to be helpful and will just upset you and maybe your cat too. but I do think you should love and be loved the best you can everyday. take every moment you can have with them. and as they get older the amount of time gets smaller, so cherish it

[@ALTONBENALLY]

Thanks for sharing, sorry about your cat. Our cat is going on 14 years. We picked him as he was the runt of the litter. He ran out and was missing for 2 nights in the cold. I was sure he was gone gone. We live in a rural area. Owls, coyotes and other dogs could've easily taken him. But we found him. Unfortunately, he's different now. Weak and walks very slow. I'm just hopeful that he just needs to rest and recharge. No visible injuries. I'd imagine my legs would hurt from being out in the freezing cold for 2 nights without food and water.

[@user-om4xu4qo9y]

I'm 83. When I was at the veterinarian's office with Bo, my 17 yr old kitty, the vet commented that Bo and I are about the same age. Now I can relate to Bo!

[@ffs6969f4u]

My younger boy will be 13 this year. You'd never know he was a senior, because he has the energy of a kitten still. I'm hopeful that he'll have a lot of good years left in him.

[@straycatsclub]

We are feeding an outdoor/indoor cat, he is around 9 years old. We are hoping he will want to be adopted full time by us 💖

[@MxPotato84]

My baby girl is 17 and I’ve been doing my best with her loss in bounce, her sudden deafness, and her mental health from not able to hear and still adjusting to life without her brother who past almost a year ago. I give her as much love and cuddles I can when i have the time.

[@FleshEatingBeagle]

We have a 21 year old rescued feral tomcat. He spent most of his life in the street. Much to his annoyance, we brought him inside 100%. He deaf, so he would scream all night. Until we rescued two female kittens. He loves his little girls. They follow him around like he’s Elvis. He’s very proud when they learn something new and get into trouble. He just needed some friends.

[@whomee]

I adopted a senior cat she’s so loving and adorable.

[@jacquelynpowell7964]

Good for you!

[@Alexcutspie]

Thank you for giving an older cat love

[@hagron5702]

12:54 I can't agree more. My old boy is turning 16 and I love him more than ever. We're best pals every day. I love him dearly.

[@SeaFlute1]

Thanks Jackson! 19 year old Penny recovered from going into congestive heart failure 2 years ago due to enlarged heart. Her Atria is now back to normal size.

[@simonleib1992]

My cat is now 12. Have had her for over 11 years. She was a stray having been abandoned. And she is the lovliest creature. She is not a lap cat but does like to curl into the side of me. That is her getting close

[@trueblueozzy939]

Our lil girl passed at 21 , she was a long haired tortoise shell “naughty tortoise “ it was her kidneys and not passing her poo to well. I can assure you she was spoiled rotten and loved intensely by my wife and I, and two years have passed and she is sadly missed. But we combat our sadness by reaffirming to each other of ( how we gave her a good life with plenty of love) Thanks again for your show 🙏👍🏼

[@Valandar2]

5:45 "Cats who are 17 you would think are 8"... pretty much describes my Senior kitty. I honestly have no idea what I did so right with her - she's affectionate, incredibly healthy, and her only "bad habit" is I have to walk with her to her food bowl at least once a day, and have since she was a few months old...

[@gemtheloser]

Cats are incredible truly, my family cat is almost 17 or 18 by now and she has never had a health issue, still jumps up to high fences and trees in the garden, never changed her personality or behaviour since we adopted her as a kitten. She’s outlived all her sisters and shows no signs of stopping 🤣

[@ariellann4555]

I volunteer in a cat kennel and a 14 year old named Monita showed up after her owners had to surrender her. Her owner went to a nursing home and they desperately tried to keep her with someone they knew. They couldn't. She was completely sweet and I couldn't stand what I knew, that next to no one would give a cat her age a chance. I was scared, because of the chance of having to deal with euthenasia. But I couldn't stand the thought of her spending her golden years in a cage. So BF and I adopted her, and she has made our lives so much better. Don't let doubts stop you from getting a senior animal, you can save a life. She's a loud tortie with a lot of attitude, but we adore her.

[@jujunew6003]

My baby is 15! I've been waiting for this episode!

[@horseshine6137]

Thanks, very informative! I had a tail-less Manx cat who made it to 21 years of age. The vet told me when I got him he'd be a lifetime of work and heartache. He was well worth the work and I wouldn't change a thing.

[@joegroves2517]

My guy has always been difficult with toys, pouncing a couple times and then stopping, then getting bored five minutes later, pacing himself so well I could never tire him out. Now he's 13ish I think and I've got him going out to walk and I think it's especially good for him now since he can get some variety and stimulation not tied to physical exertion. And he's perfectly capable of learning new tricks.

[@trajanfidelis]

all cats need love no matter how old they are

[@christianj5950]

Jackson are you going to talk about death, when "its time" to do euthenasia and mourning? There's a lovely section talking about that in your book.

[@clairevoyant1865]

I very much miss my senior baby, Theo. He was estimated at 16 at the shelter with arthritis and a heart murmer. He was a black kitty with greeny-hazel eyes and I absolutely adored him and him, me. He was my baby through and through, followed me everywhere and wanted constant cuddles. He passed away nearly 18 last November. I miss him so much, I was in pieces when we had to put him down. But at least he was in my arms, with me saying how much we all loved him. He was the best decision I ever made. I nearly chose kittens but I saw him and it was love at first sight. I'm still too cut up about it to adopt again but when I do, it will always be senior babies. He was so sweet and loved falling asleep on me. My little pud pud

[@Jellgumi]

I love old cats their amazing

[@kaitybrady4096]

I adopted one of my family cats when my grandma passed, instead of getting a kitten like I planned. Now I love my 16 year old boy more than anything and wouldn't trade him in for the world. He still plays and does his crazy zoomies. It took him a good year to come out of his shell but now he had so much fun watching his cat tv and sleeping on my bed.

[@alannahayter8491]

We are doing everything you have talked about, proactive and reactive, but I am still so nervous, our Stevie aka Boo is now 20, he is our world 💜

[@jacquelynpowell7964]

Live every day with him with love.

[@alannahayter8491]

@@jacquelynpowell7964 I do and I will, Thank you 💜

[@Elentarien]

"Don't bring in a kitten" . . .um. . .what about when your senior cat adopts a kitten? lol We literally found a kitten outside our door crying to be let in and our senior cat started SCREAMING at us to bring it in. (Yes, we got it vet-checked and made sure no one was missing a kitten. We think they were dumped or something. There was at least a sibling around as well, though we were unable to find it to rescue it. We did try that too.) We ended up bringing it in and he settled right down and adopted it and for the last two years has raised it as his own. Yeah, he's gotten cranky with her at times and fed up with her antics, but for the most part, he adores her and gets upset when he can't find her because she's sleeping elsewhere in the house. -.- Thankfully, she adores him too and loves on him. Its not unusual to find them curled up together in the same bed. But yeah. I agree. It's NOT something we would have planned or chosen to do. -.- But once it was done we couldn't take the kitten away from him, either. Our senior cat is now 15 - or 16 (hard to be precise with rescues) and he's starting to show some of these signs. Wobbling when he walks, has trouble getting up and down places. He DOES drink a LOT on his own, though. Usually out of the dog's water bowl and comes for a lot more snuggles than he ever used to. Poor baby. We try to take care of him as best we can and make sure he's comfortable. Our only gripe is his obsession with going outside. He's an indoor cat - but he likes to sometimes go out in the yard with us and lay in the longer grasses. But when it's time to come in - he's not happy to have to wait for someone to go spend time in the yard again. :P

[@RoseDragoness]

sounds like time to consider making catio (cat patio). Your senior seems like a lovely one

[@valeriegalvan7502]

You might want to have the vet check him for diabetes since he's drinking more water than usual. My vet told me that was one sign of the illness.

[@msampersand7399]

What Valerie Galvan says. Drinking lots of water can be a sign of diabetes or of badly functioning kidneys (ask me how I know either 😭). A urinary check will tell, and you don't even need to take him to the vet for it, just get a urine sample.

[@ComingCurse86]

Yay! Thanks for this! I have three cats, 12, 10 and 9 year olds. This is so helpful!

[@karenlamontagne9617]

My super sweet indoor Kitty is 14 years old and I tell her all the time she has to live until she's 30!💙

[@volvo09]

I love old cats

[@zooh8017]

My last cat lived to 18 and my current cat is turning 19 soon, I feel so lucky to have gotten so many good years with them. The senior years are hands down the best

[@Katiemadonna3]

No one can tell my cats are all 12 years old! They are so lively and sweet! ❤️

[@shroomyk]

Seniors are the best! I feel so sad for seniors in the shelter. I think seniors are more like a lap-cat and will just hang out with you, very chill. Of course, it depends on personality too. There are a couple old human guys I've known who said they used to hate cats (it doesn't go well with that old-school macho masculinity) but then they spend some time with an older cat and they changed their minds. It's sweet.

[@MintyUnicorns]

I love senior cats so much! I volunteer at a cat rescue and the seniors always capture my hearts. They have so much love to give and seem truly grateful to have a safe place to call home, whether temporarily or for the rest of their lives. My family's cat is a senior cat as well - she just turned 18 in the spring. When I moved back home last year I realized that my parents had been neglecting her veterinary care, so I took over. She has hyperthyroidism and also her teeth were so bad that she had to have them all removed! Now that she's a medicated and toothless kitty she seems a lot happier!! A bit stiff, but she has a heated bed and plenty of sunshine to lay in. I hope that her last years can be happy ones

[@adamkahn8645]

Lost my dog after 17years with her and all I have left is my 2yr old rescue. Found a Siamese kitten that was abandoned and rescued her. She's holding me together right now, my little Grace

[@gottabehavingdejavu]

You can SEE the love in your older cat's eyes so clearly

[@mz8422]

I adopted a senior cat almost three months ago. She recently had a spell of not eating and getting sick, but she's doing okay now. In the testing at the vets, we discovered she had multiple healed vertebrae fractures. I had suspected that she had an accident in her life on the streets, because she has a slightly wonky paw and tail. But wow! What a tough cookie our cat is. It's been great to get all the usual senior cat health issues looked at, peace of mind

[@gabeontheyukon]

My kitty is turning 16 years old this year ❤ he is starting to show his age and sleep a lot more but still has his strong personality. I’ve had him since I was 8 years old. Love my buddy

[@Dzidekification]

Thank you for touching the topic , geriatric cats are as loveable as all cats. Lila 20yo black cat is paralyzed waist down, have hard time using litter box. Sometimes it overcomes me to care but the moment she looks at me I am ready to do all the chores that needed to be done. She is with me 14 years and every day now is a blissing. One day she might not be physically with me anymore but always in my mind.

[@marymewskers2477]

This popped on while I was giving one of my girls her thyroid medication. I have five kitties right now, ages 12-18. Oldest kitty I think I had growing up was 24 or 25. I've been spoiled working from home with my seniors! I've appreciated their calming presence, and they've taught me to slow down and enjoy quiet moments. Honestly, they kept me grounded and sane when everything else seemed to be in chaos. I have no doubt my pets find comfort in me, and I'll do everything I can to make sure they have the best life possible, no matter what stage they are in.

[@jacquelynpowell7964]

I love your words. I wish everyone felt like that. I volunteer at a shelter and see cruelity and sickness and cry alot.

[@brookep4464]

i adopted my senior boy when he was 10 (his owner had passed away) i've had him 2 years now and he's my baby omg he's the sweetest thing and plays like a kitten despite his age. he's got some arthritis issues but still gets up onto the furniture and stuff without issue or hesitation so i'm hoping we have a bit more time before we need pet stairs and ramps. as much as I love kittens, i cannot handle they craziness! my senior boy is much more my speed lol adopt senior babies, they will love you forever for it!

[@Araceli_Espinoza9585]

I'm so happy I took a day off today on a Saturday because of work, I want to learn how to communicate with my cat. 🐱 ❤

[@andreablamire5509]

My girl, Tequila, was 18 when we had to make the sad decision to let her go. She traveled all around the world with me, crossing the Atlantic twice. I loved her with all of my heart.

[@jtwilliams8895]

My little guy just turned 18. He doesn’t hear very well anymore, and he has arthritis in his hips. My vet has me give him a half of a baby aspirin every few days, and it’s seems to help a lot. But it’s sad because he can’t stay cuddled in one position for a long time like he used to, it seems to put too much pressure on his back legs 😢.

[@Laurie_christine]

The Assisi Loop might help your cat with his arthritis, also look into acupuncture. CBD oil might help too. My cats eat Primal Pet Foods raw diet, plus they get their Nordic Naturals Omega 3 Pet fish oils daily. I have four cats, three of whom are seniors, and I have never had older cats who were this healthy before. The cats I had before only ate kibble because I didn't know anything about healthy cat food then. I will always regret not knowing about healthy cat food to help my kitties live a long and healthy life. Best of luck to you and your sweet kitty.

[@jaimieconroy36]

Treasure these moments with your cat and try to make him comfortable. Senior cats need love and attention, but they return it ten times more.

[@Laurie_christine]

Judy Morgan DVM just uploaded a KZbin video on Cat Pain Management. Judy Morgan is a holistic veterinarian.

[@GypsiiSOUL]

Is that human aspirin I’m in Australia

[@markharrisllb]

In the U.K. far more cats are outdoor than in America. My cats have always been able to go out as they want and we’ve had three get into their 20s and two more that fell just short. The youngest I've had pass was 13 when he had a heart defect. We have a fantastic relationship with our vet and he was visibly upset when it was time to say goodbye to our last cat, who had cancer of the lower bowel at 22. The senior years and super senior is the time your cat will look at you in a way you know they appreciate the love. If you listen to your cat (s)he will tell you what they want. Our previous cat was brilliant telling his servant (me) what he wanted. He was also brilliant at giving out the love…to my wife. I've never met a cat with so much personality. Since he passed we have two kittens who are beautiful and fun, but I miss are last cat more than I can say. I’m actually in tears writing this.

[@SKinSKorea]

I have three 8 1/2 year olds- a “rehomed” bonded sibling pair and a former street cat. They are big cats but they still like to play! My 3rd cat came to me with a lot of problems, but with love and good medical care, he is healthier at almost 9 than when I took him home!

[@RedRoseSeptember22]

That's great :D

[@scottlemiere2024]

I got my Princess at 7 and she's 14 now. She's been the sweetest cat ever and has helped me to teach the other cats in my house how to be cats. One of the best parts of adopting a senior cat is that you know what you're getting in terms of personality.

[@meenha1976]

My old lady was 21 in May. Always love in in depth info I get here. Having over 50 cats in my life, including shelter rescued angels and some having babies. Brought over two from california. One died in my arms at age 19 & noe I'm treasuring every moment with this californian since I'm working from home. Any health decline I see & at least I am there to comfort. Vets said they haven't had any cat or dog this senior. Apart frim arthritis & her not being able to climb/jump uo, I have placed stools around the house. She still perches up at windows on a sunny day which isn't often in uk. Dhe does alright to get on sofas without stools.

[@minyasx]

senior cats are wonderful. i have a 12 year old that's been with me since he was a kitten, and man growing up with him has been amazing. i've cared for older seniors and they are so so loving. beautiful souls.

[@hislioness]

My boy is 14 in November and earlier this year he needed some teeth extracted and unfortunately his jaw broke during the extraction. He had a feeding tube in for a number of weeks and we were feeding him around the clock. At the same time he was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. Since them he has recovered amazingly, he's eating unaided and the medication for the hyperthyroidism has changed him so much for the better, he's so much more content. He definately seeks out the heat, our body heat, sun or heater duct, he's not fussy!

[@icytoe]

13:25 I fostered then adopted my senior ' age uncertain) cat an he is a treat, so much love and cuddles , I love him so much and vice versa

[@AllMyKittys]

This is very helpful thank you. My cat is 16 and I see her slowing down I just take care of her the best I can. 😻

[@carolinesoham4696]

I have rescued an old carey lady last year from street life: 23 years old! She is now living the best years of her life, being in a safe environment, good food and grooming time: she is incredibly strong!

[@jenniferbalesteri2810]

Thank you Kat Daddy for putting out professional and educational content for our kitties! I have four kitties and one is 9, so I’m waiting for 87 more minutes!! THANK YOU

[@battleangel09]

I adopted a super senior September of 2023, she had cancer and wasnt expected to live long. i took her in expecting her to not make it, she came from a home that supposedly had several other cats and being the runt I feel she was picked on a lot. she is very skittish but extremeeellyyy loving. you can see how grateful she is as she really shows it, so it makes me now question if she had the cancer from the stress because ever since being shown constant 1on1 loving and care, she is cancer free at 18 years old. :,)

[@kevinpatrick4408]

Thank you, Jackson Galaxy! Video saved to my favorites list for when my cats reach their senior years in 6 years from now.

[@joniangelsrreal6262]

My beloved Kaspyr lasted 24 beautiful years RIP my most treasured 🐾🐾

[@CaptainWolffi]

I'm looking forward to my cats (hopefully) reaching and enjoying their senior years. Never had a cat hit double digits because of illness or them getting run over. Now that I'm the adult deciding about them they're 100 % indoors and get yearly checkups

[@stefcat5331]

I've got nine cats over ten years old. Been thru the hyperthyroidism (awful disease), liver failure, kidney disease, blindness, and arthritis and more. You do the best you know how for them and stay assiduous in learning about their needs as they age. I empathize with them, as I realize we age, wear out, and get decrepit, so similarly. A large number of human friends I know ,around age 70, bending at the waist without throwing out the lower back, is a challenge! I can imagine what arthritis is like walking on all fours. Ouch! As my mom used to say, "Day by day we make our way." And so it goes. Thanks for all you do.

[@PatriciaHFD]

My eldest turned 10 this year. I've been worrying all this time "oh, she is a senior now..." But she plays and eats and aside a problem in one eye (she still sees, but a lot less), she as happy and loving as usual. Thank you Jackson for helping me to see things in a different way. ❤️❤️❤️

[@sasakimirai4318]

When I was getting ready to adopt a cat, jackson's videos convinced me to adopt an older one and i haven't regretted it for a moment. he's on the younger end of being a senior, but he does have some health issues already (diagnosed with ibd in his first month home with me), and it's honestly all worth it in the end. he's my world, and i love how much he's taught me in just the four short months i've had him. I can't tell you how infuriating and disheartening it is when I tell someone my cat's age, and almost half the time, they will ask me why I would adopt a senior cat instead of a kitten....senior cats deserve safe and loving homes too! they deserve to live out their golden years in comfort and happiness, instead of being in a shelter or foster.

[@lisa-gayle9939]

My Thelma just turned 15…has never been outside….and acts like she’s 5 sometimes! Yeah…and TOTALLY spoiled ❤️ thanks Cat Daddy!

[@Toastwig]

I swear this is the best age of cats - you care for them, you chill with them, it's lovely.

[@madethistocomment727]

My bestie had a 7 year old and a 14 year old. The 7 year old had been a feral as a kitten, and had to be indoor/outdoor for the rest of his life because being inside made him feel trapped and stressed out. The 14 year old had been inside for almost her entire life, with occasional trips into the backyard, but never left my friends property. She took them to a new vet for vaccinations, and they kept mixing up which kitty was the younger one because old girl was so healthy ♥️

[@neiribelin]

Two months ago today I had to put down my first real pet, a 15yo indoor cat who'd been rapidly declining for the past couple months (weight loss, sudden blindness, general apathy, you name it). It was incredibly hard for me and I still miss him so much, but now my other cat, an also 15yo rescue that was more my mum's than mine before, has completely taken to me and spends most of his time cuddling with me. He's exactly what Jackson described, like an 8yo, happy, healthy, playful, and he drinks from his fountain like a mad thing. The differences between my two babies are day and night and I'm grateful I can experience the somewhat kinder side of cat aging.

[@inesgouveia426]

Hi Jackson! My cat turns 10 this september! I got her when I was 15 as she was abandoned at around 1 month so I have been taking care of her for all her life and we are inseparable. The aging process as always been a scary topic for me as I love her so much and want to keep her happy and healthy for as long as I can. She helped me dealing with depression and anxiety during dark periods of my life so I recently decided to get a tattoo of her to celebrate her 10th birthday in honor of all the good the brought me. Thank you for this video and all the others you posted because they are extremely useful in keeping my companion happy.

[@kaleshabastion2332]

My kids are 17, 16 and 14. Our old girl puzzles even our vets in how healthy she is, our middle child was sadly recently diagnosed with early heart failure, but with his medicine he's acting like a young man again and our baby is just delightful, needing a trip for a check up but is a goof. And honestly I think I'm a senior car person.

[@micheled5167]

No doubt that when they need us even more once they get older, that we love them even more, though we already thought that we loved them as much as possible.

[@Beth9228]

With my parents. We had a cat for almost 18 years. He became very sweet and friendly cat in his senior years. He was both indoor and outdoor cat. He had arthritis in his old age. I do missed his head bumps on my nose and chin. He was friendly towards a young kitten in the same color. He was my buddy.

[@Spottedstorm27]

We just put down my 17 year old. She was the best companion and emotional support animal that I could have asked for, right down to the snuggles on even her last day. 💔 ❤ She had hyperthyroidism but Cindy eat because of an inability to do dentals due to a tumor in her throat. It was just too much to watch her struggle but I'm glad she's no longer hurting. I miss and love you Molly. You were a super senior!