When it comes to adopting a cat, many people picture playful kittens darting around like tiny furry tornadoes.
But let me tell you, there’s a hidden treasure in the world of feline adoption that often gets overlooked: senior cats! These wise old souls have so much to offer, and I’m here to explain why they make absolutely fantastic pets.
Experience Over Energy
By the way, let’s talk about experience. Senior cats have been around the block—literally! They’ve seen things, done things, and probably have some excellent stories to share if only we could understand their meows.
Unlike rambunctious kittens who think every shoelace is a snake waiting to attack, older cats tend to be more laid-back and relaxed.
Interestingly enough, this calm demeanor can make them perfect companions for those of us who prefer a quieter home life.
You won’t find them scaling your curtains or knocking over precious family heirlooms at 2 AM. Instead, they’ll likely be curled up on your lap or basking in a sunbeam with an air of dignified contentment.
To be fair, adopting a senior cat means you’re also giving them a second chance at happiness. Many older felines end up in shelters through no fault of their own—perhaps their owner moved or passed away.
By choosing one of these seasoned kitties, you’re not just gaining a pet; you’re making an impactful difference in their lives.
Low Maintenance Love
Let’s explore what other reasons older cats deserve some praise: they are easy to care for! Kittens are cute but are quite the handful where they need supervision and to be taught a lot of things and for busy people or people that enjoy snack and loiter, you get the point why this might be a problem.
On the other hand, older cats are quite the opposite as they are usually well-behaved and are ready to be moved to a new home without putting in a lot of work.
Older cats are typically more self-sufficient than younger ones. Thankfully, they already know how to use the litter box on their own and don’t require much supervision when playing. This gives you all the time you need to catch up on your shows or even have that nap that you wanted so badly!
In addition, elderly cats also find pleasure in the little things in life; such as being able to find a comfortable place near a window. It is perfect, is it not? Now, you do not need to cringe your back and simply understand how peaceful it is to have someone sigh out of contentment.
Personality Plus
Now when we are on the subject of personality…certainly one of the most enjoyable parts about fostering senior cats is learning all of their little oddities!
In general, older cats have rather distinct character traits that vary from the unusually cute to the supremely sophisticated. For example, some cats avoid other open seating and only grab a seat next to a person, which may cause many to laugh.
As a matter of fact the bond that is created with an age free character tends to bring you and your new pet together at a deeper level.
By the end of the week, you will come to understand their preferences best – from hunting laser dots to being insistent for their dinner at seven the clock (because time is of no relevance until their feeding time).
But once again, senior cats display their love in a way that is priceless. Coming from where they do which is a balance between the good times and the not so good times, they love you like no other animal can.
Beating the logic of head butting and soft purring every single time, every single moment is worth it.
Health Benefits for Owners
The conclusion is that it is not only senior cats who benefit from adoption but apparently there are benefits for us human beings as well!
Research suggests that having a pet can help reduce stress and blood pressure – and let’s be honest, who wouldn’t agree that all cares are gone after a long day’s work when the little pet starts purring whilst we cuddle him.
Additionally, being responsible for an older cat develops a sense of responsibility but is minimal in effort and time – what more do we want! Routine activities such as meal times create a rhythm while allowing for flexibility during play times (oh yes! That would be awesome!).
And speaking of companionship… Having a loving cat in your presence is great because it eases loneliness perfectly! It’s quite comforting to share your existence with another life form – may it be during your time spent together watching the television, or sitting quietly, each engrossed in their own book (or social media) – even if this other life form disregards time and considers itself to be a great sovereign.
Resources:
Adopt-a-Pet: https://www.adoptapet.com
ASPCA Senior Cat Adoption: https://www.aspca.org/adopt-senior-cats
The Spruce Pets: https://www.thesprucepets.com/senior-cats-4176745