The Benefits of Older Cats

RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter in Exeter is currently struggling under the weight of many abandoned old cats all looking for new homes, but being sadly overlooked for younger models. Older cats are having to spend far longer in rescue centres, causing their stress levels to rise whilst waiting for new furever homes.

The problem in rescues could certainly be helped by local landlords relaxing their anti-cat stance when it comes to rented property. Certainly, in Little Valley's view, a cat is not a destructive creature and yet landlords are reluctant to let tenants have cats, although most will allow dogs. The current financial climate in the region has meant many people having to downsize or sell up and move into rented accommodation, and many are having to let their animals go because of this discriminatory rule against cats.

There are many benefits to choosing a senior catizen as your companion:

- Older cats are less destructive - most are over that first flush of youth where everything needs to be chewed and hunted.
- Senior cats have manners - they are already housetrained and know what a litterbox is for and most have already sussed all about catflaps.
- You know exactly what you are getting with a more mature cat - you already know it's size, how long it's fur will be, it's colour and features.
- Older people can find the presence of a senior puss very comforting and calming, because they both just want to relax and take life at a slower pace.
- The more mature feline has less energy so won't be whizzing about your house so much.
- Adopted senior cats are grateful for your kindness - its' like they know you gave them a home when no-one else would, forming a close bond with you once they have settled.
- Your senior companion will already be neutered, healthchecked, vaccinated, wormed, defleaed and ready to go.
- Older cats sleep more and are more self-contained, so if you need to be out at work all day your senior catizen will be quite happy to be left, unlike a kitten which needs constant companionship and stimulation.

Currently, Little Valley has at least 6 older cats (and the number is growing all the time) who have been at the Shelter for some time and are still looking for their forever home and being constantly bypassed for younger cats. Even a cat who is 15, like Jennifer, can still give you many years of companionship with many cats living for up to 20+ years.

Ill-health and vets fees are often a worry for those adopting an older cat, but they needn't be. Little Valley will be able to warn prospective adopters of any existing medical conditions and what that entails. Cats over the age of 10 adopted from Little Valley are automatically enrolled in the Shelter's Golden Oldies Veterinary Scheme where the Shelter will help with contributions towards any age-related veterinary treatment.

The current cats with Little Valley needing new homes are:

- 10 year old Snowy, a beautiful white cat who came to the Shelter with a terrible skin complaint on her ears, so part of them have had to be removed. She is still a beautiful girl but with teeny tiny ears. She has been at the Shelter for over 6 months now. She would like to be the only cat in your world as she doesn't want to share you with anyone!
- Ash is not as old as some of the others at just 5, but he came into the Shelter traumatised and very scared of people and situations. He has found the cattery a very stressful environment and has been at Little Valley for 7-8 months. He needs sensitive handling and time to adjust in his new home. He needs an adult only home with no other cats.
- 12 year old Sheldon is a beautiful calm and unassuming cat who is happy to sit and relax by himself but also loves the company of people. He loves a cuddle and a fuss and would like to make himself at home on your sofa. He could possibly live with another cat and children if they are calm and responsible.
- 8 year old Steve is a real character. He can be quite demanding when it comes to food and attention and is an independent chap. However, he likes interacting with people and playing with his toys. He has a big personality and would be a loving and entertaining feline to have around. Children in the home would need to be older and used to cats.
- Jennifer is a naughty tortie! She is a beautiful, loving, gentle cat. She is a mere 15 years old but doesn't seem it. She loves attention and adores sitting on your lap whenever she can. She would love a quiet retirement home where she can settle and enjoy lots of fuss. If she was to live with children they would need to be older and calm as she can be a timid little soul.
- Poor Splat had an encounter with a garage door, hence his name. On arrival at the Shelter this loving 12 year old was a little battered and bruised but now he is feeling better he is gaining his confidence. He enjoys fuss and attention but can get worried by sudden noises and new experiences, so Splat will need a little time to settle in a quiet home. Once he is contented in his new surroundings, he will be a lovely cuddly companion.

Do you need an older feline companion in your life? You probably do as your home is too empty without one. And you can then be proud of the fact that you adopted an older cat when no-one else would.

All the current animals at the Shelter up for adoption are on the Little Valley website: http://www.rspca-littlevalley.org.uk.

RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter is located at Black Hat Lane, Bakers Hill, Exeter EX2 9TA. The Shelter is open every day except Wednesdays from 11am until 4pm (last entry to the Shelter 3.30pm). Tel: 01392 439898.

Photos: Alan Bastin