Lifestyle Cats for Seniors: Ideal Companions? 2/21/2025 | By Terri L. Jones As lifestyles change with age, people’s pet preferences may change, too. Seniors Guide writer Terri L. Jones has seen this shift firsthand and shares the benefits and downsides of cats for seniors. Tom and Linda had always had dogs. First Nicky, the Lhasa Apso who didn’t like many people and who used a ramp to get into bed with them. Then came Lady, the huge Chesapeake Bay retriever who hunted with Tom and often knocked people over in her exuberance. These were followed by Magic and Natalie, who had to be walked on a leash around their fenced backyard because of pancreatitis (“Our neighbors thought we were crazy!”). Once Tom and Linda retired, they wanted to travel, so after their last pup passed away, they decided to welcome a stray cat named Sydney into their home instead of another high-maintenance dog. Soon their house became a refuge for a long line of stray, orphaned, or neglected felines, including Tully, Callie, Lionel, and Tommy Jr. Twenty years later, the couple’s latest housemates are Lila and Tommy III, whom they adopted as kittens during the pandemic. This rambunctious sibling pair kept them from becoming isolated when the world shut down – especially Tom, who has vascular dementia. And Lila and Tommy continue to be a steady source of companionship, purpose and entertainment for the couple, now in their 80s. Benefits of cats for seniors Here’s why cats make such perfect pets for seniors. (As I write this, a cat named Sammy fights for space on my lap next to my actual laptop!) They’re easy to care for Unlike dogs, you don’t have to walk cats or even have a yard for them to relieve themselves or get exercise, making cats for seniors ideal for apartment and retirement community dwellers and those with limited mobility. You also don’t have to groom felines; they take care of most of their hygiene themselves. Pretty much all you have to do is feed them, scoop their litterbox (see below for options), take them to the vet, and show them love. About as low maintenance as a pet can get! Cats can improve your mood A warm kitty curled up on your lap and purring contentedly is a great source of companionship and affection and helps stave off loneliness. And because pets provide a sense of responsibility and purpose, seniors who have pets also seem to be happier, talking more and smiling more frequently than those who don’t. They’re good for your health Cuddling with that ball of fur can relieve stress and even lower your blood pressure. Plus, your regular routine of feeding, scooping, and playing with your kitty gives structure to your life and stimulates you mentally, keeping you from becoming a couch potato. Factors to consider Despite the many benefits of owning a cat, there are things to consider before bringing that cuddly feline into your home. Go for cats, not kittens A more sedate adult cat typically is the best fit for seniors. While Tom and Linda chose to adopt kittens, it was not without its challenges. Many nights they were awakened by the pair of energetic felines scurrying around the house at breakneck speed. In the morning, they’d find vases overturned and objects knocked off countertops. If a guest left a purse unzipped, it was not unusual for a kitten to stick his head inside and nose around for fun things to play with. One night Linda woke up to spot a tissue box walking across the bed. Tommy had stuck his head stuck inside the box and couldn’t figure out how to get it out. Be prepared to bend and lift Most cat parents keep their litterbox on the floor, meaning they must bend over to scoop the cat’s waste. If physical limitations won’t allow you to comfortably bend over, there are tools to help, like scoopers with long handles, elevated litterboxes (or just placing the box on a table), and even self-cleaning litter boxes (be prepared for a hefty price tag). Also, litter is heavy, coming in 20+-pound tubs or boxes, meaning you’ll need some muscles and a good back to heft it from the store to home. (Linda orders hers online and has it delivered to her door.) Don’t let them trip you up Cats move fast and can get underfoot without your even knowing it. If you or your spouse has problems with balance or is prone to falls, a cat might not be the best choice for you. Even if you’re stable on your feet, you should always keep an eye out for your four-legged friend to prevent a trip-and-fall accident. Expect their different personalities While felines are known for their independence and detachment, some cats may be attached at your hip and constantly demand attention. In some cases, it depends on how you treat them or how their previous owner treated them. Be wary of cats who scratch and bite for no reason. These injuries can be dangerous, especially for older folks (see below). Be aware of disease transmission There are certain diseases that a cat can transmit to a person. Called zoonotic diseases, they include toxoplasmosis, hookworms and roundworms, ringworm, cat scratch disease and rabies. While the likelihood of your contracting these conditions is low, those with weakened immune systems, including older adults, are more susceptible. To prevent transmission, be sure to wash your hands with soap and water after handling your cat and cleaning their litterbox (for maximum protection, wear gloves). Also thoroughly clean any wounds from cat scratches or bites. The Cornell University veterinary website provides additional information about these diseases and others as well as how to prevent them. The best way to stay clear of zoonotic diseases is regular veterinary care for your feline friend. If you own a cat, you must be able to lift them into a pet carrier and transport them to a vet at least once a year for their annual exam and vaccines, more often if they become sick. You could also turn to a grandchild or neighbor, but they must be willing to help you at a moment’s notice. While cats aren’t dogs, they can be just as affectionate and bonded to you. As they purr on your lap while you’re watching TV and curl warmly against your legs in bed at night, your feline friend can provide you with warm feelings of contentment and companionship. Once you’ve lived with a cat, you may begin to believe that “crazy cat ladies” aren’t so crazy after all! More content like cats for seniors: 8 Houseplants That Are Safe for Cats Tips for Downsizing with Pets Read More Terri L. Jones Terri L. Jones has been writing educational and informative topics for the senior industry for over 10 years, and is a frequent and longtime contributor to Seniors Guide.