Here’s Why Your Older Cat Wants Attention More Often

Sometimes an older cat can become more needy. If your senior cat wants attention more often, they can show it in many different ways. Your cat may become more vocal. Vocalization is a form of communication for cats, so listen to your cat and pay attention to what they are saying. Your cat’s meow is generally a call for attention of some sort. It’s good to engage in some cat talk and to give your cat the extra attention they seek. If you’ve ever wondered what your cat is trying to say to you, check out this article – Understanding “Cat Talk” – What is Your Kitty Saying?

When Your Older Cat Wants More Attention

If your cat wants to show their affection for you, they may follow you around or brush up against your legs. One of the most affectionate displays is when a cat will rub its head on their human companions. This friendly, aroma-sharing gesture enables a feline to reinforce a positive relationship and mark you with their scent as they release pheromones that signal comfort and familiarity. This is a loving signal that your cat wants your attention. To learn more about the ways our cats show us they love us, go to 7 Signs Your Cat Actually Adores You.

If you are working at the computer or reading the newspaper, your cat may sit in front of the computer screen or on the keyboard, or they may jump up and sit on top of your newspaper while you are reading. They may stare at you incessantly. Essentially they are saying, “Look at me! Pay attention to me!” When this happens, you should take some time to show affection to your kitty. Stop what you are doing for a few minutes. Pet them and talk to them and let them know that you love them. If it is possible for you to take a break, see if your kitty wants to play with you.

Tricks Older Cats Use To Get Your Attention

Another trick cats use to get attention is to reach out and push something off the countertop with their paw. Cats usually do this when we are there to watch it happen. If your attention is focused elsewhere, your cat may just reach out with their paw and swipe at an item, pushing it off the table to the floor. This is your cat’s way of saying, “Hey, look at me! Play with me!”

If your cat wants attention, they will find a way to show you. Your cat may become clingier as they age, wanting to be with you every moment of the day or night. If your cat has lost some of their sensory perception, being with their human companion may be a stabilizing influence in their daily life. To learn more about caring for a senior cat go to How to Transition to Managing Old Cat Behavior.

If your senior cat still likes to play, you should engage in play as often as they are willing. This is a great way to give your cat the attention they seek, and the activity will help to keep their aging body healthy.

While some older cats become more aloof and less interactive, others become more needy. They seem to crave more attention. If your senior cat wants attention, make sure to give it to them. Give them plenty of lap time and talk to them sweetly. Show them that they are important to you. If they still like to play, get one of their favorite toys and play together. Show your older cat plenty of love and affection and they will be happy.

To learn more about old cat behavior, go to Behavior of the Senior Cat.