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They might be getting old and grey, they might be slowing down and sleeping more, but our senior pets are still full of love for us. Even the most energetic and playful kittens will eventually turn into wise mini-panthers or venerable floofs. The chilly time of the year has officially begun and we wanted to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside, dear Readers. So Bored Panda collected the most wholesome and cute photos of older cats for you to hug through the screen. Scroll down, remember to pet your favorite adorable cats with an upvote, and share photos of your own pet cats in the comment section below.

“Senior cats certainly require special accommodations. They need more frequent vet visits to manage chronic illness for one thing. Cats are silent sufferers and mask their illness so routine veterinary care is paramount,” cat behaviorist Ingrid Johnson told Bored Panda. Read on for the rest of Ingrid’s advice on how to take care of elderly cats.

And don’t worry, dog lovers, we haven’t forgotten about you. When you’re done enjoying this list, have a look through our earlier post about adorable senior dogs right here.

#2

Walked Into The Shelter And Asked Which Cat Had Been There The Longest... Came Home With A Deaf, Toothless Senior Lovebug. Reddit, Meet Cali!

Walked Into The Shelter And Asked Which Cat Had Been There The Longest... Came Home With A Deaf, Toothless Senior Lovebug. Reddit, Meet Cali!

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Beans
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3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good on you for adopting a senior cat, they have so much love to give.

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#3

We Adopted An 11-Year Old Cat From A Chicago Shelter. He And My 13-Yo Daughter Fell In Love. This Is Them After She Got Back From A Week At Camp

We Adopted An 11-Year Old Cat From A Chicago Shelter. He And My 13-Yo Daughter Fell In Love. This Is Them After She Got Back From A Week At Camp

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Beans
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3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's precious. My kitty looks like that too. We adopted him at a similar age but he acts like a younger cat and has so much love and cuddles to give. He's incredibly affectionate, doesn't scratch and is gentle and mellow. He's in great shape too, its been 5 years since we got him and he's happy and healthy. Definitely worth adopting older for us.

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Cat behaviorist Ingrid explained that older cats need easy access to food, water, and their litter; they also need soft, warm bedding.

“This means ensuring that you have resources placed in all of the areas where your senior citizen spends time. The last thing you want to do is have a litter box in the basement of a three-story home knowing your cat spends most of their time on the top floor in the bedroom,” the expert said, pointing out that not keeping litter boxes close by might lead to some icky ‘surprises’ on the carpet.

“Would you want to walk down two flights of stairs to go to the bathroom when you are 90? No! You would not!” Ingrid pointed out that we should set our senior cats up for success, instead of making life difficult for them.

#4

My Beautiful 18-Year-Old Girl Mia With The Eyes Of Sauron

My Beautiful 18-Year-Old Girl Mia With The Eyes Of Sauron

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#5

2 Years Ago Today I Walked Into A Petsmart And Met A Cat Named Sonny Who No One Would Adopt Because He Was 13 Years Old, Covered In Fleas, Underweight, And Had A Mouth Full Of Rotten Teeth That Had To Be Removed. He Came Home With Me That Night And It Was The Best Decision I’ve Ever Made

2 Years Ago Today I Walked Into A Petsmart And Met A Cat Named Sonny Who No One Would Adopt Because He Was 13 Years Old, Covered In Fleas, Underweight, And Had A Mouth Full Of Rotten Teeth That Had To Be Removed. He Came Home With Me That Night And It Was The Best Decision I’ve Ever Made

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3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good on you for giving Sonny a chance, he deserves happiness and love in his retirement years. What a sweet and handsome boy. He looks so good now! It's obvious he's thriving with you. That's so great. Give him lots of loves. ♥

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#6

My Grampie And His 20-Year-Old Cat/Sidekick Elvis. As My Grampie Says, “We’re Just Two Old Men Hanging Out”. This Picture Makes Me Happy And Sad All At Once

My Grampie And His 20-Year-Old Cat/Sidekick Elvis. As My Grampie Says, “We’re Just Two Old Men Hanging Out”. This Picture Makes Me Happy And Sad All At Once

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Senior cats need to use ‘the facilities’ more often and have larger volumes of waste to get rid of, so it might be a good idea to have multiple litter boxes for them to use. You should also strive to keep the boxes immaculately clean: this way, they’ll avoid stepping in urine clumps while navigating the box.

“It can be challenging for senior cats to navigate cat litter if they are arthritic. How many 85-year-old humans walk the beach for fun? Walking on sand is tough! Many cats start developing signs of arthritis between the ages of 10-12 years, so preventative joint care is key and this helps keep them being able to use their litter box!” cat behaviorist Ingrid said.

#7

My 1.5yr Old Son And 14yr Old Cat Had A Moment This Morning

My 1.5yr Old Son And 14yr Old Cat Had A Moment This Morning

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#8

I Hear You Guys Like Old Cats. This Is Thomas. He’s 27

I Hear You Guys Like Old Cats. This Is Thomas. He’s 27

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#9

My Little Guy Is 20 Years Old And Still As Cute As Ever

My Little Guy Is 20 Years Old And Still As Cute As Ever

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According to Ingrid, there are lots of ways to help out your senior cats. For example, arthritis is often under-diagnosed and under-treated in cats, so scratch ramps are a way to help cats keep limber.

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Meanwhile, environmental enrichment and optimizing a healthy mind can lessen cognitive dysfunction and senility in older cats. What’s more, foraging toys and food puzzles can be a good way to keep your cat’s brain healthy.

“Foraging for food keeps cats fit and engaged, it is close to letting a mouse loose in the house as you can get!” the cat behaviorist said. You can find more info about challenging your cat with food puzzles right here.

“Last but not least, offer warmth! A heated bed, easy access to sunny spots, etc. Seniors often have kidney disease. The kidneys help regulate body temperature, so these seniors tend to be cold. Offer warmth!” Ingrid stressed.

#10

My Grandpa Passed Away On Thanksgiving And No One Would Take His 18 Year Old Cat... So We Did. Welcome Home, Lovey!

My Grandpa Passed Away On Thanksgiving And No One Would Take His 18 Year Old Cat... So We Did. Welcome Home, Lovey!

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3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm sorry for your loss. We adopted our 'senior' (he was 11 at the time) cat because our friend died, and the rest of his family didn't want the cat either. So we took him. And it was the best decision ever; kitty has enriched our lives in so many ways. It also took an edge off the grief for us, we comforted him and he comforted us. Good on you for taking Lovey.

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#11

When Your Cat Is Pushing 20 Years Old, But Can Still Pull Off That Innocent Baby Look

When Your Cat Is Pushing 20 Years Old, But Can Still Pull Off That Innocent Baby Look

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#12

Tiger Is 31 Years Old, And Is Still A Prime Example Of The Ever Loving Box And Cat Relationship

Tiger Is 31 Years Old, And Is Still A Prime Example Of The Ever Loving Box And Cat Relationship

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Michelle Kim
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3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I saw this cat on Reddit, the owner said their vet told them they had the oldest cat in Illinois. Sadly, it died not too long ago.

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Vet visits become more and more frequent when your cat gets older because new illnesses or hereditary issues will be popping up as the animal’s body wears down. However, even if your catto seems fine, it’s still important to go for regular check-ups at the vet around every 6 months. Better safe than sorry!

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According to Cat Friendly, cats can be very subtle and sneaky when it comes to hiding their illnesses. So you have to keep a keen eye out for any unusual changes in their behavior, appetite, and mood.

Even if you think they might be small enough to ignore or not bother your vet with. The biggest indication that something’s wrong is when your cat’s weight changes drastically. The same applies to practically any pet and human being, too.

#14

This Guy Has Been By My Side For Twenty Years Today. He Helped Me Through Some Rough Times

This Guy Has Been By My Side For Twenty Years Today. He Helped Me Through Some Rough Times

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3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

He's so cute. He has the 'I want pets or food!' look that my cat gets.

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#15

An Elderly Cat Who Can No Longer Bird Watch Receives A Fish Tank Full Of Fake Fish To Watch From The Comfort Of His Bed

An Elderly Cat Who Can No Longer Bird Watch Receives A Fish Tank Full Of Fake Fish To Watch From The Comfort Of His Bed

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Meanwhile, Cats Protection explains that elderly cats need extra care and attention from their owners to ensure that they spend their twilight years comfortably. So older cats really do need more warmth and extra soft bedding.

What’s more, they might have difficulty getting to high places in their senior years, so consider providing stools, ramps, or ladders leading up to their favorite napping spots. Or you can keep picking your cat up and placing it where it wants to go. We’re sure your cat won’t mind that.

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Older cats can also have difficulty looking after their coats. So to keep them gleaming and neat, spend some more time grooming them. It’s a win-win situation: your cat’s coat will look nicer, you’ll spend more quality time together bonding, and you’ll reduce your stress levels while you’re stroking your cat. No matter their age, cats deserve care from their owners to keep the happy days coming.

#16

15-Year-Old Blind Cat Snuggling Daughter's Toy Because It Smells Like Her

15-Year-Old Blind Cat Snuggling Daughter's Toy Because It Smells Like Her

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Pseudo Puppy
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3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My stinky old sweat-shirt does the same for my cats when I have to take them to the vet. I put the sweat-shirt in the pet-carrier, and they immediately calm down. Took a while to figure it out... but it works brilliantly

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#17

A Few Weeks Ago I Adopted A 12 Year Old Cat. She Buries Her Face In My Hand When She Wants More Love

A Few Weeks Ago I Adopted A 12 Year Old Cat. She Buries Her Face In My Hand When She Wants More Love

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#18

This Happens Every Time I Go To My Barbers. He's An Old Kitty Now, And He Can't Miaow Anymore, It Comes Out As "Aaaggh!" I Always Let A Load Of Customers Go Ahead Of Me So I Don't Disturb Him. Time Spent With Cats Is Never Wasted

This Happens Every Time I Go To My Barbers. He's An Old Kitty Now, And He Can't Miaow Anymore, It Comes Out As "Aaaggh!" I Always Let A Load Of Customers Go Ahead Of Me So I Don't Disturb Him. Time Spent With Cats Is Never Wasted

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#19

I Brought Home A Stray Cat When I Was 17 Years Old. I'm 36 Now. Every Time I Go To My Parents House, I Check To Make Sure He Is Still There And Give Him Some Extra Love Before I Leave. Meet Scooter

I Brought Home A Stray Cat When I Was 17 Years Old. I'm 36 Now. Every Time I Go To My Parents House, I Check To Make Sure He Is Still There And Give Him Some Extra Love Before I Leave. Meet Scooter

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Steve Barnett
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3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Now that's a face that's still in charge and leading a rich life. Go Scooter.

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#20

My 19 Year Old Cat Just Found Out He Loves The Smell Of Lavender

My 19 Year Old Cat Just Found Out He Loves The Smell Of Lavender

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#21

The Cat Shelter I Volunteer With Has A Program That Brings Senior Cats To Visit Seniors In Nursing Homes. This Says It All

The Cat Shelter I Volunteer With Has A Program That Brings Senior Cats To Visit Seniors In Nursing Homes. This Says It All

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#22

My Old Man (19) Was Just Diagnosed With Kidney Failure. Prayers And Good Thoughts For Tigger

My Old Man (19) Was Just Diagnosed With Kidney Failure. Prayers And Good Thoughts For Tigger

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3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What a sweet face. I'm sorry about the health problems. I hope things improve for Tigger soon.

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#23

Most Of Our Friends Don't Believe We Have A Cat. We Don't See Him Much Either As He Mostly Hides Behind The Bed. Today, While I Was Working, He Was Brave Enough To Come Out For Pets. This Is My 15 Year Old Cat, Elwood

Most Of Our Friends Don't Believe We Have A Cat. We Don't See Him Much Either As He Mostly Hides Behind The Bed. Today, While I Was Working, He Was Brave Enough To Come Out For Pets. This Is My 15 Year Old Cat, Elwood

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#24

My Grandmother's 26 Year Old Cat (We're The Same Age)

My Grandmother's 26 Year Old Cat (We're The Same Age)

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#25

My 21 Year Old Cat, Tigs

My 21 Year Old Cat, Tigs

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3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What am amazing photo. You have a real tranquil garden. He's a real lucky boy.

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#26

Our 14 Year Old Cat That We Found Crying Under A Neighbors Truck When He Was 10 Years Old. He Was Chipped, But Unfortunately His Owner Had Died. Theo Is The Sweetest Boy

Our 14 Year Old Cat That We Found Crying Under A Neighbors Truck When He Was 10 Years Old. He Was Chipped, But Unfortunately His Owner Had Died. Theo Is The Sweetest Boy

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#27

My Cat Is Now 20 Years Old. Here Is A Pic Of Her As A Kitten (Around A Few Months Old) And Now. She Has Always Been Tiny For Her Age!

My Cat Is Now 20 Years Old. Here Is A Pic Of Her As A Kitten (Around A Few Months Old) And Now. She Has Always Been Tiny For Her Age!

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#28

A 24 Year Old Cat. We Call Her The Immortal

A 24 Year Old Cat. We Call Her The Immortal

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#29

I Was 23 When I Adopted Him. He's 16 And I'm Almost 40. Just The Sweetest Kitty

I Was 23 When I Adopted Him. He's 16 And I'm Almost 40. Just The Sweetest Kitty

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3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

He looks like a happy playful boy. What a sweetheart.

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#30

My 19 Year Old Cat Has Always Grabbed Her Leg When She Sleeps

My 19 Year Old Cat Has Always Grabbed Her Leg When She Sleeps

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3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow she's a female ginger cat? That's pretty rare. What a little cute she is.

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#31

This Is My 17 Year Old Cat, Geo. He Still Looks Like A Kitten To Me I Got Him When I Was 10

This Is My 17 Year Old Cat, Geo. He Still Looks Like A Kitten To Me I Got Him When I Was 10

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#32

My 16-Year-Old Good Boy Recovering From A Stroke

My 16-Year-Old Good Boy Recovering From A Stroke

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#33

My 18 Year Old Cat, Oscar, Just Experienced His First Home Move (Across The Country). Wasn’t Sure If He Would Make It, But He Seems To Be Doing Just Fine

My 18 Year Old Cat, Oscar, Just Experienced His First Home Move (Across The Country). Wasn’t Sure If He Would Make It, But He Seems To Be Doing Just Fine

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#34

Two Best Friends Growing Old Together: How My 20-Year-Old Cat And 70-Year-Old Father Spend Their Evenings

Two Best Friends Growing Old Together: How My 20-Year-Old Cat And 70-Year-Old Father Spend Their Evenings

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#35

This Cat Is 26 Year Old. Her Name Is Lexi

This Cat Is 26 Year Old. Her Name Is Lexi

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#37

My 22 Year Old Cat Noticed I Was Eating Doritos

My 22 Year Old Cat Noticed I Was Eating Doritos

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Kathryn Baylis
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3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And drooling over them too! I have a kitten who does the same thing.

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#38

We Would Take You To The Bar, But They’re All Closed. Happy 21st Birthday Mario!

We Would Take You To The Bar, But They’re All Closed. Happy 21st Birthday Mario!

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Beans
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3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What a beautiful color. He blends in a bit with the couch though, I'm wondering if there have been accidental sitting accidents with him, haha.

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#39

My 20-Year-Old Rebel. He's Been With Me Since 1999. Through Everything Since He Was 8 Weeks Old

My 20-Year-Old Rebel. He's Been With Me Since 1999. Through Everything Since He Was 8 Weeks Old

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#40

My Dad Built A Ramp So Our 20 Year Old Cat Can Still Get Into The Bed

My Dad Built A Ramp So Our 20 Year Old Cat Can Still Get Into The Bed

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Note: this post originally had 136 images. It’s been shortened to the top 40 images based on user votes.