FOLIO
Gizmo was a foster cat when he was adopted. He went to a new home, a bit nervous and shy at first. Now, the distinguished tabby reacts to life as though he’s pleasantly buzzed on good catnip. Turns out, chatting with his humans is much more interesting than hiding under the dining room table.
GRANDMASTER
Davi: What advantages do older cats have over kittens?
Gizmo: For starters, we’re litter box-trained. We have intelligent talks with humans. We also enjoy the finer things in life, like nap time, heating pads and water fountains.
Sum up your life in one sentence.
Sleep, snuggle, snack, strut.
What food do you crave most often?
Rotisserie chicken—fresh—not day-old.
What’s the best part about being a senior?
Being comfortable in my own fur. I’ve mellowed as I aged, I know what I like. I’m easy-going. I’m the ideal companion.
What question would you ask your human?
I’d ask my papa why he shaves his face. I’ve never understood that.
What’s best about being a family member?
Knowing I belong, that my presence brings joy.
Around more than a decade—about 60 cat years—Gizmo’s at the top of his game. He’s a quirky fella, and that’s a good thing.
Senior cats are very much like senior humans. They’ve learned to enjoy life’s pleasures, looking for affection and warmth, regular meals and a comfy place to live.
They’re Aged to Perfection
Senior cats are mature, not mischievous. Beyond the rambunctious kitten stage, they tend to lead a peaceful existence, they nap longer, and don’t get into
much trouble.
They’re Full of Love
Senior cats have loved and know how to love. They find joy in a clean bed, fresh food and water, and their favorite people to nuzzle.
They Know Who They Are
With senior cats, what you see is what you get. They’ve already grown into their personalities and most likely know and abide by the rules, like not attacking folks’ feet as they walk by.
They’re Chill
Senior cats aren’t into sliding across kitchen countertops or leaping on draperies. They’ve learned mellow is more satisfying than silly.
They’re Wise
Seniors have been there, done that. They don’t destroy furniture and chew cables anymore—who has time for that?
They Need You & You Need Them
Senior cats know how to be part of a family because they’ve already been part of one.
So if you’re of a mind to adopt a cat, make sure to spend some time with some of the older cats in the shelter. You might just realize what you really want is companionship, something older cats are experts at giving.
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Davi the Dachshund quotes the wise Eleanor Roosevelt: “Today is the oldest you’ve ever been and the youngest you’ll ever be again.” Wise words.
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