‘Grandpa’ Dwarf Cat’s ‘Sporty’ Talents Prove Age Is Only a Number
Getting older often means slowing down to enjoy the finer things in life. But for one senior Dwarf cat named Francis, the best days are still ahead. Even at 14-years-young, the little cutie can still play with the best of them.
In the sweetest July 6 TikTok video shared by @francisandmaggie, little Francis shows the world he can't be stopped, so don't even try! Watch him get after it!
"When someone says that Francis isn't sporty," the caption says. The video shows little Francis hopping up and down stairs, jumping onto and off of furniture, scurrying around the house, and getting plenty of Olympic-style parkour! Never in the history of cats has anyone moved with such speed, precision, and heart and the senior cat's fans agree.
"This is what peak feline performance looks like," on person wrote. "Most athletic potato I have ever seen," another said. "I owe Francis an apology, I wasn’t familiar with his game," another joked.
It doesn't matter if Francis is 14 or four—he's got the moves of a kitten!
Exercise for Senior Cats
Don't count senior cats out! Just like Francis, they can be playful, energetic, and full of life. Plus, they still love cuddles and bonding time with their people, so it's a win-win. But, as they get older, their activities may change with their bodies so it's important to find what they enjoy.
Vetster indicates enriching indoor activities are a must, Toys senior cats love, such as wands or laser pointers, can help get them moving again. Or consider a window perch so they can bask in the sun and enjoy nature. Also, purchase senior-friendly scratching pads since they likely can't climb the way they used to. Not every senior cat is as mobile as Francis! The site says you should also consider:
- Providing ramps and smaller steps to get to their favorite perches
- Trying flat or slanted scratching pads instead of vertical posts
- Trying carpeted ramps or pet stairs to help your cat onto the couch and bed at night
An easy and fun thing to do is provide them with shopping bags and empty boxed to bring out their inner kitten. For low-impact mental and emotional stimulation, food puzzles filled with treats work great just as having quiet bonding time while you brush them is, too.
Senior cats may not move the way they used to, but just like sweet Francis, they'll never stop wanting to play, explore, and have fun.
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