Make the later years golden for your cat

Did you know that cats are considered senior citizens at the age of 11? But getting older doesn't mean that they have to lose their spark. Wendy Diamond, Animal Fair editor in chief and national television pet lifestyle contributor, has some great tips for making your favorite feline's twilight years golden ones. Family Features

Assess your cat's age: To find out how old your cat may be feeling, take the CatAge Quiz created by RealAge and Hill's Pet Nutrition (makers of Science Diet pet food) at www.HillsPet.com/DefyAge. Then start focusing on how to work against the clock and keep your cat feeling young and healthy.

Keep feline minds active: Aging commonly impacts cognitive function. Older cats may become bored or disinterested in activity, so it's imperative to keep their minds active and engaged to stave off the effects of old age — like senility or depression. Incorporate exploration and problem-solving into your cat's routine.

Adjust an aging cat's nutritional plan: Older cats have delicate digestive systems, and their ability to extract nutrition from their food begins to diminish. Make sure that the food your aging feline eats is composed of quality ingredients with nutrition. Diamond recommends Hill's Science Diet Senior 11+ Age Defying cat food. The formula includes antioxidants and omega-6 fatty acids, alongside wholesome ingredients such as fish oil for healthy brain function, L-carnitine to support lean muscles and agility, controlled levels of phosphorus and other minerals for bladder health and amino acids to maintain healthy organs.

Visit your vet: Frequent trips to the veterinarian's office can keep your cat feeling young and vibrant. Many people attribute behavioral changes in older cats exclusively to the aging process, and while some elderly cats will naturally slow down, this isn't always the case. Always consult a medical professional when your cat acts odd and never assume a responsible pet parent can turn a blind eye toward new, altered or strange behavior.

Increase agility: Consider how you can rearrange your home to suit your cat's needs. Place ramps leading to your cat's favorite places and treat your cat to a daily massage to stimulate healthy musculature without putting too much pressure on its paws. This gentle approach to feline fitness will leave your cat agile and amiable — plus, it makes for excellent quality time.