Most cats will live from 14 to 20 years of age. More often than not, the pet will pass away before their owner, but this is not always the case. Who will care for your cat if they outlive you?
Each year, thousands of kitties are brought to shelters. Many of them are older cats who lost their owner to death. These kitties are heartbroken and depressed. Only a select few will visit a shelter seeking an older animal. It is usually the kittens that are adopted first. Unfortunately, many shelters will euthanize the cats that do not find forever homes in a short time frame.
In order to avoid this fate for your beloved cat, you need to make arrangements beforehand. Consider including your pets in a will. Ask your friends and family if they are willing to care for your kitties if something were to happen to you. Include their names in a legal will. This way, the courts will know where to send the animals.
Once you decide who will be caretakers of your pets, you should take the time to teach them about each animal. If your cat has a few quirky habits, let them know in advance. Tell them which types of food and toys your kitty likes the best. Since the transition will be tough on both parties, keeping some familiarity in routine will make things easier.
Consider not taking in anymore pets once you reach a certain age. As you get older, the risk of death becomes greater. Adopting a kitten when you are 75 is not a wise choice. If you cannot live without a cat, then pick one from the shelter that is also elderly. In the end, these cats will appreciate the last few years that they got to spend with you.
It is never to early to start planning for the future. Making sure you have a plan for the unexpected is the only way you will know your pets are cared for after you are gone.