My cat is getting older and I’ve noticed that she is not as active as she used to be. Does this mean that something is wrong?

Not necessarily. As long as you’ve taken your cat to the vet and received a clean bill of health, perhaps her schedule has merely changed. A cat who was once lively and playful in the morning may now be experiencing stiffness or simply need more sleep. Her inner clock, or Circadian rhythm, is adjusting to the needs of her older body. If you are finding yourself missing the playtime you once had, pay attention and her body language will tell you when she’s ready for a romp.

Don’t forget, you can spend time with your kitty any time of the day. Doing activities like brushing her or sitting with her as you open your mail are very enjoyable. Other things to keep in mind as your kitty gets older is her personal comfort and health. Placing soft, warm beds around the house will encourage her to travel from room to room. Creating steps up to places she likes to sit or sleep, like your bed or a windowsill, can help her with possible arthritis or stiffness. Keep in mind, too, that stepping in and out of the cat box may become more of a challenge over time. Watch for any signals that she might need a box that is easier to navigate.

If you do see your cat hesitate to jump up or be less willing to go up and down stairs, be sure to speak with your veterinarian. There are many ways to help with any pain she might be experiencing, such as glucosamine and traditional medications. And always remember that she enjoys you as much as you enjoy her. Help her embrace her golden years with plenty of warmth and affection. She will surely enjoy any time or energy you direct towards her.

My workload has recently increased and I find myself spending less time with my cat.

Should I get another cat as a friend for the one I have now?

Adopting another cat may not be the answer. Introducing another cat into your home will be stressful because it will require more of your time at first, as well as time for the cats to become friendly with one another — and there’s no guarantee that they will. Instead, how about looking at your lovely companion and making a commitment of three to four play dates a week? A play date is a special time you set aside to devote one-on-one time to your cat. You could take it a step further and write it into your datebook like you would any other appointment, as a reminder to yourself.

Anything you and your cat like to do together will make a good date. Playing with a cat wand can get some cats really moving. Kittens and young adult cats have been known to do flips and summersaults chasing the feathered toy. Some kitties enjoy ‘fetch’ or playing ‘soccer.’ This involves taking a small treat and sliding it across a smooth-surfaced floor. Some cats like to run after the treat, as in a game of fetch, or be at the receiving end, like in soccer. Getting your cat to use his brain as well as his body will help keep him fit for many years. Brushing and talking to your cat can be very relaxing for both of you as well.

While you are away during the daytime, it can be fun to create a maze of cardboard boxes and paper bags with hidden treats for your cat to explore. Also, placing food in different parts of the house would encourage your kitty to be active while you are away. Combining these ideas might help relieve your mind and heart as you head out the door to start your busy week.

Tails of Marin appears every Saturday in the Home & Garden section of the Marin Independent Journal