Raising a Blind Cat

A blind cat may be missing her sight, but she can live a full and healthy life nonetheless. Whether the blindness is from birth, was caused by an accident or came on the cat gradually due to illness or old age, the cat will adjust to life without vision -- and you can help. Always speak softly when approaching your blind cat so she is aware of your presence. Spend quality time with her. Sit on the floor, play with her, and use your voice a lot so she becomes familiar with you. Being the caregiver of a blind cat can be rewarding and fulfilling.

  1. Safety

    • Keeping your blind cat safe -- away from predators or risk of injury -- is essential to a healthy life. A blind cat should stay indoors; let it outdoors only if she is leashed or in an enclosed area, such as a screened-in porch. Consider identification options for your cat, in the event that she does get outside or become lost. A collar with your contact information will suffice; having your cat microchipped is another viable option.

    Familiarity

    • Choose a permanent place for your cat's food, water and litter box. A blind cat will be able to navigate around fixed furniture; but keeping her food and litter in the same location, that is easy for her to access, will give her a sense of familiarity. Blind cats often sense furniture and other objects with their whiskers. Nevertheless, keep your home free of clutter; if you move a piece of furniture, move it back to its original location as soon as you can.

    Stimulate Other Senses

    • A blind cat's other senses will be heightened due to her vision loss. Stimulating those senses with sounds, smells and textures will keep her engaged and interested in her surroundings. Choose toys that crinkle or jingle for her to play with, and use catnip on scratching posts and a cat bed. Blind cats will climb up objects like a normal cat, but may back down with their hind feet first. A cat tree is a good investment for your blind cat to scratch and climb.

    Daily Care

    • If you pick up your blind cat and move her to another room, put her down in a familiar location, such as near her food bowl or litter box so she can immediately figure out where she is. A blind cat needs routine veterinary care, just as a normal cat does. If you notice anything unusual about your cat, contact your veterinarian immediately.