Pets can introduce a host of benefits to a senior's life. Still, it's a lot of work to take care of a dog or another high-energy pet. Seniors who want to enjoy all the joy of pet ownership without the requirements of such an active pet have other options. Indoor-only pets provide lots of mental health benefits for seniors without all the hard work. Here are a few great indoor-only pets great for seniors, courtesy of Senior Helpers Cerritos - La Palma - La Mirada.
Types of Indoor-Only Pets for Seniors
The type of indoor-only pet a senior chooses is up to them and their lifestyle. Some great pets for seniors include cats, birds, and fish. Here's a closer look at each:
Cats
Cats can be great companions for seniors. Cats save a senior the hassle of walking their pet or dealing with its wild behavior outside. Additionally, stroking a cat's fur can provide some gentle tactile stimulation – both calming and comforting. The key to having an indoor-only cat is to keep it entertained with toys, scratching posts, and other engaging activities indoors.
Cats are very low-maintenance pets, requiring very little upkeep. As long as a senior is comfortable with changing a litter box, feeding and watering their pet, and engaging in some light play, a cat might be a great option. Cats also require a relatively set schedule, which can be a benefit for many senior adults.
Birds
Birds bring joy to a home with their bright colors and hearty squawks. Seniors can enjoy great companionship from birds of all shapes, sizes, and colors. They come in varieties that are easy for seniors to take care of, too – like finches, budgies (parakeets), or canaries.
Birds also provide a lot of rewarding stimulation for seniors. They love interacting with humans! With proper food, nesting materials, and enough attention, birds make great pets for any senior's lifestyle.
Fish
Fish may not be the most interactive pet, but they don't require a lot of upkeep, and they are truly beautiful to look at. Senior Helpers Cerritos - La Palma – La Mirada recommends seniors who want a low-maintenance indoor-only pet choose between tropical fish, saltwater fish, and goldfish. All three of these require basic care, such as weekly tank cleanings and periodic water changes.
Freshwater tanks tend to have less maintenance than saltwater aquariums for any senior on a budget or who doesn't have time for frequent cleanings. Though not cuddly or active like cats or birds respectively, fish provide sensory stimulation. Simply watching them can bring great joy and calmness to seniors!
Senior Helpers Encourages Seniors to Live Fulfilling Lives
Owning a pet can be truly beneficial for seniors. Indoor-only pets make companionship and joy much more achievable for those who are unable to properly care for larger or outdoor animals. Cats, birds, and fish all offer wonderful mental health benefits without the same required long-term care as dogs, or other unruly animals might need. For seniors looking to spice up their lives with an exciting new addition, these three types of indoor-only pets may just be the perfect companion!
If you are looking for senior care services in and around the Artesia, Cerritos, Buena Park, La Palma, La Mirada, and Lakewood areas, Senior Helpers is just the solution. Contact us today to learn about the services we offer!