For whatever reason, your mom’s mobility is decreasing. Whether she’s had a stroke or has osteoporosis and weaker bones, she doesn’t move around as well. She also wants a pet for companionship. What are the best pets in this situation?
Birds
The overall cost of most birds is low. With a cage, cuttlefish, water dispenser, birdseed, cage liner, and a few toys, a bird is set. Birds will sing, tweet, and chatter away in the background, which can be relaxing. They can be messy when they flap their wings, so it’s best to have them away from furnishings and over a bare floor that’s easily swept.
Some pet birds, such as parrots, can talk back to your mom. It takes time training a bird to talk, and it will never be more than a few words in a sentence. It is a good choice if your mom wants someone who will converse.
Cats
If you want a companion animal, a cat is probably your best choice. She can talk to it, and it will act like it’s listening. It may even talk back in some way. The cat can sleep with her, snuggle while she’s sitting down, and play. Older cats are often well trained in using litter boxes, plus they have a harder time finding a home. She should consider adopting an older cat.
She needs to have a litter box, food and water dishes, and cat tree or similar that is okay for scratching. It needs to see the vet each year. Most cats take to playing in empty boxes and paper bags, so a lot of expensive toys are unnecessary.
Fish
Fish aren’t going to listen to your mom. She can’t touch them. But, they do have a calming effect that is great for stress and anxiety. Watching them swim around and listening to the flowing water helps a person relax and unwind.
Some of the best fish for beginners are bettas, neon tetras, and goldfish. With a small tank, heater, and proper care of the water, they’ll last. Your mom could keep a mystery snail or similar variety to help keep the tank cleaner, too.
Rats
Don’t rule out rats. They may have a bad reputation in the wild, but they’re excellent pets. They are very smart, gentle, and enjoy being handled. Rats can last several years if they’re cared for. Your mom would need to change the bedding regularly. She needs to feed and water her rat. Letting it out to walk around for exercise is a good idea. A hamster ball keeps the rat confined while it runs around.
Have you considered arranging regularly caregiver visits through a senior care agency? That’s a good way to ensure your mom has companionship visits from other people. Senior care specialists help you decide the best services and schedules for your mom. Call now.
If you are considering senior care in Micanopy, FL, for an aging loved one, please contact the caring staff at Touching Hearts Home Care. Call today: 352-225-3727.
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