According to the World Animal Foundation, in the U.S., 46.5 million households one at least one cat. Cats are one of humanity’s best companions. As a cat lover, you probably already know you need them as much as they need you.

If you’re starting to think about moving into an assisted living facility, you don’t necessarily have to separate from your furry friend. Learn how to find the perfect facility for you and your cat, brought to you courtesy of Texas CARES Cat Adoption and Rescue.

Paying for Assisted Living

Did you know that about 75 percent of all for-profit retirement communities accept pets? Before you can start your hunt, however, you need to make sure you have the funds available. According to US News, most nursing facilities rely on private payments. On average, it costs approximately $48,000 a year to live in a nursing home. One way seniors pay for assisted living is with savings, long-term care insurance, and retirement money. If you do not have enough assets, you may consider selling your home to pay the facility’s cost.

Hiring an agent to help you sell your home can make the process as hassle-free as possible. Make sure that you have a timeline in which you want to get everything done. This includes an inspection, professional photos, and the process of showing and selling. To get the most out of your home, research which upgrades will boost its value; these trends do tend to change, so it’s important to stay on top of what’s appealing to buyers in your area.

Caring for Your Furry Friend

Compared to dogs, cats are usually better companions in an assisted living facility. Cats are happy to be indoors all day and only require minimal exercise. Giving your cat a workout is as easy as pointing a laser toy around the room. One of the most important aspects of feline care is nutrition. Cats have a stricter diet than dogs. They are obligate carnivores and must get a lot of protein in their diet. Try to feed them a mix of wet and dry food.

Automatic cat litter boxes can also make it easier to keep up with your cat’s needs. A standard cat box requires you to scoop it often. However, an automatic litter box allows you to save cleaning your cat box out once or twice a week.

Finding a Pet-Friendly Facility

Taking your cat with you is not only best for your pet, but it’s best for you. Cats provide company and companionship. Also, cats provide several health benefits to humans, including:

• Reduced anxiety
• Boosted immunity
• Decreased stroke risk
• Lowered blood pressure

To find a retirement community or assisted living facility that allows you to bring your cat, you may need to make phone calls. Ask questions about the facility’s pet policy. Most places that do allow cats will not have a size or weight limit on your feline friends.

Some assisted living facilities have extra services for pet owners. A facility may have a pet coordinator that can help care for your cat when you are unable to.

Before you move into an assisted living facility, don’t worry about leaving your cat behind. You are your cat’s best friend, and there’s no reason to separate. In fact, cats are easy to care for and offer health benefits to their human companions. Consider searching for your new companion at a nonprofit animal welfare organization like Texas CARES (get in touch with us via our website today) , and give a special kitty a forever home.