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Just because a dog or cat is blind doesn't mean that they can't be a very happy pet. In fact, it's often difficult to tell that an animal is blind when they're in a familiar environment because their sense of hearing and smell is so much greater than ours. Most blind pets can live very happy, good quality lives. Nevertheless, there are some things that you can do to make your blind pet's life easier and safer.
Cats are far more adaptable than most humans, allowing them to cope more easily with disability. Part of the reason is that cats spend so much of their time resting and sleeping. Your cat will need to adapt to its limitations, but you will also have to adapt your attitude and your home to accommodate your cat's needs.
One of the most important things that you can do is not move your cat's litter box. It must be in a convenient place that your cat is used to, somewhere where your kitty can get to easily without having to make any detours. Put your cat in the litter box first thing in the morning, last thing at night, and also after he eats. If he makes any mistakes, put him in the litter box. You may have to get a covered litter box for him so that he will feel more secure.
It's also best if you not change your pet's environment. This can include things like moving furniture. If you do move furniture or move into a new house, it can take your pet awhile to memorize and familiarize himself with the new environment.
Try to teach your cat to walk on a harness or lead so that he can be exercised safely. You may want to try using voice commands to help him know when to slow down or be careful.
Encourage your cat to use his other senses to compensate for vision loss by buying play toys that are noisy or have a recognizable odor, applying perfume on legs of furniture to help him know where he is located, or even getting another companion pet that your blind pet can follow around by using his hearing and smell.
Finally, a blind cat can become easily disoriented and should not be allowed to roam. He should be an indoors-only cat or allowed secure access to a fenced pen or garden. Your cat may also enjoy supervised forays in the garden using a harness and lead. However, make sure he is wearing a collar with a tag that has his address and disability on it.
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