Senior cats who lose their human companions are often euthanized or spend the rest of their lives alone. Senior citizens offer the perfect companionship.
a kitten is not going to do that. reporter: it s a growing trend. there are now at least 56 shelters in 35 states that have a pets for seniors program for cats and senior dogs, who also face difficulty getting adopted. bonnie paul has five senior cats, including 12-year-old gracie. the day we were there, she decided she was simply not going to perform for that camera. but normally, paul says, they re all very affectionate. what is the best thing about senior cats? i think the love they give you. reporter: and there are plenty of senior cats like riley just waiting for their chance to fall in love. chip reid, cbs news, centreville, virginia. garrett: chip reid, thank you. and we ll be right back.