Our senior cats face the same health issues as we do in our golden years, such as arthritis, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and kidney disease. Regular veterinary visits are even more important during this stage in your pet’s life. The sooner we catch any changes in your pet’s health, the better chance we have at treating it.
What are the stages of a senior cat’s life? How to spot signs of ageing?
Cats are considered mature at 7-10 years old, senior at 11-14 years old and geriatric at 15+ years. Changes in your cat’s weight, activity level, urination, bowel movements, grooming habits, appetite and water intake, can all be signs that something is not right with your senior feline.
My senior cat is losing weight, what can I do?
Your senior cat should be weighed on a regular basis to keep track of any changes. If your cat’s weight is going down, it is best to schedule a veterinary appointment. Weight loss can be a sign of an underlying health issue or a change in your senior pet’s dietary requirements.
What are some tips on how to care for my senior cat?
Scheduling regular veterinary visits for your senior pet will help us to catch any health issues that may be present. A senior wellness visit is recommended every 6 months. If your cat is showing signs of mobility issues, make sure that their food and litter box is easily accessible. A joint supplement is also recommended for senior pets. Keep track of any changes to your cat’s behaviour, appetite, grooming, urination, bowel movements, weight and mobility. These changes will help your veterinarian to determine if there are any health concerns with your feline friend.
What are some common health issues experienced by senior cats?
Diabetes, dental disease, cancer, hyperthyroidism, arthritis and kidney disease are all common issues we see in our feline patients.
Why is my senior cat having behavioural issues?
Behavioural issues may be a sign of physical discomfort or cognitive changes in your senior pet. Please keep a record of any behavioural changes and discuss these with your veterinarian during your pet’s senior wellness visit.