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Senior Cat Care: Keeping an Older Cat Healthy & Comfortable

Cats are middle-aged by about age seven and many live into their teens. Here's how to keep your older cat comfortable, spot age-related problems early, and adapt your home as they slow down.

· cats, senior

Cats don’t age on our schedule. Blue Cross notes that a cat is generally considered middle-aged by around seven years old, with an average life expectancy of about 12 to 13 years — and some cats live to 20 or beyond. The good news, as Blue Cross puts it, is that old age is not a reason to accept ill health: senior cats can still lead happy, active lives.

The key to a long, comfortable old age is catching problems early and adapting your home as your cat’s needs change. Here’s a practical, vet-backed guide.

Regular vet check-ups matter even more

Because older cats hide pain so well, routine checks are your best early-warning system. The RSPCA recommends taking your cat to the vet for an annual health check, even if they seem perfectly well. And because age-related conditions are so common in older cats, PDSA advises having a senior cat checked regularly once they enter their senior years for age-related problems such as arthritis. Many vets now offer special “senior” check-ups designed for early diagnosis and treatment.

Keep an eye on weight

Changes in weight are a big deal in a senior cat. Blue Cross explains that older cats can start to lose weight — and that this is often caused by conditions such as kidney or thyroid disease — so it’s worth mentioning any weight loss to your vet. It can be hard to tell by eye, which is why Blue Cross suggests weighing your cat every one to two months and checking for a visible waist when viewed from above.

The flip side is also common: some older cats gain weight, and excess weight raises the risk of conditions such as diabetes and arthritis. If your cat needs to slim down, do it gradually and with your vet’s guidance — never crash diets.

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Arthritis and joint comfort

Arthritis is extremely common in older cats. PDSA reports that one scientific study found around 90% of cats over 12 years old had signs of arthritis on X-ray, and Blue Cross puts it at over 90%. Cats are famously good at hiding the pain, so you may only notice stiffness, limping, or your cat getting less active or sleeping more than before.

Arthritis can’t be cured, but PDSA stresses that it can be well managed and is often a good treatment target. Their vet-written advice includes:

  • Pain relief from your vet — usually anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medicines. Never give human painkillers: PDSA warns that some, such as paracetamol, are highly toxic to cats.
  • Weight control, since extra weight puts strain on joints.
  • Gentle daily movement so your cat doesn’t stiffen up.
  • Comfortable beds in easy-to-reach spots — orthopaedic memory-foam beds and warmed beds are particularly good for arthritic cats.
  • Raised food and water bowls so your cat doesn’t have to bend down.
  • Low-sided litter trays to make climbing in and out easier.

Dental care

Dental disease is common as cats get older, partly due to wear and tear on their teeth. PDSA notes that most cats hide dental pain, so you may not notice anything until it’s severe — which is why regular checks matter. Left untreated, dental problems can lead to more serious issues such as kidney and heart disease. Look out for bad breath, red or sore gums, visible tartar, drooling, or your cat eating more slowly or preferring soft food.

Being alert to kidney and thyroid disease

Two conditions are especially worth knowing about in senior cats.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common problem in older cats, where the kidneys slowly stop working over months or years. PDSA says it can be hard to spot early, but symptoms include drinking more, weight loss and reduced appetite. It’s diagnosed with blood and urine tests, and while it can’t be cured, it can be slowed — often with a special kidney diet and plenty of fresh water.

Hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) is most common in middle-aged to older cats. PDSA lists symptoms including weight loss, an increased appetite, drinking and peeing more, and a dry, untidy coat. It’s usually easy to diagnose with a blood test and is often treatable with medication; PDSA notes that well-managed hyperthyroid cats can live for many years.

Adapting your home

A few small changes can make a big difference to your cat’s comfort: several litter trays in quiet places (Blue Cross suggests a large tray with low walls), raised bowls, soft beds, and regular grooming help. If your once-grooming cat starts looking unkempt, it can be a sign of dental disease or joint pain — worth a chat with your vet.

If anything changes — eating, drinking, weight, mobility or behaviour — it’s always worth a call to your vet. When it comes to senior cats, early is better.

Sources

This article is for general information and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please contact your vet.

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