What age is senior cat? Senior Cat Age

What age is a senior cat? Thanks to modern medicine and the excellent care of pets, cats are living longer and better lives than at any other time in human history. As any cat lover knows, older cats make great companions. No longer a crazy kitten, older cats still love to play and often make great cuddling partners.
It is important to understand that older cats have different needs than younger cats. Knowing your cat’s age and how it affects its health can help you take better care of your cat in its golden years.

At what age is called a senior cat?

In most cases, veterinarians consider a cat to be an old cat when it reaches 710 years of age. If your cat is over 10 years old, the common term to describe a cat to a veterinarian is “geriatrics”.

This term is also used in medicine to refer to the elderly with special care needs. If your veterinarian classifies your cat as a geriatric disease, it simply means that you need to pay special attention to your cat’s health to ensure the quality and longevity of life.

What to look for in a senior cat

Weight loss or gain: Both your total weight and your fitness score should be monitored.

Cat litter habits: Increased litter size or use of litter.

Mobility: Reduced ability to climb stairs and jump easily.

Behaviour: Changes in rest, sleep, shelter, and personal interactions with family.

What are the signs of ageing in senior cat?

This does not mean that the signs of ageing in cats cannot be detected. You have to follow more subtle clues. Signs of ageing or underlying conditions may include:

  • Weight loss or gain
  • Loss of energy and more sleep
  • Loss of interest in jumping or playing
  • Changes in appetite
  • Decreased vision or hearing
  • Changes in hairline – tangles, Increased skin
  • Changes in vocalization
  • Changes in behaviour
  • Increased anxiety or aggression
  • Increased fluid intake
  • Increased urination
  • Trash bin problems including urination or defecation

How to keep a senior cat healthy?

  • Make sure you have everything your cat needs (water, food, litter box, social interaction and rest, a place to sleep and shelter).
  • Regular visits to the veterinarian every year until the age of 7, and then every six months thereafter, are the best things pet owners can do. Utilize the tips provided by the AAFP to make these trips easier and avoid stressing your cat.
  • It is very helpful to weigh yourself regularly at home. Buy a quality baby scale that can detect rapid weight loss quickly and easily.
  • It is best to use a scale that is accurate to ounces or less. Take a closer look at the older cat. Any change can mean something is happening.
  • Cats age 5-7 times faster than humans, so it’s important to document all changes. Easy access to freshwater. Use wide bowls to avoid sideburn fatigue and avoid plastic bowls to prevent chin acne.
  • Low entry litter trays make it easy for older cats to get in and out. If your cat has arthritis, keep the toilet within easy reach to prevent the cat from going up and downstairs.
  • A video camera will help you keep an eye on the situation and calm your thoughts when you are not at home. The PetCube Bites WiFi pet camera is my favourite, as it also offers cat treats.

Veterinarian help for senior cat

Things can change quickly in an older cat’s body, so older cats should see their local veterinarian every year and in some cases twice a year. During your annual checkup, your veterinarian may run laboratory tests to check for common medical conditions, such as kidney or dental problems.

With a little care, even an older cat can live beyond adolescence. Also, knowing what to expect ahead of time can set you up for the great quality of life for your cat in its golden years.

Leave a Comment