In the senior years a cat's daily life changes step by step. Those who watch attentively often recognise early signs sooner than if they wait for clear signs of illness. This overview summarises what matters. You can go into more depth on each topic in our detailed guide articles.
Signs of ageing in cats — withdrawal, eating less, weight loss
An older cat often becomes calmer, sleeps more and withdraws more frequently. They may no longer jump as nimbly onto window sills or cupboards. Grooming may also decline; matted patches, a dull coat or less self-grooming are signs you should take seriously.
Also keep an eye on weight. A gradual weight loss, even if it seems small at first, can be an important early sign. The same goes for changes in eating and drinking: more thirst, increased drinking or altered appetite are common warning signs. Changes in litter-box behaviour (urinating next to the tray, more frequent visits, different urine smell) should also be assessed by the vet.
You can find more details in our guides Ageing cats and their needs and Signs of pain in older cats.
Common illnesses in old age
With increasing age, some illnesses become particularly common in cats. These include:
- Kidney disease is one of the most common diagnoses in older cats. Typical signs are increased drinking, weight loss and reduced appetite. Further reading: Kidney disease in the cat.
- Hyperthyroidism can manifest as weight loss despite appetite, restlessness and increased drinking.
- Osteoarthritis, often overlooked in cats because they rarely limp. Watch for less jumping, more cautious getting up and changed favourite sleeping spots. Further reading: Osteoarthritis in the cat.
- Diabetes: overweight is a risk factor. Increased drinking and urination are typical signs. Further reading: Diabetes in the cat.
- Heart disease, often runs silently in cats; regular auscultation is part of senior preventive care. Further reading: Heart disease in the cat.
- Tumours. The risk increases with age. They are an important reason to take changes in behaviour and on the body seriously.
This overview does not replace a veterinary diagnosis. It is intended to help you put your observations into context. The assessment in the individual case is made at the practice.
Recognising pain — cats hide it
Cats are masters at hiding pain. Unlike dogs, they rarely show clear vocalisations or pronounced limping. Instead, pain often reveals itself in small changes that are easily overlooked:
- They no longer jump onto familiar spots or hesitate before jumping.
- They groom less — the coat appears dull, matted in places.
- They groom one spot particularly intensively (for example over a painful joint).
- They withdraw more often, are less sociable.
- They react sensitively to touch in a particular area.
- They use the litter tray differently, urinate next to it, feel unsure jumping in.
- They eat less or hesitate to eat — possibly due to pain in the mouth.
If you observe one or more of these signs, a veterinary examination is the next step. Pain in cats can be treated well, but only if it is recognised. More in the guide Signs of pain in older cats.
Preventive care in old age
For senior cats we often recommend more frequent preventive care, often six-monthly examinations. And supplement the clinical examination with a blood and urine analysis. This way early changes in kidney, thyroid, liver or sugar metabolism can be detected, often before symptoms appear.
An often underestimated point is dental health. Painful teeth are tolerated by cats for a long time. Looking inside the mouth is part of senior preventive care. You can find more about our offer on the pages Preventive Care & Vaccination and Veterinary dentistry, as well as in the guide Preventive examinations for older dogs and cats.
You can also adapt the home to the needs of a senior cat: lower entries into the litter tray, softer resting places, easily accessible food and water stations and calm with less hustle. You can find tips on a cat-friendly environment on our page Cat-friendly practice.
Dignified end-of-life support
Growing older also means that the moment eventually comes to accompany a cat with dignity. We take time for honest conversations about quality of life, possible therapies and also about when letting go may be the more loving decision. More on the page End-of-life support and in the guide Pets in old age.
This page does not replace a veterinary examination. If you are worried about your older cat, please book an appointment. We take time for you.