Introduction
Cats can live well into their teens and even early 20s, so at some point in their lives they transition from young adulthood to their golden years. Knowing when a cat becomes a senior allows owners to provide the best possible care as their feline companions age.
There are differing definitions of when cats are considered seniors. The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) defines senior cats as 11 years and older. Other veterinarians may consider cats seniors starting between 7-10 years old. The exact age varies based on the individual cat and breed. What’s clear is an aging cat requires some adaptations to ensure their health and wellbeing.
Understanding the changes cats undergo as seniors allows owners to identify age-related issues early. With extra attention and proactive care, owners can support senior cats to live comfortably in their later years. Recognizing senior cat stages also helps owners appreciate the joys of cats in their golden years.
When Cats Become Seniors
There is some debate about the exact age when cats transition into their senior years. Typically, cats are considered seniors or geriatric around 7-10 years of age. However, there are many factors that affect aging and longevity in cats, so the senior transition can vary considerably between individual cats.
In general, smaller cat breeds tend to have longer average lifespans and transition into their senior years later, while larger breeds age faster. For example, the average lifespan of a Siamese cat is 15-20 years, so they may not reach senior status until 12 years old or later. In contrast, Maine Coon cats have an average lifespan of 10-13 years and often transition into senior status around age 7.
Health and environment also play key roles. Cats kept strictly indoors in safe, enriched environments with regular veterinary care tend to live longer than outdoor cats or those lacking proper care. An indoor cat fed a nutritious diet and receiving prompt treatment for any medical issues will likely remain vigorous and youthful longer than average.
So while most cats transition into their senior years around 7-10, an especially healthy, robust 12 year old may still exhibit the energy and curiosity of a young adult. It’s important to monitor each individual cat closely and note any signs of aging rather than just the calendar year.
According to the American Association of Feline Practitioners Senior Care Guidelines, cats 11 years and older are considered geriatric. This designation provides a helpful benchmark, but judging senior status requires a nuanced assessment of breed, health history, and current physical and behavioral changes.
Signs of Aging in Cats
As cats age, their bodies and behaviors start to change. Here are some of the most common signs that a cat is considered a senior:
Changes in activity levels – Older cats tend to slow down and sleep more. They may play, hunt, and go outside less. You may notice your senior cat napping more during the day and becoming less active in general [1].
Changes in appetite and weight – It’s common for senior cats to lose some muscle mass and become bonier. Their metabolism changes, so they may eat less food. Weight loss in senior cats should be monitored closely.
Coat and grooming changes – Senior cats groom themselves less, so their coats may become dull looking. You may notice more shedding, thin fur patches, or matted fur.
Inappropriate urination – Issues like kidney disease can cause senior cats to urinate outside the litter box. An older cat struggling to get to the litter box in time can also miss the box.
Cognitive decline – Seniors can develop feline cognitive dysfunction leading to disorientation, forgetting litter box training, changes in sleep patterns, and anxierty. Your cat may meow more frequently or hide from you.
Caring for Senior Cats
As cats get older, their health and physical abilities change. Caring for an aging cat requires some adjustments to their care routine. Some important aspects of caring for senior cats include:
More vet visits – Senior cats should visit the vet every 6 months for a wellness checkup according to PetMD. These visits allow the vet to monitor the cat’s health and catch any issues early.
Dietary changes – Many senior cats benefit from eating food formulated for mature cats according to CatFriendly.com. These foods are typically lower in calories while still providing balanced nutrition. Wet food or adding water can help cats prone to kidney problems.
Accommodating mobility issues – Senior cats may develop arthritis and have difficulty with stairs or jumping. Providing ramps, low-entry litter boxes, and confinement on one level can help according to the Cornell Feline Health Center. Soft bedding and heating pads can also increase comfort.
Common Health Issues
Senior cats face a variety of health issues as they age. Some of the most common include:
Kidney Disease
Kidney disease is one of the leading causes of death in older cats. As cats age, their kidneys gradually become less efficient at removing toxins from the blood. Early kidney disease often has no signs, which is why regular veterinary checkups including blood work are important. Treatment depends on the stage of kidney disease and may include intravenous fluids, diet changes, and medication. Cornell Veterinary School reports that diet and medication can help slow the progression of kidney disease. However, it is a progressive disease that cannot be cured.
Hyperthyroidism
An overactive thyroid gland, known as hyperthyroidism, is another common issue for senior cats. Thyroid problems can lead to weight loss despite a ravenous appetite, increased thirst and urination, vomiting, and hyperactivity. Hyperthyroidism is usually diagnosed through blood tests and treated with medication, radioactive iodine therapy, or removal of the thyroid gland. When treated, many cats can live for years after being diagnosed. However, left untreated, hyperthyroidism can lead to serious heart and kidney complications.
Arthritis
Degenerative joint disease, or arthritis, is common in older cats. Arthritic cats often have difficulty jumping up to favourite spots, show decreased interest in play, and have trouble grooming themselves properly. Veterinarians can prescribe pain medication, recommend joint supplements, or may suggest physiotherapy. Low-impact exercise, keeping cats at an ideal weight, and providing soft bedding can help arthritic cats stay mobile and comfortable.
Cancer
Cancer is unfortunately more prevalent in senior cats. Skin cancer, lymphoma, mammary tumors, and other cancers can crop up in aging cats. Treatment options depend on the type of cancer and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or palliative care. Catching cancer early greatly improves the chances of successful treatment and remission. Many cancers like lymphoma can be managed and allow the cat to have a good quality of life.
Keeping Senior Cats Mentally Stimulated
Just like their younger counterparts, senior cats need mental stimulation to keep their minds sharp. As cats age, it’s important to continue providing enriching activities to keep them engaged. Some great ways to mentally stimulate senior cats include:
Food puzzles and interactive feeders are an excellent way to keep senior cats’ minds active while they eat. Food puzzles introduce physical and mental challenges as cats bat and paw at the puzzles to release treats or kibble. This provides mental stimulation and slower feeding times. Popular puzzles for cats include food mazes, treat balls, puzzle boxes, and snuffle mats.
Keep up playtime, even if your senior cat is less energetic. Try different types of toys to see what captures their interest. Consider toys that allow passive play like battery-operated wands and track toys. Laser pointers are an easy way to get them moving and chasing. Rotate toys frequently to introduce novelty.
Introduce new sights, sounds, and smells to create sensory stimulation. Catnip and treats with new flavors can engages their senses. Let them observe the view from a sunny window perch or tune into nature sounds. Rearrange furniture periodically for a change of scenery.
Daily enrichment is important for senior cats to keep their bodies and minds engaged. Work activity into their normal routine to maintain quality of life.
Providing Comfort for Senior Cats
As cats age, their joints can become stiff and sore, making it difficult for them to move around comfortably. Providing soft, cushioned beds can help senior cats rest more easily. Place beds in warm, quiet areas of the home that your cat frequents. Using orthopedic beds or memory foam cushions can conform to a cat’s body shape and relieve pressure on joints. According to WagWalking, memory foam cushions “bones and muscles to allow a deeper and more restful sleep” for elderly cats.
Ramps and pet stairs can make it easier for senior cats to access furniture, beds, and windows they enjoy perching on. Ramps with carpet treads provide traction and stability under a cat’s paws. Strategically place ramps and steps near couches, beds, and other elevated areas your cat likes to be. Gradually introduce ramps and praise your cat when they use them to help encourage adoption.
As cats age, they may have difficulty getting in and out of litter boxes with high sides. Use a low-entry box or cut down the sides of the box to make access easier on stiff or sore joints. Place litter boxes in easy-to-access areas on the same level as where your cat spends most of their time. Keep boxes very clean by scooping waste at least once daily.
Arthritis and muscle stiffness are common in geriatric cats. Providing heating pads or heated pet beds can bring soothing warmth to sore joints. Introduce heating pads on low settings first to ensure your cat is comfortable with the gentle warmth before increasing the temperature. Supervise your cat anytime a heating source is in use. According to Cornell Feline Health Center, older cats benefit from more frequent grooming if self-grooming declines. Gentle petting or brushing increases blood flow and warms the skin.
Nutrition for Senior Cats
As cats age, their nutritional needs change. Senior cats often require fewer calories but increased protein and fat. It’s important to feed them a diet specifically formulated for mature cats.
Calorie needs tend to decrease in older cats due to reduced activity levels and slowed metabolism. Feeding senior-specific food prevents obesity, which exacerbates age-related health issues like arthritis. Senior cat foods have 25-30% fewer calories than adult cat foods.
Increased protein helps maintain muscle mass as cats age. Senior cat foods should contain at least 30% protein. High quality animal-based proteins like chicken, turkey, and fish are ideal.
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids support skin, coat, joint, heart, brain, and immune system health. Senior cats benefit from elevated levels of these essential fats. Fish, plant oils, and animal fats supply fatty acids.
Fiber aids digestion and reduces hairballs in older cats. Sources like beet pulp offer soluble fiber. Senior foods typically have moderate fiber levels around 2-4%.
Antioxidants like vitamin E combat aging’s effects. Senior cat foods are fortified with antioxidants. Restricting sodium promotes kidney health in mature cats. Look for low-sodium senior cat foods.
Ultimately, feeding an age-appropriate diet tailored to seniors’ needs supports health and quality of life in older cats. Consult your veterinarian for advice on choosing the best senior cat food.
When to Consider Euthanasia
Euthanasia is a difficult but compassionate decision when a cat is suffering and has a very poor quality of life. Senior cats with chronic or terminal illnesses often reach a point where treatment is no longer effective and their pain cannot be properly managed. In these cases, euthanasia may be the most humane option.
There are a few key signs that it may be time to consider euthanasia for a senior cat:
- Significant, unmanageable pain – If pain medications are no longer providing adequate relief and the cat is clearly uncomfortable or crying out, euthanasia may help end unneeded suffering.
- Little to no mobility – When a cat can no longer move around on their own to eat, drink, or go to the litter box, their quality of life is greatly diminished.
- Lack of interest or ability to groom – Grooming is essential feline behavior. A cat who can no longer groom likely has very little quality of life.
- Inappetence or difficulty eating/drinking – Being unable to take in adequate nutrition and hydration leads to rapid decline.
- Difficulty breathing – Labored breathing indicates failing lungs and airways.
- Incontinence – Loss of bowel or bladder control can lead to severe skin conditions.
- Uncontrolled vomiting/diarrhea – This leads to dehydration and metabolic imbalances.
- Terminal diagnosis – Euthanasia may be recommended when a cat has untreatable, advanced cancer, kidney disease, or other incurable conditions.
It’s critical to consult with your veterinarian when considering euthanasia. They can best assess your cat’s prognosis and whether they are beyond medical aid. While very difficult, choosing euthanasia compassionately ends unneeded suffering in sick, aged cats. Source
Enjoying Your Senior Cat
Despite some of the challenges of caring for an older cat, the senior years can still be rewarding if you focus on quality time together and meeting your cat’s evolving needs. Here are some tips for enjoying your senior feline companion:
- Spend extra time petting, brushing, and interacting with your cat. Set up cozy spots for snuggling and give plenty of affection.
- Keep up with veterinary checkups to stay on top of your cat’s health. Treat any conditions promptly for your cat’s comfort.
- Adjust your expectations about playtime and activity levels. Short, gentle play sessions are ideal. Appreciate the calm companionship of your mellowing cat.
- Make grooming gentle sessions. Try different brushes to find what your cat enjoys. Extra brushing removes loose hair they can no longer groom away.
- Consider mobility aids if your cat is having trouble getting around comfortably. Pet steps, ramps, litter boxes with lower sides, and orthopedic beds can help.
- Stick to familiar routines but be willing to make adjustments to meet changing needs. Your cat will feel secure with small thoughtful adaptations.
With some care and creativity, the affectionate bond you share with your cat can continue well into the senior years. Focus on comfort, adjust to their slower pace, and find new ways to delight in their mellow companionship.