Typical Lifespan of Cats
The typical lifespan of a cat depends mainly on whether the cat lives indoors or outdoors. According to PetMD, the average lifespan of an indoor cat ranges from 13-17 years, with some cats living even longer to 20 years or more. Cats that live exclusively outdoors typically have a much shorter lifespan of only 2-5 years on average.
A study by PetMD found that indoor cats live significantly longer than outdoor cats because they are not exposed to the dangers that the outdoors present. Dangers for outdoor cats include getting hit by cars, getting into fights with other animals, exposure to harsh weather, and contracting diseases. Indoor cats are safer and live longer lives as long as their needs for exercise and enrichment are met inside the home.
When is a Cat Considered a Senior?
Cats are generally considered senior once they reach 7 years of age (https://www.fergusonanimalhospital.com/site/blog/2022/11/30/aging-cats-when-is-a-cat-considered-a-senior). According to the American Association of Feline Practitioners, cats in the 7-10 year age range are classified as mature adults, while those 11 years and older are considered geriatric or senior cats (https://www.petmd.com/cat/general-health/what-expect-when-your-kitty-becomes-senior-cat).
The senior cat designation is based on the typical lifespan of domestic cats, which ranges from 12-18 years on average. Just like humans, cats begin experiencing age-related changes around the midpoint of the expected lifespan. While every cat ages differently, most cats are considered seniors by age 7.
Some sources break down senior cats into categories like mature (7-10 years), senior (11-14 years), and geriatric (15+ years). But generally speaking, once a cat reaches 7 years old, their owner should start implementing age-appropriate care for a senior feline.
Signs of Aging in Senior Cats
As cats reach 7 years and older, their bodies and behaviors start to change. Here are some of the most common signs of aging in senior cats:
Increased Sleeping and Decreased Activity: It’s normal for senior cats to sleep more during the day and night as they get older. They often have less energy and may seem less enthusiastic about playtime or interacting (https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/loving-care-older-cats).
Graying Fur: A cat’s fur can start to thin out and turn gray as they age past 7 years old. Their coat may appear duller and less shiny. White cats may yellow with age (https://www.papayapet.com/resources/8-signs-your-cat-is-aging/).
Weight Loss or Gain: Seniors cats can lose or gain weight as their metabolism changes. Make sure to monitor their weight and adjust their diet if needed.
Dental Issues: Gum disease, tooth loss, and other dental problems are common in senior cats. Signs include bad breath, difficulty eating, and loss of appetite.
Overall, senior cats slow down and have lower energy levels. But with proper care, love, and attention, they can still lead happy lives well into their senior years.
Special Care for Senior Cats
Senior cats require some special care in their golden years to keep them healthy and happy. As cats age, their bodies become more frail and they are prone to various health issues. Here are some tips for caring for your senior feline friend:
Take your cat to the veterinarian more frequently for checkups and preventative care. Annual visits are recommended for senior cats, with twice yearly visits if your cat has any chronic conditions [1]. Keep up with vaccines, dental cleanings, and parasite prevention. Discuss supplements like joint care or kidney support with your vet as well.
Adjust your cat’s diet as needed for weight management and energy levels. Food with extra protein and moisture is ideal for aging cats. Feed a high-quality senior cat food and ask your vet about prescription diets if your cat has any health issues like kidney disease or diabetes.
Help your senior cat stay active in body and mind. Engage in gentle play sessions, provide cat trees and steps for climbing and perching, and set up puzzle feeders. Avoid boredom by rotating toys and interact with your cat through brushing, lap time, and positive reinforcement.
Adjust litter boxes with low sides for easier mobility. Place food, water, and litter boxes in easily accessible areas. Keep your cat’s environment calm by minimizing loud noises and introducing any changes gradually.
Common Health Issues in Senior Cats
As cats age, they become more susceptible to certain health issues. Here are some of the most common conditions seen in senior cats:
Kidney Disease
Kidney disease is very prevalent in older cats, with more than half of cats over 15 years old developing some form of it. Kidney disease causes the kidneys to gradually lose function over time. Symptoms include increased thirst, increased urination, weight loss, poor appetite, vomiting, and bad breath.1
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism results from an overactive thyroid gland that produces excess thyroid hormone. It affects over 10% of senior cats. Symptoms include weight loss despite increased appetite, increased activity and vocalization, vomiting, diarrhea, and unkempt fur. Treatments include medication, radioactive iodine therapy, dietary changes, and surgery.2
Arthritis
Arthritis causes stiffness, pain, and decreased mobility in cats. It results from degeneration of joints over time. Signs include difficulty jumping, lameness, decreased activity, and behavioral changes. Arthritis is managed through weight control, joint supplements, anti-inflammatories, and environment modifications.3
Cancer
Cancer is a leading cause of death in senior cats. Some common cancers include lymphoma, mammary gland tumors, and squamous cell carcinoma. Symptoms depend on the type and location of cancer. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and palliative care.
Cognitive Dysfunction
Cognitive dysfunction is similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans. It causes personality changes, confusion, anxiety, aimless wandering, and disrupted cycles of activity and rest. There are medications and dietary supplements that may help manage the symptoms.
Keep Senior Cats Comfortable
As cats get older, their bodies go through many changes that can make them less comfortable. Here are some tips to help keep senior cats as comfortable as possible:
Provide soft, orthopedic beds and plush blankets for sleeping. These will be gentler on aging joints and allow deeper, more restful sleep [1]. Place beds in warm spots out of drafts.
Use ramps and steps to make jumping onto furniture and beds easier for arthritic joints. There are many options available including carpeted stairs and sturdy ramps [2].
Consider adding a heating pad under a soft blanket for more comfortable rest. Be sure to monitor its use as senior cats may not be able to move if they get too warm.
Gently massage sore joints and muscles to promote blood flow and flexibility. Talk to your vet about supplements like glucosamine that support joint health.
Place litter boxes on each level of your home and use lower-sided boxes for easier access. Scoop frequently to help delicate paws.
Groom senior cats more frequently as they may not be able to reach all areas. This removes mats and promotes circulation.
Nutrition for Senior Cats
Proper nutrition is especially important for senior cats. As cats age, their metabolism changes and their activity levels tend to decrease. This means their calorie requirements are lower. Switching to a senior cat food formula designed for older cats is usually recommended.
Wet food or a wet/dry combo may be ideal for senior cats. The high moisture content helps keep senior cats hydrated. Canned food also tends to be lower in carbohydrates. Many vets recommend feeding senior cats a high-protein, low-carb diet to help maintain muscle mass and control weight as activity decreases.
Look for senior cat foods enriched with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids like fish oil. These support skin, coat, joint, heart, brain, and immune system health. Senior cats may also benefit from antioxidants like vitamin E to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
If your senior cat is underweight, your vet may suggest feeding smaller, more frequent meals or supplementing with nutritious kitten food. Monitor your cat’s weight routinely and make adjustments as needed. Overweight cats should be slowly transitioned to a senior formula lower in calories.
Work closely with your vet to identify any nutritional deficiencies or special dietary needs. With proper nutrition tailored to your senior cat’s changing requirements, you can support continued health and vigor in their golden years.
Mental Stimulation for Senior Cats
Just like younger cats, senior cats need mental stimulation to keep their minds active and engaged. As cats age, it’s important to continue playtime and provide interactive toys to prevent boredom and cognitive decline.
Some great mentally stimulating toys for senior cats include food puzzle toys, treat balls, interactive wand toys, and toys that require batting or scratching. Rotate toys frequently to keep them interesting. Try hiding treats around the house or putting dry food in cardboard egg cartons for your cat to sniff out and “hunt.”
Setting up a “cat TV” station near a window can provide mental stimulation as your senior cat watches birds and other wildlife outside. Consider leaving some catnip accessible, as the scent can be mentally stimulating. Grooming, petting, and brushing are other good ways to provide mental engagement.
Adjust playtime for your senior cat’s physical abilities. Short, frequent play sessions of 5-10 minutes are ideal. Provide gentle interaction and be patient, as senior cats may tire more easily. The key is keeping their mind active through play, even if physical activity is limited.
With patience and creativity, you can continue providing mental enrichment that keeps your senior cat’s mind sharp and engaged for their golden years.
Saying Goodbye
As much as we wish we could have our feline companions forever, there often comes a time when we have to say goodbye. Quality of life is one of the most important considerations when determining if it’s time to euthanize a senior cat.
There are some telltale signs that quality of life has declined significantly for a senior cat. These include having little interest in food or water, difficulty moving around or using the litter box, significant weight loss, loss of hygiene, constant crying or vocalizing from pain, and chronic conditions that don’t respond to treatment. If your vet confirms your cat is declining and there are no options to improve their quality of life, it may be time to discuss euthanasia.
Euthanizing a beloved pet is an incredibly difficult decision. It’s important to consider factors like your cat’s daily experience and if they are suffering without reasonable hope of improvement. Your vet can guide you through the decision and perform the gentle euthanasia procedure when the time comes. Many cat owners find comfort in having an in-home euthanasia so their pet can pass away in a familiar, peaceful place.
Grieving the loss of a cat is painful but normal. Give yourself time and space to grieve. Creating a memorial, looking at photos and talking with others who knew your cat can provide some solace. Remember the joy they brought you and how you gave them a good life. The pain of their loss is the price for the unconditional love they shared.
Saying goodbye to a senior cat is a privilege we have to spare them suffering at the end of life. With time, the happy memories remain and the grief fades. Take heart knowing you made one of the hardest loving decisions for the wellbeing of your faithful companion.
Enjoy Your Senior Cat
As cats get older, it’s important for owners to cherish the special bond they share. Senior cats are mellower and often more affectionate. Make the most of your time together by keeping your cat comfortable and accommodating their needs.
Give your senior cat more attention and gentle petting, which they often appreciate more as they age. Engaging in play can also strengthen your bond, even if just short play sessions. Interactive toys like wand toys are great for exercising the body and mind.
Focus on keeping your cat happy in their golden years. Providing a calm environment, proper nutrition, mental stimulation, and veterinary care will help ensure they live their senior years to the fullest. The extra care is all worth it for the joy and companionship a senior cat can provide.