Introduction
As cats age, their organs start to deteriorate and fail. Organ failure is common in senior cats, especially over the age of 10. The two main organs that start to fail are the kidneys and liver. Kidney disease is extremely prevalent in older cats, with some studies showing over 30% of cats over 15 years old having chronic kidney disease (CKD) [1]. Liver disease is also more common in geriatric cats. Other organs like the heart and thyroid can also start to fail or have problems. In general, organ failure happens because of age-related changes, infections, cancer, and other issues that damage the organs over time.
Kidney Failure
Chronic kidney disease is one of the most common conditions affecting older cats. It is characterized by the gradual loss of kidney function over time. Kidney disease leads to the buildup of waste products in the blood and anemia (low red blood cell count). According to VCA Animal Hospitals, the disease usually affects cats 7 years or older, with most cats being diagnosed between 10-15 years old.
The Cornell Feline Health Center states that chronic kidney disease cannot be cured, but treatment can help slow its progression and manage symptoms. Treatment focuses on minimizing waste buildup through diet, controlling blood pressure, maintaining hydration, and managing anemia. Cats with chronic kidney disease require more veterinary care over time as their condition worsens. In advanced stages, kidney failure can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, poor appetite, and ulcers in the mouth.
While chronic kidney disease shortens the lifespan of senior cats, ICCatCare notes that cats can live with the disease for months or years with proper management. Monitoring labwork, medications, IV fluids, and dietary changes can provide a good quality of life. However, euthanasia may eventually need to be considered if the cat stops responding to treatment and has a poor quality of life.
Liver Failure
Liver disease becomes increasingly common in older cats. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, liver disorders affect approximately 1 in 10 geriatric cats. The liver performs essential functions like metabolizing nutrients, removing toxins from the blood, and producing proteins. Age-related changes to this vital organ can have serious health repercussions.1
As cats age, their livers often become smaller, firmer, and less elastic. Older cats are prone to developing hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease), cholangiohepatitis (inflammation of the bile ducts), tumors, and liver failure. Underlying illnesses like hyperthyroidism, diabetes, cancer, and dental disease can also damage the liver over time.
Signs of liver dysfunction may include loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), fluid buildup in the abdomen, and neurological symptoms like disorientation and seizures. However, cats can lose up to 70% of normal liver function before exhibiting any outward symptoms. That’s why annual senior wellness exams and bloodwork are so important for monitoring liver health.
Heart Failure
Heart disease is very common in senior cats, with some studies estimating that over 40% of apparently healthy older cats having some form of heart disease.1 The most prevalent heart condition in senior cats is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which accounts for approximately 60-70% of heart disease cases.2
While heart disease can affect cats of any age, it becomes increasingly common in cats over the age of 10. Male cats are at a slightly higher risk than females. The prognosis depends on the type and severity of heart disease, but many cats can live with managed heart disease for months or even years with proper veterinary care and medication.
Some signs of heart failure in senior cats include lethargy, weakness, weight loss, labored or rapid breathing, coughing, fainting, fluid buildup in the abdomen or lungs. Sudden onset of congestive heart failure is possible in some cats. Early detection via annual senior wellness exams and cardiac screening is key for maximizing longevity and quality of life.
Thyroid Problems
One of the most common thyroid problems in senior cats is hyperthyroidism, which is an overproduction of thyroid hormones. Hyperthyroidism affects around 10% of cats over the age of 10 years old1. The thyroid gland becomes overactive and produces too much of the hormone thyroxine. Some of the most common symptoms of feline hyperthyroidism include weight loss, increased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst and urination, hyperactivity, and poor hair coat. Untreated hyperthyroidism can lead to secondary heart disease and high blood pressure. However, there are treatment options available for cats including medication, radioactive iodine therapy, surgery, and dietary management. With early detection and proper treatment, many senior cats with hyperthyroidism can live happily for years.
Diabetes
As cats age, they are increasingly at risk for developing diabetes mellitus, a condition in which the body loses the ability to properly regulate blood sugar levels.[1] Diabetes often develops in senior cats around the ages of 10-14 years old. Male cats are at a slightly higher risk than females. Obese and inactive cats also have an elevated risk for diabetes as they age.
When a cat develops diabetes, either the pancreas does not produce enough insulin (Type I diabetes) or the body’s cells become resistant to the effects of insulin (Type II diabetes).[2] Without sufficient insulin regulation, glucose builds up in the bloodstream while the body’s cells are unable to access glucose for energy. This leads to persistently high blood sugar levels in diabetic cats.
Some symptoms that may indicate diabetes in senior cats include increased thirst, increased urination, weight loss, increased appetite, vomiting, weakness, and lethargy. Getting a diagnosis from a veterinarian and beginning treatment as soon as possible is important to help regulate blood sugar and avoid complications.
Cancer
Cancer rates rise significantly in aging cats, especially after the age of 10-12 years old. As cats get older, their risk for developing certain cancers increases. According to Cancer in Cats – International Cat Care, cancers affect older cats more commonly than younger cats. Many cancers grow slowly over a long period of time in cats. The most common cancers found in senior cats include lymphoma, mammary gland tumors, mast cell tumors, squamous cell carcinoma, and fibrosarcoma.
Squamous cell carcinoma is one of the most prevalent oral cancers found in cats, representing 70-80% of all oral tumors. Older cats have an increased risk of developing this cancer due to long-term exposure to environmental factors. According to a study published in PMC, squamous cell carcinoma is associated with exposure to environmental tobacco smoke in cats Cats, Cancer and Comparative Oncology – PMC.
As cats age, their bodies’ natural immune defenses weaken over time, making them more susceptible to developing certain cancers. Regular veterinary checkups and dental cleanings can help detect oral cancer and other cancers early in senior cats.
Cognitive Dysfunction
As cats age, they can develop cognitive dysfunction, which is similar to dementia or Alzheimer’s disease in humans. This condition is sometimes referred to as “senility” or “feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome” (Source). It affects an older cat’s memory, learning, perception, and awareness. Cats with cognitive dysfunction may seem disoriented, get stuck in corners, fail to recognize familiar people, have altered sleep-wake cycles, become less active, develop house soiling habits, and stop grooming themselves properly (Source).
The most noticeable sign of cognitive dysfunction in senior cats is increased disorientation and forgetting familiar places or people. A cat that previously used the litter box may start having accidents around the house. They may meow excessively, especially at night, as their sleep-wake cycles become disrupted. Cats with dementia can seem anxious or restless and pace aimlessly. They can get stuck behind furniture or in corners. Overall, senior cats with cognitive decline have difficulty remembering, learning new things, adapting to changes, and focusing their attention.
Arthritis
As cats age, they can develop arthritis and other joint issues that cause pain and mobility problems. Arthritis, or osteoarthritis, is inflammation and degeneration of the joints that occurs over time (VCAHospitals). It’s very common in older cats. According to WebMD, arthritis and related joint diseases affect up to 90% of senior cats (WebMD). The most commonly affected joints are the elbows, knees, hips, and spine.
Signs of arthritis in cats include stiffness, difficulty jumping up or climbing, decreased activity levels, difficulty using the litter box, and behavioral changes like increased irritability or aggression. Cats may also lick or bite at painful joints. You may hear cracking or popping sounds when they move their joints (VCAHospitals).
There’s no cure for arthritis in cats, but various treatments can help manage pain and inflammation. Weight management is important since extra weight puts more strain on sore joints. Prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), joint supplements, physical therapy exercises, and alternative therapies like acupuncture may help relieve arthritis symptoms (WebMD). Providing steps, ramps, and soft bedding can make it easier for arthritic cats to move around comfortably.
While arthritis can’t be reversed, properly managing pain and mobility issues is very important for senior cats’ quality of life. Talk to your vet about the best treatment options if your aging cat seems stiff, sore, or reluctant to move around.
Conclusion
In summary, senior cats can develop a variety of health issues as they age, including kidney failure, liver failure, heart failure, thyroid problems, diabetes, cancer, cognitive dysfunction, and arthritis. It’s important for cat owners to monitor their senior cat’s health closely, scheduling regular veterinary checkups to catch any problems early. With proper care and attention, many cats can live happily into their late teens and even early 20s.
Some key signs to watch for include increased thirst and urination, weight loss, poor coat quality, decreased activity levels, and behavior changes. If abnormal symptoms are noticed, take your cat to the vet promptly for an exam and testing. With early detection and treatment, progression of age-related diseases may be slowed. Focus on providing excellent nutrition, maintaining a consistent routine, relieving joint pain, and keeping your senior cat’s environment clean, comfortable and stimulating.
While aging brings inevitable health declines, diligent care and monitoring allows early intervention. With some adjustments, extra patience, and proactive veterinary care, senior cats can continue enjoying many good years as beloved family members.