Key takeaways
- Cats are generally considered senior after about 10 years old.
- Senior cats should see the vet twice a year or more.
- Weight loss is a particular concern in older cats; weigh your cat regularly.
- Low-sided litter boxes, steps to favorite spots and warm beds help stiff joints.
When is a cat a senior?
Cats are generally considered senior after 10 years of age, and many start showing age-related changes around then. With good care, indoor living and modern veterinary medicine, cats are living longer than ever, and age itself isn't a disease.
Twice-yearly vet checks
Older cats are good at hiding illness, so regular checks matter. Senior cats should see the vet twice a year or more, and exams may include bloodwork, a dental check and a blood pressure reading to catch common conditions like kidney disease, thyroid disease and diabetes early.
Signs to report
- Weight loss or a change in appetite
- Drinking or urinating more
- Going outside the litter box
- Sleeping more, hiding, or less interest in play
- Stiffness, reluctance to jump or a messier coat from grooming less
- Vocalizing more at night or seeming confused
- Bad breath or difficulty eating
Easy changes at home
- Litter boxes with lower sides, on every floor your cat uses
- Steps, ramps or a chair to reach favorite windowsills and beds
- Warm, padded beds away from drafts
- Food and water where your cat doesn't have to jump
- Gentle brushing to help with spots your cat can no longer reach
Products that help.
Wild One Cat Bolster Bed
A cozy bolster nest for naps
We recommend the Wild One Cat Bolster Bed for cats who nap best with something to lean on: raised walls cradle them, a non-slip base keeps the bed put, and the cover comes off for washing.
- Cats who like raised sides
- Hard floors
PANDAJIN Cassava × Tofu Plant Cat Litter
A plant-based clumping blend without added fragrance
PANDAJIN combines tofu fiber and cassava in an unscented clumping litter. Transition gradually, check your automatic box’s litter requirements and watch how your cat responds.
- Plant-based litter shoppers
- Unscented litter
Questions, answered
How old is a senior cat in human years?
Cats are generally considered senior from about 10 years old. Cat-to-human age conversions are rough, but a 10-year-old cat is well into middle age.
Why is my old cat losing weight?
Weight loss in older cats is common with conditions like kidney disease, an overactive thyroid, diabetes and dental pain. Book a vet visit if your cat is losing weight.
Why is my senior cat peeing outside the litter box?
Medical problems and arthritis are common causes; high-sided boxes can be hard to climb into. See your vet, then try a low-entry box.
Sources
We base our care guides on guidance from veterinary schools, veterinary associations and animal welfare organizations, written in our own words. If your pet is unwell, your vet is the right first call.