Senior Cat Health: A Complete Guide to Caring for an Ageing Cat

Cats age more slowly in their early years than dogs of equivalent size but the curve steepens significantly from around 10 years onwards. A 12-year-old cat has an internal biological age comparable to a human in their mid-60s. The most important difference from dogs is that cats are exceptional at masking pain and illness: they evolved as solitary hunters in environments where showing vulnerability was dangerous. An older cat that is quieter, sleeping more and less interested in food is often described by owners as "just slowing down." In reality, this presentation warrants a veterinary investigation because it describes the symptom profile of multiple serious conditions.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects 20 to 50 percent of cats over 10 years and up to 80 percent over 15. It is silent in early stages: clinical signs do not appear until approximately 75 percent of kidney function has been lost. Annual blood and urine testing from age 7 is the single most impactful screening measure for older cats. See the urinary and kidney concern page for cats. Hyperthyroidism affects approximately 10 percent of cats over 10 years in Australia. It causes weight loss despite an increased appetite, increased thirst, hyperactivity and vomiting. Diagnosis is straightforward via a blood test (serum T4). Untreated hyperthyroidism causes cardiac damage and is fatal over time, but treatment is highly effective and the prognosis with treatment is excellent. Dental disease affects the majority of cats by middle age and becomes severe in many older cats. By 10 years, most cats have significant periodontal disease, often without any owner-visible signs. The dental health concern page for cats covers prevention and management. Osteoarthritis affects 61 percent of cats over 6 years and over 90 percent of cats over 12 on radiographic screening. Cats hide joint pain more effectively than dogs. The early signs are behavioural: reduced jump height, reluctance to use stairs, changes in grooming, reduced interaction. See the joint health concern page for cats.

Senior cats have distinct nutritional requirements compared to adults. Protein requirements actually increase in older cats due to reduced metabolic efficiency, contrary to the old view that senior cats need less protein. The exception is cats with diagnosed CKD, where phosphorus restriction is important alongside appropriate protein levels under veterinary guidance. Taurine remains critical throughout life. Omega-3 fatty acids support kidney health, joint health and cognitive function in senior cats. Multivitamin for Cats provides taurine, essential amino acids and EPA and DHA specifically formulated for feline nutritional requirements. Hydration is particularly important in older cats given their elevated CKD risk. Wet food is strongly preferred over dry food for senior cats for this reason.

For a cat entering senior years (from approximately 8 to 10 years), a practical daily supplement approach covers the three most likely concurrent concerns: joint health (Hip and Joint for Cats), kidney and urinary support (Urinary and Kidney for Cats) and complete nutritional support including taurine (Multivitamin for Cats). All three can be used simultaneously. Important: Urinary and Kidney for Cats must be given at least 3 hours apart from any prescription medication.

From 7 years: full blood panel including T4 for hyperthyroidism screening, urine specific gravity and protein:creatinine ratio for early CKD detection, blood pressure measurement, body weight and body condition score, dental assessment. From 10 years: increase to every 6 months for blood and urine testing given the rapid escalation in disease prevalence in this age group. Any cat showing increased thirst, weight loss or reduced appetite should be assessed immediately regardless of age.