As cats get older they face more concerns. Owners of old cats need to be aware of their issues.
Older cats often meow more. Sometimes this is because their hearing is fading, but other times it is just because they are not feeling as good as they use to and want comfort.
Older cats often get cateracts, and have some loss of eyesight, they can even go blind. Cats who are losing their eyesight should not go outside at all (the same with cats who have lost hearing). They might also have problems with stairs or with recently moved furniture.
Cats can get arthritis and have aches and pains in general. This will usually act up more in winter or when the weather is bad. Older cats need to be kept warm so their joints do not hurt as much.
While not all older cats get fat, many do. This is often the result of being fed a poor quality commercial cat food, and can lead to diabetes. Owners of chubby senior cats can look for special weight reduction food for cats who are older than 7.
Cancer is a leading killer of pets. Some cancers have been suspected to be linked to ingredients in lower quality pet foods (BHT, BHA, and Ethoxyquin which is in by-products).
Thanks for a informative list. My cat will be 13 years old in November. She is really fat, but so far seems to be healthy. Her eyes look really clear.
My cat has been an indoor cat all her life. I have had her fixed so she does not have kittens, and declawed. She does not know what it is like to be outdoors.
Thank you for your wise list. My senior cats have sometimes looked scruffy in the fur when they get to the end of their life.
well written and informative...but I have no cat :)
Great tips about senior cats.
select one here...