Cats are experts at hiding discomfort, so the changes that come with age are easy to miss. Under the 2021 AAHA/AAFP Feline Life Stage Guidelines, cats aged 7–10 are "mature adults" and cats over 10 are "seniors." Knowing what to watch for — and adapting your home and care routine — makes a real difference to an older cat's quality of life.
Diet and Weight
Older cats' nutritional needs change, but not always in the direction people expect. Many cats over about 12 digest protein and fat less efficiently, which makes muscle loss and unintended weight loss common in seniors. For a healthy older cat, protein generally shouldn't be restricted — ask your vet whether your cat's current food still fits.
Weigh your cat regularly (a baby scale works well). Gradual weight loss is one of the most important early warning signs of illness in older cats and is easy to miss by eye.
Kidney disease is one of the most common conditions in older cats. If bloodwork confirms it, a vet-prescribed kidney diet can help slow its progression — but these diets are designed for cats with diagnosed disease, not as a preventive measure for healthy cats.
Joint Pain and Arthritis
Arthritis is very common in older cats but often goes unnoticed: in one radiographic study, around 90% of cats over 12 showed signs of degenerative joint disease. Cats rarely limp. Instead, watch for:
- Hesitating before jumping, or no longer using favorite high spots
- Less grooming, especially along the back and hindquarters
- Accidents outside the litter box (climbing in can hurt)
- Irritability, hiding, or sleeping more
If you notice these signs, see your vet: there are approved pain treatments for cats, including Solensia (frunevetmab), a monthly injection for arthritis pain. Omega-3 supplements may help as part of the plan. Glucosamine and chondroitin are widely sold, but the evidence doesn't support them for arthritis pain. Never give a cat pain medication made for people or dogs — many are toxic to cats.
Adapting Your Home
- Use a litter box with a low entry, or cut a U-shaped opening in one side
- Add ramps or steps to favorite elevated spots and window perches
- Offer a warm, padded bed — many arthritic cats seek out warmth
- Keep food, water and a litter box on the floor where your cat spends most of their time
- Use rugs or runners on slippery floors
Vet Visits and Screening
Many vets recommend checkups every six months for senior cats, because common age-related diseases — kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, high blood pressure and dental disease — often develop quietly. Routine bloodwork, urinalysis and a blood pressure check help catch them early, when they're easiest to manage.
See your vet sooner if you notice changes in appetite, thirst, urination, weight, litter box habits, behavior or sleep patterns, or if your cat seems disoriented or vocalizes more at night.
