Cats age more gracefully than most species — but they do age. From around 7 years old, cats are considered "senior," and by 11 they're "super-senior." The changes are subtle at first, but knowing what to watch for and how to adapt your home makes an enormous difference to their quality of life.
\n\nDietary Changes
\nSenior cats have different nutritional needs. Protein requirements actually increase with age — older cats are less efficient at processing protein, so they need more of it, not less. Look for foods with at least 30–40% protein on a dry matter basis and a named meat source as the first ingredient.
\nKidney disease affects up to 30% of cats over 15, and early-stage management is primarily dietary. A vet-prescribed renal diet can slow progression significantly — but it should only be introduced after a blood test confirms CKD, not as a preventive measure in healthy cats.
\n\nJoint Health
\nFeline arthritis is dramatically underdiagnosed. Studies suggest over 90% of cats over 12 have radiographic evidence of arthritis, but they hide pain instinctively. Watch for: reluctance to jump, reduced grooming (especially of hindquarters), personality changes, or choosing lower resting spots. Glucosamine/chondroitin supplements and environmental adaptations (ramps, lower litter boxes, heated beds) help significantly.
\n\nEnvironmental Adaptations
\n- \n
- Lower the entry of the litter box (cut a U-shape in one side if needed) \n
- Add ramps or steps to favourite elevated spots \n
- Provide a heated bed — warmth relieves joint stiffness \n
- Keep food and water on the same floor as where the cat sleeps \n
Vet Schedule
\nAnnual check-ups become biannual for senior cats. A senior wellness panel (blood count, organ function, thyroid, urinalysis) catches the most common senior conditions — hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, and diabetes — when they're most treatable.
