Think you know your feline friend inside and out? Think again! Your seemingly spry kitty might be hiding a secret—it’s entering its golden years. As our beloved cats age, they often mask the telltale signs of aging.
From changes in behavior to physical transformations, these hidden indicators will help you spot the signs of aging in your furry companion. Here’s 15 signs your cat is getting old.
1. Increased Nap Time
Remember when your cat used to zoom around the house at all hours? Those days might be fading into memory. Senior cats tend to spend more time catching Z’s than their younger counterparts. While adult cats already sleep up to 16 hours a day, you may notice your aging feline snoozing even longer.(ref)
This increase in rest time isn’t just laziness—it’s a natural part of the aging process. As cats age, their energy levels decrease, leading to more frequent and longer naps. However, if you find your cat difficult to wake or excessively lethargic, it’s worth a trip to the vet to rule out any underlying health issues.
2. Dental Dilemmas
Is your cat suddenly turning their nose up at their favorite crunchy treats? Dental issues could be the culprit. Surprisingly, dental disease can affect cats as young as 4 or 5 years old, but it becomes increasingly common in senior felines.
Watch for signs like reluctance to eat, chewing on one side of the mouth, or dropping food while eating. These could indicate dental problems that are more prevalent in older cats. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian are crucial, as almost 100% of cats develop dental disease by age 5.
Early detection and treatment can save your senior kitty from unnecessary discomfort and potential health complications.
3. Appetite Alterations
Has your cat’s food bowl been looking a little fuller lately? Or perhaps they’re meowing for seconds more often? Changes in appetite can be a subtle sign of aging in cats. While senior cats should generally maintain their weight, their metabolism may shift, causing them to eat slightly more or less than before.
However, significant changes in eating habits warrant attention. A sudden increase or decrease in appetite could signal underlying health issues common in older cats, such as hyperthyroidism or kidney disease.
If you notice your furry friend’s eating patterns have changed dramatically, it’s time for a chat with your vet to ensure your cat’s nutritional needs are being met as they age.
4. Grooming Gaps
Remember when your cat was the picture of feline cleanliness? As cats age, they may become a bit lax in their personal hygiene routine. This isn’t just a case of kitty laziness—it could be a sign that your cat is entering its senior years.
Older cats might struggle grooming due to decreased flexibility or conditions like arthritis. You may notice their coat looking a bit unkempt or matted, especially in hard-to-reach areas. This is your cue to step in with extra brushing sessions and maybe even some nail trimming.
Not only will this help keep your senior cat looking sharp, but it’s also a great opportunity for bonding and checking for any skin issues that might be hiding under that fur.
5. Water Works
Is your cat suddenly channeling their inner camel? An increase in water consumption might seem harmless, but it’s actually a red flag for aging cats. If you find yourself refilling the water bowl more frequently, your feline friend could signal that they’re entering their senior years.
Excessive thirst in older cats can be a symptom of common age-related conditions such as kidney disease or diabetes. While staying hydrated is important, a sudden increase in water intake is worth investigating. Keep an eye on the water bowl and litter box habits, as changes in urination often accompany increased thirst.
If you notice these changes, it’s time to schedule a check-up with your vet to ensure your cat’s health isn’t taking a hit as they age.
6. Cloudy Eyes
Has your cat’s gaze lost some of its crystal-clear sparkle? Don’t be too quick to blame it on your own aging eyesight. Cloudy eyes in cats can be a subtle sign that your feline friend is entering their senior years. This condition, known as lenticular sclerosis, is a normal age-related change that affects the eye’s lens.
Interestingly, while it may look concerning, lenticular sclerosis doesn’t typically impair your cat’s vision significantly. In fact, almost all cats will show visible signs of this condition by the age of 9, with the cloudiness becoming more noticeable as the years roll on.(ref) However, it’s crucial not to dismiss all eye changes as benign. Sometimes, cloudy eyes can indicate more serious conditions like cataracts.
If you notice any changes in your cat’s eyes, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.
7. Increased Vocalization
Is your once-quiet kitty suddenly becoming a feline opera singer? Increased vocalization, especially at night, can be a surprising sign that your cat is entering its senior years. This change in behavior isn’t just your cat developing a new hobby—it could be a sign of cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), a condition similar to dementia in humans.
CDS is relatively common in geriatric cats, causing confusion, disorientation, and, yes, excessive meowing.(ref)
While there’s no specific cure for CDS, certain diets, supplements, and medications may help reduce the symptoms. If your cat’s nighttime serenades are becoming regular, it’s time to chat with your vet. They can help determine if CDS is the culprit and suggest ways to make your aging kitty more comfortable.
8. Personality Changes
Has your once-cuddly kitty become a bit of a grouch? Or perhaps your formerly aloof cat is now your constant shadow? Personality changes can be a subtle sign that your cat is aging. As cats enter their senior years, they may become more irritable, anxious, or even more affectionate than before.
These changes aren’t just your cat having a mid-life crisis. They can be indicators of underlying health issues or cognitive changes. For instance, hyperthyroidism, a common condition in older cats, can cause previously docile cats to become aggressive or agitated.
Conversely, some cats may become more clingy as they age, seeking comfort and reassurance from their human companions. If you notice significant personality shifts in your feline friend, it’s time for a check-up to rule out any health concerns.
9. Mobility
Has your agile acrobat become more of a couch potato lately? Subtle changes in mobility can be a hidden clue that your cat is entering their golden years. You might notice your cat hesitating before jumping onto high surfaces or opting for lower perches than before.
These changes often stem from age-related conditions like arthritis, which affects many senior cats. While cats are masters at hiding pain, these small shifts in behavior can be their way of adapting to discomfort.
If you notice your cat struggling with jumps or avoiding certain activities, it’s time for a vet check-up. Early intervention can help manage pain and keep your senior kitty comfortable and active.
10. Weight Fluctuations
Has your cat’s silhouette been changing lately? Unexpected weight fluctuations can be a subtle sign of aging. While some senior cats may gain weight due to decreased activity, others might experience unexplained weight loss.
These changes aren’t just about your cat’s relationship with their food bowl. Conditions like hyperthyroidism can cause weight loss despite increased appetite, while arthritis might lead to weight gain due to reduced activity.
Regular weigh-ins and vet check-ups are crucial for senior cats to catch and address these changes early. Remember, maintaining a healthy weight is key to your cat’s overall well-being as they age.
11. Fur Texture
Has your cat’s coat lost some of its silky smoothness? As cats age, changes in their fur texture can be a subtle indicator of their advancing years. You might notice your fluffy kitty feeling a bit coarser to the touch or their fur becoming thinner in certain areas.
These changes are often due to a decrease in oil production in the skin, which can affect the overall quality of the coat. Additionally, older cats may experience a reduction in their ability to groom effectively, leading to a less lustrous appearance. While not all cats will show dramatic changes, paying attention to the feel and look of your cat’s fur can provide valuable clues about their age.
Regular grooming sessions can help you stay attuned to these subtle shifts while providing bonding time with your aging feline.
12. Litter Box Habits
Have you noticed your cat’s bathroom routine changing? Subtle shifts in litter box habits can be a hidden clue that your feline friend is entering their senior years. You might observe your cat visiting the litter box more frequently or perhaps having accidents outside their usual spot.
These changes can be attributed to various age-related factors. Older cats may develop urinary tract issues or kidney problems that increase urination. Additionally, arthritis or joint pain can make it difficult for senior cats to climb into high-sided litter boxes, leading to accidents. If you notice any changes in your cat’s litter box behavior, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian.
Early detection of underlying health issues can significantly affect your cat’s comfort and well-being as they age.
13. Sensitivity to Temperature
Is your cat suddenly seeking out warm spots more often? An unexpected sensitivity to temperature can be a subtle sign that your feline friend is entering their golden years. You might find your cat curling up in sunny patches more frequently or seeking cozy blankets even when the room isn’t chilly.
This increased sensitivity to cold is often due to age-related changes in a cat’s metabolism and circulation. As cats age, their ability to regulate body temperature can decrease, making them more susceptible to feeling chilly.
Additionally, older cats may have less muscle mass and body fat, which can contribute to feeling colder more easily. If you notice your cat seeking warmth more often, consider providing extra cozy spots around the house and consult your vet about ways to keep your senior kitty comfortable.
14. Play Behavior
Has your once-playful kitty become more of a spectator? Changes in play behavior can be a hidden clue that your cat is aging. You might notice your cat showing less interest in their favorite toys or tiring more quickly during play sessions.
This shift in play behavior is often due to a combination of factors. As cats age, they may experience decreased energy levels and physical stamina. Additionally, age-related conditions like arthritis can make certain types of play uncomfortable. However, it’s important to note that reduced play doesn’t mean your cat no longer needs mental and physical stimulation.
Adapting play sessions to suit your aging cat’s abilities and preferences can help keep them engaged and active. Consider introducing gentler toys or shorter play periods to accommodate your senior feline’s changing needs.
15. Social Behavior Changes
Has your typically aloof cat become a cuddle bug, or vice versa? Unexpected changes in social behavior can be a subtle clue that your cat is aging. You might find your once-independent feline seeking more attention and affection or your usually sociable cat becoming more withdrawn.
These shifts in social behavior can stem from various age-related factors. Some older cats may become more clingy due to anxiety or a need for reassurance as they experience changes in their sensory perception. On the other hand, cats experiencing discomfort from age-related conditions might become less social as they seek quiet and solitude.
Paying attention to these behavioral changes can provide valuable insights into your cat’s well-being and help you adapt your interactions to meet their changing needs.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.