The average cat has a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. Advances in veterinary treatments and nutrition alongside a tendency to keep indoor-only cats has contributed to this longer life expectancy.
Even so, cats over the age of seven to eight years old are considered senior. This is not based on their lifespan, but rather on their biology and the physical changes that begin to occur at this time. As they age, a cat’s dietary, exercise, and health care needs will change, so it is important that you monitor these changes closely.
Signs that your cat is aging
- excessive thirst or urination
- significant increase or decrease in appetite
- lethargic behaviour – reluctance to move around
- reluctance to jump on beds or lounges
- changes to their skin or coat e.g. lumps or bumps
- significant increase or decrease to their weight
- constipation or diarrhoea
- vomiting
- hypertension (high blood pressure)
- hissing more when touched or patted
- meowing more
- heart murmur or rapid heart rate
- breathing difficulties
If you notice that your cat is displaying any of these signs, speak with your local Vets about developing a care program to help you meet their evolving health requirements.
