Pet Health
5 Common Health Problems in Senior Cats: A Proactive Owner's Guide
Learn to recognize the subtle signs of the most common health issues in senior cats, including kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, and arthritis.
As cats enter their senior years (age 11 and older), they become more susceptible to a range of age-related health issues. Cats are masters at hiding illness, a survival instinct from their wild ancestors. This means that by the time you notice something is wrong, the disease may already be advanced. Being aware of the most common senior cat health problems and their subtle symptoms is the key to early detection and successful management, ensuring your feline friend enjoys a high quality of life in their golden years.
Top 5 Health Concerns for Senior Cats
1. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Key Symptoms to Watch For:
Increased thirst and urination, weight loss, poor appetite, lethargy, vomiting.
2. Hyperthyroidism
Key Symptoms to Watch For:
Weight loss despite a ravenous appetite, hyperactivity, increased vocalization, vomiting, diarrhea.
3. Diabetes Mellitus
Key Symptoms to Watch For:
Significant increase in thirst and urination, weight loss (especially over the back), either increased or decreased appetite.
4. Arthritis (Degenerative Joint Disease)
Key Symptoms to Watch For:
Reluctance to jump, difficulty with stairs, stiffness after rest, grooming less, urinating outside the litter box (because it's hard to get into).
5. Dental Disease
Key Symptoms to Watch For:
Bad breath, drooling, difficulty eating, dropping food, pawing at the mouth, red or swollen gums.
The Power of Observation
The single most important thing you can do for your senior cat is to be a vigilant observer. Any change—no matter how small—in their routine, appetite, thirst, or behavior is a potential clue. Don't dismiss these changes. Early veterinary intervention can turn a life-threatening condition into a manageable one.
Knowing your cat's life stage is the first step. Use our Cat Age Calculator to understand where they are on their journey.