Signs of Getting Old in a Cat

Like many animals, cats instinctively know to hide when they are ill or are suffering from an injury.  As they get older, this instinct covers the changes that happen in their bodies with age.  After the age of seven, cats are classified as senior and may begin to see signs of aging.  So what can we owners do to help?

Changes in the body

Much as with humans, as cats get older their body undergoes certain changes.  Some of these may simply be due to their age, such as the development of arthritis while others may be partially due to an underlying health condition such as diabetes.  Any changes in their body is a sign that something may not be right.

Weight changes is one of the biggest indicators and even as little as a 10% change in weight can make a massive difference for a small animal.  Losing weight can be an indicator of a number of conditions including diabetes, cancer, kidney problems or hyperthyroidism but can also be a sign they are having trouble with their teeth and cannot eat their food.

Eye issues

Cats rely wholly on their senses, particularly smell, hearing and sight.  When they get older, sight problems can occur as a condition or as a secondary problem from another illness.  Cancer and glaucoma are the most common causes of eye issues in cats while trauma or injury also account for a high percentage.  Problems with the eyes can also indicate conditions such as hypertension or high blood pressure.  Should the eye have an engorged retinal blood vessel showing, this can be a sign of a detached retina or other issues that should be seen by a vet immediately as could result in a partial or total loss of vision.

Symptoms that should lead to a vet’s visiting include when the cat is pawing at their eyes or blinking excessively.  Any signs of blood in their eye should also mean they need to see a vet, as would their pupils not reacting correctly to changing light levels.  If there is cloudiness in the eye or if they walk into furniture because they can’t see properly, seek out the vet urgently.

Other conditions

Kidney problems are near the top of the list of problems experienced by older cats.  This can result in an increase in drinking and urination as the kidneys fail to work properly.  This can also lead to appetite loss and corresponding loss of weight as well as toxins building up in the blood.  Kidney failure can’t be reversed but can be managed if it is caught early so at the first sign of problems, seek out your vet.  These can also include a lack of urination, which is an emergency condition.

Osteoarthritis is a condition many people know unfortunately well and are similar in cats.  Cats generally retain a fuller measure of movement than dogs with the condition but one of the big changes is a reluctance to jump.  They may find getting in and out of high sides litter boxes difficult and may find stretching around to groom their extremities awkward.  They can also be lethargic and not eat well.  Vets can prescribe painkillers that will help them manage the condition but never use human medication as this will likely be fatal to a cat.