Senior Cat Care
As cats age, their health needs evolve—and we’re here to help you meet them with confidence. We are dedicated to supporting you and your feline friend through every life stage.
Aging Gracefully—With the Right Support
Slowing down a bit is normal, but discomfort and illness shouldn’t be. Cats are experts at hiding pain, so subtle signs like sleeping more, eating less, or avoiding interaction can easily go unnoticed. That’s why routine wellness visits are so important—they help us catch changes early and support your cat’s comfort and wellbeing. We've answered some common questions about senior cat care and put together a list of signs to watch for as your cat gets older.
How Does Aging Affect My Cat’s Health?
As cats age, they may be more prone to:
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Diabetes
- Arthritis and joint issues
- Cancer
- Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
Arthritis can lead to mobility problems, grooming changes, and even litter box avoidance. These issues often appear gradually, which is why regular wellness visits are so important for early detection.
What Are Signs My Cat May Be Slowing Down?
Not all cats show aging the same way, but common signs include:
- Decreased activity or reluctance to jump
- Hiding more or avoiding interaction
- Sleeping more than usual
- Matted or greasy fur from less grooming
- Weight loss
- Changes in appetite—some eat more, others less
Subtle behavioral shifts can be your first clue. You know your cat best, and we encourage you to reach out if anything seems “off.”
How Can I Help My Cat Stay Healthy at Home?
A few small changes can make a big difference in your senior cat’s comfort:
- Move food, water, and litter boxes to easily accessible locations
- Use low-sided litter boxes or ramps for easier access
- Provide enrichment and gentle play to support cognitive function
- Offer a high-quality diet based on your cat’s health needs
- Monitor for changes in behavior, eating, grooming, or litter habits
Senior cats still need mental stimulation and regular activity to stay sharp.
What Preventive Care Do You Recommend for Senior Cats?
We recommend:
- Annual Senior Wellness Exams
- Annual lab work (blood, urine, and thyroid screening)
- Dental care every 12–24 months to prevent pain and infection
- Age-appropriate vaccinations
- Joint support
What’s Included in a Senior Cat Wellness Exam
Our senior cat exams are thorough and personalized based on age, lifestyle, and health history. Each visit includes:
- Eyes, Ears & Teeth We examine for signs of cataracts, infections, hearing loss, and dental disease—conditions that can cause pain and affect your cat’s daily life.
- Heart, Lungs & Abdomen Using a stethoscope and gentle palpation, we check for heart murmurs, abnormal breathing, internal masses, and signs of discomfort or disease.
- Skin, Joints, Lymph Nodes & Weight We assess for new lumps, arthritis-related stiffness, enlarged lymph nodes, and weight changes that may point to metabolic issues or illness.
- Behavior & Mobility Even subtle shifts in personality, grooming habits, or movement can signal cognitive decline, pain, or chronic conditions.
- Internal Health Monitoring We perform bloodwork and urinalysis to screen for kidney disease, thyroid imbalance, diabetes, liver issues, and infection.
Vaccinations for Senior Cats
Senior cats may not need all the same vaccines as kittens, but staying current on core vaccines—like rabies and FVRCP—remains important. We’ll tailor your cat’s vaccination schedule based on their age, indoor/ outdoor status, and risk factors.
Why Senior Wellness Visits Matter
Preventive care is key to helping your cat live a longer, more comfortable life. By identifying problems early, we can manage them before they affect your cat’s quality of life—and often with less invasive treatment. We also provide guidance on senior-friendly diets, mobility support, environmental enrichment, and dental care—all essential to aging well.
Let’s Keep Your Cat Healthy and Comfortable
Senior cats deserve a life of ease, health, and love—and we’re here to make that happen. Please call us at (337) 893-8522 to schedule your cat’s senior visit.